Gorumara National Park — Attraction in West Bengal

Gorumara National Park (Bengali: গোরুমারা জাতীয় উদ্যান; Pron: ˌgɔ:rʊˈmɑ:rə; Gorumara Jatio Uddan) is a National Park in northern West Bengal, India. Located in the Dooars region of the Himalayan foothills, it is a medium-sized park with grasslands and forests. It is primarily known for its population of Indian rhinoceros. The park has been declared as the best among the protected areas in India by the Ministry of Environment and Forests for the year 2009. Having been a reserve forest since 1895, Gorumara was declared as a Wildlife Sanctuary in 1949, on account of its breeding population of Indian rhinoceros. It was granted official status as an Indian National Park on 31st January, 1994. Originally the park was as small as 7 km2. Since then Gorumara has grown by incorporating neighbouring lands to about 80 km. Political Geography: The park is located in the Malbazar subdivision of Jalpaiguri district, in the state of West Bengal in India.

Physical geography: Gorumara is located in the Eastern Himalayas' submontane Terai belt. This region has rolling forests and riverine grasslands, and is known as the Dooars in West Bengal. The park is located on the flood plains of the Murti River and Raidak River. The major river of the park is the Jaldhaka river, a tributary of the Brahmaputra river system. In this regard, Gorumara is a significant watershed area between the Ganges and Brahmaputra river systems. The park is very close to Jaldapara National Park and Chapramari Wildlife Reserve.

The park is 79.99 km (49.70 mi) in area.

Climate: The temperature ranges from 10 to 21 °C (50 to 70 °F) from November to February, 24 to 27 °C (75 to 81 °F) from March to April and 27 to 37 °C (81 to 99 °F) from May to October. Rainfall mostly occurs between mid-May to mid-October and average annual rainfall is 382 cm (150 in)

Conservation issuesEdit

The major conservation focus of the park is to maintain a viable breeding community of Indian rhinoceroses. However, the lack of large predators has caused significantly worrying skews in the populations of large herbivores in the park. The rhinoceros male:female ratio, usually 1:3, shot up to 1:1 – resulting in male dominance fights and deaths. The gaur population also doubled in recent years, with risk of overgrazing.

Poaching was a major issue in the park in the 1970s and 1980s, but now Gorumara is one of the parks least threatened by poaching, with well-equipped rangers and with villagers benefiting from park visitors. However, grazing from fringe villages, and man-made brush fires are major issues at the park.

A recent issue at the park is the increasing number of train accidents involving elephants on railway lines near the park. Three elephants were killed in separate incidents on the same day in May 2006 in train mishaps. Indian Railways and park authorities are presently trying to address the problem.

The best way to watch wildlife at the park is to use powerful binoculars, with night vision facilities at night, from the numerous well-located watchtowers at the park. The watchtowers are:

Jatraprasad Watch Tower: Named after a legendary elephant

Rhino Observation Point: Watch tower in front of the Gorumara forest bungalow

Chandrachur Watch Tower (Old Khunia Watch Tower): Near the Murti forest bungalow

Chukchuki Bird-watching Point: Good for birding



Rhino Point Watch Tower

There are no ranger-led or otherwise four-wheel drive vehicle or elephant-back forays into the jungle. Hiking is permitted on metalled roads, but is slightly unsafe considering the population of elephants, gaur and rhinoceros present in the park. The park is closed in the Monsoon season from 16 June to 15 September. The best time to visit Gorumara is from November to March.

One can also visit the adjoining forest villages to get acquainted with the lifestyle and culture of the villagers. A live show of the ethnic tribal dance can be seen every evening in Budhuram Forest Village.

One can visit the Lataguri Nature Interpretation Centre for an interpretive exhibit of the local...

🌳🐦🦢🦩🐘🦣🐒🐅🦌🐃🦬🐂🐇🐢🐾 Gorumara National Park, tucked away in the serene Dooars region of West Bengal, is a spectacular destination for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a tranquil escape from the bustle of city life. I recently had the pleasure of visiting this vibrant national park, and the experience was nothing short of magical. The lush green landscapes, wide open grasslands, and thick forests create an immersive environment that immediately connects you to the wild.

Spanning over 80 square kilometers, the park is most famous for its population of the majestic one-horned Indian rhinoceros. Witnessing one in its natural habitat during an early morning jeep safari was an unforgettable moment. We were lucky enough to see one grazing calmly near a waterhole, and the guide provided insightful information about its habits and conservation. The safari itself was well-organized, with knowledgeable drivers and local guides who ensured safety while maximizing our chances of wildlife sightings.

Besides the rhino, the park hosts a rich variety of fauna, including Indian elephants, bison (gaur), sambar deer, wild boars, and occasionally, leopards. Bird lovers will be in paradise here—there are over 200 species of birds, and the park truly sings at sunrise. We spotted vibrant scarlet minivets, the crested serpent eagle, and even heard the haunting call of the great hornbill. Chukchuki Watchtower is especially ideal for birdwatching, offering peaceful views over the forest canopy.

One of the highlights of Gorumara is the number of watchtowers scattered throughout, offering different perspectives on the park’s diverse ecosystem. Jatraprasad Watchtower gave us panoramic views of the grasslands, while Rhino Observation Point near the Murti River offered a closer look at wildlife gathering to drink. A special mention must go to the Medla Watchtower experience—it includes a short bullock cart ride through forest tracks, giving the whole thing a rustic, charming touch.

What makes Gorumara truly special is the blend of nature and culture. The nearby tribal villages welcome visitors warmly. We were treated to traditional dance performances and learned about local crafts and daily life. These interactions added depth to the trip and gave us a sense of the harmonious relationship the locals share with the forest.

Accommodations around the park vary from budget forest bungalows to mid-range and luxurious resorts, many of which are surrounded by tall trees and the sounds of nature. Staying in one of these eco-lodges made the experience feel authentic and peaceful. Waking up to the chirping of birds and the rustle of the forest was an experience in itself.

Keep in mind that the park remains closed during the monsoon, from June 16 to September 15, and on Thursdays. The best time to visit is between October and May when the skies are clear, and wildlife activity is more frequent.

In summary, Gorumara National Park is a beautifully preserved slice of Indian wilderness that offers adventure, serenity, and cultural richness. Whether you're there for the thrill of a safari or the calm of a sunrise birdwatch, it’s a place that promises lasting memories. Highly recommended for your next...

I recently had the pleasure of visiting Gorumara National Park, and I must say that it was an unforgettable experience. Nestled in the foothills of the Eastern Himalayas in West Bengal, India, this park is a true gem for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers alike.

One of the first things that struck me about Gorumara National Park is its remarkable biodiversity. Spread across an area of about 80 square kilometers, the park is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. As I ventured into the dense forests, I was mesmerized by the lush greenery and the symphony of bird calls. The park boasts a rich avian population, with over 200 species of birds, including colorful kingfishers, majestic eagles, and playful hornbills. It's a bird watcher's paradise.

But the real highlight of Gorumara National Park is its magnificent wildlife. The park is renowned for its population of Indian rhinoceroses, and I was lucky enough to catch a glimpse of these majestic creatures during my safari. Watching them up close in their natural habitat was an awe-inspiring sight. Additionally, the park is also home to other fascinating species such as elephants, Indian bison, leopards, and various types of deer. The conservation efforts in place have helped these animals thrive, making Gorumara a crucial sanctuary for their preservation.

The safari experience in Gorumara National Park is well-organized and managed. Trained guides accompany visitors and provide valuable insights about the park's ecology, animal behavior, and conservation efforts. The forest department has taken commendable steps to ensure the safety and comfort of visitors while also prioritizing the welfare of the wildlife.

Apart from the wildlife, Gorumara National Park offers a range of activities that cater to different interests. Nature walks, elephant safaris, and river rafting are just a few options to explore. The park also has a watchtower from where you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, providing an excellent opportunity for photography enthusiasts.

The accommodations within and near the park are comfortable and well-maintained, offering a peaceful retreat after a day spent exploring. The local cuisine, with its unique flavors and spices, is a delightful treat for food lovers. The warm hospitality of the locals further adds to the charm of the place.

However, it is worth noting that Gorumara National Park can get quite crowded during peak tourist seasons. To fully appreciate the tranquility of the park, it's advisable to plan your visit during the weekdays or offseason, if possible. Additionally, maintaining cleanliness and respecting the park's rules are essential to ensure the preservation of this fragile ecosystem.

In conclusion, Gorumara National Park is a true haven for nature lovers. Its breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and immersive experiences make it an ideal destination for anyone seeking a close encounter with the wonders of the natural world. Whether you're a wildlife enthusiast, a bird watcher, or simply someone looking to escape the chaos of urban life, Gorumara National Park will leave you with memories that will...