Jaldapara National Park(Land of the One-Horned Rhinoceros)
World-Renowned Sanctuary Housing the Largest Population of Great Indian One-Horned Rhinos in Bengal
Visual Explorer & Gallery
Curated photography showcasing Jaldapara National Park
The majestic Great Indian One-Horned Rhinoceros tracked on elephant safari in Jaldapara
One-horned rhino grazing in the lush riverine grasslands of Dooars
Dense tropical forest trails and wildlife watering spots in northern Bengal
Experience Jaldapara National Park
Situated in the eastern Himalayan foothills of Alipurduar district, Jaldapara National Park is one of the premier wildlife sanctuaries in Asia. Spread across 216 square kilometers along the banks of the Torsa River, the park’s vast savanna grasslands and riverine forests hold the second largest population of the endangered Indian One-Horned Rhinoceros in the world after Kaziranga.
The park is also home to Asiatic wild elephants, Royal Bengal tigers, leopards, barking deer, hog deer, sambar, wild boars, and the majestic Indian bison (Gaur). Over 240 species of birds, including the Bengal Florican, hornbills, and fishing eagles, thrive in its wetlands.
Visitors can experience the wilderness via early morning elephant-back safaris, which allow guests to get astonishingly close to rhinos hidden deep in the 10-foot-tall elephant grass, or guided 4x4 open-top jeep safaris.
Top Highlights & Activities
Elephant-Back Rhino Safari
Track one-horned rhinos through tall marshy grasses atop trained forest department elephants.
Open-Top 4x4 Jungle Safari
Journey deep into dense Sal forests and riverbeds on morning and twilight game drives.
Birdwatching at Torsa River
Spot rare Bengal Floricans, Crested Serpent Eagles, and migrating winter waterbirds.
South Khairbari Leopard Rescue Center
Visit the nearby rehabilitation center for leopards and Royal Bengal tigers.
Seasonal Weather & Conditions
Winter (Nov – Feb)
10°C to 24°CCool, crisp mornings; optimal wildlife sightings near water bodies.
Spring (Mar – Apr)
18°C to 30°CTall grasses are cut or burned by foresters, offering exceptional clear animal visibility.
Permits & Documentation
Forest department safari permits required. Issued at the forest entry counter in Madarihat or pre-booked online with government photo ID.
How to Reach Jaldapara National Park
By Air
Fly to Bagdogra Airport (IXB) and take a 3.5-hour cab ride to Madarihat.
By Train
Hasimara Railway Station is just 12 km away; NJP is 125 km away.
By Road
Well connected via NH31C from Siliguri, Jalpaiguri, and Alipurduar.
Essential Travel Tips for Visitors
- ✓Park remains strictly closed to visitors during the monsoon breeding season from June 16 to September 15.
- ✓Book elephant safaris well in advance as daily slots are strictly limited to protect animal welfare.
- ✓Wear neutral, muted clothing (khaki, olive, brown) and avoid bright colors or strong perfumes.
Frequently Asked Questions
More Places to Visit in Dooars
Visit Jaldapara National Park with Local Experts
Get a personalized itinerary with 4x4 private cab, sanitized hotels, verified driver, and instant permit clearances.
