West Bengal (6 National Parks)

West Bengal (6 National Parks):

  1. Buxa National Park
  2. Gorumara National Park
  3. Neora Valley National Park
  4. Singalila National Park
  5. Sundarban National Park
  6. Jaldapara National Park

1. Starting Point: Kolkata

  • Best Time to Visit: Any time of the year, but winter (November–February) is ideal for traveling in West Bengal.
  • Why Start Here? Kolkata is the largest city in the region, offering excellent connectivity to all destinations via rail, road, and air.

2. Sundarban National Park

  • Distance from Kolkata: ~110 km
  • How to Reach: Drive or take a train to Canning (nearest railhead) and then a boat to Sundarban.
  • Highlights:
    • Famous for the Royal Bengal Tiger.
    • Explore mangrove forests, creeks, and watch migratory birds.

3. Jaldapara National Park

  • Distance from Sundarban: ~700 km (via Kolkata and Siliguri)
  • How to Reach:
    • Return to Kolkata.
    • Take a train or flight to New Jalpaiguri (NJP) and drive to Jaldapara (~3 hours, ~140 km).
  • Highlights:
    • One-horned Rhinoceros.
    • Jeep safaris and elephant rides.

4. Gorumara National Park

  • Distance from Jaldapara: ~42 km
  • How to Reach: Drive (~1 hour).
  • Highlights:
    • Grasslands and wetlands.
    • Indian bison, elephants, and birdwatching.

5. Neora Valley National Park

  • Distance from Gorumara: ~85 km
  • How to Reach: Drive (~3 hours) via Lava in Kalimpong district.
  • Highlights:
    • Dense forests and panoramic views.
    • Red pandas and trekking trails.

6. Singalila National Park

  • Distance from Neora Valley: ~90 km
  • How to Reach: Drive to Manebhanjan (~4 hours) and trek or take a Land Rover into the park.
  • Highlights:
    • Trekking on the Sandakphu route.
    • Spectacular views of Mount Kanchenjunga.

7. Buxa National Park

  • Distance from Singalila: ~180 km
  • How to Reach: Drive (~5-6 hours) to Buxa near Alipurduar.
  • Highlights:
    • Buxa Fort and lush forests.
    • Birds, leopards, and butterflies.

Route Summary:

  1. Kolkata → Sundarban National Park (~110 km, ~3 hours).
  2. Sundarban → Kolkata → Jaldapara (~700 km via Kolkata/Siliguri, overnight train or flight + drive).
  3. Jaldapara → Gorumara (~42 km, ~1 hour).
  4. Gorumara → Neora Valley (~85 km, ~3 hours).
  5. Neora Valley → Singalila (~90 km, ~4 hours).
  6. Singalila → Buxa (~180 km, ~5-6 hours).

Estimated Duration:

  • Total Days Required: 12–15 days for a comprehensive trip.
    • 2–3 days in Sundarban.
    • 2 days in Jaldapara.
    • 1–2 days each in Gorumara, Neora Valley, and Singalila.
    • 1–2 days in Buxa.

Additional Tips:

  • Book safaris and accommodation in advance as national parks have limited facilities.
  • Carry essentials like comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and binoculars.
  • Respect wildlife and follow park guidelines to ensure a safe and eco-friendly trip.

This route ensures you can explore the rich biodiversity and natural beauty of all six national parks in West Bengal!