Manas was designated a UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site in 1985 for its stunning landscape—ranging from foothills, riverine gravel bars, dense evergreen forests, and alluvial grasslands—and its critical habitat for rare species like the greater one-horned rhino, pygmy hog, Golden Langurs and Bengal florican It also serves as a core zone for the Manas Tiger Reserve, a biosphere & elephant reserve, combining multiple protections under Indian wildlife laws .

Manas boasts incredible biodiversity. About55 species of mammals, including Bengal tiger, elephants, rhinos, gaur (Indian bison), wild buffalo, clouded leopard, sloth bear, hoolock gibbons, golden cats, andExtremely rare and endemic species like pygmy hog, hispid hare, Assam roofed turtle, golden langur, Bengal florican—all globally threatened or critically endangeredall make the Jungle of Manas, their home sweet home.

More than 380 species of birds, including the endangered Bengal florican, hornbills, pelicans, egrets, and migratory waterfowl like Comb duck and whistling teal are also found in various landscapes of Manas.

Flora & Landscapes

Covering approximately 39,100 hectares (core zone) of lush terrain, Manas is characterized by dynamic habitats shaped by the Manas–Beki river systems. These include bhabar tracts, terai grasslands, marshes, and moist deciduous-to-semi-evergreen forests with rich diversity in orchids, grasses, and over 550 plant species.

Travel

• Best time to visit: October through April — cooler months and ideal for spotting wildlife
• Getting there: Around 176 km from Guwahati (4hours by road), nearest rail at Barpeta Road.
• Activities: Jeep and elephant safaris, birdwatching, visiting river points and forest trails, Rubber boat ride on River Beki from Mathanguri to Bansbari and Jeep safari to few parts of Royal Manas National Park (Bhutan Side of Manas).

Quick Overview

Feature	Details
Location	Baksa&Chirang districts, Assam, on the Bhutan border
Area	~39,100 ha core (≈500 km²), part of larger tiger reserve
Biodiversity	55  species of mammals, 380 species of birds, 50 of reptiles
Flagship Species	Bengal tiger, one‑horned rhino, pygmy hog, golden langur, hispid hare, Bengal florican
Best Visit Period	October to April
Unique Selling Point	UNESCO site, success story of habitat restoration and endangered species recovery

Manas National Park is a compelling destination for wildlife lovers, nature photographers, and anyone moved by conservation success.