Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary – A Hidden Gem in Dooars

About Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary

Nestled in the heart of the Dooars region, Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary is a breathtaking forest reserve known for its rich biodiversity and serene landscapes. Located in Western Dooars, Chapramari is an extension of the more popular Gorumara National Park, separated only by the picturesque Murti River. Covering approximately 10 sq km, it is one of the oldest reserve forests in India, gaining protected status in 1895.

Bounded by the Murti River to the west and the Jaldhaka River to the east, Chapramari’s strategic location makes it an essential stop for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts travelling along National Highway 17 (Old NH 31). The sanctuary’s proximity to major tourist destinations like Jaldhaka, Bindu, Jhalong, and Gorumara adds to its appeal.

Flora and Fauna – A Paradise for Wildlife Enthusiasts

Despite its compact size, Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary boasts an incredible variety of flora and fauna. The sanctuary is home to majestic Asian elephants, the mighty gaur (Indian bison), deer, reptiles, and numerous other wildlife species. Early morning and late evening are the best times to spot these animals near the riverbanks or at Chapramari Watchtower, which overlooks a small pond frequented by wildlife.

Chapramari was once home to the Royal Bengal Tiger, with sightings reported until the 1980s. However, tigers have now become extinct in this forest. The sanctuary is also a paradise for bird watchers, with numerous avian species inhabiting its lush greenery.

A railway track runs through the sanctuary, connecting the Northeast with the rest of India. Unfortunately, this has led to tragic incidents of elephants and gaurs being struck by trains. Conservation efforts are ongoing to prevent such accidents and protect the sanctuary’s diverse wildlife.

Forest Safari in Chapramari

Wildlife safaris in Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary are organized from Gorumara National Park and Chalsa. Jeep safaris offer visitors an exhilarating experience as they traverse through dense forests and open grasslands, increasing the chance of spotting animals in their natural habitat.

Due to the monsoon season, the sanctuary remains closed from June 16 to September 15, but in recent years, safaris in fringe areas have been permitted even during this period.

Nearby Attractions – Explore the Beauty of Dooars

Chapramari serves as a gateway to many other scenic destinations in Dooars:

• Jaldhaka, Paren, Bindu & Jhalong: Located north of the sanctuary, these Bhutan-Dooars border villages are famous for their stunning landscapes and tranquil riverbanks. A visit to these places from Chapramari takes less than an hour.

• Gorumara National Park: Located to the south, Gorumara is one of the most famous wildlife destinations in Dooars, offering extensive safari options and an array of wildlife sightings.

• Jaldapara National Park: Situated about 58 km (1-hour drive) east of Chapramari, this park is renowned for its population of the Great Indian One-Horned Rhinoceros.

• Tea Gardens: The lush Jiti and Hila Tea Gardens near Nagrakata offer breathtaking views and a glimpse into the tea culture of the region.

How to Reach Chapramari

By Train:

• Chalsa (10 km) is the nearest railway station, but only a few trains stop here.

• Malbazar (7 km) is a better-connected station with several express train services.

• New Jalpaiguri (NJP) (70 km, 1.5 hours drive) is the primary rail hub for travellers coming from major cities.

By Air:

• Bagdogra Airport (75 km, 2 hours drive) is the nearest airport with flights connecting to Kolkata, Delhi, and other major cities.

By Road: Chapramari is well-connected to Siliguri, Alipurduar, and Cooch Behar by NH 17. Private taxis, shared cabs, and tourist vehicles are available for hire.

We provide one of the largest fleets of tourist vehicles in Dooars. Contact us for car rentals and guided tours.

Where to Stay – Best Accommodation Options

If you plan to stay near Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary, you have several options:

• Resorts Around Murti: Many resorts and lodges, including government-run WBFDC and WBTDC lodges, offer excellent accommodation near the Murti River, just a short distance from Chapramari.

• Lataguri & Gorumara Resorts: Although slightly farther, these resorts provide easy access to Chapramari Safari tours, which are often booked from Gorumara.

• Panjhora Wilderness Camp: A small yet charming forest department-managed accommodation, Panjhora is inside the sanctuary and offers a thrilling experience of staying in the wild.

• Chapramari Forest Bungalow: Located deep within the sanctuary, this is an excellent choice for wildlife enthusiasts. However, bookings are limited and managed by the forest department.

Our Services – NBTT - Your Trusted Travel Partner in Dooars

With 20+ years of experience in organizing Chapramari and Gorumara wildlife tours, we offer:

• Customized tour packages tailored to your preferences

• Accommodation bookings in and around Chapramari

• Reliable transportation with our in-house fleet of tourist vehicles

• Safari bookings for Chapramari and Gorumara forest reserves

Plan your adventure with us and experience the untouched beauty of Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary. Contact us today for bookings and travel assistance!