History of Dooars and Its Tourism
The Dooars region, also known as the “Gateway to Bhutan,” derives its name from the word “doors,” symbolizing its 18 gateways to the Himalayan Kingdom. Historically, this area was under the rule of the Koch and Bhutanese kingdoms before coming under British control in the 19th century. The fertile plains and dense forests made it a significant region for tea plantations, timber, and wildlife preservation.
Culture of Dooars
Dooars is a melting pot of diverse ethnic groups, including the Rajbanshis, Nepalis, Santhals, and Bhutanese communities. The cultural diversity is reflected in their festivals, attire, and cuisine. Festivals like Durga Puja, Losar, Magh Bihu, and Tihar are widely celebrated. The region boasts a harmonious blend of traditions and modernity.
Tourist Attractions in Dooars
The Dooars region is known for its pristine beauty, vast stretches of tea gardens, and wildlife sanctuaries. Some prominent tourist attractions include:
Gorumara National Park
Home to the endangered one-horned rhinoceros, this park is a major highlight of Dooars tourism. The lush greenery and rich biodiversity attract nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.
Jaldapara Wildlife Sanctuary
Renowned for its population of Indian elephants and one-horned rhinos, Jaldapara offers an incredible experience of jungle safaris and nature trails.
Buxa Tiger Reserve
Spanning across dense forests and hilly terrain, Buxa Tiger Reserve is ideal for trekking and bird-watching. It houses Bengal tigers, leopards, and several rare bird species.
Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary
Located near Gorumara National Park, Chapramari is famous for its population of elephants, bison, and deer. The sanctuary provides a serene environment for wildlife spotting.
Murti River
A tranquil spot ideal for picnics and nature walks, the Murti River flows gracefully through the forests of Dooars, offering picturesque views.
Samsing and Suntalekhola
These quaint hamlets are known for their lush green tea gardens, cardamom plantations, and serene environment. They are perfect for nature enthusiasts and trekkers.
Lava and Lolegaon
These two charming hill stations on the outskirts of Dooars offer panoramic views of the Eastern Himalayas. Lolegaon is famous for its canopy walk amidst tall pine forests.
How to Reach Dooars
By Air
The nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport (IXB), located around 70 km from Dooars. Regular flights connect Bagdogra to major cities like Kolkata, Delhi, and Guwahati.
By Rail
New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP) is the primary railhead for reaching Dooars. It is well-connected to cities like Kolkata, Mumbai, and Delhi.
By Road
Dooars is easily accessible by road from Siliguri, Alipurduar, and Cooch Behar. Private cars, buses, and shared jeeps are widely available.
Dooars Weather
March to April: The spring season offers pleasant weather and vibrant greenery. Temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C.
May to July: Summer is warm but not scorching, with temperatures between 20°C and 30°C, making it ideal for exploring tea gardens.
June to September: Monsoons bring heavy rainfall, enhancing the lushness of the forests. However, safaris and some attractions may be closed.
October to February: Winter offers cool and pleasant weather with temperatures dropping to 5°C, making it the best time for wildlife spotting.
Best Time to Visit Dooars
The best time to visit Dooars is from October to April when the weather is pleasant and wildlife sightings are frequent. Autumn and winter are particularly ideal for safaris and outdoor activities.
Things to Do in Dooars
Wildlife Safaris
Explore the dense forests of Gorumara, Jaldapara, and Buxa through thrilling jeep safaris and elephant rides.
Tea Garden Tours
Take a stroll through the lush tea estates of Dooars, learn about the tea-making process, and enjoy a fresh cup of locally brewed tea.
Trekking and Hiking
Dooars offers excellent trekking trails, especially in Buxa and the nearby hills of Lava and Lolegaon.
Bird Watching
With its rich avian population, Dooars is a paradise for bird watchers. Look out for hornbills, kingfishers, and migratory birds.
Rafting in Teesta
For adventure seekers, river rafting in the Teesta River is a must-try activity.
Photography
Capture the breathtaking landscapes, wildlife, and tea gardens that make Dooars a photographer’s delight.
Accommodation in Dooars
Dooars offers a wide range of accommodations, from budget-friendly lodges to luxurious resorts. Wildlife resorts near the national parks are particularly popular among tourists.
Famous Food in Dooars
Dooars’ cuisine is a delightful mix of local and neighboring influences. Some must-try dishes include:
- Thukpa: A hearty noodle soup.
- Momo: Steamed dumplings filled with meat or vegetables.
- Churpi: A local cheese snack.
- Rice and Bamboo Shoots: A traditional delicacy of the region.
Places to Visit Near Dooars
Kalimpong
A serene hill station known for its monasteries, flower nurseries, and colonial architecture.
Bhutan
The neighboring country offers stunning landscapes, monasteries, and a unique cultural experience. Phuentsholing, the border town, is just a short drive away.
Cooch Behar
Famous for its historic palace and temples, Cooch Behar is an ideal day-trip destination from Dooars.
Explore Dooars
Dooars is a treasure trove of natural beauty, cultural diversity, and adventure. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a nature lover, or someone seeking a peaceful getaway, Dooars has something for everyone.
