Sikiajhora is a rivulet which meanders through the Buxa Tiger Reserve and enters the plains of Dooars at Panialguri to meet another flamboyant river Bala, which too originates from the Jayanti Hills and Buxa Forest. Rich in bio-diversity, Sikiajhora is home to a healthy population of birds and butterflies. You can also stay in a luxury resort which have come up recently in Sikia Jhora and explore the Eastern fringes of Dooars from here. Destinations like Chilapata Forest, Jaldapara National Forest, Jayanti, Buxa Duar, Bhutanghat are all within 50 kms of Sikia Jhora and can be covered in day trips.
Things to do at Sikiajhora
A local self-help group has started offering boat rides on Sikiajhora. The boat ride takes you through some dense parts of the jungle and you can catch glimpses of birds and occasional wildlife like wild boars and elephants. You can also take long walks along the tea estates that border Sikia jhora or take sightseeing trips. There’s a watchtower too and you can catch panoramic views of the forest cover of Buxa atop this watchtower.
Sikiajhora sightseeing
The road connecting Jayanti riverbed, which is 22 kms from Sikia jhora runs through the dense parts of Buxa Forest. After reaching Jayanti, you can explore the North Eastern fringes of Buxa Tiger Reserve. Few short trekking routes to Mahakal Cave and Pukhri also originates from Jayanti. One of the main Check Posts from where you can avail jeep safaris to Buxa Tiger Reserve are located in Rajabhatkhawa which is 15 kms. from Sikiajhora. The Chilapata Wildlife Sanctuary, which is one of the main corridors of wild elephants in Dooars is only 30 kms from Sikiajhora, whereas Jaldapara National Park famous for the Asian One-Horned Rhinos, leopards and Pythons is just 55 kms. from here. Elephant safaris as well as Jeep safaris are available in Jaldapara and Chilapata alike.
If you are fond of trekking, then the Buxa Fort trek from Santlabari would be very rewarding. The Buxa Fort was a Bhutia Fort which was later captured by the British and was converted into a prison for Indian freedom fighters. This 4-km trek from Santlabari is very rewarding for birdwatchers and butterfly spotters.
How to reach Sikiajhora
The nearest railway station is New Alipurduar Railway Junction just 20 kms. away. You can hire cars from the station to reach Sikia jhora. However, the nearest major rail head is New Jalpaiguri (NJP), which is 166 kms. from here and the nearest airport is Bagdogra (IXB) is 182 kms. away. Although you can hire cars from NJP or IXB to Sikiajhora but it is advised to avail the pick-up services of the hotel if you are coming from these points.
Best time to visit Sikiajhora
Located on the edge of Buxa Tiger Reserve with views of the forest, rolling Jayanti Hills and tea gardens, Sikiajhora welcomes guests throughout the year. However, as forests stay closed from mid June to mid September, so jungle safaris are not available at any of the National Forests during this time.
Accommodation at Sikiajhora
LOCATION: Beside Buxa Tiger Reserve
FACILITIES: Swimming pool, Air Conditioned rooms, Dining Hall, Billiards, Carom, Table Tennis, Badminton, Multi Gym, Spa, Children Park, Private Watch Tower, Pet friendly, in-house parking, Television, Doctor on call.
ROOM TYPES: Double Bed Deluxe and Super Deluxe rooms, Double Bed Suites, Double Bed Cottages
To drop an enquiry click here
Sikiajhora Photos