List of Proud Attractions in Jalpaiguri
Updated:- 24-Aug-23 Jalpaiguri is the land of ‘Tea, Tiber and Tourism’ in the foothills of the Eastern Himalayas in North Bengal. The city harbours the most mesmerising scenic beauties, predominantly embellished by luscious woodlands and gorgeous tea plantations. Jalpaiguri shares its border with Bhutan and Nepal and the city is named after the fruit ‘Jalpai’ (Olive), which is available in plenty. It is also believed that Jalpaiguri is named after Lord Shiva’s other name, known as Jalpesh. The city is a heavenly abode to nature lovers.
Jalpaiguri welcomes tourists almost throughout the entire year. Wildlife, natural beauty, rivers and rivulets, tea gardens, and religious, cultural, and historical centres collectively entice tourists to visit from all corners of the country. Whether you are planning to have a weekend tour or a long vacation, Jalpaiguri has got your back in both demands, with a number of tourist attractions to marvel at. Keeping aside the geographical spots, what else impresses the tourists are wooden and jute artworks, wall hangings, pieces of jewellery of traditional designs, showpieces and other decors made of bamboo and cane and other handicrafts to carry them back as souvenirs.
Top Sightseeing in Jalpaiguri
1. Gorumara National Park - Gorumara National Park is located in the Dooars region of the Jalpaiguri district, primarily in the limelight for the significant population of Asiatic one-horned rhinoceros. The Gorumara Tiger Safari Tour facilitates not only the spotting of Royal Bengal Tigers but also other wildlife species such as leopard, Indian Bison, Asian elephant, Sambar Deer, Indian wild dogs, etc. The national park is located on the banks of the Raidak and Murti rivers and is densely populated by moist deciduous forests and riverine grasslands.
2. Buxa Tiger Reserve - It is the 15th tiger reserve in India, established in 1983. The tiger reserve houses various species of mammals such as Bengal tigers, leopards, wild dogs, Mongoose, Malayan giant squirrels, Asian elephants, hog deer, etc. Apart from indulging in jungle safari, tourists also have the privilege of visiting some of the nearby attractions, Buxa Fort being at the top of the list. Other attractions are Jayanti Village, Lepchaka, Raimatang and Siikiajhora.
3. Jalpaiguri Rajbari - Rajbari refers to the palace of the former local rulers administrating the city. The rulers were the Raikats of the Baikunthapur Estate. The palace is a historical hotspot, popular for its architectural glamour. Tourists are allowed to enter the Rajbari premises within a stipulated time. The palace consists of the main building, temples, portico, pond (Rajbari Dighi) and a garden.
4. Jalpesh - It is a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. As mentioned earlier, Jalpaiguri is named after Jalpesh and was established by King Jalpesh, the last successor of King Baghadatta around 800 AD. After many rounds of invasions, the temple was restored by King Pranannarayan in 1665, but unfortunately, it was again shattered by the earthquake of 1897. Gradually the shrine was recovered over the years and every year in the month of January a fair takes place near the temple.
5. Mendabari Fort - Mendabari Fort dates back to the 5th century and is located on the banks of the River Baniya. The ruined condition of the fort at present is of great archaeological interest, and it is also known by the name Nalraja Garh. It was erected by the Gupta dynasty and was enveloped by the lush forest of Chilapata back then and now it has gained prominence as one of the interesting tourist attractions, especially among nature lovers and trekking and camping enthusiasts.