Dooars Travel Information
Climate & Geography
Dooars, stretching across the foothills of the Eastern Himalayas in North Bengal, boasts a tropical and humid climate. Summers (March to June) are warm but pleasant—ideal for exploring wildlife sanctuaries and tea gardens. Monsoon (July to September) transforms the landscape into a lush paradise, though heavy rains can lead to flooding in some low-lying areas. Winters (November to February) are cool and misty, perfect for jungle safaris and nature walks. The terrain is a vibrant mix of dense forests, rolling grasslands, meandering rivers like Teesta and Jaldhaka, and rich biodiversity. This region forms a natural corridor to Bhutan and is known for its unspoiled wilderness and tranquility.
History & Culture
Historically, Dooars served as a vital trade route between Bengal and Bhutan, and was once ruled by various local tribes and Bhutanese kings before being annexed by British India. The cultural landscape is shaped by indigenous communities like the Rabhas, Mechs, and Rajbanshis, whose traditions, songs, and dances reflect a deep connection with nature. The influence of tea estate culture, forest folklore, and tribal customs makes Dooars culturally rich and diverse. Visitors often witness local festivals, traditional dances, and warm rural hospitality that offer a glimpse into the soulful life of this green corridor.
Festivals
The people of Dooars celebrate their traditions through vibrant festivals that showcase tribal customs, agricultural rituals, and religious faith:
- Tusu Parab – A harvest festival celebrated by tribal communities with folk songs and bamboo crafts.
- Bhadu Puja – A rural celebration dedicated to goddess Bhadu, marked by singing and dancing.
- Basu Utsav – A spring festival observed with Holi-like colors and community feasts.
- Maghe Sankranti – Observed with ceremonial dips in rivers and traditional food.
- Durga Puja & Diwali – Widely celebrated with lights, music, and processions in the tea garden settlements and towns.
These festivals offer a joyful immersion into the region’s heritage and community life.
Cuisines
Dooars cuisine reflects the simplicity and richness of its rural and tribal roots. Meals are often cooked with freshly harvested vegetables, wild herbs, and locally available meats and fish. Popular items include:
- Rice with Bamboo Shoot Curry – A tangy and earthy dish using local shoots.
- Chicken or Fish Curry with Mustard Paste – A Bengali-influenced staple.
- Chichinge Posto – Snake gourd cooked in poppy seeds.
- Handia or Mohua – Traditional tribal rice-based brews served during festivals.
- Panta Bhaat – Fermented rice with salt and mustard oil, loved in hot seasons.
- Leaf-wrapped Pithas – Sweet rice cakes steamed in banana or sal leaves.
The cuisine is hearty and often served in eco-friendly plates with a side of warmth and local stories.
Popular Places to Visit in Dooars
Gorumara National Park
One of the most popular wildlife destinations in Dooars, Gorumara is home to the Indian one-horned rhinoceros, elephants, gaurs, leopards, and a variety of birds. Jungle safaris and watchtowers like Jatraprasad and Rhino Point offer thrilling wildlife spotting opportunities.
Jaldapara National Park
Located along the banks of the Torsa River, Jaldapara is known for its elephant safaris and dense grasslands. Apart from rhinos, you may encounter barking deer, sambar, wild boars, and diverse bird species like hornbills and peacocks.
Buxa Tiger Reserve
A lush and relatively untouched forest reserve, Buxa is perfect for wildlife lovers and trekkers. You can explore Buxa Fort, trek to Lepchakha for panoramic views, or visit the Mahakal caves hidden in the dense forest.
Chilapata Forest
An offbeat gem near Jaldapara, Chilapata is rich in biodiversity and history. The forest is known for its ancient Nalraja Garh (fort ruins), deep woodlands, and a chance to spot wild elephants and leopards during safaris.
Murti River & Murti Village
A peaceful getaway near Gorumara, Murti offers serene riverside landscapes ideal for picnics and nature walks. The sound of the river and the surrounding forest creates a calming retreat, especially at sunrise and sunset.
Samsing and Suntalekhola
These are picturesque hamlets with orange orchards, tea gardens, and misty hills. Trekking trails, birdwatching, and forest hikes attract offbeat travelers looking for a quiet escape in nature.
How to Reach Dooars
- By Air: The nearest airport to Dooars is Bagdogra Airport (IXB), located around 70–90 km depending on the specific destination within Dooars (like Lataguri, Gorumara, or Jaldapara). The airport is well-connected to major Indian cities such as Kolkata, Delhi, Guwahati, and Mumbai. From Bagdogra, taxis and car rentals are easily available.
- By Train: Dooars is served by several railway stations including New Mal Junction, Hasimara, Alipurduar Junction, and New Jalpaiguri (NJP). NJP, near Siliguri, is the primary hub, from where you can take local trains or hire cabs to reach destinations across Dooars.
- By Road: Dooars is well-connected by road with Siliguri, Jalpaiguri, and other towns in North Bengal. A scenic road journey through lush forests and tea estates makes for a delightful experience. State-run buses, private taxis, and shared jeeps frequently ply between Siliguri and key Dooars destinations like Lataguri, Murti, Jaldapara, and Buxa.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal seasons to visit Dooars are:
- Winter (November to February): Cool and pleasant weather makes it perfect for jungle safaris, birdwatching, and scenic getaways. Forests remain open, offering excellent wildlife sightings.
- Spring-Summer (March to May): Mild temperatures and lush greenery make it a great time for nature trips, photography, and family outings.
- Monsoon (June to September): While the region becomes exceptionally green and beautiful, heavy rains may lead to occasional road and forest closures. However, it’s ideal for travelers seeking solitude and natural beauty.