Place To Visit Dooars
The Dooars, also known as the Duars or the Dooars Valley, is a region located in the foothills of the eastern Himalayas in India. The name "Dooars" comes from the word "duar," which means "door" in the local languages, as the region serves as the gateway to the hill stations and tourist destinations in the Himalayan foothills.
The Dooars region is spread across the districts of Alipurduar, Cooch Behar, Darjeeling, Jalpaiguri, and Kalimpong in the state of West Bengal, India, and extends into the neighboring countries of Bhutan and Nepal. It is characterized by its lush green forests, rolling hills, winding rivers, and abundant wildlife.
The Dooars region is home to several national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, including the Buxa Tiger Reserve, the Jaldapara National Park, the Gorumara National Park, and the Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary. These protected areas are known for their rich biodiversity, and are home to several endangered species such as the one-horned rhinoceros, elephants, tigers, leopards, and many species of birds.
Apart from its natural beauty and wildlife, the Dooars region is also known for its tea plantations, which produce some of the finest teas in the world. The tea gardens in the region cover large swathes of land and offer a unique experience for tourists to explore the plantations, learn about the tea-making process, and enjoy a cup of fresh tea.
The Dooars region is also home to several indigenous communities, such as the Rabha, Mech, and Koch, who have their unique cultures and traditions. Tourists can visit these communities and experience their way of life, taste their traditional cuisine, and purchase their handicrafts.
In summary, the Dooars region is a picturesque and diverse region located in the eastern Himalayan foothills of India. It is known for its natural beauty, wildlife, tea plantations, and indigenous communities, and offers a unique experience for tourists seeking to explore the rich culture and biodiversity of the region.
1. Rocky Island
Rocky Island is a small but picturesque island located in the Dooars region of West Bengal, India. It is situated on the banks of the river Jayanti, which flows through the Buxa Tiger Reserve in Alipurduar district. The island is known for its serene beauty and unique rock formations, which make it a popular tourist destination in the region.
To reach Rocky Island, one has to take a trek through the dense forests of Buxa Tiger Reserve. The trek to the island is not very long and can be completed in about an hour. The trail is quite scenic and offers a glimpse of the diverse flora and fauna of the reserve. Once you reach the island, you will be greeted by the sight of the crystal clear waters of the river Jayanti and the majestic rock formations that surround the island.
The unique rock formations of Rocky Island are the main attraction of the place. The rocks have been shaped over time by the flow of the river and the forces of nature, creating interesting shapes and patterns. Some of the rocks resemble animals, while others have formed into caves and crevices that you can explore. Visitors can also enjoy a dip in the cool waters of the river or relax on the pebbled shores of the island.
Apart from the natural beauty of Rocky Island, there are a few other things to see and do in the surrounding area. The nearby Jayanti village is a great place to experience the local culture and cuisine of the region. The Buxa Fort, which is located a few kilometers away from the island, is another popular attraction in the area. The fort was built by the British in the 19th century and offers a glimpse into the history of the region.
Overall, Rocky Island is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. The island's unique rock formations, scenic beauty, and tranquil environment make it an ideal spot for a day trip or a weekend getaway.
2. Buxa Tiger Reserve
Buxa Tiger Reserve is a wildlife sanctuary located in the Dooars region of West Bengal, India. The sanctuary is situated in the Buxa hills of the eastern Himalayas and covers an area of approximately 760 square kilometers. The reserve is named after the Buxa Fort, which is located within the sanctuary and was used by the British during their rule in India.
Buxa Tiger Reserve is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including several rare and endangered species. The sanctuary is known for its dense forests, which are dominated by species such as Sal, Teak, and Bamboo. The reserve is also home to several important medicinal plants, such as Rauvolfia serpentina and Dendrobium.
The wildlife in Buxa Tiger Reserve includes several species of big cats, including the Royal Bengal Tiger and the Leopard. Other predators such as Wild Dog, Wolf, and the Clouded Leopard can also be found in the sanctuary. The reserve is also home to a large number of herbivores such as Indian Elephant, Indian Bison, Sambar Deer, Barking Deer, and Wild Boar. Several species of primates such as Rhesus Macaque, Capped Langur, and Assamese Macaque are also found in the sanctuary.
The sanctuary is also home to several species of birds such as the Great Indian Hornbill, Pallas's Fish Eagle, Crested Serpent Eagle, and Rufous-necked Hornbill. Reptiles such as King Cobra, Indian Rock Python, and the Monitor Lizard can also be found in the sanctuary.
Buxa Tiger Reserve is not only a wildlife sanctuary but also has significant historical and cultural importance. The Buxa Fort located within the sanctuary was a crucial point for trade and commerce during the British rule in India. The fort was also used as a detention camp by the British to incarcerate political prisoners during the Indian independence movement.
The sanctuary can be accessed by road from Alipurduar and is approximately 30 kilometers from the town. Visitors can also stay at the forest lodges located within the sanctuary, which offer a comfortable stay amidst nature. A permit is required to enter the sanctuary, which can be obtained from the Buxa Range office.
Overall, Buxa Tiger Reserve is a unique and beautiful destination that offers visitors an opportunity to experience the rich biodiversity of the Eastern Himalayas while also learning about its historical and cultural significance.
3. Gorumara National Park
Gorumara National Park is a popular wildlife reserve located in the Dooars region of West Bengal, India. It covers an area of around 80 square kilometers and is situated in the Jalpaiguri district, around 80 kilometers from Siliguri.
The park is known for its rich biodiversity and is home to a variety of animals, including elephants, Indian bison, deer, leopards, and several species of birds. The park is particularly famous for its population of Indian rhinoceroses, which can be seen grazing in the grasslands and riverine forests of the park.
One of the highlights of a visit to Gorumara National Park is a jeep safari, which takes visitors deep into the park to see the wildlife up close. The safari is accompanied by a trained guide who can provide information about the various animals and their behavior.
Apart from the wildlife, the park is also known for its scenic beauty, with rolling hills, lush green forests, and sparkling streams adding to the charm of the place. The park is surrounded by tea gardens and small villages, providing a glimpse into the local way of life.
Gorumara National Park is also an important conservation area, with several initiatives in place to protect the wildlife and their habitats. The park is a part of the larger Terai-Duar savanna and grasslands ecoregion and is connected to several other protected areas in the region, forming an important wildlife corridor.
Overall, Gorumara National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts, offering a unique and unforgettable experience of the natural world.