National parks
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North Bengal houses a plethora of places teemed with scenic beauty and wildlife getaways. The prime craze for North Bengal tourism lies in the fact that it serves as the window to view the magical scenery of the Kanchenjunga Mountain, popularly known as the Golden Mountain. Gorumara National Park in the Jalpaiguri district of West Bengal is a pristine offbeat location to soak the tranquil nature and explore wildlife. Situated in the Terai area of Dooars, at the base of the Eastern Himalayas, Gorumara stretches along the banks of the Murti and Raidak rivers. Renowned for its diverse wildlife, the park is home to Asiatic one-horned rhinoceroses, Asian elephants, bison, and peacocks. Initially designated as a reserve forest in 1895, it was declared a Wildlife Sanctuary in 1949, primarily to protect the breeding population of the one-horned rhinoceros.
Wildlife enthusiasts will find Gorumara a haven for spotting a wide variety of animals, birds, insects, and rich flora. Adventure seekers can engage in jungle safaris, wildlife observation and birdwatching. Visitors can also enjoy breathtaking views from various watchtowers such as Jatraprasad, Rhino Point, Chuk Chuki, and Medla, offering a closer look at the park’s vibrant wildlife. For an uninterrupted holiday, Gorumara online safari booking option is also available to reserve your elephant or jeep safaris on your convenient dates. While visiting Gorumara National Park, you can also attach Dhupjhora Elephant Camp and Kalipur Eco Village to your list. Get a detailed idea of these two locations.
Dhupjhora is situated in the southern part of the Gorumara Forest. Known as the "Elephant Camp" due to Pilkhana, the elephant stable of Gorumara National Park, this area offers a unique eco-tourism experience. Dhupjhora Elephant Camp, popularly referred to as Gachbari or the treehouse, is an innovative initiative by the forest department that immerses visitors in the heart of nature.
Surrounded by dense forests, sprawling tea gardens, and the winding Murti River, Dhupjhora is an ideal spot for wildlife enthusiasts. Visitors can stroll along the riverbank with the stunning sunset over the Murti creating unforgettable memories. The camp features its watchtower and offers thrilling elephant rides deep into Gorumara’s jungles, where guests may encounter rhinos, wild elephants, and bison up close.
One of the camp’s highlights is watching the elephants being bathed in the Murti River, a mesmerizing sight for tourists. Visitors can even participate in feeding and bathing the elephants, making for a truly hands-on wildlife experience. In addition to these activities, tourists can enjoy tribal cultural performances in the evening, explore nearby tea gardens, visit a local carpet factory, and relax by the river. Staying in a treehouse at Dhupjhora is a unique adventure, offering a perfect blend of nature, wildlife, and cultural immersion.
Kalipur Eco Village stands out as a remarkable eco-tourism destination in the Dooars region, offering an immersive nature and wildlife experience near Gorumara National Park. Situated just 500 meters from the Medla Watchtower, its prime location enhances the chances of spotting wildlife. Visitors have the rare opportunity to stay amidst the park's natural surroundings and take in its serene beauty.
A highlight of the stay is the elephant safari, which departs from the bungalow each morning. Forest department elephants guide guests deep into Gorumara’s wilderness, offering thrilling close-up encounters with various wildlife species. This unique experience makes Kalipur a preferred destination for nature enthusiasts visiting the Dooars.