Tucked between Jaldapara National Park and Buxa Tiger Reserve, Chilapata Forest is one of Dooars' most intriguing and lesser-explored destinations. Known for its dense greenery, mysterious ambiance, and rich wildlife, Chilapata is perfect for those who love raw nature, forest silence, and unfiltered jungle experiences.
It’s a critical wildlife corridor for elephants, leopards, and rhinos, and home to rare flora and tribal cultures that thrive alongside nature.
Where Is Chilapata Located?
- In the Alipurduar district, West Bengal
- About 20 km from Alipurduar town, and 30 km from Madarihat
- Around 140 km from Siliguri (~4.5 hours by road)
- Easily accessible as a day trip from Jaldapara or Cooch Behar
Why Visit Chilapata?
- Less crowded than other forests - ideal for offbeat travel
- Known for jeep safaris, tribal village visits, and deep forest stays
- Part of the elephant migration route between Buxa and Jaldapara
- Home to rich biodiversity, from birds and bison to leopards and boars
- Visit the ancient Nalraja Fort ruins hidden in the forest
Things to Do in Chilapata
- Jeep Safari: Explore the dense forest in guided vehicles
- Spot Wildlife: Elephants, leopards (rare), deer, peacocks, langurs, and more
- Visit the ruins of Nalraja Fort - swallowed by trees and time
- Stay in a forest lodge and experience the silence of the woods
- Visit nearby Rajabhatkhawa or Totopara villages
Best Time to Visit
- October to April - Cool, clear days ideal for safaris and exploration
- November to February - Misty mornings and best wildlife activity
- Avoid monsoon (June to mid-September) - forest becomes inaccessible and closes temporarily
Jeep Safari Info
- Safaris operated by the West Bengal Forest Department
- Entry from Kodalbasti gate (main checkpost)
- Safari duration: Around 1.5 hours, with morning and afternoon slots
- Accompanied by licensed guides and forest guards
- Permits available at gate; early booking advised on weekends
Where to Stay
Chilapata has a growing number of eco-lodges and forest stays:
- Chilapata Jungle Camp - Riverside eco-stay with tribal hospitality
- Malangi Lodge (WBFDC) - Government-run forest lodge inside the buffer zone
- Sinclairs Retreat Dooars - Located nearby for luxury comfort
- Homestays in Kodalbasti - Community-run stays with local cuisine
Nearby Attractions
- Jaldapara National Park - 30-40 minutes by car
- Buxa Fort & Buxa Tiger Reserve - For trekking and deeper forest experiences
- Cooch Behar Palace - Royal architecture and history
- Rajabhatkhawa - Entry to Buxa, with nature interpretation center
Travel Tips
- Book safaris in advance, especially in peak season
- Carry ID proof for permits
- Wear full-sleeve clothes and closed shoes - forest is thick and wild
- Nights are quiet - ideal for those who enjoy solitude and stargazing
- Electricity and phone signal may be limited in deep forest lodges
Chilapata - Where the Forest Still Feels Untouched
If you're drawn to nature that’s less curated and more mysterious, Chilapata is for you. Here, the jungle speaks softly, history lingers in crumbling ruins, and wildlife roams free under thick canopies.
