Manas is situated in Kamrup-Golapara district, on the foothills of the Himalayas south east of river Manas along the Assam- Bhutan border. The beautiful park earlier known as North Kamrup is spread over an area of 391 sq km and was declared a sanctuary on December 01, 1928. It was established as the core of the Manas Tiger Reserve from April 1973 and elevated to the position of a National Park status on September 7, 1990. It was accorded the status of World Heritage Site in 1985 for its rare wealth of endangered species. The park extends over the national boundary to Bhutan where it is known as the Royal Manas Park. The forests here are tropical moist deciduous type. They are interspersed with swamps. The wetlands are essential for the survival of the fast disappearing hispid hare. The Vegetation ranges from Khairsissoo-bhabhar grass community to semi evergreens. There are intermediate stages of succession-deciduous forests, swampy reed lands and Sal forests. The simul, khoir, udal, sida, bohera and kanchan are the common trees in and around the park.
Wildlife Attraction
The wildlife present in Manas Tiger Reserve of India is rich and varied. Apart from the majestic tiger, one can also see Leopards, Elephants, Wild Buffaloes, Rhinoceros, Clouded Leopards and even the rare Black Panthers. Other animals inhabiting the park include Capped Langurs, Golden Langurs, Gaurs, Swamp Deer, Barking Deer, Hog Deer, Sambar, Chital, Smooth Indian Otters, Hoolock Gibbons, Assamese Macaques, Sloth Bears, Slow Loris, etc. Manas National Park also houses approximately 20 highly endangered species, such as Hispid Hare and Pygmy Hog.
Other Attractions
Manas Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a wide variety of birds, both resident as well as migratory. The most common amongst these are Giant Hornbills, Jungle Fowls, Bulbuls, Brahminy Ducks, Khaleej Pheasants, Egrets, Pelicans, Fishing Eagles, Serpent Eagles, Falcons, Scarlet Minivets, Bee-Eaters, Magpie Robins, Pied Hornbills, Gray Hornbills, Mergansers, Harriers, Ospreys and Herons.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit this sanctuary is from November to April, with the best period being January to April.
Access
By Air
The nearest airport is Borjhar, Guwahati which is situated, 5-km out of town, and can be reached by rickshaw, auto rickshaw or airline buses. Manas Park is 176 kms from Guwahati.
By Road
Manas is well connected by network of roads which connect the place with other cities and towns in the state. There are regular bus services operated by state transport as well as the private operators. One can also hire taxis for the park from Guwahati.
By Rail
The nearest railhead is situated at Barpeta road (41 km).