Login
Facebook
YouTube
WhatsApp
Twitter
West Bengal is one of the regions in India which contains some of the most diverse and ecologically rich national parks, where lovers of wildlife and nature can enjoy unique habitats and ecosystems. Sundarbans National Park is famous around the world for its dense mangrove forests and the Sanctuary for the Royal Bengal Tiger, saltwater crocodiles and different kinds of birds. Gorumara National Park has a wonderful combination of grasslands and beautiful forests which supports various forms of life including rhinos and Indian bison and visitors to this park.
The Ultimate Guide To National Parks In West Bengal
There are several national parks in West Bengal where natural beauty and biodiversity are sustained.
1. Sundarbans National Park
Photo: Pinakpani / Wikimedia Commons
The Sundarbans National Park is an extraordinarily broad expanse of mangrove forest found within the Sundarbans River delta which comprises several islands. It is regarded as one of the most diverse and richest ecosystems on the planet, and within the park, one can find the Royal Bengal Tiger, saltwater crocodiles, a number of fishes, and birds. The region boasts a very dense population of rivers, estuaries, and islands which makes it a conducive zone for most species of animals, therefore an ecological zone of great importance.
Location: Sundarbans, West Bengal
Major Attractions: Royal Bengal Tiger, mangrove forests, diverse wildlife
How To Reach: Accessible by road and boat from Kolkata and nearby towns
Suggested Read: Hill Stations Near Darjeeling For A Marvellous Staycation
2. Buxa Tiger Reserve
Photo: Rajat63ghosh / Wikimedia Commons
This Buxa Tiger Reserve, most famously found in Alipurduar district, is a vast national park and a tiger reserve of the Royal Bengal Tiger. The park has rich evergreen forests with prolific mammals, birds, and reptiles and would be of interest due to the variability of the flora and fauna of the area. Buxa provides outdoor activities like trekking and wildlife watching as well as the scenic beauty of its landscape. The cultural aspect of the region is also diverse, with the communities more or less adjacent to the reserve having their clear and interesting cultures.
Location: Alipurduar, West Bengal
Major Attractions: Royal Bengal Tiger, rich biodiversity, trekking routes
How To Reach: Accessible by road from Siliguri and Cooch Behar
3. Gorumara National Park
Photo: Pinakpani / Wikimedia Commons
This Gorumara National Park located in the Jalpaiguri district is famous for its greenery and its rich faunal diversity including the Indian rhino. This park allows the tourists to view some rare species of animals like elephants, leopards and several types of birds in their natural surroundings. There are other structures such as watchtowers and several safari routes that are great for capturing the beauty of wildlife as well as bird watching.
Location: Jalpaiguri, West Bengal
Major Attractions: Indian rhinoceros, diverse wildlife, safari experiences
How To Reach: Accessible by road from Siliguri and Jalpiguri
Suggested Read: Senchal Wildlife Sanctuary
4. Neora Valley National Park
Photo: Saswatamandal / Wikimedia Commons
Born in the scenic valley of Kalimpong, Neora Valley National Park is a place of captivating vistas and vibrant biodiversity. The park has some endangered species which are commonly known as the red panda and several species of orchids. It has numerous trekking paths for its visitors to enjoy and traverse the green tropical forests and vistas. Neora Valley is a bird-watching paradise. Due to the presence of several birds in different habitats within the area, there are beautiful spots for lovers of nature.
Location: Kalimpong, West Bengal
Major Attractions: Red panda, diverse flora and fauna, trekking trails
How To Reach: Accessible by road from Kalimpong and Darjeeling
5. Jaldapara National Park
Photo: Abhishek21051989 / Wikimedia Commons
Jaldapara National Park is situated in the district of Alipurduar and is famous for its diverse wildlife and vast grasslands. The park contains species like one-horned rhinoceros, elephants, and a number of deer species. Besides grasslands, it has dense forests and picturesque riverine scenery, providing a conducive environment for various animals. Sightseeing and watching different animals enjoying their surroundings is possible through jeep safaris and elephant back rides. Jaldapara is equally favourable for enthusiasts of ornithology as many birds can be spotted here.
Location: Alipurduar, West Bengal
Major Attractions: Indian rhinoceros, elephants, diverse wildlife
How To Reach: Accessible by road from Siliguri and nearby towns
Suggested Read: Places To Visit Near Bagdogra
6. Singalila National Park
Photo: Joyindia2017 / Wikimedia Commons
Lolegaon, a little-known village some minutes away from Lava, is loved by many off the Singalila National Park is located in the Darjeeling district and is famous for the fantastic view of the Himalayan range and unique biosphere. This national park is famous because of the Kanchenjunga trek and brings good sights, plus wooden trees and distinct flora and fauna. People will be able to see a lot of wildlife over there including red pandas and different species of birds. The trails inside the park offer the best trekking experiences as well as opportunities to appreciate nature in its full glory.
Location: Darjeeling, West Bengal
Major Attractions: Kanchenjunga views, trekking routes, diverse wildlife
How To Reach: Accessible by road from Darjeeling and Mirik
Where To Stay
Photo: Pixabay / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
While exploring national parks located in West Bengal, one can find a number of options for accommodation that come with both comfort and ease of access to nature. They provide few facilities, warm Bengali services and easy boats to the park. In Jaldapara National Park, one can choose WBFDC-run forest lodges or find a place in the towns of Jalpaiguri and Lataguri. These lodges are known for their proximity to the park’s animals and quiet surroundings.
Suggested Read: Shopping Malls In Kharagpur
Where To Eat Around National Parks In West Bengal
Photo: Rashedul Islam Hridoy / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Each national park in West Bengal is dotted with some nice eating joints, serving local cuisine and a soothing ambience. While within Sundarbans National Park, one can taste local food that offers fresh seafood at small places which are often run by the locals with simple dishes or traditional Bengali ones- fish curry and rice, and a variety of prawns. On the other hand, for the tourists at Jaldapara National Park, supplementary towns such as Jalpaiguri and Madarihat have multiple dining alternatives such as roadside chips and tea stalls and restaurants serving delicious Bengali and North Indian meals.
West Bengal boasts a range of national parks encapsulating the rich flora and fauna of the region. These parks serve as a sanctuary from the city agitations proving to be ideal options for people who enjoy exploring nature, and wildlife and engage in active sports as well. Explore these natural gems and TripXL will take you to the exciting holidays that are offered at the national parks located in the West Bengal region!
Cover Photo: Alexkom000 / Wikimedia Commons
