A Couple of Day’s Experience at Gorumara National Park

Situated on the western part of Dooars, Gorumara National Park lies at the Eastern Himalayan foothills. It is located in the Jalpaiguri district of West Bengal, covering nearly 80 sq km of lush greenery, torrential rivers, and wilderness. Comprising pristine grasslands and semi-deciduous trees, Dooars is one of the bio-diverse landscapes of India.

Gorumara has been identified as a reserved forest in the year 1942. Back then the tigers used to hunt the livestock of the villages adjacent to the forest. Hence the name Gorumara, which literally means killing the cow. Considering its rich biodiversity, Gorumara was established as a national park in the year 1992. The park has been declared among the best protected areas by the Government of India’s Ministry of Environment and Forest in the year 2009.

Gorumara National Park remains open from October to June and the best time to visit Gorumara is from November to March, as the weather is very pleasant that time.

DAY 1.

Starting early in the morning by going for a jungle safari is the best way to admire the forest and beauty of Lataguri. You can roam in gypsies in the buffer areas to see the wild animals and lose yourself in the peaceful silence of the jungle.

Medla watch tower is the most popular in the national park. The bullock cart ride adds to the thrill of the jungle, making you feel royal amidst the greenery.

In the evening you can experience the beautiful dance performance of the local tribes based in the adjacent villages. The tribals are part of the attraction of Gorumara tourism. They are the inhabitants of the forest lands since the ancient era, just like the wild inhabitants. The guests are welcomed with the beautiful performance by the tribals and the rest of the performance will be a memorable experience for the tourists in the dusk hours.

DAY 2.

Leaving Lataguri behind, comes a village called Samsing. The silence of the tea garden is broken by the mountains and rivers rushing through the rocks. The greenery of the tea gardens and the forests, contrasting with the ashen hues of the rivers create a canvas-like picture for your eyes.

Another 20 mins drive from Samsing comes Rocky Island, a popular tourist destination on the bank of Murti River. High currents of the Murti river creates a monotonous yet soothing sound. Significant to its name, the Rocky Island surfaces from the stony riverbed of the Murti River. A few kilometres ahead of the Rocky Island is the Suntalekhola village, with almost similar rustic beauty.

The majestic colonial Tea Bungalow of Fagu is a few kilometres away from the Gorumara National Park, located atop a hill. The sloping bungalow reflects every bit of British dignity in its grand furnishing. The bungalow is located beautifully in the middle of a sprawling tea plantation surrounded with fertile forest vegetation and the splendid Himalaya in the background.

Travelling bonanza for you!

With extra days of 1 or 2, go for sightseeing at Jalpaiguri. Top attractions include -

1. Jalpaiguri Rajbari
2. Teesta Udyan
3. Jogomaya Kalibari
4. Sarojendra Deb Raikat Kala Kendra
5. Mendabari Fort
6. Buxa Fort
7. Jubilee Park
8. Jayanti Mahakal Cave
9. Panjhora River
10. Dooars