Jalpaiguri: Forest Landscapes, Rivers and Temple Traditions

The Jalpaiguri district offers a range of reasons to travel: forest and river landscapes, wildlife watching and religious traditions. Gorumara National Park is located in the Dooars region of the district. A large northern part of the area is associated with the Dooars, whose name is explained as “gateway to Bhutan.” Tea plantations stretch across the entire district; at the same time, Jalpaiguri has extensive areas of dense green forest.

Forests and wildlife watching

Dense forests and grasslands characterize Gorumara National Park in the low-lying plains of the Murti and Raidak river systems. The park is home to Indian rhinoceroses. Jeep and elephant safaris with knowledgeable guides are among the experiences offered there.

Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the oldest wildlife sanctuaries in West Bengal. The Murti River separates it from Gorumara National Park. From its watchtower, visitors can observe resident and migratory birds; the forest landscape also offers opportunities for fishing and boating.

The focus differs: Indian rhinoceroses and jeep and elephant safaris are central to the wildlife experience at Gorumara, while Chapramari is known for birdwatching from its watchtower. Khuttimari is a forest near Gayerkata in the Dooars area of Jalpaiguri district and adds another named forest location to the selection.

Rivers and migratory waterbirds

Gajoldoba lies between the Mahananda River to the west and the Teesta River to the east. Migratory waterbirds gather at the dam built across the Teesta River at Gajoldoba. The reservoir is surrounded by the dense forests of Baikunthapur. The river, the dam and the surrounding forest landscape are therefore all central to getting your bearings here.

Temples and festival traditions

Near Mainaguri in Jalpaiguri district stands Jalpesh Temple, an ancient Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. The present structure reflects traditional Bengali temple architecture. For centuries, the temple has been an important center of Shaivite worship. The Shravani Mela and Mahashivaratri celebrations are held there every year.

Another setting for religious traditions is the historic Jalpaiguri Rajbari, where Manasa Puja has been celebrated for more than five centuries. Traditional Bishahari songs are performed during the puja, and a five-day fair fills the Rajbari grounds. The festivals at Jalpesh Temple and the tradition at the Rajbari offer different cultural reasons to visit within the district.

Distances for getting there

New Jalpaiguri railway station is listed as 74 km from Khuttimari Forest; Jalpaiguri Road is the nearest railway station. For Baikunthapur, New Jalpaiguri is listed as 68 km away, with Jalpaiguri Road again the nearest railway station. The nearest airport to Baikunthapur is Bagdogra, 88 km away. The different distances from New Jalpaiguri give you a concrete reference point when choosing between these two forest areas. Plan your journey according to your chosen destination.

Discover more destinations: Lataguri, Dhupguri, Birbhum, South 24 Parganas, Bankura, Malda, East Medinipur, Bardhaman.

For the wider travel overview: West Bengal.