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Royal Manas National Park

Located adjacent to India’s World Heritage site, is the oldest park in Bhutan and covers an area of 1057 square kilometers (395 square miles).
GOLDEN LANGUR
Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park

OVERVIEW

Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park

The Royal Manas National Park holds the distinction of being Bhutan’s first and oldest national park. Originally established as a game sanctuary, it was officially designated as a national park by the Royal Government of Bhutan in 1933, marking a significant milestone in the country’s conservation history.

Nestled in the central-southern region of Bhutan, this park serves as a vital ecological hub. It seamlessly connects with other prominent protected areas, including Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park to the north, the Phibsoo Wildlife Sanctuary to the west via a biological corridor, and Phrumshengla National Park to the northeast. To the south, it shares a contiguous border with India’s renowned Manas Tiger Reserve, creating a transboundary haven for wildlife.

Rich in biodiversity and steeped in history, the Royal Manas National Park is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and conservationists alike.

Mammals

The park provides a sanctuary for more than 60 mammal species, including several globally endangered ones such as the Bengal tiger, pygmy hog, clouded leopard, Asiatic elephant, and golden langur. Additionally, it is home to commonly spotted mammals like the Assamese macaque, Asiatic golden cat, Malayan giant squirrel, and barking deer, among many others.

Birds

Around 450 bird species have been documented in the park, including all four Hornbill species found in Bhutan: the Great Hornbill, Wreathed Hornbill, Oriental Pied Hornbill, and Rufous-necked Hornbill. Other notable species include the Gray Peacock Pheasant and the critically endangered White-bellied Heron, among many others

Insects

The park, known for its incredible diversity of insects, also serves as a haven for numerous butterfly species. These include the Common Mormon, Red-breast Jezebel, Common Peacock, Indian Skipper, Popinjay, Sixbar Swordtail, Spangle, Zebra Blue, Black Prince, and Maplet, among others. 

Plants

The Royal Manas National Park stands out among the country’s reserves due to its extensive subtropical scrub and grassland ecosystems. Additionally, the park is home to a diverse range of ecosystems, including subtropical broadleaf, warm broadleaf, cool broadleaf forests, temperate meadows, and grasslands. Notably, the park also shelters one of the world’s rarest tree species, known for producing the valuable Agarwood.

Tourism

Tourism in Royal Manas National Park offers unique opportunities for wildlife exploration and cultural immersion. Visitors can enjoy jungle safaris, birdwatching, and guided treks through pristine landscapes. The park’s rich biodiversity, including iconic species like tigers and elephants, along with traditional Bhutanese villages, provides a blend of natural and cultural experiences.

Human Presence and Management

Royal Manas National Park balances conservation with human presence through sustainable practices. Local communities residing near the park depend on its resources for livelihoods, such as agriculture and ecotourism. The park is managed by Bhutan’s Department of Forests and Park Services, emphasizing biodiversity conservation, anti-poaching measures, and community engagement to promote coexistence and sustainable development.

Conservation Significance

  • Protects Endangered Species: The park safeguards critical species like the Bengal tiger, clouded leopard, and white-bellied heron.
  • Biodiversity Hotspot: It serves as a vital conservation area for Bhutan’s diverse ecosystems and wildlife.
  • Preserves Key Ecosystems: Spanning tropical and subtropical zones, it supports a range of habitats and species.
  • Supports Ecological Balance: Conservation efforts maintain habitat health and wildlife populations.
  • Community-Based Conservation: Local involvement ensures sustainable use and protection of park resources.
  • Global Conservation Efforts: The park contributes to international biodiversity conservation as part of the Eastern Himalayas.
  • Promotes Research and Awareness: It provides opportunities for scientific studies and environmental education.

FEATURED

General Nature-based Tours Available

15 DAYS
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Bhutan Botanical Tour

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STARTING USD $4,700
Butterflies in Bhutan
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Bhutan Butterfly Tour

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STARTING USD $3,840
9 DAYS
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A Red Panda Safari

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Bhutan’s Bird Songs

Symphony of Bhutan’s Birds

Bhutan Birdsong Collection
This collection features 163 recordings capturing the diverse and enchanting bird songs of Bhutan’s rich natural landscapes.

Norbu

With the help of his birding friend Tom Stephenson, co author of The Warbler Guide, I have done extensive recording in Bhutan and has a very large library of local songs.
View Bird Sounds