| Formerly
known as North Kamrup, Manas, in Assam, was declared a
sanctuary in 1928. In 1985 it was accorded the status of World Heritage Site.
The park straddles two rivers, the Manas and its tributary the Hakua, along the
Assam-Bhutan border. The protected area extends into the Bhutan foothills.
Giant hornbills Manas houses 19 of India's most
endangered animal populations,
home to the rare golden langur and a sizeable tiger population. Its wetlands are
essential for the survival of the fast-vanishing hispid hare and pygmy hog. The
fauna to be found here include the rhino, wild buffalos, elephants, gaur, swamp
deer, capped langur and clouded leopard. The park, the eastern range of the chital
and habitat of the sambar deer, also boasts a rich and diverse avian population.
The main highlight is the giant hornbill, two subspecies of which, the pied and
grey varieties, are to be found here. When
to visit The best time to visit is November to March.
How to get there By air: Guwahati is the nearest airport
at 176 kms. By rail: The nearest town and rail-head is Barpeta Road, 41 kms
away. Within the Park, riding elephants and boats on the rivers are
available for transport. Where to stay Tourist
lodge and forest bungalows at Mothanguri are the means of accomodation available.
Contact Field Director Project Tiger, PO
Barpeta Road District Barpeta Assam, 781315 |