The moment you think about Dooars, the first thing that comes to mind is wildlife. Over the years, Dooars has carved out its fame for the amazing wildlife sanctuaries and national parks. You can see wild elephants, one-horned rhinos, bison, leopards, several species of deers, snakes, wild boars and many other animals as well as many types of birds including lots of peacocks in these dense forests.
Must Visit Dooars Tourist Places
Gorumara National Park : which has several watchtowers for spotting wildlife. You can stay at Murti which is 25 minutes drive from Malbazar or at Lataguri (further 25 minutes away at the fringe of Gorumara) to take Jeep safari at the buffer zone of the jungle as well as visit some of the watch towers which are located deep inside the forest.
Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary : is an extension of Gorumara and is also quite popular for Jeep safaris. The two forests are divided by the Murti river. You see most animals here as in Gorumara. You can visit Chapramari while staying in Gorumara area.
Jaldapara National Park : which is located about 1 hour 20 minutes drive from Murti towards its east. Jaldapara is well known for its elephant safaris to spot rhinos and other wildlife such as elephants, bison, Gaurs, different types of deer etc. Tigers and leopards can be spotted occasionally. The elephant safaris take place from the gate of Hollong Lodge located 7kms inside the jungle. Jeep safaris at Jaldapara are also popular. Most tourists stay in or around Madarihat.Madarihat Tourist Lodge is quite popular.
Chilapata Forest : is part of Jaladapara National Park, the two being divided by the river Torsha. Chilapata is on the eastern side of Torsha river. You can spot similar wildlife here as in Jaldapara. Jeep safaris take place from the gate.
Buxa Tiger Reserve : reportedly has second highest number of tigers in West Bengal after Sunderbans, but tiger spotting has become difficult in recent years. You can however spot elephants, Indian bison, leopards, many types of deer, snakes etc. The entry to the forest is from a place called Rajabhatkhawa which is about 1 hour drive from Madarihat (Jaldapara) towards east. You can get to Rajabhatkhawa from Alipurduar as well in 20 minutes. Jungle safaris on Jeep take place from a place called Jayanti which is about 15kms inside the reserve.