Elephant Safari Officially Launched at Manas National Park; Tourists Can Now Explore the Forest on Elephant Back
Elephant safari has been officially launched for tourists at the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Manas National Park, from today. The facility has been introduced in both the Bansbari and Bhuyanpara ranges, offering domestic and international visitors an opportunity to explore the park’s natural beauty and wildlife habitats while riding on elephant back.
Manas National Park, renowned for its rich biodiversity and breathtaking natural landscapes, was officially reopened to domestic and international tourists on October 2, coinciding with Gandhi Jayanti. Since its reopening, the park has witnessed a significant influx of visitors from different parts of the country and abroad.
With the introduction of elephant safari, another major attraction has been added to the park’s tourism activities.
A special programme was organised at the Bansbari range on the occasion of the launch. Traditional religious rituals and prayers were performed before the commencement of the safari. Bansbari Range Officer Nitesh Boro was present at the programme. Following the rituals, the elephant safari service was formally inaugurated.
A total of eight departmental elephants will be engaged in providing safari experiences to domestic and international tourists visiting Manas National Park. Several groups of tourists enjoyed the elephant safari shortly after its official launch.
According to the schedule, elephant safari at the Bansbari range will operate in two shifts every morning. The first shift will run from 6 am to 7 am, while the second shift will be held from 7 am to 8 am. However, the service will remain closed every Tuesday.
Similarly, elephant safari at the Bhuyanpara range will also operate in two morning shifts, from 6 am to 7 am and 7 am to 8 am. The service at this range will remain closed every Thursday.
Apart from elephant safari, tourists will also have the opportunity to experience activities related to elephant care and management at the Mahal Camp in Bansbari.
The special programme will be conducted daily from 3 pm to 4 pm, during which visitors can observe activities such as bathing and feeding elephants. Tourists will also get an opportunity to interact with mahouts under prescribed supervision. However, this programme will remain closed every Tuesday.
The authorities have also emphasised the importance of ensuring tourist safety and maintaining the health and welfare of the elephants during both the safari and elephant-care activities.
With the launch of elephant safari, Manas National Park is expected to offer an enhanced wildlife tourism experience. The opportunity to explore the lush green forests, scenic landscapes and wildlife habitats from elephant back is likely to further strengthen the park’s appeal among nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.
