DOOARS, WEST BENGAL – DISCOVER THE WILD BEAUTY OF THIS HIDDEN GEM
Dooars is a picturesque region located in the northeastern part of West Bengal, India. It is nestled at the foothills of the eastern Himalayas and stretches from the Teesta River in the west to the Sankosh River in the east. Dooars is renowned for its lush tea gardens, dense forests, wildlife sanctuaries, and the rich cultural heritage of its indigenous communities. It offers a delightful blend of natural beauty and wildlife, making it an appealing tourist destination.
Here are some key features and attractions of Dooars:
- Natural Beauty: Dooars is blessed with stunning natural landscapes, including rolling hills, verdant tea estates, meandering rivers, and dense forests. The region is characterized by its breathtaking beauty, which attracts nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.
- Wildlife Sanctuaries: Dooars is home to several wildlife sanctuaries and national parks, making it a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts. Jaldapara National Park is one of the prominent attractions, known for its population of the endangered one-horned rhinoceros. Buxa Tiger Reserve, Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary, and Gorumara National Park are other notable places to spot diverse flora and fauna.
- Tea Gardens: Dooars is famous for its sprawling tea estates that produce some of the finest teas in the world. Visitors can explore these lush green plantations, witness the tea-making process, and savor freshly brewed tea while enjoying panoramic views.
- Adventure Activities: The region offers various adventure activities for thrill-seekers. River rafting in the Teesta River is a popular choice, providing an adrenaline rush amidst picturesque surroundings. Trekking, birdwatching, and wildlife safaris are other exciting options to explore the natural wonders of Dooars.
- Indigenous Culture: Dooars is inhabited by numerous indigenous communities, such as the Bodo, Rabha, and Mech tribes. Visitors can experience their vibrant culture, traditional music, dance forms, and indigenous cuisines. Homestays in local villages offer an opportunity to immerse in the local way of life.
Experiences for Tourists
Dooars offers a wide range of experiences for tourists. Here are some of the popular activities and attractions that visitors can enjoy:
- Wildlife Safaris: Embark on thrilling wildlife safaris in the national parks and wildlife sanctuaries of Dooars. Hop on a jeep or an elephant safari to explore the dense forests and spot diverse wildlife, including the one-horned rhinoceros, Indian bison, elephants, leopards, deer, and various species of birds.
- River Rafting: Experience the adrenaline rush of river rafting in the Teesta River. The river offers exciting rapids and beautiful surroundings, providing a thrilling adventure for water sports enthusiasts.
- Tea Estate Tours: Take a tour of the tea estates in Dooars and witness the tea-making process. Learn about tea cultivation, plucking, processing, and packaging while enjoying the serene ambiance of the tea gardens. Some tea estates also offer tea tasting sessions where you can savor different varieties of tea.
- Trekking: Dooars is a paradise for trekking enthusiasts. There are several trekking trails that lead you through dense forests, rolling hills, and picturesque landscapes. Trekking to places like Neora Valley National Park, Buxa Fort, and Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary provides an opportunity to explore the region’s natural beauty up close.
- Visit Wildlife Rescue Centers: Dooars is home to wildlife rescue centers like the Nature Interpretation Center in Jaldapara and the Mahananda Wildlife Rescue Center. These centers work towards the conservation and rehabilitation of injured or orphaned animals. Visitors can learn about wildlife conservation efforts and get a chance to observe rescued animals.
- Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Dooars by interacting with the local indigenous communities. Visit tribal villages, witness their traditional dances, music performances, and participate in cultural festivals. You can also try local delicacies and stay in homestays to experience the warmth and hospitality of the locals.
- Birdwatching: Dooars is a paradise for birdwatchers, with its diverse avian population. Gorumara National Park and Jaldapara National Park are excellent places for birdwatching, where you can spot numerous species of colorful birds, including hornbills, peafowls, woodpeckers, and migratory birds.
- Visit Tea Factories: Gain insights into the tea production process by visiting tea factories in Dooars. Learn about the various stages of tea processing, from withering and rolling to fermentation and drying. Some tea factories also offer tea tasting sessions, allowing you to appreciate the flavors and aromas of different teas.
- Explore Offbeat Destinations: Apart from the popular tourist spots, Dooars is dotted with several offbeat destinations that offer tranquility and seclusion. Places like Lava, Loleygaon, Bindu, and Jhalong are ideal for nature lovers seeking peaceful surroundings, breathtaking views, and serene landscapes.
Top Attractions and Must Visit Places
- Jaldapara National Park: Known for its population of one-horned rhinoceros, Jaldapara National Park is a major attraction in Dooars. Take a safari and explore the dense forests to spot rhinos, elephants, deer, and various bird species.
- Gorumara National Park: Another popular national park in Dooars, Gorumara is renowned for its diverse wildlife, including the Indian bison, Indian elephants, leopards, and numerous bird species. Elephant safaris and jeep safaris are available for wildlife enthusiasts.
- Buxa Tiger Reserve: Located on the eastern side of Dooars, Buxa Tiger Reserve is known for its rich biodiversity and captivating landscapes. Trekking to Buxa Fort, exploring the Mahakal Caves, and spotting wildlife are some of the highlights here.
- Cooch Behar Palace: Visit the magnificent Cooch Behar Palace, a beautiful example of classical European architecture. The palace showcases a blend of British and Mughal architectural styles and houses a museum that displays artifacts and royal memorabilia.
- Bindu: Situated on the Indo-Bhutan border, Bindu is a serene and picturesque village known for its scenic beauty and the confluence of three rivers—Jaldhaka, Bindu Khola, and Dudh Pokhri.
- Jhalong: Nestled on the banks of the Jaldhaka River, Jhalong is a charming village known for its hydroelectric project and trout fishing. The mesmerizing river views and peaceful ambiance make it a popular spot for nature lovers.
- Neora Valley National Park: Located in the Kalimpong district near Dooars, Neora Valley National Park is a haven for nature enthusiasts and trekkers. The park boasts diverse flora and fauna, including the elusive red panda, and offers breathtaking landscapes.
- Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary: Situated near Gorumara National Park, Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary is home to various wildlife species, including elephants, bison, deer, and different bird species. Jeep safaris provide an opportunity to explore the sanctuary’s natural beauty.
- Samsing: Known for its tea gardens and orange orchards, Samsing is a tranquil hill station near Dooars. Enjoy the scenic beauty, go for nature walks, and visit the beautiful Suntalekhola waterfall.
- Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary: Located near Siliguri, Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary is known for its lush forests and rich wildlife. Trekking trails, birdwatching, and the view from the Mahananda Wildlife Watchtower are some of the attractions here.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Dooars is during the winter months, from October to February. The weather during this time is generally pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities and wildlife sightings. The temperature ranges between 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F), making it comfortable for exploring the national parks, tea gardens, and other attractions.
Winter is also the peak tourist season in Dooars, so expect larger crowds and higher accommodation rates. It’s advisable to make your bookings in advance if you plan to visit during this time.
Another good time to visit Dooars is during the spring season, from March to April. The weather remains pleasant, with temperatures ranging between 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). The region is adorned with colorful flowers and blooming tea gardens, adding to the charm of the surroundings.
Summer months, from May to June, can be hot and humid and the monsoon season, from July to September, experiences heavy rainfall in Dooars. It’s advisable to check the weather conditions and road conditions before planning a trip.
How to Reach
By Air: The nearest airport to Dooars is Bagdogra Airport, located in Siliguri. It is well-connected to major cities in India like Kolkata, Delhi, Mumbai, and Guwahati. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a shared cab to reach Dooars. The distance between Bagdogra Airport and Dooars is approximately 85 kilometers (53 miles).
By Train: The nearest major railway station to Dooars is New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP), also located in Siliguri. NJP is well-connected to various cities in India. From the railway station, you can hire a taxi or take a shared cab to reach Dooars. The distance between NJP and Dooars varies depending on the specific destination within Dooars.
By Road: Dooars is well-connected by a network of roads, and buses and taxis are available from nearby cities and towns. You can take a bus or hire a taxi from Siliguri, which is the gateway to Dooars. Siliguri is connected to major cities like Kolkata, Guwahati, and Darjeeling. The journey from Siliguri to Dooars takes around 2-3 hours, depending on the specific destination in Dooars.
