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Introduction
Gorumara National Park in West Bengal is one of India’s most celebrated national parks. Located in the Jalpaiguri (Dooars) district, Gorumara National Park in the Dooars foothill plains is world-renowned for its One-Horned Rhinos, wild Elephants, and iconic forest watchtowers.
Quick Facts
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| State | West Bengal |
| Districts | Jalpaiguri (Dooars) |
| Year of Notification | 1994 (National Park) |
| Total Area | 79.45 sq km |
| Landscape | Terai alluvial grassland, moist deciduous Sal forest, riverine forests, and watchtower clearings. |
| Major Rivers & Waterbodies | Murti River, Jaldhaka River, and Garati River |
| Nearest Airport | Bagdogra International Airport (IXB) – 80 km |
| Nearest Railway Station | Chalsa Railway Station (CLD) – 10 km / New Mal Junction – 18 km / New Jalpaiguri NJP – 65 km |
| Best Time to Visit | November to April (Park closed June 15 – Sept 15) |
Location
The national park lies in the Jalpaiguri (Dooars) region of West Bengal. On Siliguri-Chalsa highway via Lataguri gateway.
History
Notified as a Wildlife Sanctuary in 1949 and upgraded to a National Park in January 1994.
Landscape, Geography & Habitat
Covering an expansive area of 79.45 sq km, the park’s terrain features Terai alluvial grassland, moist deciduous Sal forest, riverine forests, and watchtower clearings.
Flora
Dominant vegetation and floral species include: Terai alluvial grassland, moist deciduous Sal forest, riverine forests, and watchtower clearings.
Fauna
Primary Mammals & Key Species: Indian One-Horned Rhinoceros, Asian Elephant, Gaur (Indian Bison), Royal Bengal Tiger, Indian Leopard, Sloth Bear, Barking Deer, Sambar Deer, Wild Boar, and King Cobra.
Other Wild Animals & Wildlife
Avifauna & Bird Species: Great Indian Hornbill, Asian Openbill, Scarlet Minivet, Indian Roller, Crested Serpent Eagle, Bengal Florican, and Peafowl.
Rivers & Water Bodies
The lifeline of Gorumara National Park is sustained by: Murti River, Jaldhaka River, and Garati River.
Other Attractions
Major nearby tourist attractions, historic monuments, and viewpoints include: Jatraprasad Watchtower (inside park), Rhino Observation Point, Murti Riverbank (5 km), Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary (15 km), Samsing & Suntalekhola (25 km).
Weather & Climate
Sub-Himalayan Dooars climate (10°C to 34°C).
How to Reach
- Nearest Airport: Bagdogra International Airport (IXB) – 80 km
- Nearest Railway Station: Chalsa Railway Station (CLD) – 10 km / New Mal Junction – 18 km / New Jalpaiguri NJP – 65 km
- Road Connectivity: On Siliguri-Chalsa highway via Lataguri gateway.
Best Time to Visit
The optimal tourism season for wildlife viewing in Gorumara National Park is from November to April (Park closed June 15 – Sept 15).
Accommodation
WBFDC Aranya Resort Lataguri, WBTDCL Murti Tourist Lodge.. Advance booking through official State Tourism or Forest Department portals is highly recommended.
Conservation Highlights
Declared Best Protected Area in India by Ministry of Environment & Forests in 2009.
Visitor Tips
Book afternoon watchtower permits for Jatraprasad Watchtower to spot rhinos and wild elephants.
Did You Know?
- Voted the Best Protected Area in India by MoEF in 2009.
- Famous for its forest watchtowers including Jatraprasad, named after a legendary elephant.
- Located along the scenic Murti and Jaldhaka rivers in the Dooars.
Last Updated: August 2026