Manas National Park Assam- Flora, Fauna & Best Time to Visit

Manas National Park, located in the northeastern state of India – Assam, is a captivating destination for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. Its unique blend of diverse flora and rare fauna species creates an enchanting environment that leaves a lasting impression on all who visit.

Situated in the foothills of the Himalayas, the national park boasts a rich and distinct biodiversity nourished by the Manas River and the Beki River, two tributaries of the mighty Brahmaputra River. The park’s landscapes are nothing short of captivating, and its abundant wildlife beckons visitors to return time and again, offering the opportunity to create enduring memories.

Manas National Park holds a special place in India’s conservation efforts. It was one of the earliest ten forest reserves to be included in Project Tiger and made a Tiger reserve in 1973. In 2003, it was designated as an elephant reserve; thus, you will witness elephant upkeep activities conducted. Furthermore, it is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its status as a hotspot for various rare species featured in the IUCN Red Book.

Among the rare species in this significant National Park in Assam are the adorable red panda, Pygmy hog, Hispid hare, Golden langur, and Assam roofed top turtle. Additionally, the park is home to a multitude of other rare and exotic animals, such as the Royal Bengal Tigers, Greater one-horned Rhinoceros, Asian Elephants, Gigantic Dolphins, Rare Langurs, Clouded Leopard, and more. The park also hosts numerous elegant and migratory birds, including colourful Hornbills and the Bengal Florican.

The park’s stunning mountain ranges, pristine rivers and lakes, picturesque landscapes, diverse plant life, and a wealth of animal species make it an excellent choice for wildlife and nature enthusiasts. Manas Tiger Reserve offers an opportunity to connect with the natural world and create cherished memories that will linger in the hearts of visitors.

Flora in Manas National Park

Flora Manas National Park

Manas National Park, spread over an area of 390 sq. km, is a dense forest with splendour flora. There are more than 500 species of flora, which include long-leafed trees, plants, bushes, and grasses. However, the park is primarily covered in grasslands, giving a pleasant experience of watching Rhinoceros and Indian Elephants more clearly. The vegetation is supported on the Bhabat terai terrain of the sub-Himalayas, which means most of the forest will thrive on smooth and less rocky surfaces. Also, the whole area shares many rivulets, streams, and natural drains, developing varied ecosystems suitable for different species of plants and animals.

The most important and widely spread flora with broad-leaf trees includes Anthocephalus Chinensis, commonly known as Kadam, Aphanamixis Polystachya, known as Pithraj tree, and multiple species of Syzygium which is a family of the widely known fruit Jamun or Java plum. The grasslands of Manas National Park boast diverse species of grasses in its abode. The beautiful white flower petals on the Biden Pilosa, a wide-leafed Pueraria Subspicata, and distinctive elliptical petals of Desmodium moratorium are among the exotics. Other plant and tree species present here include Cinnamomum Tamala, Bauhinia Purpurea, Mallotus Philippensis (Kumkum), Syzygium Oblatum, Actinodaphne Obvata, Bombax Ceiba, Sterculia Villosa, Trewia Polycarpa, Dillenia Indica, Pygmaeoprema Herbacea, Chiloschhiosta junifera, Oplismenus Megaphyllus, and many others.

Fauna in Manas National Park

Elephant Manas National Park Assam

Experience the thrill of witnessing some exotic and one-of-a-kind rare fauna as you step into the breathtaking wildlife of Manas National Park. This incredible sanctuary is a treasure trove of diverse, rare, and exotic species that people come to see from far and wide.

Manas National Park isn’t just any ordinary reserve; it’s also a haven for the majestic Royal Bengal Tigers. The sheer vitality of this park’s lush grasslands provides an ideal habitat for these magnificent creatures. Encounters with these regal cats are not uncommon, making it a must-see for wildlife enthusiasts. But the excitement doesn’t end there. The park boasts the privilege of being home to the Indian Rhinoceros, a tough and resilient species found only in a select few regions, with Manas National Park being one of them.

With 21 species of mammals classified as protected by Schedule I-Wildlife Protection Act and 31 mammal species in the threatened category, you’re in for a riveting wildlife spectacle. Some of the exotic and rare wild animals in Manas National Park gracing the forest with their presence include the Golden Langur, adorned in its yellow-orange fur, elusive Clouded Leopards, the enigmatic Hispid Hare, the pint-sized Pygmy Hog, and the magnificent Indian Wild Elephant.

Manas National Park also boasts a thriving population of reptiles, with 50 different species to witness in the wildlife tour. One of its proudest inhabitants is the Assam Roofed Turtle, sporting a distinctive roof-like shell, a treasure exclusive to this park and not found anywhere else in the world. The park is also home to intimidating reptile species like the Gharial, Indian Rock Python, and Cobras, alongside numerous fascinating amphibians like the Golden Frog.

Popular Wild Animals Found in Manas National Park & Tiger Reserve in Assam

Indian Elephant
Bengal Tiger
Indian Rhinoceros
Clouded Leopard
Indian Leopard
Asiatic Wild Buffalo
Gaur (Indian Bison)
Sambar Deer
Barking Deer
Indian Wild Boar
Hog Deer
Indian Pangolin
Assamese Macaque
Capped Langur
Hoolock Gibbon
Dhole (Indian Wild Dog)
Golden Langur
Sloth Bear
Leopard Cat
Fishing Cat

Popular Reptiles and Amphibians Found in Manas National Park

Gharial
Indian Rock Python
King Cobra
Assam Roofed Turtle
Indian Tent Turtle
Monitor Lizard
Golden Frog
Bullfrog
Indian Skipper Frog

Birding in Manas National Park

Birding Manas National Park

For the birdwatching enthusiast, Manas National Park is nothing short of paradise. Over 450 bird species grace the skies here, with some of the most endangered species, such as the majestic Great Indian Hornbill and the stunning Bengal Florican, forming vibrant colonies within the park’s boundaries.

Great Indian Hornbill
Bengal Florican
White-cheeked Partridge
Rufous-necked Hornbill
Wreathed Hornbill
Rufous-rumped Grassbird
Assam Roofed Turtle
Black-breasted Parrotbill
Pallas’s Fish Eagle
Crested Serpent Eagle
Rufous-winged Buzzard
Slender-billed Vulture
Greater Adjutant Stork

Jungle Safari in Manas National Park

Rhino at Manas National Park Assam

Jungle Safari in Manas National Park allows you to witness incredible forests and breathtaking landscapes with lush greenery alongside pristine water bodies, surrounded by various animals. During these safaris organised by the Forest Authority, you can catch sight of the park’s majestic creatures, such as the formidable Bison, heavily armour-skinned Indian Rhinoceros, massive Indian elephants, and many more.

Manas National Park offers diverse opportunities to experience wildlife from various perspectives. You can choose from a range of activities organised by the park, including Jeep Safaris, Elephant Safaris, Education tours and River Rafting.

Jeep Safari

The four core zones – Bansabari, Bhuyanpura, Panbari, and Kuklung Region – offer wildlife tours through Jeep Safaris. Exploring the wilderness via a Jeep Safari is the most fulfilling and ideal way to experience wildlife in its natural habitat. A 4×4 open Gypsy is the ideal and safe vehicle for observing exotic yet dangerous animals like Bengal Tigers, Rhinoceros, and Elephants, and it can accommodate up to six tourists. The tiger safari conducted, follows a carefully designed route that takes you through areas where you can encounter a variety of wild animals, diverse flora, and breathtaking landscapes. You will be accompanied by a guide who will provide you with all the information about the forest and the sights you encounter.

Elephant Safari

Manas Tiger Reserve also offers an Elephant safari in the Bansabari region. The safari through an Elephant lets you witness wildlife from an elevated perspective. It provides a fantastic and exhilarating experience, making elephant safari the perfect adventure for enthusiasts. The park offers elephant rides in two shifts, each lasting one hour. Both shifts of this safari are conducted in the morning hours. One of the most notable aspects of Elephant rides is that they allow you to observe wild animals from a closer vantage point.

River Rafting

Manas National Park offers river rafting on a tributary river of the mighty Brahmaputra River that flows through the park’s heart. This experience is an adrenaline booster for thrill-seekers, as river rafting in the midst of a tiger reserve can be a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. The rafting trail follows the course of the Manas River, beginning from Mathangudi and finishing in Bishpani, spanning a distance of 18 kilometres. The rafting level is easy and highly enjoyable, taking you through dense forests and open grasslands, offering glimpses of various animals and birds along the water’s edge.

Safari Timings of Manas National Park

Safari Type	Safari Zone	Safari Timing	Total Time
Jeep Safari	Bansabari Bhuyanpura Panbari Kuklung zone	6am – 9am/10am-1pm (Morning) 2pm – 5pm (Evening)	3 Hour
Elephant Safari	Bansabari Zone	6am – 7am/7am – 8am	1 Hour

*Safari Timing may differ according to sunrise and sunset timing.

Best Time to Visit Manas National Park

The wildlife experience differs in different seasons. Manas National Park is located in northeastern India and the foothills of the Himalayas and has a tropical monsoon rainforest climate. This makes the summer warm winters mild, but heavy rainfall in monsoon. Thus, the best time to visit Manas National Park is between November to April. The time is not too cold nor too humid and pleasant for wildlife exploration.

However, choose a month to visit the park according to your preferences.

Manas National Park between November and March (Winter):

This is considered the best time to visit Manas National Park. The weather is pleasant, and the park is open to tourists. During this time, you can witness a wide variety of wildlife, including tigers, elephants, rhinoceroses, and many species of birds.

Manas National Park between April and May/October and November:

These months are ideal for birdwatching as many migratory birds arrive in the park. It’s an excellent time for bird enthusiasts.

Manas National Park between June and September (Monsoon)

This period is the monsoon season, and the park remains closed to tourists due to heavy rainfall and the risk of flooding. It’s not recommended to visit during this time.

How to Reach Manas National Park?

Located in the northeastern state of India, Assam, Manas Tiger Reserve is easily accessible by road, railway, or air. However, the best way to reach Manas Tiger Reserve is by arriving at Guwahati Airport (Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport) and then reaching Manas National Park by bus.

By Air: The nearest major airport is Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati, which is approximately 176 kilometres away from Manas National Park. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the park.
By Train: The nearest railway station is Barpeta Road, which is around 41 kilometres from the park. You can take a train to Barpeta Road from Guwahati or other major cities in Assam.
By Road: Manas National Park is well-connected by road. You can hire a taxi, take a bus or drive to the park from Guwahati, the gateway to Assam. The journey offers scenic views of the Assam countryside.

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