Dooars region in West Bengal is a must-visit; here’s why

If you love all things nature and wildlife, you must visit the Dooars region. The region is not the most popular one in the travel circuit, but all we need to do is start making plans.

Also read: In search of the rare and unique in Assam’s Nameri National Park
The Dooars is a part of the foothills of the eastern Himalayas and is spread across the districts of Jalpaiguri and Alipurduar in West Bengal. The name 'Dooars' comes from the word 'Duar', which means 'door' in several languages including Bengali, Assamese, and Nepali.



The region is known for its natural beauty and wildlife, and is home to several national parks and wildlife sanctuaries including the Gorumara National Park, Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary, Jaldapara National Park, and Buxa Tiger Reserve.

Wait, it’s not all about wildlife here. The Dooars region is also known for its tea gardens, and they produce some of the finest teas in the world.


The Dooars region is mainly characterised by dense forests, rolling hills, and vast tea estates, and is inhabited by a diverse ethnic communities including Bengalis, Nepalis, Bhutias, and indigenous tribes like the Totos and Mech. It’s the best of the Eastern Himalayas out here, culture-wise.



Some of the most prominent wildlife areas include that of Jaldapara National Park, most popular for one-horned rhinos. Did you know that Jaldapara National Park has the second-largest population of the critically endangered one-horned rhinos? Now you know.

Gorumara National Park, home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including Indian rhinos, elephants, and a small population of big cats, is another important wildlife destination in the region. Just 118 km from Gorumara National Park is Buxa Tiger Reserve, an important home for a small population of Bengal tigers.



When you are exploring the region, you must include the village of Samsing in your itinerary. The quaint village is set amidst lush tea gardens and orange orchards. Here you will get to interact with the local indigenous communities and experience their unique culture. Samsing is just 82 km from Siliguri, Darjeeling.


The Dooars region is definitely worth visiting, and if you haven’t yet, well, you now have a reason to start planning an offbeat trip.