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Overview

The Royal Manas National Park Tour provides an exceptional opportunity to explore Bhutan’s oldest and one of the richest bio-spheres. Also known as the Bhutanese “Crown Jewel”, it is a reserve for hundreds of wildlife and plant species most of which are threatened with extinction.

Think about walking through the thick jungles of Sundarbans that hold the Royal Bengal tiger, or canoeing down the wide rivers lined with forests resonating with the voices of over 365 bird species.

This is not a mere walk through nature and the natural resources but a detour into the cultural setting of Bhutan where the beat of the land is still dancing to traditional cultural tunes. 

As you penetrate deeper into Royal Manas, you will discover several zones teeming with life.

Whether it is the Clouded Leopard silently stalking through the jungle or the One-Horned Rhino wandering about the riverside, you can see the wildlife at its best in the park.

The region here contains many different terrains and this is because there is a variety of environments from lowland tropical rain forests to subtropical broadleaf forests. 

There is one thing that makes the Royal Manas National Park Tour exceptional, and that is the opportunity to deepen the understanding of the local culture.

It is home to the indigenous Khengpa people, who have a remarkable ability to coexist with this environment that has not undergone much influence from the twentieth-century Western lifestyle.

Whether it is having food together, doing crafts with the villagers, or hearing about their strong belief in a living entity with the land, engaging with the Khengpa will be unforgettable. 

 This tour is indeed a delightful combination of the thrill and serenity that would qualify it as one for bird watchers, photographers, nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, or anyone with a desire to have a deeper understanding and appreciation of the natural and historical treasures of Bhutan.

As you are enjoying the gentle float on some of the park’s clear rivers, having a wild and exciting animal expedition, or calmly admiring the beauty of the natural environment around you, the Royal Manas National Park Tour is what you are waiting for.

Difficulty level of The Royal Manas National Park Tour

The Royal Manas National Park Tour is easy to moderate, which is suitable for those who have low to medium-level physical fitness but love nature.

This tour entails road trips for several hours on twisting and, at times, rough roads; mild trekking in various ground,s including sub-tropical thickets and along banks of a river.

These activities include elephant back safari and bird watching, which are reasonably easy to arrange and suitable for most tourists, however, the location of these places and the addition of the tour take relatively a long time.

Nevertheless, the tour is well-timed, and the opportunity to get acquainted with the diverse flora and fauna of Bhutan is worth the difficulties encountered along the way. 

Read: Dos and Don'ts While Visiting Bhutan

Preparation required for the Royal Manas National Park Tour

It is important not only to prepare the body and soul to do the Royal Manas National Park tour but also to pack appropriately.

Strenuous exercise may not be expected, but there will be times when one will have to walk or go for a long drive; therefore, having a moderate fitness level is recommended.

Some warm-up activities, like walking or cycling, can help to build stamina for the tour.

Furthermore, get an appropriate travel insurance policy that will include adventure activities and medical expenses, since some areas are very isolated and may complicate situations when there are accidents. 

Regarding packing, the best advice is to pack comfortable, all-weather clothing as the weather may switch quickly in Bhutan.

A lightweight layer, robust walking shoes, a waterproof, although not necessarily breathable, jacket, and insect repellent should always be used. Do not leave home without binoculars for spotting wildlife and birds, and a camera to capture the stunning scenery.

Lastly, bring prescription medications if any, a basic first aid box, and a few snacks for long drives between different locations. 

You should read this guide: Bhutan Travel Guide

Best time for the Royal Manas National Park Tour

The best period to take the Royal Manas National Park Tour is during the time of the dry season in the spring (March, April, and May) and autumn (September to November).

These periods are most suitable for travel as the temperatures are moderate, the skies are clear, and the wildlife looks beautiful.

During spring, many flowers bloom, and animals are most active; this is a great time for bird-watching and hikes.

On the other hand, autumn gives clear and cool days to tour around the park’s different habitats and see the beautiful landscape views of Bhutan.

Also, these seasons experience less monsoon rains, hence the roads are in good shape and the whole journey is much more comfortable.

A typical day on The Royal Manas Tour

A typical day on the Royal Manas National Park Tour begins with an early breakfast, setting the tone for a day filled with adventure and discovery.

After a hearty meal, you'll set out to explore the park's diverse landscapes, starting with a morning activity such as a wildlife safari or a bird watching excursion.

The crisp morning air and tranquil surroundings provide an ideal setting to spot elusive animals like the Royal Bengal Tiger or the Great Hornbill.

As the day progresses, you'll enjoy a midday break for lunch, often at a scenic spot or back at your eco-lodge, where you can recharge and savor local delicacies.

The afternoon might include activities like river rafting, a leisurely elephant safari, or a guided hike through different ecosystems, from tropical lowlands to subtropical forests. These experiences offer a close-up view of the park's rich biodiversity and breathtaking landscapes.

By evening, you’ll return to your lodge to unwind and reflect on the day's experiences. Dinner is typically a communal affair, where you can share stories and experiences with fellow travelers while enjoying traditional Bhutanese cuisine.

The day wraps up with some leisure time, perhaps a walk around the lodge grounds or relaxing with a book, before preparing for another exciting day in this enchanting natural haven.

Read: Top 20 things you should know before traveling to Bhutan