Jaldapara Wildlife Sanctuary: Where Rhinos Reign in Himalayan Foothills

Located at 61 meters in the Alipurdur region of West Bengal, Jaldapara Wildlife Sanctuary is 216.5 square meters, where the Torsa River carves through grasslands, riverine forests, and savannahs. Located in Dooars region - the gateway of Bhutan and Eastern Himalayas, this park is located just 7 KM from Madarihat, 140 KM from Bagdogra Airport and 50 km from the New Alipurdur. In 1941, this became a sanctuary to protect vanishing one-horned rhinos by Toto and Mech communities. In 2014 it earned "National Park" status. Now this is the second-largest rhino population zone of India after Kaziranga, Assam.

Weather & Seasons

Tropical climate of Jaldapara shifts dramatically, shaping distinct wildlife experiences:

• Winter (Oct - Feb): 10°C - 27°C - Crisp mornings, golden grasslands, and peak rhino sightings near waterholes. Prime time for safaris.
• Summer (Mar - Jun): 21°C - 40°C - Heat drives elephants and rhinos to rivers; ideal for birding but pack sunscreen.
• Monsoon (Jul - Sep): Heavy rainfall - Park closes due to landslides, breeding seasons, and impassable trails.

Wildlife Spectacles: The Sanctuary’s Heartbeat

• Indian One-Horned Rhino: Spot 250+ giants grazing floodplains - often seen mud-bathing near Hollong watchtower
• Elephants & Big Cats: Herds of tuskers roam riverbanks; leopards stalk tall grasses (rare but thrilling!).
• Avian Wonders: 240+ bird species, including endangered Bengal florican, crested eagles, and wintering Brahminy ducks.

Safari Adventures

• Elephant Safari
• Jeep Safari

Beyond Safaris: Unmissable Gems

• Hollong Bungalow
• Chilapata Forest
• Torsa River Banks
• Birdwatching Trails