Manas is one of the most beautiful parks in India. The Manas river rushes down from the Bhutan hills through grassland and forest, with the blue Himalayan foothills as a backdrop. Across the border lies Bhutan’s Royal Manas National Park, so the protected landscape is far bigger than it looks on the map.
It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a remarkable recovery story. After years of conflict damaged the park in the 1990s, rhinos were reintroduced and wildlife has bounced back.
In this guide
Manas quick facts
| Location | Baksa and Chirang districts, Assam, on the Bhutan border |
|---|---|
| Area | About 500 sq km (national park); tiger reserve about 2,840 sq km |
| Established | Tiger reserve 1973; UNESCO World Heritage Site 1985 |
| Famous for | Golden langur, pygmy hog, Bengal florican, Manas river |
| Best time | November to April |
| Nearest town | Golden langur, pygmy hog, Bengal florican, Manas river |
| Safari types | Jeep and river rafting |
Why visit Manas?
Manas has species you won't see anywhere else in India, like the golden langur and the pygmy hog, plus rhinos, elephants and tigers. It's also far quieter than Kaziranga.Wildlife in Manas
Manas is one of the richest parks in India for rare and endemic species.
Golden langur
A striking golden primate found only in this corner of Assam and Bhutan.
One horned rhino
Rhinos reintroduced from Kaziranga and elsewhere have settled well.
Wild water buffalo and elephant
Both are common in the grasslands and along the river.
Birds
Over 450 species, including the endangered Bengal florican and great hornbill.
Manas safari zones
Manas has three ranges, each with its own entry point.
Bansbari (central range)
The main tourism area, with the Mathanguri riverside on the Bhutan border.
Bhuyanpara (eastern range)
Grasslands with good chances of rhinos and buffalo.
Panbari (western range)
A quieter forest range.
Safari types and timings
Jeep safaris run in the morning and afternoon, mainly from Bansbari. River rafting on the Manas is offered seasonally.How to book a Manas safari
Safari permits for Manas are issued by the Assam Forest Department, with a fixed number of vehicles allowed in each zone and shift. You can also arrange entry directly with the Forest Department.
Permits are arranged at the Bansbari range office or through your stay. The park sees few visitors, so availability is rarely an issue.
If you’d rather not deal with portals, zone choices and timings yourself, we can plan the trip and apply for permits on your behalf, then arrange your stay, vehicle and guide. Government fees are charged at actuals and our service charges are listed separately in your quote, so you always know what you’re paying for. See our Cancellation and Refund Policy.
Best time to visit Manas
November to January
Cool and clear, with good views of the Bhutan hills.
February to April
Grass is cleared, making it the best time for mammals.
May to October
Monsoon. The park is usually closed.
How to reach Manas
By air
Guwahati Airport is about 170 km away.
By train
Barpeta Road station is about 40 km from Bansbari.
By road
About 4 hours from Guwahati.
Where to stay near Manas
Stays are around Bansbari, including community run eco camps that support local livelihoods.Suggested Manas itinerary
Here’s a simple plan that works for most first time visitors. We’ll tailor it to your dates and interests.
- Day 1: Drive from Guwahati to Bansbari, afternoon safari to Mathanguri.
- Day 2: Morning safari in Bhuyanpara, afternoon by the river.
- Day 3: Final safari to look for golden langurs, then return.
Tips from our safari team
- Stay at a community eco camp to support conservation.
- Look along the riverside forest for golden langurs.
- Combine with Kaziranga for a complete Assam trip.
- Wear muted greens, browns or khaki, and skip perfume. Bright colours and strong smells can disturb animals.
- Carry your original photo ID. It must match the name on your permit.
- Keep your voice low and never ask the driver to go off the track or crowd an animal.
Manas packages
Ready made trips you can book as they are or adjust to your dates. Prices are confirmed in a written, itemised quote.
Photos of Manas
Manas safari FAQs
Can you see golden langurs in Manas?
Yes. Manas and the nearby Bhutan forests are among the few places where golden langurs live in the wild.
Is Manas a UNESCO World Heritage Site?
Yes. It was listed in 1985.
How far is Manas from Guwahati?
About 170 km, around four hours by road.
When is Manas National Park open?
Usually from November to April.
Is Eagle Safaris the official booking website for Manas?
No. Eagle Safaris is a private travel company. Permits for Manas are issued by the Assam Forest Department. We plan your trip and can apply on your behalf, with our service charges shown separately.
