A Road Trip to Manas National Park from Cooch Behar
By JAGAT [19-March-25] You must be wondering why people already living in the lap of North Bengal’s natural beauty feel the urge to travel to Assam to explore more of nature and wildlife. Well, that’s the trick with travel enthusiasts. They are always greedy for more visual pleasure, eager to soak in every bit of nature’s wonders. And when you have a neighbouring state like Assam, the temptation becomes even stronger. Assam is a treasure trove of natural splendour, boasting world-famous destinations like Kaziranga and Guwahati, as well as hidden gems like Pobitora, Haflong, Sualkuchi, and, of course, Manas National Park. Nestled in the foothills of the Eastern Himalayas, Manas National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a paradise for wildlife lovers. From Cooch Behar, a road trip to this wildlife wonderland is not just about covering a distance but about embarking on an adventure through scenic countryside roads, quaint villages, and lush green landscapes. Right from the thrill of spotting a one-horned rhinoceros, to the charm of wild elephants, or the serene beauty of the Manas River, this trip promises an experience that is both exhilarating and soul-soothing.
Cooch Behar to Manas by Road: The Route Map
The journey from Cooch Behar to Manas National Park is an exhilarating road trip that offers a blend of scenic beauty and adventure. The distance between the two destinations is approximately 217 km, and it takes around 5 hours to reach the park, depending on road conditions and stoppages. The most preferred route is via NH27 or NH17, passing through serene landscapes, lush tea gardens, and small Assamese villages. The roads are generally in good condition, though some stretches might have rough patches, especially near the park’s entrance. Along the way, stop at places to allow yourself to refuel, grab a quick meal, or simply soak in the natural beauty.
Safari and Wildlife Encounters in Manas
A trip to Manas National Park is incomplete without experiencing its thrilling jeep and elephant safaris, which offer an up-close view of the park’s diverse wildlife. Visitors can opt for Manas safari booking to secure their slots in advance and avoid last-minute hassles. Jeep safaris are ideal for covering large areas of the park, offering excellent opportunities to spot animals in their natural habitat. The early morning safari is perfect for witnessing wildlife activity, while the evening safari provides a chance to enjoy the breathtaking sunset over the grasslands. Elephant safaris in the morning, on the other hand, offer a more immersive experience, allowing visitors to explore the dense forests in a quiet and eco-friendly manner. These safaris, conducted by trained mahouts, take you deep into the park’s core zones, increasing the chances of spotting elusive species. Manas National Park is home to an incredible variety of flora and fauna, making it a paradise for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. The park is famous for housing the endangered one-horned rhinoceros, which can often be spotted grazing near the grasslands. Other remarkable species include the wild water buffalo, Asiatic elephants, Bengal tigers, and golden langurs. The Manas River, flowing through the park, adds to the mesmerizing charm of the landscape, offering scenic boat rides.
Ideal Time to Plan for the Manas Road Trip
Choosing the right season is crucial to making the most of your visit to Manas National Park. The best time to explore this UNESCO-listed wildlife sanctuary is between November and April, when the weather is pleasant, and the chances of spotting wildlife are significantly higher. Winter months provide excellent visibility, making it easier to track animals during safaris. March and April are also great months to visit, as this is when the forest starts transitioning into summer, and animals gather around water sources, offering spectacular sightings. The park remains closed during the monsoon season (June to September) due to heavy rainfall and flooding, making travel risky.
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