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Jore Pokhri Wildlife Sanctuary
Introduction
Jore Pokhri Wildlife Sanctuary in Darjeeling hills is a world-unique high-altitude sanctuary dedicated to protecting the rare Himalayan Salamander.
Quick Facts
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| State | West Bengal |
| Districts | Darjeeling (Sukhiapokhri near Mirik) |
| Year of Notification | 1985 |
| Total Area | 0.04 sq km (4 hectares / High Altitude Twin Lakes) |
| Landscape | High altitude Himalayan pine forest ridge (altitude 2,200 m) surrounding two natural hill lakes. |
| Major Rivers & Waterbodies | Jore Pokhri twin high-altitude lakes and mountain rills |
| Nearest Airport | Bagdogra International Airport (IXB) – 75 km |
| Nearest Railway Station | Ghoom Toy Train Station (GHUM) – 12 km / New Jalpaiguri (NJP) – 85 km |
| Best Time to Visit | October to April |
Location
The wildlife sanctuary lies in the Darjeeling (Sukhiapokhri near Mirik) region of West Bengal. Well connected via state highways and district road networks in West Bengal.
History
Notified in March 1985 specifically to conserve the habitat of the rare amphibian Himalayan Salamander (Tylototriton verrucosus) around twin high-altitude lakes.
Landscape, Geography & Habitat
Covering an exact area of 0.04 sq km (4 hectares / High Altitude Twin Lakes), the sanctuary’s terrain features High altitude Himalayan pine forest ridge (altitude 2,200 m) surrounding two natural hill lakes.
Flora
Dominant vegetation and floral species include: Cryptomeria japonica (Dhupi Pine), Rhododendron, Oak, Magnolia, Bamboo, and Himalayan Alpine Mosses..
Fauna
The sanctuary harbors a diverse array of mammalian, reptilian, and avian wildlife:
- Primary Mammals: Himalayan Salamander (flagship amphibian species!), Barking Deer, Himalayan Civet, Himalayan Flying Squirrel.
- Predators & Carnivores: Himalayan Civet, Yellow-throated Marten.
- Herbivores & Ungulates: Barking Deer, Himalayan Flying Squirrel.
- Reptiles & Amphibians: Himalayan Salamander (Tylototriton verrucosus), Himalayan Pit Viper, Mountain Lizard.
Other Wild Animals & Avifauna
- Resident Woodland Birds: Laughingthrush, Blue-fronted Redstart, Himalayan Monal, Rufous-vented Yuhina, Green-backed Tit.
- Raptors & Owls: Kestrel, Eurasian Sparrowhawk, Black Kite.
- Migratory Species: Eurasian Woodcock, Grey Wagtail, Rufous-gorgeted Flycatcher.
Rivers & Water Bodies
The lifeline of Jore Pokhri Wildlife Sanctuary is sustained by: Jore Pokhri twin high-altitude lakes and mountain rills.
Other Attractions
Major nearby tourist attractions and historic viewpoints include: Jore Pokhri Twin Lakes (0 km), Mirik Lake (20 km), Darjeeling Mall (20 km), Manebhanjan Sandakphu Trek Gateway (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 International Airport (IXB) – 75 km
- Nearest Railway Station: Ghoom Toy Train Station (GHUM) – 12 km / New Jalpaiguri (NJP) – 85 km
- Road Connectivity: Well connected via state highways and district road networks in West Bengal.
Best Time to Visit
The optimal season for visiting Jore Pokhri Wildlife Sanctuary is from October to April.
Accommodation
Forest Rest Houses and State Tourism eco-lodges near Darjeeling (Sukhiapokhri near Mirik).. 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 Himalayan Salamander (flagship amphibian species!) and native avifauna.
- Covers an exact area of 0.04 sq km (4 hectares / High Altitude Twin Lakes) along the Jore Pokhri twin high-altitude lakes and mountain rills watershed.
Last Updated: August 2026