Situated at the foothills of Darjeeling Himalayas, in the Dooars region of West Bengal, Gorumara National Park is a natural splendor worth exploring. Endowed with thick forests and grasslands; this piece of scenic wonder is the home to a plethora of flora and exciting wildlife, especially Indian rhinoceros. Located by River Murti and Raidak, Gorumara National Park was declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1949 and national park in 1992 and honored as best among the protected areas of India by Ministry of Environment and Forests in 2009.
If you are a wildlife lover and have not explored this sprawling reserve yet, wait no more. Plan a thrilling trip to Gorumara National Park to enjoy a fulfilling wildlife experience.
About Gorumara National Park
Located on the northern side of West Bengal, Gorumara National Park is home to a large number of India rhinoceros. It serves as one of the best places to explore for both animal and nature lovers. This is due to the fact that it resides on the foothills of Himalayas and is surrounded by green vistas to sooth your eyes. If you have been in search of such a destination then do not look beyond West Bengal’s Gorumara National Park.
Best Time To Visit Gorumara National Park
Gorumara National Park experiences tropical climate throughout the year, with temperature ranging from 23 degrees in summer to 10 degrees in winter. June to September mark the rainy season here and the place receives moderate to heavy rainfall during that season. Humidity increases during monsoon.
Gorumara National Park is open from October to June every year. The national park remains closed from June 15 to September 15, owing to monsoon and animal breeding season. The best time to visit Gorumara National Park is from November to March. The surrounding looks luxuriant and fresh and the chances of spotting wildlife increases manifold during winter.
Location & Geography
Image Credit: Rick Rohan for Wikimedia Commons
On the floodplains of Murti and Raidak rivers, Gorumara National Park is set at the foothills of Eastern Himalaya in the Malbazar Subdivision of Jalpaiguri, north Bengal. This region is popularly known as Dooars. This is a more or less plain land with slightly undulating terrains in between. Predominated by moist deciduous forests and riverine grasslands, this national park is the home to almost 50 species of mammals, 50 species of reptiles and amphibians and almost 300 species of birds. Pretty cool, huh!
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Entrance Charges & Timings
Visiting time/hours of Gorumara National Park: Gorumara National Park is open on all days, from 6:00 am to 5:00 pm except Thursdays. There are 4 shifts for safari and watchtower visits. The timings are 6:30 am to 8:00 am, 9:00 am to 10:30 am, 1:00 pm to 2:30 pm and 3: 30 pm to 5:00 pm.
Entrance charges at Gorumara National Park: The jeep safari costs INR 2200 that can accommodate up to 6 tourists. Gorumara National Park has three watchtowers: Jatraprashad, Chapramari, and Medla. The entry tickets for Jatraprashad watchtower for the first three shifts is INR 120 and for the 4th shift is INR 160. For Chapramari watchtower, entrance ticket for the first three shifts is INR 70 and INR 120 for the 4th shift. However, for Medla watchtower, the tickets for all the 4 shifts is INR 120.
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Flora & Fauna Of Gorumara National Park
Flora: Gorumara National Park is characterized by tropical deciduous forests. The most commonly seen tree is Sal. Other varieties seen here are Simul, Teak, Siris, and Khair etc. Along with these, one can also spot bamboo groves and riverine grasslands.
Fauna: Gorumara National Park is known to be the habitat of Indian rhinoceros. Asian elephant, barking deer, sloth bear, wild boar, hog deer, leopard and Indian wolves are also spotted occasionally. The national park is the home to a few species of poisonous snakes as well, like Paithon and King Cobra.
Almost 300 plus species of birds are spotted at Gorumara National Park. Most common ones include Asian paradise flycatchers, scarlet minivet, Indian hornbill, woodpeckers, peafowls, pheasants and endangered brahminy duck.
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Attractions In & Around Gormura National Park
There is a lot to explore in and around Gormura National Park so get ready to take a plunge into the list. See what all places are there to cover on your vacation. Wherever you look, you will find green vistas to soothe your eyes!
1. Chalsa
Image Credit: Soumik Pal for Wikimedia Commons
Nestled on the foothills of the majestic Himalayas, Chalsa is a hamlet in Jalpaiguri district of West Bengal. Wrapped with foliage, vast tea gardens, and lofty hills, a part of this town is covered by Gorumara National Park and the other part is surrounded by Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary. This is the perfect place to witness different species of animals and birds which is why it is one of the famous places for photographers, nature buffs, and animal lovers.
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2. Chandrachur Watch Tower
Image Credit: Tanmoy Bhaduri for Wikimedia Commons
There are several watchtowers in the national park from where you get a proper view of the flora and fauna. One of these towers is Chandrachur watchtower which is located near the Murti forest bungalow. This is the right place to witness the bucolic nature and wild sections of this national park. You will see rivers and rivulets crossing through grasslands, shrubs, and forests.
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3. Jatraprasad Watch Tower
Image Credit: Jonoikobangali for Wikimedia Commons
Disclaimer: The image is for representation purposes only.
Also known as Gorumara Watchtower, this one is located in Dooars and was made in the remembrance of a pet elephant whose name was Jatraprasad. He offered a great service to the Forest Department. This watchtower offers a splendid view of the national park and rivers going through the dense forest. This is the oldest and the most popular tower which is why every tourist must head to this one for sure.
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4. Medla Watch Tower
Image Credit: Darshana Darshu for Wikimedia Commons
Located in the Kalipur eco village, Medla Watch Tower lies on the eastern part of the national park. One of the best ways to reach here is by opting for a bullock cart ride or a safari through the forest. You get a clear of both the forest as well as the town from here. One of the nearby places to explore this national park is Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary.
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5. Dooars Valley
Image Credit: Rajibnandi for Wikimedia Commons
This valley is mainly famous for its national parks and wildlife sanctuaries as it is full of foliage and untamed areas which are perfect for animals to reside. Here you can opt for memorable elephant rides and enjoy amazing views of the forests.
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Things To Do In & Around Gorumara National Park
Here is a list of the best activities that you can opt for on your trip to Gorumara National Park. Check them out and make sure that you do not miss out the fun while on your tour.
1. Jungle Safari
For every wildlife enthusiast, jungle safari in Gorumara National Park is a must activity. The beauty of the undulating terrain, lush green forests and sprawling grasslands fascinate ever tourist while the joy of spotting a wildlife amplifies the fascination manifold. You may be lucky enough to see elephants bathing in Murti River, flowing through the national park. There are two kinds of safaris, available for tourists: jeep safari and elephant safari. Book tickets from the registered office of Forest Department and it is mandatory to take an authorized guide with you. After the safari, tourists are taken to watchtower for an enhanced wildlife experience.
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2. Bird Watching
Carry your binoculars as a plethora of birds are spotted at Gorumara National Park. From common ones like Indian hornbill, paradise flycatcher to endangered ones like brahminy duck, one can spot everything here. Moreover, make sure that you are carrying a camera too so that you can capture hgih-quality photos of the birds.
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3. Sightseeing
There are many fascinating tourist places around Gorumara National Park. You can plan a half-day sightseeing to visit Buxa Fort, Rovers Point, Samsing, Bindu, Murti Riverbank and Jayanti Mahakal caves. In fact, there are a couple of more wildlife sanctuaries near Gorumara. They are Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary and Buxa Tiger Reserve.
4. Lataguri Nature Interpretation Centre
Image Credit: Aurab for Wikimedia Commons
Disclaimer: The image is for representation purposes only.
Located next to the national park is Lataguri Nature Interpretation Centre. Visit this place to witness the vibrant sight of flora and fauna of Gorumara, showcased with light and sound. This place adds to the beauty of the place and also offers the knowledge in a different and innovative way.
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5. Tribal Dance & Campfire
One can trek up to surrounding local villages like Budhuram Forest Village and enjoy tribal dance around a campfire in the evening. After all the sightseeing, this is the best way to end your night on a good note. Listen to local folks & stories and enjoy a clear view of the star-studded sky. This is why Gormura makes a perfect place to explore with friends.
Places To Stay In & Around Gorumara National Park
If you are thinking where to stay in and around Gorumara National Park, the options are plenty. You can book at Aranya Jungle Resort, Kontiki Resort, and Lake view resort. These 3 places are in Lataguri, approximately 5 km from Gorumara National Park. One can also check out Sinclairs Retreat, Dooars in Chalsa, 13 km from the forest. But if you wish to stay closer to the national park, book yourself a stay at Tuskers Den Forest, located just opposite Gorumara. There are forest department accommodations inside the forest at Gorumara Eco Village Kalipur, Gorumara Elephant Camp Dhupjhora and Gorumara Rhino Camp Ramsai.
How To Reach Gorumara National Park
By air: The nearest airport to Gorumara National Park is 80 km away at Bagdogra. There are regular flights from Delhi, Kolkata and Mumbai. Hire a private taxi and it will take approximately 2 hours from airport to reach the national park.
By rail: The closest railway station is at New Maynaguri, 20 km away. It is well connected with Kolkata and other major cities of East and North-eastern part of India.
By road: Gorumara National Park is 72 km from Siliguri via Canal Road and takes about 2 hours to reach. From Jalpaiguri, the place is 32 km via NH717 and one can reach within an hour. Roads are in good condition and one can easily drive down from these places.
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A scenic splendor, Gorumara National Park is a thrilling place to explore with friends and families. With picturesque terrain and myriad of wildlife, this is a paradise for nature lovers, wildlife freaks, and photography enthusiasts. Want to plan your West Bengal trip? Let us help you create an incredible experience that’ll make your vacation memorable!
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A book lover and fun-loving, overtly emotional mom with a wanderlust soul, Sukanya has completed her Master Degree in Geography and currently perusing her passion for writing as a profession. Nothing detoxes her more than trying new recipes and travelling to offbeat places is ultimate Therapy for her.
