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Jalpaiguri is a district in the northern part of West Bengal which shares its borders with two countries, namely Bhutan in the north and Bangladesh in the south. During the partition of India, after independence, a part of Jalpaiguri district went into East Pakistan, now Bangladesh. Jalpaiguri also has a significant Nepalese population being very close to the country. Jalpaiguri experiences a huge exodus of tourists each year owing to its exquisite landscapes, serene river banks, rolling tea gardens and for housing two of India's popular wildlife sanctuaries - Gorumara National Park and the Chapramari wildlife sanctuary. Several tourists come to Jalpaiguri just to wade through the dense forested lands on elephant back and view the wide variety of flora and fauna here.
In fact, Jalpaiguri ranks second in the list of popular places to visit in West Bengal. This picturesque place has small villages which offer unique scenery depending on their strategic location. Chalsa is one such village which is ethereal and looks like a painting on canvas. It is the place from where the beautiful tea gardens in Dooars can be viewed. In order to enjoy sightseeing in Jalpaiguri, winters are the best time. Between October to March the temperature is pleasant, slightly on the cooler side but that makes it ideal for trekking, do a safari, or simply to rest in the river-studded valley. Temperatures here rarely drop below 5 degrees and it is also the best time to view the animals in the wilderness.
Those who come to Jalpaiguri to view several exotic species of birds, must not miss these months, as the winged friends are at their resplendent best in the season. Bagdogra International Airport is the closest airport to Jalpaiguri and there are a number of taxis and reserved cars available from the airport to reach Jalpaiguri. There are multiple trains from Kolkata and other nearby cities which run daily to the Jalpaiguri Road Station. Siliguri, also an important city in North Bengal, is well connected to Jalpaiguri through multiple buses plying at regular intervals in the day between them.
History of Jalpaiguri
The history of Jalpaiguri can be traced back to the Raikat family, who was responsible for controlling large estates in Baikunthapur which now lies in West Bengal.
It is believed that the Raikat family had descended from the Koch dynasty. This dynasty had good control over the Karnataka Kingdom in 1515. The founder of this dynasty is considered to be a man named Sisya Singha, who was the elder brother of Viswa Singha, the second Maharaja of Koch dynasty.
On the coronation of Viswa Singha, Sisya Singha was given the title of Raikat that also meant family guardian. He along with his descendants were given the land of Baikunthapur in the present Jalpaiguri district of West Bengal.
Major Attractions in and Around Jalpaiguri
1. Murti River
The river is situated 9km from Jalpaiguri. Here, you get to witness a wide variety of animals such as elephants, deer, and many others. So, if you love wildlife, then this can be an opportunity for you to see them and perhaps if you are lucky enough, might as well take a photograph or two.
2. Buxa National Park
Located in the Alipur division of West Bengal, it is one of the most popular tourist destinations to visit in Jalpaiguri. Some of the animals that can be found here are elephants, gaurs, sambar deer, clouded leopards and many others.
3. Gorumara National Park
It is located in the very foothills of the Terai region and is known for its natural abundance. It was declared as a wildlife sanctuary in 1949 and attracts tourists and travellers from all walks of life.
West Bengal Tourism offers a colorful variety of experiences to the tourist. Its capital, Kolkata, is as cosmopolitan a city as any. In close proximity lie the Sundarbans, a UNESCO World Heritage Site which is home to the Royal Bengal Tiger. Coastal areas like Digha and Mandarmani are popular tourism places in this state which attract their fair share of beach lovers. A different travel experience awaits you in places like Bishnupur, Bankura and Shantiniketan, which showcase the rich cultural heritage of the state. Hill stations like Darjeeling, Kalimpong and Labha are exciting getaways from the plains and are known for their distinct culture and lifestyle. Wildlife sanctuaries like Jaldapara and Gorumara draw your attention to its rich wildlife. In pilgrimage destinations like Dakshineswar and Kalighat, you undergo a profound spiritual experience.
