Malbazar – The Heartbeat of Western Dooars

Malbazar, also known locally as Mal, is one of the most significant towns in the Western Dooars region of North Bengal. Located about 55 km from Siliguri and 65 km from Jalpaiguri, this bustling town is strategically placed along National Highway 31, serving as a gateway to several of the Dooars’ most popular tourist destinations.

While the town itself is not a major sightseeing spot, its convenience, connectivity, and proximity to wildlife sanctuaries, hill villages, and tea estates make it a perfect base for exploring Eastern and Western Dooars. For travellers heading toward Gorumara National Park, Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary, Jhalong, Bindu, Gorubathan, Samsing, Suntalekhola, or Murti, Malbazar is an ideal stop.

The Character of Malbazar

Malbazar is not a sleepy hamlet; it’s a lively commercial centre surrounded by tea gardens and forested landscapes. The town reflects the mixed cultural fabric of Dooars — Bengalis form the majority population, but you will also find a large number of Adivasis working in the surrounding tea gardens. Rajbanshis, Nepalis, Biharis, and Assamese communities have all made this region their home, giving Malbazar a diverse, welcoming atmosphere.

Economy and Everyday Life

The town’s economy revolves around tea and tourism. Dozens of tea estates like Meenglass, Oodlabari, and Pahargoomia surround Malbazar, and their presence shapes the rhythm of life here. During the plucking season, the tea gardens buzz with activity, while the local markets brim with the produce and handicrafts of the region.

Over the past two decades, tourism has become a growing pillar of Malbazar’s livelihood. With its excellent road and rail connections, it has emerged as the transit hub for Dooars safaris and a convenient night halt for tourists travelling between Siliguri and the Bhutan border.

What to See in and Around Malbazar

Mal Park (Mal Udyan)

The most popular attraction in the town is Mal Udyan, also known as Mal Park. Situated next to the Malbazar Tourist Lodge, it’s a beautifully maintained garden ideal for evening strolls and relaxation. Locals often gather here on weekends, giving visitors a glimpse of the easygoing life of the Dooars plains.

Kumlai Picnic Spot

Just outside the town, Kumlai is a scenic riverside area where local families and travellers come for day picnics. Shaded by trees and surrounded by tea gardens, it’s a tranquil corner of Malbazar where you can unwind after a long road journey.

Gorumara National Park (14 km)

A short 20-minute drive from Malbazar brings you to Gorumara National Park, one of the most celebrated wildlife sanctuaries of North Bengal. Home to the famous one-horned rhinoceros, elephants, bison, and a rich bird population, the park offers jeep safaris and watchtower visits that make it a must-do experience.

Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary (18 km)

Located adjacent to Gorumara, Chapramari is one of the oldest sanctuaries in India. Known for its dense forests and herds of wild elephants, Chapramari is perfect for nature enthusiasts and photographers. The drive from Malbazar to Chapramari through endless tea estates is a visual treat.

Jhalong, Bindu, Samsing, and Suntalekhola (25–35 km range)

Within an hour’s drive from Malbazar, the hills of Kalimpong district begin to rise. The riverside villages of Jhalong and Bindu on the Jaldhaka River and the forested hamlets of Samsing and Suntalekhola are perfect for those seeking quiet homestays, scenic hikes, and birdwatching experiences. These places make for easy day trips or short overnight stays from Malbazar.

Gorubathan (30 km)

Towards the northeast, the small hill town of Gorubathan offers a taste of rural Kalimpong. The ruins of the Dalim Fort on a forested hilltop, built during the Bhutanese rule, add a historical dimension to your visit.

A Scenic Train Route Through the Wild

Malbazar lies on the Siliguri–Alipurduar broad-gauge railway line, one of the most scenic train routes in India. The train passes through dense forests and wildlife corridors, offering unforgettable glimpses of elephants, peacocks, and deer from the windows.
However, this beauty comes with challenges — the same route has seen tragic accidents involving elephants crossing the tracks, leading to ongoing conservation efforts to reduce such incidents.

Accommodation in Malbazar

Malbazar offers a range of accommodation options — from modest town lodges to comfortable government and private tourist lodges. The Malbazar Tourist Lodge (WBTDCL) is one of the most preferred stays, thanks to its location beside Mal Park. Several budget and mid-range hotels also cater to travellers using Malbazar as a transit halt before heading deeper into the Dooars.

Getting There

• By Air: The nearest airport is Bagdogra (IXB), about 70 km away.

• By Rail: Malbazar (MLBZ) railway station lies directly on the Siliguri–Alipurduar route. Major trains also stop at New Mal Junction (NMZ), just outside town.

• By Road: NH31 connects Malbazar with Siliguri, Jalpaiguri, Chalsa, and Alipurduar. Frequent buses and shared jeeps operate throughout the day.

Why Stay in Malbazar

Malbazar’s charm lies not in monuments or museums, but in its location, convenience, and authentic Dooars experience. It’s close enough to forests and rivers for adventure, yet developed enough for comfort. Whether you’re on a wildlife safari, a tea trail, or a quiet family getaway, Malbazar makes travel across Western Dooars easy and memorable.

Plan Your Dooars Journey with NBTT Travel Solution Pvt. Ltd.

Whether you’re exploring Gorumara, Chapramari, Jhalong, or Bindu, NBTT Travel Solution Pvt. Ltd. offers personalised tour packages, transport, and accommodation solutions tailored for both Indian and European travellers.
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