Royal Manas National Park – Biodiversity of Bhutan at its Best

Royal Manas National Park is a biodiversity hotspot of Bhutan. With more than 900 species of vascular plants, 348 species of trees; 206 kinds of shrubs; 90 of climbers and twiners; and 192 species of herbs, one can definitely say that. Spread over an area of 1057 sq. km on the eastern foothills of Bhutan Himalayas, the park is a faunal heaven as well. A declared Project Tiger reserve, the park also hosts numerous species like elephants, rhinos, leopards, gaur, hog deer, wild buffalo, pygmy hog, barking deer and a 360 bird species.

Bhutan’s oldest national park shares its borders with Manas Tiger Reserve of Assam, India and offers tremendous views of tropical and sub-tropical ecosystems. One of the oldest and richest protected areas in the country, the park in south central part of Bhutan covers the part of Zhemgang, Pemagatshel and Sarpang districts. Many wildlife species that are endangered globally thrive here in large numbers. That is the main reason why the park is one of the priceless representatives of the country’s natural heritage. It is also one of the best surviving examples of Himalayan ecosystem.

Some exciting facts of Royal Manas National Park are –
• 8 different cat species thrive in the region which is a rare feature in the world
• Recorded highest tiger density in the world as per recently conducted tiger surveys conducted
• Lush landscapes, spectacular views, pristine rivers, assured views of biodiversity and wildlife and rich Bhutanese cultural experience are a part of Royal Manas National Park trip.

How to reach Royal Manas National Park
One can reach Pangbang village in Bhutan easily via Mathanguri in India. It is in fact just a short boat ride across the Manas River from Manas camp. A little-used 25km road leads from Gelephu to Kanamakra at the southwestern corner of the park and there is also a road entering the park from Nganglam in the east. Depending on your itinerary you may need double-entry Indian and Bhutanese visas, so check with your agent.

Best time to visit Royal Manas National Park
November to March are the best months to visit the park on a jungle safari.