Manas National Park is a biodiversity hotspot nestled on a gentle slope in the Himalayan foothills of Assam. This site is a home to a variety of wildlife including tigers, elephants, rhinoceros, pygmy hog, roofed turtle, and hispid hare. The park’s diverse landscape features dense forest, grasslands, etc. Whether you are an adventure seeker or a peaceful nature enthusiast the region offers an unforgettable experience through its adventurous activities. You can book your accommodation in Manas National Park to explore the site effectively.
If you are a first time traveller you need to gather some essential knowledge to ensure a smooth trip to Manas. From choosing the right time and arranging permits to selecting an ideal safari option, you need to prepare carefully as it can impact your wildlife adventure. By planning ahead you can make necessary decisions and ensure a hassle-free trip.
Some of the tips a first-time traveller needs to follow include the following;
Plan ahead:
If you are a first-time traveller you need to plan before your trip to Manas. You need to book your safari and accommodation early, especially during the peak season to ensure a smooth, safe, and enjoyable experience. This is because being a popular world heritage site the park attracts nature lovers and adventure seekers from distant locations. Planning ahead ensures that you pre-book the necessities and help you to avoid last minute hassle.
How to get there:
Manas National Park is well connected by road, air, as well as by train. However, as a first time traveller you might be unfamiliar with the place and require some planning.
By Air: The nearest airport to Manas is Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport which is located in Guwahati which is approximately 180 Kms away from the park. This airport is well-connected to major cities across India and flights are operated on a regular basis. After landing on this airport you can hire a cab and reach this site.
By road: The nearest railway station to this park is Barpeta Road Railway Station and from here the Manas National Park is located at a distance 22 Kms approximately. Upon arriving you can hire a taxi or avail local transportation to reach there.
By road: Reaching Manas National Park by road is one of the great options for first time travellers. National Highway 27 provides a smooth route and adjoins Barpeta Road to Bansbari which is the entry point to Manas National Park. Travelling by road offers flexibility to travellers with plenty of stops and you can also enjoy the natural beauty of the region on the way.
Look for the best time to visit:
The best time to explore Manas National Park for a first-time traveller is from November to April. This time the weather is pleasant and there is a higher possibility of witnessing wild animals and trekking through its diverse habitats. Additionally, this is also the peak time to do bird watching as migratory birds can be spotted during these months. However, you need to book your luxury accommodation at Manas National Park in advance, if you are looking for the best time to visit.
Obtain a permit:
To enter the park you need to obtain a permit because it is a protected wildlife sanctuary. Entry permit can be obtained online or by visiting the Field Director's office. This allows the park authorities to monitor the tourists and enforce regulations within the park to protect the endangered species.
Safari options:
The jungle can be explored in two different methods and you can choose according to your preferences. If you are a first time traveller you need to book in advance to avoid last minute hassle.
Jeep safari: This is one of the most efficient ways to explore the diverse species of wild animals of the park. The jeep safaris are conducted in Bansbari Zone and Bhuyanpara Zone. The safari is conducted in 3 slots from 6:30 am, 10:00 am, and 1:00 pm and each slot lasts for 3 hours.
Elephant Safari: Another way to explore the picturesque landscapes of Manas is by elephant safari. The elephant safari is conducted only in the Bansbari zone and this safari is closed every Tuesdays. This safari is conducted on 2 slots, one is from 6:00 am to 7:00 am, and one from 7:00 am to 8:00 am.
Follow safety guidelines:
Being a protected site the park authorities may have issued some guidelines that every traveller needs to follow. This guideline helps to ensure the safety of both wildlife and visitors. You should not litter the area, feed the animals, and do not get down from your safari vehicle, and make sure to maintain safe distance from wild animals.
Conclusion:
Manas National Park is a paradise for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. It doesn’t matter whether you are willing for an adventurous trip or a peaceful seeker this region provides an unforgettable experience. The best way to explore the beautiful landscape is by booking accommodation in Manas National Park. However, if you are travelling to this region for the first time you need to get essential knowledge about that area. Some of the tips that can make your visit enjoyable and smooth include planning early, looking for the best time to travel, obtaining a permit, and following safety guidelines.
