Assam: The rare and elusive wildlife of Manas National Park

Manas National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Assam, is home to some of the rarest and most endangered wildlife species in India. Manas National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Assam, is a breathtaking wildlife sanctuary known for its rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes. With its dense forests, grasslands, and the Manas River flowing through it, the park offers a perfect blend of adventure and conservation. Here are some of the rare animals you can find in this biodiverse paradise.

One of the rarest mammals in the world, the pygmy hog is critically endangered and found only in Assam. Once thought to be extinct, conservation efforts in Manas have helped revive its population. Last year in October, nine captive-bred pygmy hogs were released in Manas National Park. Pygmy hogs are threatened by extinction, and it is because of these conservation efforts, we still have these hogs around.

This striking golden-furred primate is one of the most elusive and endangered langur species, found primarily in the forests of Assam and Bhutan. Manas is one of the few places where they thrive.

This critically endangered bird is one of the rarest birds you will find in India. Their population is rapidly decreasing due to habitat loss. Bengal Florican is known for its elaborate courtship display. Manas provides one of the last remaining habitats for the Bengal Florican.

A rare freshwater turtle species, the Assam roofed turtle is found in the rivers and wetlands of Manas, though it is highly threatened due to habitat loss and poaching.

Known for its unique cloud-like markings, the clouded leopard is a rare and elusive big cat found in the dense forests of Manas, though sightings are very uncommon.

Though found in multiple locations in Assam, the greater one-horned rhinoceros was once wiped out from Manas due to poaching. Today, their number might be less in Manas, but their return is a great example of the success of the rhino reintroduction programme.

The wild water buffalo is larger and more powerful than its domestic counterpart, and Manas has one of the last significant populations of this endangered species.

The Chinese pangolin, known for its armor-like scales, is highly threatened due to illegal wildlife trade. It is extremely rare in India, and Manas is one of the few places where it survives.