About Gelephu

GelephuGelephuRoyal Manas National ParkRoyal Manas National Park

Overview

Gelephu is a town in Sarpang district on Bhutan's southern border with Assam, with a small domestic airport. It is the nearest town to Royal Manas National Park, Bhutan's oldest national park, which covers 1,057 sq km of subtropical forest and grassland next to India's Manas National Park. Tigers, elephants, gaur, golden langurs and four species of hornbill live in the park, and it is the only park in Bhutan with one horned rhinos. The Panbang side of the park offers community ecotourism with rafting and jungle walks.

Best Time to Visit Gelephu

Plan your trip around the right season

Nov-MarBest Window

Why visit

Dry, mild weather in the southern foothills.

Keep in mind

Hazy views.

How to Reach Gelephu

Intercity connectivity and travel options

Gelephu has a small domestic airport and a road border crossing from Assam. It is also reached by road from Thimphu.

Getting Around Gelephu

Local transport and practical tips

Local transport

Travel within the region is by road with your tour operator or a hired vehicle.

Best Areas to Stay in Gelephu

Pick the right neighbourhood for your trip

Gelephu town

Most visitors

Hotels near the border and town centre.

Panbang

Wildlife and river trips

Community eco camps on the Manas river in Zhemgang district.