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Chapramari National Park is the haven for nature and animal lovers in northern West Bengal, India. It was formed in 1895, and this stunning sanctuary landed its title as a national wildlife sanctuary in 1998. The total area of 960 hectares of hardwood forest provides beautiful flowers and a wide range of wildlife. Elephants, Bison (Gaur), and different species of birds, like the Green Magpie, along with many orchids, make the park their home. With its stunning landscapes and rich wildlife, the national park is becoming an increasingly popular destination for travellers seeking tranquillity and adventure.
Location
Photo: Michael Wilcox / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
The park is easily accessible from the New Jalpaiguri (NJP) station, which is approximately 60 km away. The nearest major rail station is Malbazar Rail Station, which is roughly 15 km away. Also near are Chalsa and Nagrakata, which are smaller rail stations. It takes around two hours to reach the park from Siliguri, which is the largest city in northern Bengal. On the way from Jalpaiguri, the drive traverses through the sprawling forests of the Lataguri-Batabari range.
How To Reach
Photo: Clarko1959 / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
By Train: About 15 kilometres separates Malbazar Rail Station, the nearest major rail hub. There are also Chalsa (7 km) and Nagrakata (7.5 km), which are smaller stations nearby.
By Road: Siliguri, the biggest city in northern Bengal, is approximately two hours drive from the National Park. The route from Jalpaiguri goes through dense green trees in the Lataguri-Batabari area, with National Highway 17 and Chalsa-Bindu-Jaldhaka-Todey Tangta roads passing through the sanctuary.
Places To Visit Around Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary
1. Murti River
Photo: Pinakpani / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
In this West Bengal Dooars region, the Murti River stands out as a beautiful stream picture. The river runs through dense jungles and green tea estates. It is one of the rivers that arose from the Neora Valley National Park and is known for its biodiversity, including the endangered Indian one-horned rhinoceros. The river’s depths are crystal clear, soothing to the eye, and perfect for camping, picnicking, and bush walking by the riverside.
Distance From The National Park: 8.6 km
Ideal Visit Duration: 2 – 3 days
2. Mal Park Mal Bazaar
Photo: Torsten Kellermann / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Malbazar Park is sometimes referred to as Mal Park. This park is located in the centre of the town of Malbazar and is quite pleasant. The park is known for its exquisite gardens, flowering plants, and lawns that have been aerated and are pleasing to the eyes. The park is an ideal location for walks, family outings, and children’s activities, and there is a special area devoted to children’s activities.
Distance From The National Park: 14.1 km
Ideal Visit Duration: 1 – 2 hours
3. Hanuman Temple Kalimpong
Photo: Himesh Mehta / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
As a temple on a hill in Kalimpong Hanuman Temple, it is a temple for Lord Hanuman. Its serene place has far-flung beauty and many valleys covered by hills, which makes it an enchanting place for devotees. A giant statue of Lord Hanuman is featured in the temple and draws many of its followers, tourists, and pilgrims alike. Amazing audio of devotional songs floats in the inlet, allowing people to soak in the views in a spectacular setting.
Distance From The National Park: 87.9 km
Ideal Visit Duration: 1 – 2 hours
4. Dourpin Monastery
Photo: Prof Ranga Sai / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Dourpin, or Zang Dhok Palri Phodang Monastery, is another famous monastic site situated at Durpin Hill, Kalimpong, a Buddhist temple. Established, Tamba damba, D L Stabbled this monastery in 1976, DL. The Gelugpa sect of Tibetan Buddhist monks and nuns owns this monastery, which possesses the most precious Tibetan Buddhist manuscripts. The Eastern Himalayas have calmness and beauty, apart from the simple traditions of Tibetan construction, such as raised prayer rooms and pictures on the walls.
Distance From The National Park: 90.6 km
Ideal Visit Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Where To Stay
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While visiting the national park, one can find appropriate places to stay within their budget. Cosy homestays and guesthouses are available, and there are also middle-range and high-end resort-type accommodations for those who prefer comfort. A good benefit of these places is that they are located very close to the kinder region within nature, calm, and beautiful. Most of these include wildlife and eco-lodges best suited to exploring the area. Some of these even provide tours around the region, with a focus on the flora and fauna of the area.
Where To Eat
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For those staying in or near the park, several eating places are available, such as small joints and restaurants offering local cuisine. Many locales prepare cuisines that are typical of Bengali culture, including fish curries, rice, and sweets. For people looking for Indian and continental varieties, a few Chinese and continental joints are also available. However, it is recommended that one eats the local dishes to enhance their experience of the culture and food of the place.
Best Time To Visit
Photo: শরদিন্দু ভট্টাচার্য্য / Wikimedia Commons
The most favourable time for going to the park is mid-June to mid-September. The climatic conditions in this period are quite nice, and the forest is green due to post-monsoon rains. More and more animals can be spotted, and the park is up and alive with plants and animals of all types so that photographers will have a great time. But this period may also bring some showers, so carrying a raincoat or umbrella is advisable. For those who would like to watch birds, it is a good time to visit because migrating birds can be spotted flying all over.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Dariusz Sankowski / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Average Cost Of The Trip
Low-budget tourists can manage visiting here for about ₹1,500 to ₹2,500 a day, including lodging, food, and park entrance fees. However, if one opts for expensive lodging, they must spend more money.
Tips For Travellers
- It is important to bring suitable clothes, shoes, and raincoats since the weather could be very cold.
- Plenty of water, especially during walks or safaris.
- Conservation of nature – Avoid going close to wild animals and ensure that they adhere to the rules of the park to avoid hurting them.
Chapramari National Park is one of the most beautiful parks for lovers of nature and offers a perfect combination of wildlife, exotic locations, and a diverse ecological system. So, whether looking for adventure or peace of mind, this unsung West Bengal’s beauty is bound to make you fall in love. Plan a trip with TripXL and have an unforgettable experience at the national park.
Cover Photo: Hu Chen / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
