A Summer Holiday Trip Plan to Manas National Park
By JAGAT [06-May-25] One of the most beautiful and ecologically diverse wildlife reserves in Assam is Manas National Park. Located in the northeastern state of Assam, Manas lies along the foothills of the Eastern Himalayas, sharing its borders with Bhutan. The park stretches across beautiful riverine grasslands, tropical forests, and rolling hills, making it a picturesque destination. While many people consider winter the ideal time for a safari, summer has its charm. For those seeking a quiet, offbeat, and nature-filled holiday, Manas National Park in the summer is a perfect choice.
Visiting Manas during the summer season (March to early June) can be a truly rewarding experience. With the temperatures ranging between 25°C - 35°C, the climate is warm but bearable, especially in the mornings and evenings. One of the main reasons to visit in summer is the increased chances of wildlife sightings. Moreover, unlike some other popular parks that tend to get crowded, Manas remains peaceful and less touristy, offering a more personal and serene wildlife experience.
Ways to Reach Manas National Park
Getting to Manas National Park is quite convenient, especially if you're traveling from major cities in the Northeast or even from Kolkata or Delhi.
• Nearest Airport: The closest airport is Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati, which is around 137 km away from the park. A road transfer from the airport usually takes around 3-3.5 hours. • Nearest Railway Station: Barpeta Road Railway Station is the nearest railhead, situated about 23 km from the park. Regular trains connect Barpeta Road with Guwahati and other cities. • By Road: Manas is well-connected by road. If you're coming from Guwahati or other nearby cities like Nalbari or Barpeta, you can take the NH27 and state highways to reach the park comfortably by private or hired cab.
Safari Schedule and Booking Information
One of the best ways to explore Manas is through jeep safaris and elephant rides, which are conducted under the supervision of trained forest guides. These safaris allow visitors to travel deep into the forest and observe animals in their natural habitat without disturbing them.
Jeep Safari Timings
| Morning | Evening |
| 06:30 AM - 9:30 AM | 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM | 02:00 PM - 5:00 PM |
Elephant Safari Timings
| Morning |
| 06:00 AM - 7:00 AM | 7:00 AM - 8:00 AM |
• Zones: Primarily, there are 3 safari zones in Manas National Park - Bansbari, Bhuyanpara and Panbari Zones. Among these, the Bansbari Zone is the most popular one among tourists. • Online Booking: To avoid last-minute hassles, it's best to book your safari in advance. You can use the official Manas online booking portal managed by trusted and government-authorized tour operators. Make sure to carry valid ID proof during your visit.
To truly enjoy the park and its surrounding attractions, a stay of 2 to 3 days is ideal. This allows enough time to go on multiple safaris, explore nearby cultural spots, and relax amidst nature.
Travel Itinerary Sample: 3-Day Manas Trip Plan
Day 1: Arrival and Introductory Safari
Begin your journey by arriving at either Guwahati or Barpeta Road, followed by a scenic drive to Manas National Park. Once you reach, settle into your stay, take some time to unwind, and enjoy a hearty lunch. In the late afternoon, gear up for your first wildlife experience with an evening jeep safari in the Bansbari Range, where you may catch glimpses of Manas’ rich wildlife. As the sun sets and the forest quiets, return to your lodge for dinner and spend a peaceful night surrounded by the calming sounds of nature.
Day 2: Full-Day Exploration
Rise early for a morning elephant safari. Elephant safaris are only available in the Bansbari range. After returning from the safari, enjoy a leisurely breakfast and take some time to relax. Later in the afternoon, embark on another safari in a different zone - Bhuyanpara or Panbari. In the evening, you can choose to casually stroll near the Manas River
Day 3: Final Safari and Departure
On your last day, wake up before dawn for one final safari drive through the misty morning forest. After the safari, return for breakfast, pack your bags, and check out.
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