The Royal Manas National Park, started in 1966, is the 1st protected Area in Bhutan with an area of 1000 sq. km. The Park id designated to protect the habitat of elephants, tigers, leopards and golden languor. In addition there are about 86 mammals, over 350 birds, 900-300 plant species. The park area is stretched over 3 Dzongkhag namely, Zhemgang, Sarpang and Pemagatshel. Royal Manas National Park adjoins the Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park to the north and India's Manas National Park and Manas Tiger Reserve to the south. Together they form a 5000-sq-km protected area that runs from the plains to the Himalayan peaks. Currently tourists are allowed only on special case basis with approval from Government. There are plans underway for developing the area of Manas and Panbang for tourists. Traditional trek route starts from Tingtibi to Gonphu, (which has a hot spring) and then from there to Panthang and then onto Panbang. From Panbang, one may float on a boat or raft or drive for about half hour to Manas. The route is great in winter and good for bird watching and to sight other fauna. However a new road to Panbang has reached Gongphu from Tingtibi and is progressing rapidly. It will connect some of the remotest areas of Bhutan. Currently, Panbang Dungkhag is accessible by road from India side of Manas via Mathanguri.