Located in the heart of Dooars, Jaldapara National Park is one of the best-known wildlife reserves in Eastern India. Spread across grasslands and riverine forests, it’s famous for its population of the Indian one-horned rhinoceros, along with elephants, deer, birds, and even rare cats.
If you're looking to spot wildlife in their natural habitat while staying close to nature, Jaldapara is a must-visit on your Dooars itinerary.
Where Is Jaldapara Located?
- In the Alipurduar district of West Bengal
- Entry points: Madarihat (main gate), Hollong, Totopara
- Around 130 km from Siliguri (~4 hours drive)
- Easily reached by road or train (Madarihat Railway Station nearby)
Why Visit Jaldapara?
- One of the few parks in India where you can see rhinos in the wild
- Home to Asian elephants, leopards, bison (gaur), and swamp deer
- Offers both jeep and elephant safari options
- Scenic grassland trails, forest lodges, and tribal villages
- Excellent for photographers, wildlife lovers, and families
Wildlife You May See
- Indian one-horned rhinoceros (flagship species)
- Elephants, gaur, and sambar deer
- Leopards, though rarely seen
- Peacocks, hornbills, and hundreds of bird species
- Bengal florican (rare), python, and monitor lizards
Safari Information
- Jeep Safaris: Available in the morning and afternoon
- Elephant Safaris: Operated from Hollong (early morning only) - must be booked in advance
- Forest permits: Issued by the forest department at Madarihat
- Safaris are accompanied by forest guides
Park remains closed from June 15 to September 15 for the monsoon.
Best Time to Visit
- October to April - Cool, dry months with best wildlife activity
- November to February - Perfect for safaris and birdwatching
- Avoid monsoon season due to forest closures and heavy rains
Where to Stay
Jaldapara offers a range of forest lodges, government-run guesthouses, and nature resorts.
Top options include:
- Hollong Tourist Lodge (WBFDC) - Inside the park, best for early sightings
- Jaldapara Tourist Lodge (Madarihat) - Comfortable and convenient
- The Mystic Forest - A boutique nature resort near the park gate
- Madarihat Eco Resorts - Good for families and groups
Hollong is the most sought-after stay - book well in advance.
Nearby Attractions
- Totopara - A tribal village near the Bhutan border, home to the Toto community
- Chilapata Forest - Can be paired as a two-forest tour
- South Khayerbari - Wildlife rescue center for leopards and tigers
- Cooch Behar Palace - For a cultural detour
Travel Tips
- Book safaris and rooms early - especially during holidays
- Morning safaris offer the best chances of wildlife sightings
- Carry warm clothes for early rides and binoculars for birding
- Follow forest rules - no littering, loud noises, or feeding animals
Jaldapara Is Where the Wild Roams Free
From rhinos grazing in tall grass to elephants splashing across streams, Jaldapara delivers raw wilderness in one of India’s most scenic forest belts. It's a journey into nature’s quiet drama - and one you'll never forget.
