Discover Jalpaiguri

Jalpaiguri combines extensive forests and tea gardens with protected areas, historic sites and religious traditions. Nature and wildlife, as well as the history of the Rajbari and the temples, stand out in particular.

Forests, water and wildlife

Extensive areas of dense green forests and sprawling tea gardens shape Jalpaiguri. Several national parks and wildlife sanctuaries provide habitats for endangered birds and animals. Khuttimari is a forest near Gayerkata in the Dooars region of Jalpaiguri district; Chapramari is one of the oldest wildlife sanctuaries in West Bengal.

The Gajoldoba Reservoir is surrounded by the dense forests of Baikunthapur. The dam built across the Teesta River attracts migratory waterbirds. Pakhi Bitan is Gajoldoba’s bird sanctuary and a refuge for migratory birds. A description from 2023 also mentions shikara boat rides for tourists in Gajoldoba. If you plan a ride, check current availability.

Gorumara National Park lies on the banks of the Murti and Raidak rivers, in the Terai region at the foot of the Dooars in the eastern Himalayas. The views from Medla Watchtower take in elephants, the jungle and the Murti River. Chukchuki Watchtower, also known as Chukchuki Birding Point, is located in the national park and offers opportunities to spot rhinos, bisons, gaurs, Asian elephants, sloth bears, chital deer, sambar deer, Indian pythons, and native and migratory birds. These nature attractions offer distinct experiences: Gajoldoba attracts migratory waterbirds, while numerous mammal species are also mentioned at Chukchuki Watchtower.

Temples and historical traditions

Jalpaiguri Rajbari was the former residence of the Raikats, the kings of the Baikunthapur Estate. The complex includes a large palace, a portico, a garden, ponds and temples. Manasa Puja at Jalpaiguri Rajbari is a royal tradition observed for more than five centuries by descendants of the Raikat rulers of Baikunthapur. During the puja, a five-day fair fills the grounds with local handicrafts, traditional food, cultural performances and religious gatherings.

Jatileswar Temple is one of the oldest temples in the Dooars region of North Bengal and is of religious and historical significance. Its main temple was built during the rule of the Gupta rulers of Bengal, approximately between 320 and 600 CE. Bhramari Devi Temple in Bodaganj, Jalpaiguri, is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas. Jalpesh Temple is dedicated to the Bhairava of the Bhramari Saktipitha, who is known as Jalpesh. Together, these sites illustrate the religious and historical diversity of Jalpaiguri’s temple traditions.

Tea and processing

Tea gardens shape the landscape; tea tourism is also described at Baradighi Bungalow in Jalpaiguri district. A description from 2023 mentions a visit to a tea factory, where visitors can observe the processing. This extends the experience from tea cultivation in the gardens to tea processing. Check whether visits are available before making firm plans.

Discover more destinations: Alipurduar, Patkapara, Birpara, Sukhanibasti, Rangamati Tea Garden. See more destinations: North 24 Parganas, Bankura, Jalpaiguri.

Return to the regional travel overview: West Bengal.