Chilapata

Sited amidst the two essential national parks, Jaldapara National Park and Buxa National Park, at a distance of 20km from Alipurduar and 51km from Jalpaiguri lays the most important migration corridor of Dooars region, Chilapata forest reserve. The unique location of Chilapata has blessed it with a rich bio-diversity making Chilapata a forthcoming eco-tourism spot of Dooars. The exotic flora and fauna and unruffled ambiance of Chilapata has made is favored nature lover destination traveling in Dooars region. Before catching the attention of tourist, the verdant forest of Chilapata was infested by the dacoits but now it is safe and serves as one of the ideal destination for tourist in search of nature bound places. Chilapata forest reserve derived its name from the name of Chila Ray who used to be a great soldier and army chief of Cooch Kingdom.

Tourist Places to visit in Chilapata

Cuddled in the foothill of Eastern Himalaya, the roads leading toward Chilapata is full of pictorial sights of paddy field, semi-tropical forest and lush tea garden which accompanies the tourist throughout the journey. The view of roaring River Teesta meandering through the lofty mountain hill seen while crossing the iconic Coronation Bridge on the way to Chilapata is a visual treat for the tourist and if lucky they might even catch the glimpse of snow capped fortress looming over the mountainous valley. The blissful journey towards the pristine forest residing along the river bank of meandering river stream of Torsha and Bania is an unforgettable experience in itself. The verdant forest of Chilapata create an ideal ambiance for hosting a large collection of avifauna like fishing eagle, shikra, crested eagle, jungle fowl, peafowl, partridge, Bengal florican, paradise flycatcher, racket-tailed drongo and pied hornbill making it a ideal destination for avid birdwatcher. There are many points within the forest which truly depicts the beauty of Chilapata like Mendabari Watchtower. Located at the vicinity of river bank of Kunai, Mendabari Watchtower offer a panoramic vista of river Kunai flowing through the semi-tropical forest of Chilapata along with the few sighting of large herbivorous animals like guar and elephant which can be seen in the wee hours drinking water from the river stream. Concealed deep within the dense forested area of Chilapata is a historical significant place, the ruins of Mendabari fort which has lured historian traveling in Dooars region towards Chilapata. Built in 5th century along the bank of river Bania in the Chilapata forest is the historic Mendabari fort also known as the Nalraja Garh. The remains of the fort interest archaeology and history enthusiasts while the location and historic stories around the fort fascinate the travelers. For the tourists who like to learn more about the tribal culture Kodalbasti, home of Raba tribe is a perfect destination. From a quaint jungle walk to exotic tribal dance, a visit to Chilapata ensures it all.

A nature endowed place with the touch of history, Chilapata forest with its rich flora and fauna and mesmerizing river streams has ensnared the heart of travelers with its scenic views and tranquil ambiance. If you want to spend some quality time amidst the pristine nature while learning more about the tribal culture, Chilapata forest reserve of Dooars is the ideal destination for you.

Best Time to Visit Chilapata

Blessed with temperate weather the beauty of the Jayanti and is surrounding places can be relished throughout the year. If the tourist are looking forward to partake in the jungle safari of the verdant Buxa forest it is best to avoid the rainy season since the forest area of Dooars region remain close from mid July to mid September.