Unveiling the Beauty of Gorumara and Jaldapara National Park Tour
By JAGAT- [27-June-24] Gorumara and Jaldapara National Parks offer an unparalleled journey into the wild. These two parks though distinct in their own right, collectively provide an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts, wildlife photographers and adventure seekers alike.
Gorumara National Park: A Symphony of Flora and Fauna
Gorumara National Park located in the Dooars region, is a gem that sprawls over 80 square kilometers. Famous for its dense forests and grassy meadows, this park is a sanctuary for a diverse range of wildlife. The park's most notable residents are the Indian rhinoceros, elephants and the elusive Bengal tiger. Bird watchers are in for a treat, as the park is home to over 200 species of birds, including the Great Indian Hornbill, Scarlet Minivet and Peafowl.
A visit to Gorumara is incomplete without a thrilling jungle safari. The safaris, conducted in jeeps or on elephant backs, offer an up-close and personal encounter with the park’s inhabitants. As you traverse through the forest trails, the symphony of chirping birds, rustling leaves and the occasional trumpet of an elephant create a truly immersive experience.
One of the highlights of Gorumara is the watchtowers strategically placed within the park. The Jatraprasad Watchtower, named after a beloved elephant, provides a panoramic view of the park's lush greenery and is an excellent spot for sighting rhinos. The Rhino Observation Point, another popular watchtower, allows visitors to observe these magnificent creatures as they graze in the meadows.
Jaldapara National Park: The Land of the One-Horned Rhino
A short drive from Gorumara brings you to Jaldapara National Park, situated on the foothills of the Eastern Himalayas. Spanning over 216 square kilometers, Jaldapara is renowned for its population of the Indian one-horned rhinoceros. The park’s grasslands, interspersed with riverine forests, provide a perfect habitat for these majestic animals.
Jaldapara’s unique selling point is its elephant safari, a must-do for anyone visiting the park. Riding on the back of these gentle giants through the tall grasslands offers a vantage point like no other, increasing the chances of spotting rhinos, elephants and other wildlife. The safaris, usually conducted early in the morning, add a mystical charm to the experience as the rising sun bathes the park in a golden glow.
Apart from the rhinos, Jaldapara is home to a variety of other species, including bison, deer, wild boars and numerous bird species such as the Crested Eagle, Pallas’s Fish Eagle and the Indian Peafowl. The Chilapata Forest, a dense forest near Jaldapara, is an extension of the park and provides an additional opportunity to explore the rich biodiversity of the region.
Planning Your Visit
Both parks are accessible through the nearest town of Lataguri, well-connected by road and rail. The best time to visit is from November to April when the weather is pleasant and wildlife sightings are frequent. Several lodges and resorts around the parks offer comfortable accommodations, blending rustic charm with modern amenities.
While Gorumara and Jaldapara each offer unique experiences, visiting both parks on a single trip allows for a comprehensive exploration of the region’s natural beauty. Whether you’re a seasoned wildlife enthusiast or a curious traveler seeking new adventures, Gorumara and Jaldapara National Parks promise an enriching and exhilarating journey into the wild.