Gorumara National Park

With the influence of the Jaldhaka River, Murti River, and Raidak River, the Gorumara National Park forms a major watershed between the Ganges and Brahmaputra River systems. Located in the Dooars region in North Bengal and spreading across 80 square kilometers, the park mostly comprises rolling forests and riverine grasslands housing different species of mammals, birds, reptiles, turtles, fish, and other macro and microfauna.

The common animal species that can be sighted are Gaurs, Asian Elephants, Sloth Bears, Chital, Sambar Deer, Barking Deer, Hog Deer, and Wild Boars. The Indian Rhinoceros, Pygmy Hog, and Hispid Hare are some of the endangered species found in Gorumara National Park. Amongst the bird species, Brahminy Duck and Indian Hornbill remain major attractions.

The Gorumara National Park is also home to a large number of snakes, including Pythons and the King Cobra. The best way to watch wildlife at the park is from the numerous watchtowers – Jatraprasad Watch Tower, Rhino Observation Point, Chandrachur Watch Tower, and Chuchuki Bird Watching Point. One can even pay a visit to the nearby Budhuram Forest Village for a live show of the ethnic tribal dance and music.

Jungle Safari at Gorumara National Park

Without any second opinion, the most famous and fun-filled activity at the Gorumara National Park is the wildlife safari. During these safaris, you can look and marvel at the beauty and magnificence of many animals and birds from a close distance.
There are two types of Safaris that you can choose from- the Elephant Safari and the Jeep Safari, which guarantee the sighting of wildlife. You can book your forest safari from the forest department and must take an authorized guide along with you while visiting the watchtowers. Carry powerful binoculars with night vision facilities, and be prepared to witness some breathtaking scenes.

The jungle safaris lead the visitors to different watchtowers, which include:
1. Jatraprasad: The Jatraprasad watch tower is the most famous lookout, and is named after a female elephant that was legendary for its caring nature. The entry point for this watchtower is through the National Highway at the northern part of the National Park. The salt lakes just below the watchtower make it an attractive place to spot wildlife, especially during early morning or late afternoon safaris.
2. Methla Watchtower: This watchtower is located at the Kalipur eco-village towards the eastern fringe of the national park. Unique bullock cart-driven safaris are available here.
3. Chandrachur Watchtower: This watchtower is located amid vast and open grassland. There is also a small pond and salt lake located here.
Other watchtowers located here include the Rhino Point, Chukchuki Watchtower, and Chapramari Watchtower.