NaturalInscribed 1985India
Manas Wildlife Sanctuary is a UNESCO World Heritage Site (Natural) located in India, inscribed in 1985, spanning 39,100 hectares.
About This Site
On a gentle slope in the foothills of the Himalayas, where wooded hills give way to alluvial grasslands and tropical forests, the Manas sanctuary is home to a great variety of wildlife, including many endangered species, such as the tiger, pygmy hog, Indian rhinoceros and Indian elephant.
| Category | Natural |
| Date Inscribed | 1985 |
| Area | 39,100 ha |
| Natural Criteria | n7, n9, n10 |
| Location | India |
Location & Geography
Coordinates
Latitude: 26.7250000, Longitude: 91.0305556
Inscription Justification
Brief synthesis Manas Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the State of Assam in North-East India, a biodiversity hotspot. Covering an area of 39,100 hectares, it spans the Manas river and is bounded to the north by the forests of Bhutan. The Manas Wildlife Sanctuary is part of the core zone of the 283,700 hectares Manas Tiger Reserve, and lies alongside the shifting river channels of the Manas River. The site’s scenic beauty includes a range of forested hills, alluvial grasslands and tropical evergreen forests. The site provides critical and viable habitats for rare and endangered species, including tiger, greater one-horned rhino, swamp deer, pygmy hog and Bengal florican. Manas has exceptional importance within the Indian sub-continent’s protected areas, as one of the most significant remaining natural areas in the region, where sizeable populations of a large number of threatened species continue to survive. Criterion (vii): Manas is recognized not only for its rich biodiversity but also for its spectacular scenery and natural landscape. Manas is located at the foothills of the Eastern Himalayas. The northern boundary of the park is contiguous to the international border of Bhutan manifested by the imposing Bhutan hills. It spans on either side of the majestic Manas river flanked in the east and the west by reserved forests. The tumultuous river swirling down the rugged mountains in the backdrop of forested hills coupled with the serenity of the alluvial grasslands and…
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Manas Wildlife Sanctuary located?
Manas Wildlife Sanctuary is located in India.
When was Manas Wildlife Sanctuary inscribed as a World Heritage Site?
Manas Wildlife Sanctuary was inscribed by UNESCO in 1985.
What criteria does Manas Wildlife Sanctuary meet?
Manas Wildlife Sanctuary meets the following UNESCO criteria: n7, n9, n10.
How large is Manas Wildlife Sanctuary?
Manas Wildlife Sanctuary spans approximately 39,100 hectares.
Data Source: UNESCO World Heritage Convention · Last updated: April 2026