|
Manas National Park is a UNESCO Natural World Heritage site. It has earned for itself recognition in terms of wildlife preservation for its Tiger Reserve, Elephant Reserve and Biosphere Reserve. Manas National Park is located along the Himalayan foothills and is a part of several districts of the state of Assam, India including Darrang, Kamrup, Nalban, Barbeta and Bongaigaon.
Manas National Park was awarded the World Heritage prestige in December, 1985 primarily because of its well-known, rare and near to extinction endemic animal life like the Pygmy Hog, Golden Langur, Hispid Hare and the Assam Roofed Turtle. Prior to being declared a sanctuary, it was used as a hunting reserve for the Royal Families of the place.
History of Manas National Park
The Cooch Behar Royal Family and Gauripur Raja’s family used to hunt wild boars, tigers, rhinoceros and even elephants on what is now known as the Manas National Park. During the hunting days of these royal families, the place was known as Manas R.F. and North Kamrup R. f, the letters R and F referring to the place as being a Reserved Forest. In October 1, 1928, the reserved forest was declared by the state as a Sanctuary with a declared area of 360 sq kilometres. Between 1951 and 1955, the area was increased to 391 sq kilometres.
Attractions of Manas National Park
Major attractions of the Park include the one-horned Rhinoceros, Indian Elephants, Bengal Tigers, Wild Buffaloes, Clouded Leopards, Swamp Deers, Golden Langurs, Assamese Macaques, Hoolock Gibbons and many more animals native to the Himalayas region. One can also spot here the nearly extinct or endangered wildlife like the Assam Roofed Turtle, Hispid Hare, Golden Langur and the Pygmy Hog.
There are 380 species of birds that one can see here in different exotic forms, colors and sizes. The giant Hornbills, the sleek Fishing Eagles and Falcons, the slow moving Egret, Jungle Fowls are but a few birds one is sure to find here. Also visible are many forest birds that are endemic to this region.
Best time to visit Manas National Park, and clothing to wear
The best time to visit this place is between the months of November to April. Cotton clothing is recommended due to temperate climate.
How to Reach Manas National Park
Guwahati is the nearest city, about 176 kilometres away. All traveling to Manas National Park happens through Guwahati.
By Air: From the airport in Guwahati, one can take a jeep, taxi or bus to reach Manas National Park. Travel time is 4-5 hours.
By Rail: Regular taxi and bus services are available from the railway station in Guwahati to get to Manas National Park. Travel time is also 4-5 hours.
By Road: Manas National Park can also be reached by road, which also passes through Guwahati.
Other attractions near Manas National Park
- Temple of Kamakhya Devi: This temple was built by King Namarayan and is located in Guwahati, 180 kilometres from Manas National Park.
- Town of Hajo: This is a sacred place for Hindus, Muslims and Buddhists. This town is located 25 kilometres from Guwahati.
Tourist Information Office
DFO Forest Office,
Bokakhat,
Tel 91 03776-268007
Field Director for Tourism
Barbeta Road,
Tel: 91 03666-260289
|
