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Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary
Introduction
Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary is a pristine Eastern Himalayan foothill forest reserve in the Dooars region, famous for Asian Elephants and Indian Bison.
Quick Facts
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| State | West Bengal |
| Districts | Jalpaiguri (Dooars) |
| Year of Notification | 1998 (Reserve Forest since 1895) |
| Total Area | 9.60 sq km |
| Landscape | Terai alluvial grassland, moist tropical semi-evergreen forest, and riverine cane brakes. |
| Major Rivers & Waterbodies | Murti River and Jaldhaka River |
| Nearest Airport | Bagdogra Airport (IXB) – 75 km |
| Nearest Railway Station | Chalsa Junction (CLD) – 10 km / Malbazar Junction – 18 km / New Jalpaiguri (NJP) – 70 km |
| Best Time to Visit | October to April |
Location
The wildlife sanctuary lies in the Jalpaiguri (Dooars) region of West Bengal. Well connected via state highways and district road networks in West Bengal.
History
First protected as a National Reserve Forest in 1895 under British administration; upgraded to a Wildlife Sanctuary in July 1998.
Landscape, Geography & Habitat
Covering an exact area of 9.60 sq km, the sanctuary’s terrain features Terai alluvial grassland, moist tropical semi-evergreen forest, and riverine cane brakes.
Flora
Dominant vegetation and floral species include: Sal (Shorea robusta), Siris, Shimul (Bombax ceiba), Teak, Khair, Sissoo, Bamboo, and tall Elephant Grass..
Fauna
The sanctuary harbors a diverse array of mammalian, reptilian, and avian wildlife:
- Primary Mammals: Asian Elephant (flagship wild elephant herds!), Gaur (Indian Bison), Indian Leopard, Royal Bengal Tiger (corridor user), Sambar, Barking Deer, Wild Boar, Pangolin.
- Predators & Carnivores: Indian Leopard, Royal Bengal Tiger, Dhole (Wild Dog), Sloth Bear.
- Herbivores & Ungulates: Asian Elephant, Gaur (Indian Bison), Sambar Deer, Barking Deer, Wild Boar.
- Reptiles & Amphibians: Indian Rock Python, King Cobra, Monitor Lizard, Pit Viper.
Other Wild Animals & Avifauna
- Resident Woodland Birds: Great Indian Hornbill, Green Pigeon, Scarlet Minivet, Indian Peafowl, Hill Myna, Crested Serpent Eagle.
- Raptors & Owls: Crested Serpent Eagle, Pallas’s Fish Eagle, Changeable Hawk-Eagle.
- Migratory Species: Black Stork, Goosander, Ruddy Shelduck, Grey Wagtail.
Rivers & Water Bodies
The lifeline of Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary is sustained by: Murti River and Jaldhaka River.
Other Attractions
Major nearby tourist attractions and historic viewpoints include: Chapramari Watchtower (0 km inside park), Murti Riverbed (5 km), Gorumara National Park (15 km), Chalsa Tea Gardens (10 km).
Weather & Climate
Subtropical climate with pleasant winters (12°C to 26°C) and warm summers (24°C to 38°C).
How to Reach
- Nearest Airport: Bagdogra Airport (IXB) – 75 km
- Nearest Railway Station: Chalsa Junction (CLD) – 10 km / Malbazar Junction – 18 km / New Jalpaiguri (NJP) – 70 km
- Road Connectivity: Well connected via state highways and district road networks in West Bengal.
Best Time to Visit
The optimal season for visiting Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary is from October to April.
Accommodation
Forest Rest Houses and State Tourism eco-lodges near Jalpaiguri (Dooars).. Advance booking through official portals is recommended.
Conservation Highlights
Key conservation zone protecting native wildlife corridors and forest watersheds in West Bengal.
Visitor Tips
Obtain necessary entry permits from the local forest division office prior to visiting.
Did You Know?
- Official protected Wildlife Sanctuary in West Bengal notified under Indian wildlife conservation acts.
- Preserves key wildlife species including Asian Elephant (flagship wild elephant herds!) and native avifauna.
- Covers an exact area of 9.60 sq km along the Murti River and Jaldhaka River watershed.
Last Updated: August 2026