Top National Parks in Assam

Assam State Zoo

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The Assam State Zoo cum Botanical Garden, commonly known as the Guwahati Zoo, is located in Guwahati, Assam. Established in 1957, the zoo is spread over 432 acres and is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna native to the region. It is one of the largest and oldest zoos in India, attracting visitors from all over the country. Location and Geographical Overview The Assam State Zoo is located in the Hengrabari Reserve Forest in Guwahati, Assam. Situated in the heart of the city, the zoo is easily accessible by road and is a popular tourist destination in the region. The lush greenery and picturesque surroundings make it a perfect place for nature lovers to visit. Open and Closing Time The Assam State Zoo is open to visitors from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM every day, except on Fridays. The zoo remains closed on Fridays for maintenance and upkeep. Visitors are advised to plan their trip accordingly to avoid disappointment. Entry Fee The entry fee for the Assam State Zoo is Rs. 50 for adults and Rs. 25 for children below the age of 12. Senior citizens and students are eligible for a discounted entry fee of Rs. 20. Visitors can also opt for a group entry ticket for Rs. 30 per person (minimum group size of 20 people). Species-Flora/Fauna Availability The Assam State Zoo is home to a diverse range of species, both flora and fauna. Visitors can see animals like the Indian rhinoceros, tigers, leopards, elephants, and various species of birds and reptiles. The botanical garden within the zoo boasts a wide variety of plant species, including rare orchids and medicinal plants. Activities Performed Visitors to the Assam State Zoo can enjoy a range of activities, including guided tours, animal feeding sessions, and nature walks. The zoo also conducts educational programs for school children and organizes wildlife conservation workshops to raise awareness about the importance of wildlife conservation. Jeep Safari Charges The Assam State Zoo offers jeep safari rides for visitors to get a closer look at the animals in their natural habitat. The charges for a jeep safari ride are Rs. 200 per person, with a minimum group size of four people. The safari rides are conducted by trained guides who provide valuable insights about the animals and their behavior. Age Criterion and Entry Fee The entry fee for the Assam State Zoo is Rs. 50 for adults, Rs. 25 for children below the age of 12, and Rs. 20 for senior citizens and students. Children below the age of 5 are allowed entry free of cost. Visitors are required to provide valid identification proof to avail of the discounted entry fee. Senior Citizen Facilities The Assam State Zoo offers special facilities for senior citizens, including wheelchair access, seating arrangements, and rest areas. The zoo staff is trained to assist elderly visitors and ensure their comfort and safety during their visit to the zoo. Best Time to Visit The best time to visit the Assam State Zoo is during the winter months, from November to February, when the weather is pleasant and conducive for outdoor activities. Visitors are advised to avoid visiting during the monsoon season, as heavy rainfall can disrupt the zoo's operations. Nearby Places to Visit Guwahati, being a popular tourist destination, offers a range of attractions for visitors to explore. Some nearby places to visit include the Kamakhya Temple, Umananda Island, Assam State Museum, and Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary. Visitors can also indulge in local cuisine and shop for souvenirs at the bustling markets in the city. Vehicle Parking Facility The Assam State Zoo provides ample parking space for visitors' vehicles, ensuring a hassle-free experience. Visitors can avail of the parking facility at a nominal charge and park their vehicles securely while they explore the zoo and its attractions. Rules and Regulations Visitors to the Assam State Zoo are required to follow certain rules and regulations to ensure the safety of the animals and maintain cleanliness within the premises. Some of the key rules include refraining from littering, feeding the animals, and making loud noises that may disturb the animals. Photography is allowed but flash photography is prohibited to avoid distressing the animals. How to Reach and Other Related Information The Assam State Zoo is easily accessible by road, with regular bus and taxi services available from Guwahati city center. The nearest railway station is Guwahati Railway Station, located approximately 6 km away from the zoo. The Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport is the nearest airport, situated about 25 km from the zoo. Visitors can also hire auto-rickshaws or cabs to reach the zoo conveniently.

Manas National Park

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Manas National Park, located in the Morigaon district of Assam, is one of India's most renowned wildlife sanctuaries. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Manas is known for its rich biodiversity and its status as a hotspot for endangered species. The park is part of the larger Manas Biosphere Reserve and spans across both Assam and Bhutan. It is a protected area that provides a sanctuary for a wide variety of flora and fauna, including the famous one-horned rhinoceros, tigers, and elephants. How to Reach Manas National Park, Morigaon, Assam Manas National Park is easily accessible from various parts of Assam and neighboring states. Below are the main routes for reaching the park: By Air: The nearest airport is Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati, approximately 176 kilometers from Manas National Park. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the park. By Train: The nearest railway station is **Barpeta Road Railway Station**, located around 30 kilometers from the park. Trains from Guwahati and other major cities of Assam frequently connect to Barpeta Road, from where local transport can be used to reach the park. By Road: The park is well-connected by road to Guwahati and other major towns in Assam. You can hire a taxi or use public buses to reach the park from Guwahati, with the journey taking about 3-4 hours. Weather and Best Time to Visit Manas National Park Manas National Park experiences a tropical monsoon climate, with hot summers, heavy monsoons, and mild winters. The best time to visit the park is during the winter season from November to March, when the weather is cool and dry, making it ideal for wildlife safaris. The monsoon season (June to September) brings heavy rainfall, which can make safaris difficult due to muddy paths and poor visibility. Summers (April to June) can be hot, with temperatures soaring above 30°C, but wildlife sightings are still frequent. Timing and Entry Details Manas National Park is open from 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with the park closed during the monsoon season (June to September). The sanctuary remains closed on specific national holidays, so it’s advisable to check before planning your visit. Entry fees for the park vary, with separate charges for Indian and foreign nationals. The cost of jeep safaris, elephant rides, and guides is additional. It is recommended to book safaris and entry tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. Why is Manas National Park Famous? Manas National Park is famous for its remarkable biodiversity, stunning landscapes, and rare species of animals and birds. Some of the key reasons it is widely celebrated include: Home to Endangered Species: The park is known for its population of endangered species like the one-horned rhinoceros, tigers, wild water buffalo, golden langur, and pygmy hog. UNESCO World Heritage Site: In 1985, Manas National Park was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its outstanding biodiversity and natural beauty. Manas Biosphere Reserve: The park is a part of the larger Manas Biosphere Reserve, which also includes Bhutan’s Royal Manas National Park, forming an international biodiversity corridor. Rich Avifauna: The park is home to over 450 species of birds, including rare and migratory species, making it a haven for birdwatchers. History and Architecture Manas National Park was initially set up in 1928 as a reserve forest and was later declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1950. In 1985, it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its unique wildlife and ecosystems. The park’s architecture is primarily natural, with its vast grasslands, wetlands, and dense forests offering a rich habitat for a variety of wildlife. The park is home to many traditional wooden and bamboo structures, which are used by the indigenous communities living in and around the park. These structures are built using eco-friendly methods that blend with the surrounding environment. Things to Do at Manas National Park Manas National Park offers a range of activities for visitors who wish to experience the park’s rich biodiversity and natural beauty: Wildlife Safari: The best way to explore the park is through a jeep safari. Visitors can spot various animals such as rhinos, tigers, elephants, and wild buffalo in their natural habitat. The park offers several routes for jeep safaris, and it is advisable to hire a knowledgeable guide. Elephant Safari: For a unique and unforgettable experience, take an elephant ride through the park. It provides an up-close view of wildlife and a chance to explore areas that are otherwise inaccessible by jeep. Bird Watching: The park is a birdwatcher’s paradise, home to over 450 species of birds, including rare migratory birds. The winter months are particularly good for birdwatching. River Rafting: The Manas River flows through the park, offering opportunities for river rafting. This is a thrilling activity for adventure enthusiasts who want to explore the park from a different perspective. Nature Walks: Walking through the park with a guide is a great way to explore the diverse flora and fauna. Nature walks allow you to observe smaller species of plants and animals that you might miss during a safari. Facts and Tips About Manas National Park Here are some useful facts and tips for your visit to Manas National Park: The park spans over 1,000 square kilometers, making it one of the largest national parks in India. Manas is home to several indigenous communities, including the Bodo and the Tiwa tribes. Visitors can learn about their cultures and traditions during their visit. It is recommended to visit with a professional guide, as they can provide insights into the park’s wildlife and history. Ensure you carry binoculars for birdwatching and cameras with zoom lenses for wildlife photography. Wear comfortable shoes, as exploring the park involves walking and long safari rides. Stay hydrated and carry necessary snacks, as there are limited facilities within the park itself. Conclusion Manas National Park is a must-visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts, adventure lovers, and nature photographers. Its unique position as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, combined with its biodiversity and stunning landscapes, makes it one of the most important national parks in India. Whether you are visiting to spot the endangered one-horned rhinoceros, observe the diverse birdlife, or enjoy the thrilling safaris, Manas National Park offers an unforgettable experience. The park's commitment to conservation, along with its natural beauty, ensures that it remains a sanctuary for wildlife and a top travel destination for years to come.

Manas National Park

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Manas National Park, located in Barpeta district of Assam, is a UNESCO Natural World Heritage site and one of the most beautiful national parks in India. Spread over an area of 950 square kilometers, it is known for its diverse wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, and important conservation efforts. Location and Geographical Overview The park is situated at the foothills of the Himalayas and is bordered by the Manas River, which serves as a natural boundary between India and Bhutan. The park is known for its lush forests, grasslands, and wetlands, making it a haven for a wide variety of flora and fauna. Open and Closing Time The park is open for visitors from 7:00 am to 5:00 pm every day. Entry Fee The entry fee for Indian nationals is INR 20 per person, while for foreign nationals, it is INR 250 per person. Species-Flora/Fauna Availability Manas National Park is home to a rich variety of wildlife, including tigers, elephants, rhinoceros, deer, langurs, and a wide range of bird species. The park is also known for its diverse flora, with many rare and endangered plant species found within its boundaries. Activities Performed Visitors to the park can enjoy activities such as jeep safaris, elephant safaris, bird watching, nature walks, and boat rides on the Manas River. Jeep Safari Charges The charges for a jeep safari in Manas National Park vary depending on the duration and route chosen. On average, the cost ranges from INR 1500 to INR 3000 per person. Age Criterion for Male, Female, Children and Their Entry Fee Children below the age of 5 are not required to pay an entry fee. The entry fee for male and female visitors above the age of 5 is the same as mentioned earlier. Senior Citizen Facilities Senior citizens are provided with special facilities such as discounted entry fees and assistance with transportation within the park. Best Time to Visit The best time to visit Manas National Park is from November to April when the weather is pleasant, and wildlife sightings are more frequent. Nearby Places to Visit There are several attractions near Manas National Park that visitors can explore, including the Manas River, Bhutan Gate, and the picturesque villages of the Barpeta district. Vehicle Parking Facility The park has designated parking areas for visitors who arrive in their vehicles. Parking facilities are available near the park entrance. Rules and Regulations Visitors are required to follow certain rules and regulations while inside the park, including maintaining silence, not feeding the animals, and not littering. Smoking and alcohol consumption are strictly prohibited within the park. How to Reach and Other Related Information Manas National Park is well-connected by road and located approximately 176 kilometers from Guwahati, the nearest major city. The nearest airport is Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati. Visitors can also reach the park by train, with the nearest railway station being Barpeta Road. Overall, a visit to Manas National Park promises a unique and unforgettable experience for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts alike. With its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and conservation efforts, the park showcases the incredible natural beauty of Assam and the Northeast region of India.