National Parks in West Bengal
West Bengal boasts a rich tapestry of natural wonders, including its renowned national parks, enticing travelers with unparalleled biodiversity and scenic landscapes. Sunderbans National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a unique mangrove ecosystem and is home to the majestic Royal Bengal Tiger. Neora Valley National Park beckons adventurers with its lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and rare Himalayan flora and fauna.
Buxa Tiger Reserve presents a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, showcasing diverse wildlife amidst dense forests and rugged terrain. With its blend of wilderness and tranquility, West Bengal’s national parks promise an unforgettable journey into nature’s embrace for every visitor.
1. Buxa Tiger Reserve
Buxa Tiger Reserve, located on the India-Bhutan border, is considered one of the top tiger reserves in India. If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse yourself in nature, this forest reserve is the perfect destination. The lush greenery, rolling hills, and diverse flora and fauna come together to create a peaceful atmosphere.
In addition to tigers, you can also spot a variety of migratory birds such as gargani teal, common teal, and white-eyed pochard, making it a birdwatcher’s paradise. The reserve is also known for its stunning orchids that will surely catch your eye. Make sure to plan your visit well, as there are 8 different forests waiting to be explored here.
To reach this enchanting location, you can take a cab from Bagdogra airport. The entry fee to the park is Rs. 50, and if you’re interested in a jungle safari, additional charges apply. The jeep safari, available from 6 am to 6 pm, costs Rs. 1,200. Many visitors opt for the Chunia watchtower safari, which involves crossing the picturesque Jayanti river to reach the watchtower for excellent animal sightings.
2. Neora Valley National Reserve
Neora Valley National Reserve in West Bengal is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Arriving at Bagdogra airport and taking a car ride to Kalimpong will lead you to this beautiful park. Adventure enthusiasts will be thrilled by the hilly terrains perfect for trekking and discovering the diverse flora and fauna.
Keep your camera handy to capture rare wildlife sightings along the way, including the famous red pandas. For a relaxing break, consider staying in one of the bamboo huts within the reserve, where you can unwind while birdwatching. Entrance to the park is Rs. 120, with additional fees for accommodation.
Remember, the park is closed during the monsoon season from June to September, making summer and winter ideal times to visit. For breathtaking views of snow-covered mountains, winter is the best time to explore Neora Valley National Reserve.
3. Gorumara National Park
The Gorumara National Park is an essential addition to the list of national parks in West Bengal. It is renowned for its untamed beauty and rugged landscapes. Situated in Dooars, this national park will captivate you with its picturesque scenery and diverse wildlife. To reach this enchanting place, you can take a flight to Bagdogra airport and then hire a cab.
When you enter the park, make sure to visit the Rhino Observation Point, which is a unique attraction. While exploring the park, keep an eye out for various wild animals such as Asiatic Elephants, sloth bears, chittals, and leopards. It’s fascinating to know that this park is home to 50 mammalian species and 194 bird species.
However, please note that the elephant safari is exclusively available for those who book accommodations in the Gorumara accommodation provided by the forest department. You can choose from four safaris conducted between 6 am to 6 pm. Just a friendly reminder, the park remains closed from 15th June to 15th September due to the rainy season.
4. Sundarbans National Park
Sundarbans is a well-known national park in West Bengal, recognized globally as a tiger reserve and biosphere reserve. The highlight of this park is the chance to see the famous Royal Bengal Tiger, which attracts visitors from all over. What makes a visit here truly exciting is the boat ride through the park.
Picture yourself cruising along the Ganges River, surrounded by lush forests and catching glimpses of wildlife on both sides. During your boat safari, you may come across crocodiles and other endangered aquatic species. Throughout the safari, a guide will assist you in spotting wildlife and share fascinating stories about them.
For a more immersive experience, you can opt to stay overnight at one of the jungle resorts within the park. To get to Sundarbans, you can take a train to Canning station after flying into Kolkata. From there, a motor launch will take you through the waterways to reach Sundarbans.
5. Jaldapara National Park
If you want to experience elephant safaris in West Bengal, make sure to pay a visit to this national park located on the banks of the Torsa river. You can catch a flight to Bagdogra airport in Siliguri, from where you can easily find buses and cabs to take you to the national park. This park is home to the highest number of one-horned rhinoceros in the state, making it one of the top national parks in West Bengal.
Keep an eye out for these unique creatures and snap some candid photos of them in their natural habitat. We highly suggest trying out the elephant safari here, which costs Rs. 500. Remember that safari slots are available from 5.30 am to 8.30 pm, so plan your visit accordingly. The elephant safari takes you through the elephant corridor that links Jaldapara National Park to Buxa Tiger Reserve.
Alternatively, you can opt for a jeep safari to explore the park in a shorter time frame. During the safari, you’ll encounter a wide range of flora and fauna that will delight your senses. Keep an eye out for the rare Bengal Florican bird species. Additionally, there are tourist lodges within the park for your accommodation needs.
Conclusion
West Bengal’s National Parks offer a captivating blend of biodiversity and cultural heritage, making them prime destinations for tourism. From the dense forests of Sundarbans, home to the majestic Royal Bengal Tiger, to the picturesque landscapes of Neora Valley and Gorumara, these parks offer a sanctuary for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Visitors can explore diverse ecosystems, engage in eco-tourism activities, and immerse themselves in the rich flora and fauna unique to the region. With a commitment to conservation and sustainable tourism practices, West Bengal’s National Parks promise unforgettable experiences, preserving the natural treasures for generations to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
West Bengal is home to several significant National Parks, including Sundarbans National Park, Neora Valley National Park, Buxa Tiger Reserve, Gorumara National Park, and Jaldapara National Park.
Sundarbans National Park is renowned for being the largest mangrove forest in the world and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is famous for its Royal Bengal Tigers and diverse ecosystems, including tidal waterways, mudflats, and dense mangrove forests.
Neora Valley National Park is known for its rich biodiversity and is home to several rare and endangered species such as Red Panda, Clouded Leopard, Himalayan Black Bear, and several species of birds like Satyr Tragopan and Rufous-necked Hornbill.
Buxa Tiger Reserve is crucial for the conservation of the Royal Bengal Tiger. The reserve is part of the Terai-Duar savanna and grasslands ecoregion and is known for its efforts in conserving not only tigers but also other endangered species like Asian Elephants, Indian Bison, and Leopards.
Jaldapara National Park offers exciting activities such as elephant safaris, jeep safaris, and birdwatching tours. Visitors can explore the park’s diverse flora and fauna, including the Indian one-horned rhinoceros, elephants, and numerous bird species like the Bengal Florican and Crested Eagle.
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