Exploring the Wild: Unleashing the Thrills of Jungle Safari in West Bengal

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From the rolling hills of Darjeeling to the picturesque beaches of Digha, West Bengal boasts diverse landscapes. But it’s the state’s lush green jungles that offer a unique and unforgettable experience to wildlife lovers. 

Each of the forests in West Bengal is unique in its own way, with its own flora and fauna. This makes every jungle safari in West Bengal a different experience altogether. The state is home to several national parks and wildlife sanctuaries that are home to some of the most exotic and endangered species of wildlife, including the Royal Bengal Tiger, Indian one-horned rhinoceros, Indian elephant, and many more.

A jungle safari in West Bengal offers a thrilling adventure to nature enthusiasts, photographers, and wildlife lovers, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a close encounter with nature’s best-kept secrets.

 

West Bengal is home to some of the most stunning and biodiverse forests in India, providing a perfect opportunity for a wildlife adventure. Here’s a look at the best places to go on a jungle safari in West Bengal. 

Read more: Kumbhalgarh – A Jungle Safari Among the Leopards of Rajasthan

 

The Best Jungle Safaris in West Bengal

 

Sundarbans National Park

The Sundarbans National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest estuarine mangrove forest in the world. It is located in the southernmost tip of West Bengal, where the mighty Ganges meets the Bay of Bengal. The park is home to the Royal Bengal Tiger, saltwater crocodiles, the Indian python, and a variety of birds and reptiles. This is a unique experience, as it is the only jungle safari in West Bengal that is entirely experienced by boat.

How to reach: The nearest airport is Kolkata. From there, you can take a taxi or hire a car to reach the park. The nearest railway station is Canning, from where you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the park.

Best time to visit: The park is open from September to March. The best time to visit is from November to February – the weather is cool and dry, and the chances of spotting wildlife are high.

Famous For: The Royal Bengal Tiger, Mangrove Forests, birds, Saltwater Crocodiles

Place To Stay: Sunderbans Jungle Camp

Recommended For: Families, Couples, Friends Groups

Buxa Tiger Reserve

The Buxa Tiger Reserve is located in the eastern part of West Bengal and is home to the Royal Bengal Tiger, Indian leopard, clouded leopard, and several other endangered species. The reserve is spread over an area of 759 square kilometres and is part of the Buxa Hills in the lower Himalayas. The picturesque environment makes it one of the best jungle safari in West Bengal for photographers.

How to reach: Bagdogra is the closest airport. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the reserve. The nearest railway station is Alipurduar from where you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the reserve.

Best time to visit: The best time to visit is from October to May, as the weather is pleasant, and the chances of spotting wildlife are high.

Famous For: Tiger, Birds, Elephants, Hornbills

Place To Stay: Buxa Jungle Lodge

Recommended For: Families, Friends Groups

Gorumara National Park

The Gorumara National Park is located in the Dooars region of West Bengal and is home to the one-horned rhinoceros, the Indian elephant, and several species of deer and birds. The park is spread over an area of 79 square kilometres and is situated at an altitude of 75 metres above sea level.

How to reach: You can hire a taxi or take a bus from Bagdogra, the nearest airport, to reach the park. New Jalpaiguri is the closest railway station. Both taxis and buses are available at either location to reach the park.

Best time to visit: The best time to visit is from October to May, as the weather is pleasant, and the chances of spotting wildlife are high.

Famous For: Indian rhinoceros, Elephants, Leopard

Place To Stay: Gorumara Jungle Resort

Recommended For: Families, Couples

Neora Valley National Park

The Neora Valley National Park is located in the Kalimpong district of West Bengal and is home to the red panda, the Himalayan black bear, and several species of birds and butterflies. The park is spread over an area of 88 square kilometres and is situated at an altitude of 3,200 metres above sea level. The peaceful surroundings make it one of the most relaxing jungle safaris in West Bengal.

How to reach: The nearest airport is Bagdogra. You can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the park. The nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri. Buses and taxis are available to reach the park.

Best time to visit: The best time to visit is from March to May and from October to December, as the weather is pleasant, and the chances of spotting wildlife are high.

Famous For: Indian rhinoceros, Elephants, Leopard

Place To Stay: Gorumara Jungle Resort

Recommended For: Families, Couples

 

Jaldapara National Park

The Jaldapara National Park is located in the Alipurduar district of West Bengal and is home to the Indian one-horned rhinoceros, the Indian elephant, and several species of birds and deer. The park is spread over an area of 217 square kilometres and is situated at an altitude of 61 metres above sea level. This jungle safari in West Bengal is the only place outside Assam where you can see the one-horned rhinoceros.

How to reach: The nearest airport is at Bagdogra, where taxis to the park can be hired. Buses are also available. Madarihat is the nearest railway station, where taxis and buses to the park are readily available.

Best time to visit: The best time to visit is from October to May. The weather is pleasant, and the chances of spotting wildlife are the highest.

Famous For: Indian rhinoceros, Elephants, Red Panda

Place To Stay: Jaldapara Jungle Camp

Recommended For: Families, Couples, Friends Groups

Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary

 

The Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal and is home to the Indian bison, Himalayan black bear, and several species of birds and butterflies. The sanctuary is spread over an area of 159 square kilometres and is situated at an altitude of 1,220 metres above sea level. This incredible jungle safari in West Bengal is famous among bird watchers of the State.

How to reach: From Bagdogra airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the sanctuary. The nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri, from where a taxi or bus will take you to the sanctuary.

Best time to visit: The best time to visit is from March to May and from September to November.  These times are when the weather is clear and pleasant, and the animals are the most active.

Famous For: Indian Elephants, Gaur, Hornbills

Place To Stay: Mahananda Wildlife Resort

Recommended For: Families, Couples, Friends Groups

In conclusion, West Bengal is a wildlife lover’s paradise, with its rich biodiversity and stunning forests. Whether you’re looking for a chance to spot the Royal Bengal Tiger or the Indian one-horned rhinoceros, these destinations are sure to provide you with an unforgettable experience. So pack your bags, book your tickets, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime with Flying Squirrel Holidays!

 

Places to stay when going on a Jungle Safari in West Bengal

West Bengal is home to some of the most stunning wildlife lodges and resorts that offer a unique and unforgettable experience to travellers. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious stay or a budget-friendly option, there is a wide range of accommodation choices available in West Bengal’s jungles. Here are some of the best wildlife lodges and resorts to stay in when going on a jungle safari in West Bengal:

Sunderbans Jungle Camp

Located in the Sunderbans, this eco-friendly resort is perfect for travellers who want to experience the beauty of the mangrove forest. The resort offers a range of activities, including jungle safaris, bird watching, and boat rides.

Cost per night: INR 3500 per pax on twin sharing basis (approximate)

Room types: Non-AC cottages only

Amenities: Restaurant, garden, geyser, concierge

Gorumara Jungle Resort

This wildlife resort is located in the heart of the Gorumara National Park and is surrounded by lush green forests. The resort offers comfortable and spacious rooms, along with excellent dining options.

Cost per night: INR 4000 to 5000 per pax on twin sharing basis (approximate)

Room types: Double room, quadruple room

Amenities: Restaurant, geyser

Jaldapara Jungle Camp

This wildlife lodge is located in the Jaldapara National Park and is perfect for travellers looking for a rustic experience. The lodge offers comfortable tents and cottages, along with a range of activities, including elephant safaris and bird watching.

Cost per night: INR 3000 to 5000 per pax on twin sharing basis (approximate)

Room types: Double room, triple room, family room, king room

Amenities: Restaurant, geyser, air conditioning

Mahananda Wildlife Resort

This eco-friendly resort is located in the Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary and offers a stunning view of the Himalayas. The resort offers comfortable rooms, along with a range of activities, including jungle safaris, bird watching, and trekking.

Cost per night: INR 2000 to 2500 per pax on twin sharing basis (approximate)

Room types: Deluxe room, standard room

Amenities: Restaurant, geyser

Chilapata Jungle Camp

This wildlife resort is located in the Chilapata Wildlife Sanctuary and is perfect for travellers looking for an offbeat experience. The resort offers comfortable tents and cottages, along with a range of activities, including jungle safaris, bird watching, and trekking.

Cost per night: INR 2000 to 2500 per pax on twin sharing basis (approximate)

Room types: AC room, Non AC room

Amenities: Restaurant, geyser

Buxa Jungle Lodge

This lodge is located near the Buxa Tiger Reserve and offers a stunning view of the surrounding forest. The lodge offers comfortable rooms and cottages, along with a range of activities, including jungle safaris, bird watching, and trekking.

Cost per night: INR 2000 to 2500 per pax on twin sharing basis (approximate)

Room types: Deluxe AC room, Standard AC Room, Non AC room

Amenities: Restaurant, geyser, jeep safari

Singalila Jungle Lodge

This lodge is located near the Singalila National Park and offers a stunning view of the Himalayas. The lodge offers comfortable rooms, along with a range of activities, including jungle safaris, bird watching, and trekking.

Cost per night: INR 2500 to 3500 per pax on twin sharing basis (approximate)

Room types: Deluxe double room, Standard double Room

Amenities: Restaurant, geyser, tea garden tour

Neora Valley Jungle Camp

This eco-friendly camp is located in the Neora Valley National Park and is perfect for travellers looking for a peaceful and serene experience. The camp offers comfortable tents and cottages, along with a range of activities, including jungle safaris, bird watching, and trekking.

Cost per night: INR 3000 to 4250 per pax on twin sharing basis (approximate)

Room types: Cottages only, with attic or without

Amenities: Restaurant, geyser, trekking and birdwatching guides

Hollong Tourist Lodge

 

This wildlife lodge is located in the Gorumara National Park and is perfect for travellers looking for a luxurious stay. The lodge offers spacious rooms and suites, along with excellent dining options.

Cost per night: INR 2500 per pax on twin sharing basis (approximate)

Room types: Double rooms only

Amenities: Restaurant, geyser, tour guides

Chapramari Wilderness Camp

This eco-friendly camp is located near the Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary and offers a stunning view of the surrounding forests. The camp offers comfortable tents and cottages, along with a range of activities, including jungle safaris, bird watching, and trekking.

Cost per night: INR 2000 to 2500 per pax on twin sharing basis (approximate)

Room types: Deluxe AC room, Standard AC Room, Non AC room

Amenities: Restaurant, geyser, jeep safaris

 

West Bengal’s jungles are home to several wildlife lodges and resorts that offer a range of accommodation choices to suit every traveller’s needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious stay or a rustic experience, there is a wildlife lodge or resort in West Bengal to suit your needs. These lodges and resorts are surrounded by stunning forests and offer a range of activities, including jungle safaris, bird watching, and trekking, making for an unforgettable wildlife experience.

FAQs

Which is better Gorumara or Jaldapara?

The answer depends on what you are looking for: Gorumara has dense jungles and chances of seeing leopards, but Jaldapara is a grassland that makes spotting rhinos and elephants easier.

Is Bengal safari worth it?

Definitely, a jungle safari in Bengal is unlike any other. The sheer variety of birds and animals cannot be compared to other parts of the country.

Which day is Jaldapara Safari closed?

Jaldapara National Park is closed every Thursday.

What is the famous forest of West Bengal?

Sundarbans Tiger Reserve is the most famous forest of West Bengal.

On which day is Gorumara Safari closed?

Gorumara National Park is closed every Thursday.

 

Why Choose Flying Squirrel Holidays?

Flying Squirrel Holidays is a premium travel agent in Kolkata that specializes in designing custom-made itineraries to suit the unique needs and preferences of travellers. When it comes to jungle safaris in West Bengal, we are the perfect travel organizer because of our extensive knowledge and experience in planning wildlife tours.

Our team of expert travel advisors has extensive knowledge of the various national parks and wildlife sanctuaries in West Bengal. They have personally visited these destinations and have a deep understanding of the unique features, wildlife, and terrain of each place. This firsthand experience and knowledge enable us to design itineraries that provide our clients with the best possible wildlife experience.

Additionally, our team has excellent relationships with the best wildlife resorts and lodges in West Bengal. We work closely with these accommodations to ensure that our clients have a comfortable and unforgettable experience during their jungle safari.

Moreover, we provide end-to-end travel services, including accommodation, transportation, and guided tours, to ensure that our clients have a seamless and hassle-free travel experience. Our team of experienced guides is trained to provide our clients with insightful information about the flora and fauna of the region, making the safari experience informative and entertaining.

Flying Squirrel Holidays is the perfect travel organizer for anyone looking to have an incredible jungle safari in West Bengal. With our expert knowledge, excellent relationships with wildlife resorts and lodges, and end-to-end travel services, we guarantee an unforgettable and hassle-free jungle safari experience.