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Perched in the east Himalayan foothills in West Bengal, Jaldapara Wildlife Sanctuary promises a sizzling Jaldapara jungle safari within the evergreen thickets and the countless flora and fauna it boasts. Apart from the exquisite landscape, the sanctuary is famous for being a habitat for the rare one-horned rhinos, tigers, elephants, and many birds. This safari presents the ideal chance to enjoy this calm paradise and appreciate Mother Nature in all her glory.
Location
Photo: Vulpes-bengalensis / Wikimedia Commons
Jaldapara is located in the Alipurduar district in West Bengal and is around 140 km away from Siliguri and 35 km from Cooch Behar town. The Dooars region is abundant in scenic beauty and wildlife, which is what excites adventure seekers and nature lovers most, thus making Jaldapara an attractive tourist destination.
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How To Reach
Photo: NF Railways / Wikimedia Commons
By Road: Jaldapara can be accessed through National Highway 31 from Siliguri or Cooch Behar, which is Srimangal (Jaldapara) approximately 140 km away. One may also rent a taxi or a personal car from other cities, such as Alipurduar, which lies about 22 km from the sanctuary.
By Rail: The Hasimara Railway Station serves as his nearest railhead, located 10 km away from Jaldapara. The Jaldapara jungle safari ticket prices vary based on the type of safari and the vehicle you choose, such as jeep safari or elephant safari.
By Air: The nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport, which is located around 140 km away from Jaldapara. Taxis and other private vehicles can be booked on arrival at Bagdogra and are advised to the sanctuary within a 3–4-hour journey by surface road.
Places To Visit Near Jaldapara Jungle Safari
1. Cooch Behar Palace
Photo: Rupeshsarkar / Wikimedia Commons
Cooch Behar Palace, which was built during the last century, is about 35 kilometres away from Jaldapara. This is a regal structure, which is also called Rajbari in the local language. The palace is nothing less than an architectural wonder built by the Koch dynasty in the past. It has a kong hong and a moat fitted with large fish within the lush garden theatre. Restaurants and clubs can be accessed within the massive museum and grand corridors.
Distance From Jaldapara: 35 kilometres
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM
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2. Buxa Fort
Photo: Rajat0101 / Wikimedia Commons
Buxa Fort is located on a hillside climbing the Buxa Hill within Buxa Tiger Reserve and is around 60 kilometres away from Jaldapara National Park. This fort bears some history as it had been in use during the colonial era and later served for political prisoners as a consignment camp. The steep climb towards the fort has impressive scenery of the thick checkered green forests and attracts many adventurers.
Distance From Jaldapara: 60 kilometres
Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM
3. Jayanti
Photo: Paramanu Sarkar / Wikimedia Commons
Jayanti, a beautifully situated village on the river Jayanti, is about 10 km away from Jaldapara. The area is quite beautiful, and as one would expect, there are dense jungles all around, which makes it an ideal place for nature walkers and also for family outings. Here, one can also enjoy a few activities like river boating and bird watching. It is indeed and certainly one of the best places to visit near Jaldapara jungle safari.
Distance From Jaldapara: 10 kilometers
Timings: Throughout the day
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Things To Do In Jaldapara Jungle
1. Jungle Safari
Photo: Robert Stokoe / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Jaldapara’s jungle safari is the most delightful of all experiences one can have in Jaldapara. Here, one can explore the sanctuary in open Jeeps or even on the back of an elephant. This safari promises a glimpse of the guaranteed sighting of many rare one-horned rhinos, tigers, elephants, and a variety of other birds. The thick growth and peaceful surroundings of the jungle add to the charm of the safari, making it one of the most memorable activities. For a Jaldapara jungle safari booking, you can reserve your tickets online.
2. Bird Watching
Photo: Devesh kumar / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Jaldapara is a paradise for ornithologists, and it is home to more than 200 bird species in the sanctuary itself. The mornings are regarded as the finest periods for birdwatching, as the birds are more lively. This includes the Bengal Florican, the Lesser Adjutant Stork, as well as various kingfisher and hornbill species. Jaldapara jungle safari timing is typically early in the morning and late in the afternoon.
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3. Nature Walks
Photo: Jonoikobangali / Wikimedia Commons
If you want to enjoy a low-key enjoyment, you would be better off taking guided nature walks along with their tranquillity and inner beauty. To go into the thick of the forest, there is no hurry, and one can take time to appreciate the beauty and the various trees and animals found in the area. The guides who are seasoned in this area will help in explaining the natural features present in the forest.
Where To Eat
Photo: Thiea Alhoz / Pexels / Image For Presentation Only
Jaldapara and the surrounding regions offer quite several places to have meals. The Dooars Café, the Jaldapara Restaurant, and the Wildlife Restaurant are some of the other options available in the nearby cities. These serve both local Bengali food, which is fish curry and rice, among others, as well as some Indian and continental cuisines.
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Where To Stay
Photo: Max Vakhtbovycn / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Lodging options in Jaldapara cater to different types of travellers, from cheap wooden shacks to plush hotels. Some of the favourite places include the Jaldapara Tourist Lodge, Wild Grass Resort, and Bengal Safari Lodge. The facilities are well-kept and hygienic, and most of them are situated in the ‘close vicinity’ of the sanctuary for easy reach.
Best Time To Visit
Photo: Venkat Ragavan / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
The perfect season for a Jaldapara tour is from November to March, when the temperature is between 10 degrees Celsius and 25 degrees Celsius, and the climate is quite comfortable. This season is suitable for game drives as well as birding activities. Summers (April to June) can become extremely hot, while the June to September period tends to be wet and may cause limited movement owing to downpours.
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Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Bharath Kumar Venkatesh / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
- Booking safari permits and Jeep safaris in advance is very essential, especially during the high seasons.
- The sanctuary can only be visited within certain hours, so make sure you adjust your time accordingly.
- Sunscreen, a hat, and insect repellant should always be carried along for comfort when one is on a safari.
- Have some hard cash on you, as some very remote places may not have ATMs.
- Dress in coloured clothing that is natural so as not to scare away the animals.
There is a unique wildlife experience at Jaldapara Jungle Safari, and it also allows seeing the rich variety of flora and fauna of the region closely. Jaldapara is sure to leave a lasting impression and experience for anyone who loves nature, wildlife, or birds. Plan your next vacation with TripXL to enjoy the magnificence and tranquillity of this lovely sanctuary.
Cover Photo: DEEP BHATTACHARYYA / Wikipedia Commons
