Jalpaiguri is a district of West Bengal with historic and natural beauty. It is situated in the North Bengal region and is the second largest city of North Bengal. It is not only an important place in West Bengal but also important to the whole country because it connects the North East India to the rest of the country. Topographically, this district of West Bengal is criss-crossed by rivers, rivulets and hills. Hence, Jalpaiguri is a heavenly abode to the travellers who love nature. Here is a list of 5 top places to visit In Jalpaiguri.
1. Gorumara National Park
This medium sized National Park is situated in the Dooars region of Jalpaiguri. It is in the Terai region of Himalayan foothills. Situated on the floodplain of the river Murti and Jaldhaka, Gorumara National Park is rich in flora and fauna. It is 15 km from Lataguri, 10 km from Chalsa and 52 km from Jalpaiguri town. The park has recorded 193 species of birds, 7 species of turtles, 22 species of reptiles, 27 species of fish and other micro and macro fauna. The main attractions here are the elephants, one horned rhinos, leopard, hornbills, etc. and the scenic landscape here. The National Park remains closed during the rainy season (from 16th June- 15th September).
2. Jaldapara Wildlife Sanctuary
Jaldapara Wildlife Sanctuary is situated at the foothills of Eastern Himalayas, on the bank of Torsa River. It covers a huge expanse of Terai grassland intersected by wet-forests, river-forests and dry-mixed forests. It has the largest population of one-horned rhinos in the state of West Bengal. It also supports an excellent habitat for the Royal Bengal Tiger and other animals like leopard, hog deer, barking deer, sambar and chital etc. It provides shelter to various migratory birds during the winters. Jeep and elephant safaris are available here. The main entry point of it is Madarihat, 22 km from Falakata Railway Station. The sanctuary remains closed during the rainy season (16th June- 15th September).
3. Jalpaiguri Rajbari
Jalpaiguri Rajbari stands as the most popular sight-seeing for all the tourists visiting Jalpaiguri. Rajbari means palace, was the former residence of the local rulers of Baikunthapur estates, the Raikats. It is a historic architectural beauty. The Rajbari consist of the palace building, portico, two temples and the huge palace garden surrounded by the palace pond, the ‘Rajbari Dighi’. The premise of Rajbari remains open from 9 am to 4 pm every day.
4. Murti
Murti situated 8km away from Chalsa and 60 km away from Jalpaiguri town, beside the river Murti. This place is known for its scenic beauty. It is situated between Chapramari and Gorumara. In middle of the thick forests one might spot elephant, deer, leopards, etc. who comes to the river to quench their thirst. The river Murti flowing in the midst of the forest is the real beauty of the place.
5. Jalpesh
Jalpesh is the temple of the regional deity, Lord Shiva. From the word ‘Jalpesh’ the name Jalpaiguri is derived. It is situated about 25 km away from the Jalpaiguri town and 8 km from Mainguri. The temple bears a long history. The temple was first established by last successor of King Baghadatta, king Jalpesh in and around 800 AD. But later many various king invaded and destroyed the temple and many kings tried restoring it. Lastly in 1665 the king Pranannarayan of Koch dynasty, excavated the temple site and re-established the temple. But the ill-fated temple was almost destroyed by the 1897 earthquake. But later on by raising funds the temple was established again. A huge fair is held here in the month of January which attracts many people from various places.
Being a place of natural beauty and diverse variety of flora and fauna along with some royal traces, Jalpaiguri is certainly a tourists and travellers paradise in India. With the thrills and adventure of visiting the forests and appreciating the royal beauties of yester years, Jalpaiguri becomes a must visit place in the state of West Bengal.
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