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Manas!

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Population

Various (dependent on surrounding villages)

schedule

Best Time

November to April

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Time Needed

2-3 days minimum

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Currency

Rupee (β‚Ή)

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location_on Assam map Northeast India πŸ›οΈ Heritage 🦁 Wildlife Wildlife Tourism Manas National Park Tiger Reserve Assam Tourism Wildlife UNESCO World Heritage Site

Manas National Park, located in Assam, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a Project Tiger reserve, known for its diverse wildlife and scenic beauty. It borders Bhutan's Royal Manas National Park, forming a transboundary conservation area.

Manas offers a unique opportunity to spot tigers, elephants, rhinos, and a variety of bird species in their natural habitat. However, accessibility can be a challenge, and the infrastructure is still developing. Poaching remains a concern, although conservation efforts are ongoing. If you're looking for a raw and relatively untouched wildlife experience, Manas is worth considering.

Reaching Manas requires travel from Guwahati. Allow at least 2-3 days to fully experience the park. Booking safaris and accommodations in advance is highly recommended.

When To Visit

Best Time

November to April

10-25 degrees C

Pleasant and dry weather, ideal for wildlife spotting. Visibility is generally good, and the chances of encountering animals are higher.

Why Visit:

This is the dry season, making it easier to navigate the park. The grasslands are shorter, improving visibility for wildlife viewing. Bird migration is also at its peak during this time. The weather is comfortable for outdoor activities.

Tip: Book accommodations and safaris well in advance, as this is peak season. Prices may be slightly higher.

Shoulder Season

October and May

20-35 degrees C

The weather can be unpredictable, with occasional rain showers. Humidity starts to increase.

Why Visit:

Fewer crowds compared to the peak season. The landscape is lush and green. There might be opportunities for discounted rates on accommodations.

Tip: Some areas of the park might be temporarily inaccessible due to rain. Be prepared for increased humidity.

Avoid

June to September

25-35 degrees C

Heavy rainfall during the monsoon season. The park is often flooded, making it difficult and dangerous to explore.

Why Avoid:

The park is generally closed to visitors during this time due to the heavy rainfall and flooding, posing challenges for wildlife spotting.

Note: The park may be officially closed. Even if open, access will be severely limited.

Top Sights - Top Attractions!

Manas National Park Core Area

⏱ 4-6 hours β‚Ή50 (Indians), β‚Ή500 (foreigners)

The core area of Manas is where the densest wildlife populations reside. It offers the best chances to spot tigers, elephants, rhinos, and other mamma...

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Mathanguri

⏱ 2-3 hours Free

Mathanguri is a picturesque spot on the banks of the Manas River. It offers stunning views of the river and the surrounding landscape....

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Bansbari Tea Gardens

⏱ 1-2 hours Free

The Bansbari Tea Gardens offer a glimpse into Assam's tea-growing heritage. The lush green tea bushes create a beautiful landscape....

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Manas River Rafting

⏱ 3-4 hours β‚Ή1500 (Indians), β‚Ή3000 (foreigners)

Experience the thrill of rafting down the Manas River. Enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding forests and wildlife....

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Kaklabari Weaving Village

⏱ 2-3 hours Free

Kaklabari is a village known for its traditional Bodo weaving. Witness the intricate art of creating beautiful textiles....

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Bhutan Border Viewpoint

⏱ 1-2 hours Free

Get a glimpse of Bhutan from a designated viewpoint near the border. Enjoy panoramic views of the Himalayan foothills....

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Elephant Safari

⏱ 2-3 hours β‚Ή800 (Indians), β‚Ή1500 (foreigners)

Experience the thrill of exploring Manas National Park on the back of an elephant. Get a unique perspective and access areas not reachable by jeep....

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Things To Do

attractions

Bird Watching Tour

⏱ 4-6 hours πŸ’° β‚Ή2000-3000 per person

Explore the diverse avian life of Manas National Park with a guided bird watching tour. Spot rare and endemic species in...

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attractions

Jeep Safari

⏱ 3-4 hours πŸ’° β‚Ή2500-4000 per jeep

Explore the park's diverse landscapes on a jeep safari. Increase your chances of spotting elusive wildlife like tigers, ...

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attractions

Village Visit

⏱ 2-3 hours πŸ’° β‚Ή500-1000 per person

Visit a local Bodo village and learn about their traditional way of life. Experience their culture, customs, and crafts....

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attractions

Nature Walk

⏱ 2-3 hours πŸ’° β‚Ή500-800 per person

Enjoy a leisurely walk through the forests and grasslands of Manas. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty and tranquili...

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Cultural Experiences

celebration

Bodo Cultural Show

1-2 hours | β‚Ή500-800

Experience the vibrant culture of the Bodo community through traditional music and dance performance...

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celebration

Bodo Weaving Demonstration

1-2 hours | Free

Witness the intricate art of Bodo weaving, a traditional craft passed down through generations. Bodo...

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celebration

Assamese Tea Tasting

1 hour | β‚Ή100-200

Sample different varieties of Assam tea, known for its strong and malty flavor. Assam is one of the ...

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celebration

Visit a Local Market

2-3 hours | Free (cost of purchases)

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of a local Assamese market. Get a glimpse into the daily life of t...

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celebration

Traditional Bodo Meal

2 hours | β‚Ή300-500

Enjoy an authentic Bodo meal prepared with local ingredients and traditional recipes. Bodo cuisine i...

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celebration

Learn Basic Bodo Language

Flexible | Free

Learn a few basic phrases in the Bodo language to enhance your interactions with the local community...

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View all cultural experiences

Eat This!

Must-Try Dishes

Masor Tenga
Masor Tenga

A sour fish curry made with elephant apple.

Duck Roast
Duck Roast

Prepared with local herbs and spices.

Pitha
Pitha

Rice cakes, variety of types, sweet or savory.

Laai Xaak
Laai Xaak

Mustard greens stir-fried with garlic and ginger.

Where to Eat

The Royal Manas Camp Restaurant

The Royal Manas Camp Restaurant

β‚Ήβ‚Ή

Indian, Continental

πŸ“ Bansbari

Serves a good mix of Indian and Continental dishes in a comfortable setting. The Assamese Thali is highly recommended. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming.

Assamese Thali

β‚Ή800-1200 for two

Manas Soushibi Eco Camp Restaurant

Manas Soushibi Eco Camp Restaurant

β‚Ή

Indian

πŸ“ Near the Park entrance

Offers simple but tasty Indian meals. Try the local Assamese dishes for an authentic culinary experience. The service is friendly and efficient.

Local Assamese Dishes

β‚Ή500-800 for two

Street Food Spots

Barpeta Road Market

Barpeta Road Market

πŸ’° Budget: β‚Ή50-150 per person

⚠️ Tips: Try the local snacks and street food. Be cautious about hygiene and drink bottled water. Go during peak hours.

🍽️
Discover More on
Foodie Finder: Manas

More restaurants & dishes from Manas

Where To Stay ?

Best Neighborhoods

Bansbari

The area closest to the park entrance, offering convenient access to safaris. It's best for wildlife enthusiasts, but accommodation options are limited.

Best For: Wildlife enthusiasts

Accommodation Options

Budget

πŸ’°

β‚Ή800-1200/night

Florican Cottage

πŸ“ Bansbari

Basic but clean rooms, close to the park entrance. Good for budget travelers.

β‚Ή800-1200/night

Manas Maozigendri Ecotourism Society (MMES) Guest House

πŸ“ Near the park

Simple rooms, supports local community initiatives. Offers a rustic experience.

β‚Ή700-1000/night

Mid-Range

🏨

β‚Ή2500-4000/night

The Royal Manas Camp

πŸ“ Bansbari

Comfortable tents with attached bathrooms, offering a glamping experience. Good food and service.

β‚Ή2500-4000/night

Manas Soushibi Eco Camp

πŸ“ Near the Park entrance

Well-maintained cottages with basic amenities. Decent food and friendly staff.

β‚Ή2000-3500/night

Luxury

✨

β‚Ή8000+/night

Diphlu River Lodge

πŸ“ Near Kaziranga (day trip distance)

Luxurious rooms with modern amenities. Offers excellent wildlife experiences and service.

β‚Ή8000+/night

Infinity Resorts Kaziranga (day trip distance)

πŸ“ Near Kaziranga National Park

Offers spacious rooms, a swimming pool, and excellent dining options. Ideal for a luxurious stay.

β‚Ή7000+/night

View all stay & eat options

How To Get There ?

flight

By Air

Airport: Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (GAU), 176km from Manas

train

By Train

Stations:

Barpeta Road (BPRD)

Nearest railway station, well-connected to major cities.

Routes:
  • From Delhi: 24-30 hours (β‚Ή800-2500)
  • From Kolkata: 12-15 hours (β‚Ή600-2000)

Booking: IRCTC or 12Go.asia

directions_bus

By Bus

Terminals:
  • Guwahati ISBT
Routes:
  • From Guwahati: 5-6 hours (β‚Ή400-700)

Note: Trains more comfortable.

Getting Around

directions

Jeep

πŸ’° β‚Ή2500-4000 per day

Best for: Exploring the national park.

Hire a jeep with a driver for the duration of your stay. Negotiate the price beforehand.

local_taxi

Taxi

πŸ’° β‚Ή2000-3000 per day

Best for: Traveling between towns and villages.

Book a taxi in advance. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey.

Practical Tips

checkroom

What To Wear

Lightweight, breathable clothing in neutral colors. Comfortable walking shoes are essential. Carry a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.

payments

Money

Daily Budget: Budget: β‚Ή1500, Mid: β‚Ή3000, Luxury: β‚Ή6000+

ATMs: Limited availability, carry sufficient cash.

Cash vs Card: Cash is preferred, cards accepted at limited establishments.

Bargaining: Expected in local markets and for taxi fares.

health_and_safety

Health

Water: Drink bottled water only. Avoid ice in drinks.

Food: Eat at reputable restaurants. Be cautious of street food.

Common Issues: Mosquito bites, heatstroke. Bring insect repellent, sunscreen, and rehydration salts.

sim_card

Communication

SIM Cards: Airtel and Jio have decent coverage. Purchase at Guwahati airport.

WiFi: Limited availability, mostly at hotels.

translate

Language & Tipping

Language: English proficiency is limited. Learn a few basic Hindi or Assamese phrases.

Tipping: Restaurant: 5-10%, drivers: β‚Ή50-100

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