The enchanting region of Dooars, stretching across the foothills of the Eastern Himalayas in North Bengal, is a nature loverβs paradise. Known as the βdoorsβ to Bhutan, this fertile land opens up to lush forests, sprawling tea gardens, and exotic wildlife sanctuaries.
The landscape is dotted with famous reserves like Gorumara National Park, Jaldapara Wildlife Sanctuary, and Buxa Tiger Reserve, offering rare glimpses of rhinos, elephants, leopards, and vibrant birdlife. The thrilling jungle safaris, riverbank picnics, and serene drives through misty forest roads make Dooars a true offbeat gem.
Dooars also offers:
π Location: Situated around 25 km from Siliguri, on the banks of the Teesta River in Jalpaiguri district, Dooars
β°οΈ Altitude: Approximately 300 feet (91 meters)
Gajoldoba is an emerging eco-tourism destination in Dooars known for its massive Teesta Barrage and vast wetlands that attract migratory birds in large numbers. The calm waters of the reservoir framed by the Himalayan foothills offer a surreal experience, making it a top choice for birdwatchers, photographers, and peaceful getaways.
π Location: Near Jalpaiguri town, on the banks of the Teesta River, West Bengal
β°οΈ Elevation: Approx. 260 feet (79 meters)
Bhramari Devi Mandir, also known as the Shakti Peeth of Bhramari Devi, is one of the 51 sacred Shakti Peethas across the Indian subcontinent. It is believed to be the place where the left leg of Goddess Sati fell, making it a site of immense religious significance. Set amidst lush greenery near the Teesta River, the temple attracts pilgrims and spiritual seekers year-round.
π Location: Located in the foothills of the Eastern Himalayas, between the Jaldapara and Gorumara National Parks, Dooars, West Bengal
β°οΈ Elevation: Approx. 600 feet (183 meters)
Chalsa is a picturesque town nestled in the heart of the Dooars region, known for its lush tea gardens, dense forests, and proximity to major wildlife destinations. Surrounded by hills and greenery, it serves as the perfect base for exploring the Gorumara and Chapramari forests. The peaceful environment and scenic landscapes make Chalsa a favored destination for both nature lovers and wildlife photographers.
π Location: Located on the banks of the Murti River, near Gorumara National Park, Dooars, West Bengal
β°οΈ Altitude: Approximately 315 feet (96 meters)
Murti is a serene riverside retreat in the heart of Dooars, surrounded by lush forest cover and wildlife sanctuaries. Itβs an ideal destination for those who seek tranquility amidst nature. The crystal-clear river, chirping birds, and occasional sightings of wild animals make it a paradise for nature lovers and photographers.
π Location: Dooars region, Jalpaiguri district, West Bengal
β°οΈ Area: Approximately 80 square kilometers
Gorumara National Park is a wildlife haven famous for its population of Indian one-horned rhinoceroses. Located in the heart of Dooars, it is a paradise for nature lovers, photographers, and wildlife enthusiasts. The park offers both jeep safaris and elephant rides that take you deep into the forest where you can spot elephants, bison, leopards, deer, and a variety of birds.
π Location: Near Ramsai, Gorumara National Park, Dooars, West Bengal
π³ Zone: Ramsai Range (East Gorumara Division)
Medla Watch Tower is one of the lesser-crowded yet stunning viewpoints inside the eastern part of Gorumara National Park. Surrounded by dense forest and grasslands, it provides an excellent opportunity to spot wildlife in their natural habitat. The tower overlooks salt pits and water bodies, making it a popular spot for sighting bison, elephants, deer, and peacocks.
π Location: Near Mal Park, Malbazar, Jalpaiguri District, Dooars, West Bengal
π Type: Religious & Cultural Site
The Hanuman Temple in Malbazar is a significant religious site and a serene spot for devotees and tourists alike. Located near the town center and Mal Park, this temple features a large and beautifully sculpted idol of Lord Hanuman, surrounded by landscaped gardens and a peaceful ambiance.
Locals and travelers often visit to offer prayers, seek blessings, or spend a few quiet moments in spiritual reflection. The temple becomes especially vibrant during Hanuman Jayanti and other Hindu festivals, attracting hundreds of devotees.
π Location: Jalpaiguri District, Dooars region, West Bengal
β°οΈ Altitude: Approximately 3,000 feet (915 meters)
Samsing is a picturesque village nestled in the foothills of the Eastern Himalayas, known for its scenic beauty, lush green tea gardens, and tranquil ambiance. Often referred to as the βGateway to Neora Valley National Park,β Samsing is a perfect retreat for nature lovers, photographers, and birdwatchers.
The journey to Samsing itself is enchanting, with winding roads through tea estates, forests, and small streams. The area is also dotted with quaint homestays that offer warm hospitality and authentic local cuisine.
π Location: Near Samsing, Dooars region, West Bengal
β°οΈ Altitude: Around 2,900 feet (880 meters)
Suntalekhola, meaning "Orange Stream" in Nepali, is a serene riverside village surrounded by thick forests and tea gardens. Located just a few kilometers from Samsing, it is the ideal destination for nature lovers seeking peace and offbeat experiences.
The main attraction is the wooden hanging bridge over the river, offering beautiful views and photo opportunities. Suntalekhola is also the base for treks into Neora Valley and is rich in flora and fauna.
π Location: Near Samsing, Murti Riverbank, Dooars region, West Bengal
β°οΈ Altitude: Approx. 2,000 feet (610 meters)
Rocky Island is a hidden gem nestled on the banks of the Murti River and is a favorite spot for eco-tourism and adventure activities. The unique rock formations, serene river flow, and forest backdrop make it an ideal destination for camping, trekking, and bonfires.
It's a popular weekend getaway for those looking to disconnect from the urban rush and enjoy time in the lap of nature. Adventure lovers can explore nearby trails, waterfalls, and bird habitats.
π Location: On the banks of River Jaldhaka, near Bhutan border, Dooars, West Bengal
π Altitude: Approximately 1,500 feet (457 meters)
Jhalong is a serene riverside hamlet located on the banks of the gurgling Jaldhaka River, close to the Indo-Bhutan border. It is famous for its tranquil ambiance, lush forest surroundings, and the picturesque Jaldhaka Hydel Project.
This offbeat destination is popular among bird watchers and nature lovers. Migratory and Himalayan birds like Kingfishers, Eurasian Wrynecks, and Brown Dippers can be spotted here. Itβs also a peaceful retreat for those seeking solitude amidst untouched nature.
π Location: Near Bindu, Kalimpong district, Dooars region, West Bengal
πΏ Altitude: Around 4,800 feet (1,463 meters)
Paren is a quaint forest village surrounded by dense pine forests, alpine vegetation, and misty hills. This quiet hamlet is perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat in natureβs lap. With its serene walking trails and rich biodiversity, itβs a haven for birdwatchers, trekkers, and nature photographers.
π Location: Indo-Bhutan border, Darjeeling district, Dooars, West Bengal
π Altitude: Approximately 2,000 feet (610 meters)
Bindu is the last Indian village on the Indo-Bhutan border and is known for its pristine natural surroundings and the iconic Bindu Dam. This dam on the Jaldhaka River is not only scenic but also functional, used for irrigation and hydroelectric purposes. Surrounded by dense forests and hilly terrain, Bindu offers unmatched tranquility and is ideal for birdwatchers and nature lovers.
π Location: Jaldhaka Valley, Kalimpong district (West Bengal) near Indo-Bhutan border
π Elevation: Ranges between 1,500 to 3,000 feet (approx.)
The picturesque Jaldhaka Valley gets its name from the Jaldhaka River, a trans-boundary river originating from the Kupup Lake (Bitang Tso) in Sikkim and flowing through Bhutan before entering Dooars. The river not only blesses the region with fertile lands but also fuels a major hydropower project β the Jaldhaka Hydel Project.
π Location: Near Madarihat, around 10 km from Jaldapara National Park, Dooars, West Bengal
π³ Type: Wildlife Rescue & Rehabilitation Centre
South Khayerbari is a serene and well-maintained animal rescue center nestled on the banks of the River Torsa. It gained importance following the ban on circuses and animal shows in India. This center serves as a rehabilitation facility for rescued tigers and leopards, especially those previously part of circuses or injured in the wild.
π Location: Around 30 km from Lataguri, near Gorumara National Park, Dooars, West Bengal
πΏ Type: Protected Forest Area & Wildlife Sanctuary
Chapramari is one of the oldest forest reserves in West Bengal, declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1998. It lies adjacent to the western side of Gorumara National Park and shares similar flora and fauna. The name "Chapramari" is derived from the abundance of "Chopra" trees (locally known) and the "Mari" meaning 'abundance'. This sanctuary is particularly noted for its population of wild elephants and Indian Gaur (bison).
π Location: Alipurduar district, West Bengal, near Madarihat town
πΏ Type: Wildlife Sanctuary & National Park (Established in 1941 as a sanctuary, upgraded in 2012)
Jaldapara National Park is one of the most important biodiversity hotspots of the Eastern Dooars, especially known for its Indian one-horned rhinoceros. Spread across the banks of the Torsa River, the park offers lush grasslands, dense forests, and swampy marshes that support a rich range of flora and fauna. It is also home to elephants, leopards, bison, spotted deer, wild boar, and over 240 species of birds. Visitors can experience the beauty of this wilderness through Jeep safaris and Elephant rides.
You can book your official Jaldapara Safari via the West Bengal Forest Department:
π Location: Near Hasimara, in the Alipurduar District, West Bengal
πΏ Region: Between Jaldapara National Park and Buxa Tiger Reserve
The Chilapata Forest is a dense forest corridor, crucial for elephant migration between Buxa and Jaldapara. Known for its raw wilderness and tribal surroundings, the forest offers an offbeat experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Apart from abundant wildlife, Chilapata also houses the ruins of the ancient Nalraja Fortβdating back to the Gupta periodβhidden inside the forest, making it both historically and ecologically significant.
You can book your official Chilapata Safari via the West Bengal Forest Department:
π Location: Buxa Tiger Reserve, Alipurduar District, West Bengal
π Situated On: The banks of the serene Jayanti River, forming a natural border with the Bhutan hills
Jayanti is a breathtaking forest village nestled inside the Buxa Tiger Reserve, often referred to as the βQueen of Dooars.β Known for its tranquil ambiance, untouched nature, and dense forest trails, Jayanti is perfect for those looking to experience nature in its rawest form. The quiet, pebbled Jayanti Riverbed adds to the charm, making it a haven for nature lovers, bird watchers, and adventure seekers alike.
October to March is the ideal season when skies are clear, and forest trails are open for exploration. Safari operations generally remain closed during the monsoon (mid-June to mid-September).
Safaris in the nearby Buxa Range (which includes Jayanti) can be booked officially through the Forest Department.
π Location: Alipurduar District, West Bengal
π³ Area Covered: Over 760 sq km including core and buffer zones
Buxa Tiger Reserve is the second largest forest reserve in West Bengal and a biodiversity hotspot nestled in the foothills of the Eastern Himalayas. It shares an international border with Bhutan and is home to a wide range of flora and fauna including elephants, leopards, Indian bison, wild boars, and several species of birds and butterflies. It is also home to a small number of elusive Royal Bengal Tigers.
Historically, the reserve was part of a corridor for Bhutanese royalty and traders. It also houses the ruins of the famous Buxa Fort, which once served as a British detention camp for freedom fighters during colonial times.
November to March is the most comfortable and scenic time to visit. Safaris and treks are generally suspended during the monsoon season (mid-June to mid-September).
π Location: Buxa Tiger Reserve buffer zone, Alipurduar District, West Bengal
π Type: Slow-moving jungle stream surrounded by dense forests
Often referred to as the "Mini Amazon of North Bengal", Sikiajhora is a hidden eco-tourism gem located within the buffer zone of the Buxa Tiger Reserve. It is famed for its serene jungle boat rides that take visitors deep into the lush, untouched forest β giving it the feel of a miniature Amazon rainforest experience.
The tranquil waterway flows through thick vegetation where bird calls echo and the occasional rustle in the underbrush hints at the presence of wildlife. This place is ideal for nature photography, birdwatching, and those who seek peace away from popular tourist crowds.
Winter (November to February) is the most scenic and accessible time, when the water levels are stable, and fog creates a magical atmosphere.
π Location: Cooch Behar Town, West Bengal
π° Built By: Maharaja Nripendra Narayan in 1887
ποΈ Style: Classical Western (Italian Renaissance) architecture
The Cooch Behar Rajbari, also known as the **Cooch Behar Palace**, is a majestic symbol of royal heritage in North Bengal. Modeled after the **Buckingham Palace in London**, this architectural marvel was constructed in the late 19th century by Maharaja Nripendra Narayan of the Koch dynasty.
Spread over a vast area, the palace features beautiful arcaded verandahs, ornamental entrances, wide halls, and stunning painted ceilings. The palace once served as the residence of the royal family of Cooch Behar and now houses a museum showcasing artifacts, weapons, royal attire, and historical documents.
October to March offers pleasant weather and great lighting for photographs and exploration.
π Location: Near Cooch Behar Palace, Cooch Behar Town, West Bengal
ποΈ Established: Late 19th Century by Maharaja Nripendra Narayan
The Madan Mohan Temple is one of the most revered religious sites in North Bengal, especially for followers of Lord Krishna. Built in classical Hindu temple architecture with terracotta-influenced design, it is dedicated to Lord Madan Mohan (Krishna), Goddess Kali, Ma Tara, and Ma Bhavani.
The temple is a sacred place of worship as well as an important part of the cultural fabric of Cooch Behar. Devotees from far and wide come here especially during Rash Mela, a grand annual religious fair that celebrates the divine love of Krishna and Radha.
β¨ This temple is a beautiful blend of devotion, history, and royaltyβmaking it a must-visit in Cooch Behar.
Dooars is well-connected to the rest of India through nearby transport hubs in North Bengal. Here's how you can reach the lush green region of Dooars:
New Jalpaiguri (NJP) Railway Station β NJP is the primary gateway to Dooars, located about 45β90 km from various destinations like Lataguri, Chalsa, or Madarihat. Regular taxis and shared vehicles are available from the station.
Bagdogra Airport (IXB) β Located around 50β95 km from different Dooars zones, this airport has frequent flights from major Indian cities. From the airport, you can hire a cab or arrange for a pre-booked transfer.
Siliguri / Jalpaiguri / Hasimara / Alipurduar β These are the main towns offering vehicle services to areas like Lataguri, Murti, Jaldapara, and Buxa. Shared jeeps and buses to Dooars start mostly in the morning till late afternoon.
Copyright © Saitirtha Tours & Travels, 2025.