Exploring Manas Wildlife Sanctuary: A Natural Heritage Site in Assam

The park is home to several rare and endangered endemic species that are difficult to find elsewhere. Among these are the Assam roofed turtle, the hispid hare, and the golden langur.

Significantly, Manas National Park hosts the only known population of pygmy hogs in the entire world. It is also well-known for its population of wild water buffalo.

The park's identity is closely tied to the Manas River, from which it derives its name. This river serves as a vital water source as it passes through the center of the national park lands.

Its location in the foothills of the Himalayas provides a range of habitats that contribute to the site's status as a significant biosphere reserve.

The land that currently forms Manas National Park was part of the Kingdom of Bhutan until the mid-19th century. Following the Duar War of 1865, the territory was ceded to British India.

Before it became a sanctuary, the region consisted of two reserve forests known as Manas Reserve Forest and North Kamrup.

The area was officially declared the Manas Wildlife Sanctuary on 1 October 1928. At the time of its declaration, it spanned an initial area of 391 square kilometers.

Today, the site maintains multiple conservation designations, including being a Project Tiger reserve and an elephant reserve, highlighting its importance to India's natural heritage.