Start your trip by arriving in Dooars, a region located in the foothills of the eastern Himalayas. After checking into your pre-booked hotel, take some time to relax and settle in. In the afternoon, visit Gorumara National Park to catch a glimpse of the diverse wildlife and enjoy a Jeep Safari. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll along the nearby tea estates and indulge in a cup of locally grown tea.
Gorumara National Park: Entrance Fee - Rs. 50 per person, Jeep Safari - Rs. 1500 per vehicle. Time spent: 3-4 hours
Tea Estate Visit: Entry - Free, Tea Tasting - Starting from Rs. 100 per person. Time spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Dooars is The Hillside Cafe, known for its delicious pancakes and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, head to The Riverside Restaurant, a charming eatery located by the river. Enjoy their mouthwatering fish curry and rice dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
In the evening, dine at The Tea Garden Restaurant, offering a serene ambiance amidst the tea estates. Indulge in their flavorful chicken tikka masala and traditional Indian bread. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Sunday, October 22: Jaldapara Wildlife Sanctuary
Start your day early and head to Jaldapara Wildlife Sanctuary, known for its population of Indian one-horned rhinoceros and Royal Bengal tigers. Take a thrilling elephant safari in the morning to explore the rich flora and fauna of the sanctuary. In the afternoon, visit Totopara Tribal Village to learn about the indigenous Toto tribe and their unique way of life. In the evening, enjoy a bonfire and cultural performance organized by your resort.
Jaldapara Wildlife Sanctuary: Entrance Fee - Rs. 50 per person, Elephant Safari - Rs. 500 per person. Time spent: 4-5 hours
Totopara Tribal Village: Entry - Free. Time spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at Cafe Sunrise, known for its freshly baked pastries and aromatic coffee. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Spice Garden where you can indulge in flavorful Indian cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
Treat yourself to a sumptuous dinner at The Forest Bistro, offering a fusion of local and international dishes in a cozy ambiance. Average cost for a meal is about $30 per person.
Monday, October 23: Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary
Embark on a jungle adventure today by visiting Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary. Start your morning with a jeep safari to witness the varied wildlife, including elephants, leopards, and numerous bird species. In the afternoon, enjoy a picnic by the Murti River and soak in the serene surroundings. In the evening, visit Gajoldoba, a birdwatching paradise, to observe numerous migratory and resident bird species.
Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary: Entrance Fee - Rs. 50 per person, Jeep Safari - Rs. 1500 per vehicle. Time spent: 4-5 hours
Gajoldoba: Entry - Free. Time spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
For a delicious breakfast, head to Cafe Mocha, located near the wildlife sanctuary. They offer a variety of breakfast options, including pancakes, omelettes, and freshly brewed coffee. The average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, visit Jungle Hut Restaurant, known for its authentic local cuisine. Try their mouthwatering biryani or thali meals which are full of flavors. The average cost for a meal is about $12 per person.
For a delightful dinner experience, dine at The Olive Garden, a cozy restaurant known for its international dishes and serene ambiance. Enjoy their delicious pastas, grilled meats, and refreshing cocktails. The average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
Tuesday, October 24: Lataguri and Bindu
Today, explore the picturesque towns of Lataguri and Bindu. In the morning, visit the Leopard Rescue Center to learn about the conservation efforts for this majestic big cat. Afterward, head to Bindu, a scenic village bordering Bhutan, famous for its cardamom plantations. In the evening, take a leisurely boat ride on the Jaldhaka River and enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings.
Leopard Rescue Center: Donation - Optional. Time spent: 1-2 hours
Bindu: Entry - Free. Time spent: 2-3 hours
Jaldhaka River Boat Ride: Starting from Rs. 200 per person. Time spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, try out Cafe Latte in Lataguri. This cozy cafe offers a variety of delicious breakfast options to start your day. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Bindu Hotel and Restaurant in Bindu. This local favorite serves authentic Bhutanese cuisine and delectable Indian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
For dinner, indulge in a fine dining experience at River View Restaurant in Lataguri. Enjoy a panoramic view of the Jaldhaka River while savoring their flavorful seafood and continental dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Wednesday, October 25: Chilapata Forest Reserve
Discover the enchanting Chilapata Forest Reserve today. Start your day with a thrilling elephant safari or a jeep safari to explore the pristine wilderness. In the afternoon, visit the ruins of Buxa Fort, an ancient fort situated amidst dense forests. In the evening, visit Jayanti, a serene village located on the banks of River Jayanti, famous for its scenic landscapes and wildlife.
Chilapata Forest Reserve: Entrance Fee - Rs. 50 per person, Elephant Safari - Rs. 800 per person, Jeep Safari - Rs. 1500 per vehicle. Time spent: 4-5 hours
Buxa Fort: Entry - Free. Time spent: 1-2 hours
Jayanti: Entry - Free. Time spent: 2-3 hours
Thursday, October 26: Samsing and Rocky Island
Experience the natural beauty of Samsing and Rocky Island today. In the morning, explore the lush green tea gardens of Samsing and take a refreshing walk through the picturesque landscape. Afterward, head to Rocky Island, a serene spot where the Murti River bifurcates, and enjoy a picnic by the riverside. In the evening, visit Suntalekhola, a charming village known for its scenic beauty and quaint suspension bridge.
Samsing Tea Gardens: Entry - Free. Time spent: 1-2 hours
Rocky Island: Entry - Free. Time spent: 2-3 hours
Suntalekhola: Entry - Free. Time spent: 2-3 hours
Friday, October 27: Departure from Dooars
On your last day, bid farewell to the beautiful region of Dooars. After breakfast, check out from your hotel and proceed to your onward journey. If time permits, you can visit Dow Hill in Kurseong, a picturesque town known for its haunted forest and dense pine trees, en route to your next destination.
Dow Hill: Entry - Free. Time spent: 1-2 hours
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
When exploring Dooars with your family, don't miss out on visiting the beautiful Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary. It is a hidden gem that offers excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting and birdwatching. Another local favorite is Chalsa, a charming town surrounded by lush tea gardens where you can unwind and enjoy the serenity of nature. Make sure to include these off the beaten path attractions in your itinerary for a memorable family-friendly experience.
Hotel and Flight Booking
If you haven't booked your accommodation and flights yet, you can check the prices on Kayak.com.