About Alipurduar
The name Alipurduar has three parts. The first part 'Ali' is derived from the name of Col Hedayat Ali Khan who had lived here and fought war with Bhutan 'Pur' meaning residence and word 'Duar' has its origin in the name of the region 'Dooars'. The original name was Alipur meaning the place where Ali lived; the Duar was added to distinguish it from the Alipore of Calcutta.
Alipurduar was officially recognised on June 25, 2014, after being engraved out from the Jalpaiguri district. It became the 20th district of West Bengal, India. The district comprises of two municipalities—Alipurduar and Falakata. It consists of six community development blocks: Madarihat-Birpara, Alipurduar-I, Alipurduar-II, Falakata, Kalchini, and Kumargram. The district headquarters is situated in Alipurduar and the area is predominantly rural, with over 80% of the population belonging to Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST).
Although Alipurduar city is not a popular tourist destination by itself, but a number of interesting choices are available within a short traveling distance from the town. Dense forests and hills offering beautiful natural landscape surround the town. The most important forest in Alipurduar is Buxa Tiger Reserve, which attained much fame all over India for its enormous natural resources in terms of rare flora and fauna. The forest has got the status of a National Park and houses the maximum number of Royal Bengal Tiger Population in North Bengal. The Chilapata Forests provide an elephant corridor between the Buxa reserve and the Jaldapara Wildlife Sanctuary, another important eco-tourism destination. The highest peak of Jalpaiguri the Chota Sinchula is located in Alipurduar. Situated at an altitude of 1733m at about 12km from Buxa the peak offers beautiful sights of the impermeable forest covers of Buxa hills and Bhutan valley.
Rajabhatkhawa, Jayanti, Bhutanghat, Raimatang are some other major destinations in Alipurduar. Situated deep inside the forest all of these places offer very good scope for wildlife tourism. Each place having forest rest house offers accommodation for limited number of tourist. Alipurduar does not deprive the trek lovers. A day trek to Buxa hill through dense forest track reaches Buxa fort and further up to Rovers Point and then leads to Rupam Valley in Bhutan Hill. Jayanti Mahakal trek is another popular route that leads to a stalactite cave near Bhutan border. This trek is also very popular among the pilgrims who visit the cave to offer prayer to their deity (Lord Shiva). Alipurduar is the divisional headquarter of North-East frontier railway. It is a very important railway junction that connects Kolkata in the south and New Delhi and Guwahati in the north and east respectively.
Alipurduar is a home to a diverse range of ethnic communities, that includes communities like the Rajbanshi, Dukpa, Bhutia, Tamang, Gurung, Lepcha, Sherpa, Bhujel, Kami, Damai, Mangar, Newar, Khas, Chettri, Sarki, Rabha, Mech, Santhal, Madasia, Bodo, Toto, and Oraon among others. This cultural variety adds to the rich tapestry of the district.
Geographically, Alipurduar is a land-locked district, bordered by Jalpaiguri to the west, Assam to the east, and Cooch Behar to the south. To the north, it shares an international border with our neighbouring country Bhutan. The district’s landscape is characterized by rivers, streams, hills, tea gardens, and forests. The major rivers flowing through the district include the Torsa, Raidak, Kaljani, Sankosh, Jayanti, Dima, Mujnai, and Gadadhar
Historical and Cultural Aspects
Historical Significance: The area has historical significance, with the ancient ruins of Nalrajar Garh Fort, located within the Chilapata Forest.
Cultural Heritage: The district is also noted for its unique cultural heritage, including traditional art, music, and festivals like Durga Pooja, Chhath Pooja and Diwali festival.
Top Tourists Places To Visit in Alipurduar
Jayanti
The journey towards the Jayanti in itself is an amazing experience. Driving through the dense Buxa Tiger Reserve has allured many travellers to travel to Jayanti. Spotting a herd of elephants, Barking Deer, or plenty of Peacocks are the most common sights on the way to Jayanti. A sacred place called Pokhari is nearby Jayanti apart from its religious belief this spot is a great place to see the large number of big-sized Magur and Turtle in the waters of the Pokhri and the beauty of this place has certainly something which has refreshing effect. For the Hindus as well as Buddhists, this place holds enormous religious significance. Getting to Pokhri requires a walk through the forests. This splendid lake is around 4 km away from Jayanti.
Another interesting place where you can go is Mahakal Cave located near the Bhutan border. This cave temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and many visitors visit this cave during Maha Shivratri. Mahakal is a renowned tourist attraction as well as a prominent pilgrimage site. The The Mahakal cave trip through the forest is known for its bird watching. You can also hike to the neighboring Bala Riverbed, which is an excellent site for bird watching, especially peacocks, but don't linger there until late at night because it's a leopard hotspot. Bhutia Basti, located 1.5 kilometers from Jayanti, is another fantastic place to see elephants.
Jaldhaka
Situated near the Indo-Bhutan border in the state of West Bengal, Jaldhaka is known for its scenic beauty and for the astounding nearby places attracting people interested in nature vacation with the activities like trekking and hiking. Jhallong is one of the lesser known hill stations and offer beautiful landscape and peace. It is known for cardamom plantation. It is situated on the bank of Jaldhaka on the way to Bindu in Kalimpong Sub-division. This place is home for many hill birds and it is called the paradise of bird watchers
Mongpong
Mongpong is an ideal birding spot, since its strategically located rimming on the Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary which houses a wide variety of bird life like the Pintail duck, Bar-headed goose, Poachard, Brahminy duck, Mallard and others.
In a serene environment at the picturesque village overlooking the Himalayan Region. The valley hides behind the curtain of night while the sudden chorus of crickets and beetles making you aware of the small creatures living in the nearby forest. Mongpong is the perfect place to relax and start your wonderful journey of the Dooars.
Jhalong
Situated 99 km from Siliguri, Jhalong is a quaint village along the riverside of Jaldhaka near the Indo- Bhutan border on the way to the Bindu River. Jhalong has attracted many travelers with its pictorial views and serene ambiance. The major attraction of the Jhalong is known to be the Hydro Electricity Project on the Jaldhaka River.
Best Time To Visit Udaipur
The best time to visit Udaipur is October–March, when the weather is cool (10–25°C), perfect for sightseeing and boat rides. This peak season attracts crowds but is ideal for including cultural events like the Shilpgram Festival in your Udaipur tours and packages. Shoulder months (July–September) bring lush greenery and fewer tourists, though occasional showers occur. April–June is off-season with hot days (up to 40°C), great for budget travelers. Wear light cottons in summer, carry umbrellas in monsoon, and layer up in winter. For smooth planning, follow these Udaipur travel tips and align your trip with local festivals for a richer experience.
How To Reach Udaipur?
By Air :
Maharana Pratap Airport is the nearest airport to Udaipur. It is located approximately 19.8 Km away. From the airport, you can easily hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the city centre.
By Rail :
Udaipur City Railway Station is the nearest railway station which links to Jaipur, Delhi, and Mumbai with regular express and luxury trains. From the railway station, you can easily hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Udaipur.
By Road :
Udaipur has excellent highway connectivity, making a road trip a convenient option. Buses, cabs, and self-drive options make for scenic road trips.
Udaipur Travel Tips
- Cash is Key: Although most major hotels and restaurants accept cards, cash is essential for small vendors, local markets, and auto-rickshaw fares.
- Comfortable Footwear: Many attractions require walking; wear sturdy shoes for palaces and gardens.
- Festival Experience: Time your Udaipur tours and travels with cultural festivals for a richer experience.
- Photography Etiquette: Early mornings and sunsets are perfect for pictures. Always seek permission before photographing locals.
- Start early: Popular attractions like City Palace and Lake Pichola are best visited in the morning to avoid crowds.
- Advance Bookings: During peak season, book your hotels and Udaipur tours and packages in advance to avoid last-minute issues.
Things To Know Before Visiting Udaipur
- Climate & Attire: Summers are intensely hot, so pack light, breathable clothes. For a trip during the winter, carry layers for cool evenings.
- Language & Communication: While Hindi and Rajasthani are commonly spoken, English is widely understood in hotels, restaurants, and tourist spots. Learning a few basic Hindi phrases can enhance your Udaipur tourism experience and help connect with locals more warmly.
- Local Transport: Public transport, primarily auto-rickshaws, is efficient for exploring the many places to visit in Udaipur. It's best to agree on the fare before starting any journey.
- Connectivity: Mobile and internet are reliable in the city centre and tourist areas, but in rural areas may have limited coverage.
