Flaunting a rich diversity of flora and fauna, the National Parks of West Bengal have a mesmerising charm. Being biodiversity hotspots, they are home to some endangered and rare species. The picturesque Sundarban Reserves are located next to the Bay of Bengal and fall in the delta region. This makes the land highly fertile with thick mangrove cultivation. There are several other exotic national parks and reserves in and around West Bengal. These national parks also conduct several Jungle safaris, hikes, and adventure expeditions for tourists and locals alike.
Here is a list of national parks in West Bengal frequently visited by nature lovers and animal enthusiasts.
List of Top 10 National Parks in West Bengal
Let’s explore the top 10 National Parks around West Bengal which are popular for enriching biodiversity.
1. Sundarban National Park
Popular for hosting the endangered Royal Bengal Tiger and the biggest Mangrove forest in the world, Sundarban Forests tops the list. Being a biosphere reserve, the forests are explored by tourists on both boats and foot.
Sundarbans was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984 and is home to several tribal groups residing in the forest. The forest area is occupied by India and Bangladesh spreading over the Gangetic Valley.
The reserve is named after the Sundari Trees in the forest. Meandering rivers, scenic estuaries, and lush wilderness create a serene green-filled escape.
2. Gorumara National Park
Located along the Raidak and Murti rivers, the Gorumara National Park covers areas of Jalpaiguri district. Extending over a region of 80 sq km, the green covers spread right up to the foothills of the Himalayas.
Riverine grasslands and moist deciduous thickets define this National Park in West Bengal. The Asian one-horned rhinoceros is found in the jungle. Other mighty mammals include the Royal Bengal Tiger, Asian Elephants, and the Great Indian Hornbills. On safaris, you can even spot cobras, deer, pythons, wild boar and woodpeckers.
3. Neora Valley National Park
Dating back to 1986, the Neora Valley National Park was built in Kalimpong and is known for its rich biodiversity zones. This National Park in West Bengalis named after the pristine Neora river that flows across the forest. Due to the dense forests in some parts, the National Park is inaccessible to visitors. However, considering comparatively less forest cover, safari tours and hikes are often conducted.
Trees in this region include fern, bamboo, sal and oak. Speaking of the fauna, you will spot Bay Woodpecker, Golden-throated Barbet, Hodgson’s Hawk Cuckoo and Jerdon’s Baza. Bird watchers and scenic photographers often spend hours admiring the rich fauna and capturing their beauty.
4. Jaldapara Wildlife Sanctuary
Located on the Eastern side of the Himalayas along the foothill region, here is another major West Bengal National Park. One-horned rhinos and barking deer in the forests are the unique highlights of this remarkable green hotspot of West Bengal.
Other animals spotted in the forest include sambhar deer, hog deer, wild pig, and bison. The avian diversity of the park is also remarkable with a variety of eagles, Bengal Floricans and Indian hornbills perched on the branches. Located very close to the ruins of a fort, the forest possesses a vintage charm.
5. Buxa National Park And Tiger Reserve
Situated in the northeastern sections of West Bengal, the thick reserve forest was established in 1983 to protect animals especially endangered species of tigers from poaching. Spread over a region of 659 sq km, the Buxa National Park has both green grasslands and rocky terrains. The Sinchula Range falls under the reserve forest area.
This West Bengal National Park is inaccessible in many regions providing protection and privacy to the flora and fauna. 36 species of reptiles and more than 240 unidentified avifauna are found in the forest.
6. Singalila National Park
The hills of Darjeeling are adorned with the serene green Singalila National Park. This West Bengal National Park covers 78 sq km. Comprising alpine valleys, rhododendron forests and rare species of orchids. The panoramic view from the top of the hills is complemented by the wilderness that surrounds one on a safari.
The Sangalila National Park extends towards the picturesque Kanchenjunga. Gangetic plains on the northern fringes make the land extremely fertile however, cultivation and farming are strictly prohibited in this region to preserve the wildlife species.
7. Mahanada Wildlife Sanctuary
Here is an offbeat National Park of West Bengal located in the Terrai Region, in the foothills of the Himalayas. Situated on the banks and the lower catchment region of the Mahanada River, the wildlife sanctuary is home to several exotic and innate species in the Himalayas. The forest is home to the rare one-horn rhinos while other animals found in the region include leopards, Tigers, bison, elephants, sambhar and cheetahs.
8. Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary
Located about 20 km from the Gorumara National Park, the Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary is one of nature’s magnificent creations. With the view of the Kanchenjunga from the forest while on safari, the picturesque backdrop of the ascending cliffs is simply mesmerising.
This West Bengal National Parkhosts several species, including leopards, gaur, elephants and other animals. You may find them dwelling in their natural habitat. The rainy season is avoided in the Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary.
9. Mahananda Weir National Park And Wildlife Reserve
Situated at the confluence of the Mahananda and Teesta Rivers, this stretch of forest is a protected area for plants and animals to thrive without the interference of human activities.
This vast forest cover is home to a rare species of wild goats. Other animals that you are likely to spot include sambar, tiger, Cheetal, fishing cat, Indian bison, barking deer and a large number of elephants marching across the safari road. Nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts often embark on a trekking expedition along this forest stretch. While the challenges are moderate, the beauty is simply endless. Trekkers cover the region of Latpancher, Deorali and Golaghat Mana on their way.
10. Purbasthali Bird Sanctuary
About 8 km from the island and settlement of Nawadip, the Purbasthali Bird Sanctuary is located on the sacred land of Lord Krishna. Many devotees and bird lovers make their way to this establishment which is a wetland.
During winter you can witness several exotic and migratory bird species here. The seamless road connectivity permits travellers to embark on a day trip or safari to the reserved region infested with a wide range of avians.
The Oxbow Lake is about 3 km long and picnics are often conducted on its bank while witnessing the birds perched on the branches. Photographers spend hours on this island waiting to capture the image of rare birds in their habitat.
Conclusion
With this list of National Parks in West Bengal, you have many places to explore and witness the enriching and enticing wilderness. Whether it is the marvels of the Sundarbans, the serene forest tracks of Gorumara, or the vast Buxa National Park, all these reserve forests are perfect for nature lovers. West Bengal is truly a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts. So, pack your bags, embrace the call of the wild, and set out on an unforgettable adventure in the heart of nature.