Gorumara National Park – Gem of the Dooars
Gorumara National Park in North Bengal’s Dooars is a scenic wildlife haven, famous for its one-horned rhinos, elephant safaris, and serene blend of forests and rivers.
Explore NowABOUT GORUMARA NATIONAL PARK
Spread across approximately 80 square kilometers, Gorumara National Park is located in the Jalpaiguri district of West Bengal. It was declared a Wildlife Sanctuary in 1949 and later upgraded to a National Park in 1994 due to its ecological significance and rich biodiversity.
The park lies along the banks of the Murti and Raidak Rivers, surrounded by dense sal forests, open grasslands, and riverine ecosystems. Gorumara forms an important part of the larger Dooars landscape, sharing ecological connections with Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary, Jaldapara National Park, and Buxa Tiger Reserve.
The park is home to the iconic one-horned rhinoceros, along with elephants, gaurs (Indian bison), leopards, sambar deer, hog deer, and wild boars. It is also a paradise for birdwatchers, with species such as the Indian hornbill, woodpeckers, minivets, peafowls, and the great pied hornbill adding melody to the forest canopy.
With its breathtaking landscapes and thriving wildlife, Gorumara National Park has earned its reputation as one of the best wildlife destinations in West Bengal, drawing visitors from across India and abroad.
WHY VISIT GORUMARA NATIONAL PARK
TOP TOURIST ATTRACTIONS IN GORUMARA NATIONAL PARK
Gorumara Elephant and Jeep Safari
A jungle safari in Gorumara National Park offers thrilling encounters with nature. Visitors can enjoy elephant or jeep safaris from ranges like Lataguri, Medla, and Murti. Elephant safaris provide close-up morning views of wildlife, while jeep safaris cover wider areas, reaching watchtowers like Jatraprasad, Chandrachur, and Chukchuki for spotting rhinos, deer, gaurs, and exotic birds.
Jatraprasad Watchtower
Named after a legendary forest elephant, this watchtower overlooks wide grasslands and waterholes, offering excellent chances to spot rhinos, elephants, and bison. Sunrise and sunset views from here are breathtaking.
Medla Watchtower
Accessible via a short bullock cart ride through tribal villages and forest fringes, Medla Watchtower offers magnificent views of grasslands and riverine forests teeming with wildlife.
Chukchuki Watchtower
A favorite for birdwatchers, this watchtower overlooks an avian-rich section of the park. Species such as scarlet minivets, Indian hornbills, woodpeckers, and peafowls can be spotted here. Early morning visits are ideal for photography.
CULTURAL HERITAGE AND FESTIVALS
The Dooars region, home to Gorumara National Park, is as culturally rich as it is naturally beautiful. A blend of Nepali, Rajbanshi, Toto, Oraon, and Bengali communities live harmoniously in and around the park, preserving their age-old customs and folk traditions. Visitors can witness traditional dances like Chhau and Jhumur, and music performed with bamboo flutes and drums. Many lodges and eco-resorts organize cultural evenings where local artists perform, offering tourists a glimpse into the soulful spirit of North Bengal. Nearby tea gardens add another layer to this cultural tapestry. Walking through these lush estates, you can interact with tea workers, learn about tea processing, and sample freshly brewed Dooars tea — a perfect blend of nature and heritage.
LOCAL CUISINE AND FOOD EXPERIENCES
Food in and around Gorumara National Park reflects the flavors of Bengal with a touch of the hills. Local eateries and forest lodges serve a mix of Bengali, Nepali, and Bhutanese dishes, each prepared with fresh local ingredients and aromatic spices. Must-try delicacies include momos, thukpa, sel roti, dal bhat tarkari, and machher jhol (fish curry). For dessert, enjoy traditional sweets like payesh and rasgulla. Travelers can also savor a cup of freshly brewed Dooars tea, famous for its brisk flavor and golden color. Dining at local homestays offers an authentic experience — warm hospitality, home-cooked meals, and the joy of eating amidst nature. The simplicity and warmth of local cuisine perfectly complement the wilderness experience of Gorumara National Park tourism.
NATURE AND OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
Gorumara’s charm lies not only in its wildlife but also in its natural beauty and outdoor experiences. Birdwatching: With over 250 recorded species, Gorumara is a paradise for bird lovers. Visit the Chukchuki and Jatraprasad watchtowers early in the morning for the best sightings. River Picnics: The banks of the Murti and Jaldhaka Rivers offer scenic picnic spots perfect for families and photographers. Nature Walks: Several eco-camps around Lataguri and Murti organize guided walks through forest fringes and tea gardens. Cycling and Village Tours: Explore nearby tribal villages and farmlands on a bicycle — an eco-friendly way to discover the beauty of the Dooars. Photography Trails: Capture the vibrant landscape, wildlife, and sunrise over the misty hills — every frame in Gorumara tells a story. These activities make Gorumara National Park not just a wildlife haven but also a destination for peace, adventure, and learning.
SHOPPING AND LOCAL MARKETS
Shopping around Gorumara National Park is an enjoyable way to take home memories of the Dooars. Local markets in Lataguri, Chalsa, and Murti sell handmade bamboo crafts, tribal jewelry, wooden carvings, and colorful textiles. Travelers can also buy packets of Dooars tea, honey, and local spices, which make for excellent souvenirs. The Lataguri Eco Development Centre offers locally made handicrafts and supports community-based tourism initiatives. Every purchase here contributes to the livelihoods of local artisans and helps preserve the cultural identity of the region.
ACCOMMODATION AND HOTELS IN GORUMARA NATIONAL PARK
Accommodation around Gorumara National Park ranges from forest lodges to eco-resorts and cozy homestays. For the most immersive experience, WBFDC Forest Lodges such as Kalipur Eco Village, Murti Lodge, and Lataguri Forest Bungalow offer government-managed stays with safari access and basic amenities. Private resorts like Resort Trimurti, Riverwood Forest Retreat, The Rhino Camp, and Gorumara Green Retreat combine comfort with natural beauty. Budget travelers can stay at homestays in Lataguri or Murti, where they’ll find warm hospitality and traditional home-cooked meals. Whether you prefer luxury or simplicity, waking up to the sound of birds and rustling trees near Gorumara National Park is an experience you won’t forget.
TRAVEL TIPS FOR VISITORS
Best Time to Visit
November to April is ideal for safaris and birdwatching.
Park Closed
Closed June to September during monsoon season.
Nearest Railway Stations
New Mal Junction (30 km) and New Jalpaiguri (80 km).
Nearest Airport
Bagdogra Airport (82 km).
Booking
Book safaris in advance through authorized centers in Lataguri.
What to Carry
Wear neutral-colored clothing and carry binoculars.
FAQs ABOUT GORUMARA NATIONAL PARK
1. Where is Gorumara National Park located?
2. What is Gorumara National Park famous for?
3. How can I reach Gorumara National Park?
4. What are the safari options in Gorumara?
5. What animals can be seen in Gorumara?
6. What is the best time to visit?
7. Are accommodations available inside the park?
8. Are tourist attractions near Gorumara?
9. Is it safe for tourists?
10. Can families visit Gorumara?
Explore the Wilderness of Gorumara
A journey through Gorumara National Park is like a conversation with nature — gentle, vibrant, and full of life. The rustling of sal leaves, the trumpet of elephants, and the rhythmic flow of the Murti River come together to create an unforgettable symphony of the wild.
From thrilling safaris to peaceful sunsets by the riverbank, Gorumara offers every traveler a chance to reconnect with nature’s quiet beauty. The park’s proximity to tea gardens, cultural villages, and other Dooars attractions makes it a perfect destination for a wholesome travel experience.
Whether you are an adventurer seeking wildlife encounters or a wanderer longing for tranquility, Gorumara National Park tourism promises a journey that nourishes the soul and celebrates the untamed beauty of Bengal’s forests.
