Madarihat

Madarihat is a small village that serves as one of the gateways to Jaldapara Wildlife Sanctuary. It is in the Alipurduar district, West Bengal, India.

Madarihat has many attractions like the nearby Jaldapara National Park famous for the Indian one horned rhinoceros, and its diverse wildlife of Elephants, Barking Deer, Hogdeer, Sambar, Gaur (Indian Bison), Peacock and a variety of birds.

The surrounding tea gardens, forests, hills, River Holong and its rivulets, the cultural diversity of its local people and the famous local wooden furniture also make Madarihaat a popular tourist attraction.

Things to do at Madarihat, Jaldapara

Elephants and jeep safaris are a key activity here and only means of transport into the forest. The Forest Department organizes Elephant safaris as well as Jeep safaris. The elephant safari is held in the early morning from Hollong to take you deep into the tall grasslands of Jaldapara. The jeep safaris are available in the morning, in afternoons and as day trips.

Things to see around Madarihat, Jaldapara

There are two watchtowers here for the best views of the area and its flora and fauna. You can also travel via the deep, green forests to visit Holong Forest Bungalow on the banks of River Holong. Holong is 7 kms from Madarihaat. At the bungalow there are frequent sightings of the one-horned rhinos, gaurs, and wild boars.

There are permits and fees to visit the sanctuary, including costs for light and heavy vehicles, still cameras and video cameras.

How to reach Madarihat, Jaldapara

Madarihaat is located on the NH 31 (Siliguri-Hasimara), 140 km east from Siliguri, 80 km north from Cooch Behar and 50 km west from Alipurduar. The nearest airport is Bagdogra around 140 kms away. Birpara and Hasimara are the nearest rail heads around 20 kms away. Madarihat also has its own railway station but local trains only stop here.

Madarihaat is well connected by road too. NBSTC buses, Bhutan Government buses and minibuses ply to and from Siliguri to Alipurduar via Madarihat. Private cars are also available at Siliguri.

Best time to visit Madarihat, Jaldapara

You can visit Madarihat anytime of the year but Jaldapara Forest remains closed from mid June to mid September.

Accommodation at Madarihat

LOCATION: Beside forest in village

FACILITIES: Lawn, Parking, Gazebo, Generator, Campfire arrangement, Driver’s accommodation, Attached western bathroom, Geyser, TV in room, Balcony, Dining Hall.

ROOM TYPES: AC Double Bed, Non AC Double Bed.