Jaldapara National Park

Jaldapara National Park In West Bengal, India

Jaldapara National Park, located in the Alipurduar district, is one of the most prominent wildlife reserves in eastern India. Known for its thriving population of Indian one-horned rhinoceroses, Jaldapara National Park in West Bengal spans over 200 square kilometers of grasslands and forested terrain along the banks of the Torsa River. As a notable National Parks in India, it is also home to elephants, leopards, bison, deer, and over 240 species of birds.

Spanning an area of approximately 216 square kilometers, Jaldapara was originally declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1941 to protect its diverse ecosystem and later upgraded to a national park in 2012. The park is situated along the banks of the Torsa River and features vast grasslands, riverine forests, and swampy terrain, creating an ideal habitat for a variety of wildlife.

Apart from the iconic one-horned rhinoceros, Jaldapara is home to Asian elephants, leopards, sambar deer, barking deer, Indian bison (gaur), hog deer, and wild boars. The park is also a paradise for birdwatchers, boasting over 200 species of birds, including the crested serpent eagle, Bengal florican, hornbills, and fishing eagles. The rivers and wetlands of Jaldapara support a rich aquatic life, including marsh crocodiles and freshwater turtles.
One of the unique attractions of it is its thrilling elephant safari, which allows visitors to explore the grasslands up close and increases the chances of spotting wildlife, especially rhinos.

Jeep safaris are also available for a more extensive exploration of the park’s wilderness. The nearby Chilapata Forest, a dense woodland adjacent to Jaldapara, serves as an important corridor for elephants migrating between Jaldapara and Buxa Tiger Reserve.

The park is best visited between October and May when the weather is pleasant and wildlife sightings are more frequent. Jaldapara’s commitment to wildlife conservation, combined with its breathtaking landscapes and diverse fauna, makes it one of the top destinations for nature lovers and adventure seekers in eastern India.

Flora And Fauna

• Indian Rhinoceros