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Manas Tiger Reserve
Introduction
Manas Tiger Reserve in Assam is one of India’s most celebrated protected areas. Declared a Tiger Reserve in 1973 under Project Tiger, it is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a Biosphere Reserve and an Elephant Reserve. Located along the India–Bhutan border, it forms a contiguous conservation landscape with Royal Manas National Park in Bhutan.
Quick Facts
| Particular | Details |
| State | Assam |
| Districts | Baksa, Chirang, Kokrajhar, Udalguri and Tamulpur |
| Tiger Reserve Notification | 1973 |
| Total Area | 2,837.10 sq km |
| Core Area | 526.22 sq km |
| Buffer Area | 2,310.88 sq km |
| Landscape | Eastern Himalayan Foothills |
| Forest Types | Tropical Semi-evergreen, Moist Deciduous, Riverine Forests and Grasslands |
| Major Rivers | Manas, Beki and Hakua |
| Best Time to Visit | November to April |
Location
The reserve lies in western Assam along the Bhutan border and is contiguous with Royal Manas National Park.
History
Manas became one of the original Tiger Reserves in 1973. It later gained recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Biosphere Reserve and Elephant Reserve. Following a period of insurgency-related decline, sustained conservation efforts have restored its wildlife populations.
Landscape, Geography & Habitat
The reserve spans about 2,837.10 sq km, including a 526.22 sq km core and a 2,310.88 sq km buffer. Habitats include alluvial grasslands, riverine forests, moist deciduous forests and Himalayan foothill forests.
Flora
The vegetation comprises sal, khair, sissoo, simul, cane, bamboo, reeds, tall elephant grass and numerous orchids and medicinal plants.
Fauna
Manas supports Bengal Tiger, Asian Elephant, Leopard, Clouded Leopard, Dhole, Gaur, Wild Buffalo, Hispid Hare, Pygmy Hog, Golden Langur, Capped Langur, Hog Deer, Swamp Deer and more than 450 bird species.
Rivers & Water Bodies
The Manas River and its tributaries, including the Beki and Hakua, shape the reserve’s floodplain ecosystem.
Other Attractions
River rafting, birdwatching, jeep safaris, elephant safaris (subject to regulations) and the adjoining Royal Manas landscape are major attractions.
Weather & Climate
Summers are warm and humid, monsoons bring heavy rainfall and winters are cool and pleasant.
How to Reach
Nearest airport: Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport, Guwahati. Nearest railway station: Barpeta Road. The reserve is well connected by road from Guwahati.
Best Time to Visit
November to April is the preferred season for wildlife viewing.
Accommodation
Forest Department inspection bungalows and Assam Tourism/forest eco-camps are available near authorised tourism zones with prior booking.
Conservation Highlights
Manas is globally recognised for the recovery of flagship species such as the tiger, pygmy hog and hispid hare through habitat restoration, anti-poaching measures and community participation.
Visitor Tips
Book safaris in advance, wear muted colours, avoid littering and strictly follow Forest Department instructions.
Did You Know?
• Manas is simultaneously a Tiger Reserve, UNESCO World Heritage Site, Biosphere Reserve and Elephant Reserve.
• It protects the world’s last significant populations of the endangered Pygmy Hog.
• It shares an international conservation landscape with Bhutan’s Royal Manas National Park.
Last Updated
July 2026