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Introduction
Neora Valley National Park in West Bengal is one of India’s most celebrated national parks. Located in the Kalimpong district, Neora Valley National Park in Kalimpong is a pristine high-altitude virgin forest reserve harbouring Red Pandas and high-elevation Tigers.
Quick Facts
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| State | West Bengal |
| Districts | Kalimpong |
| Year of Notification | 1986 |
| Total Area | 88 sq km |
| Landscape | Dense sub-tropical and temperate montane rhododendron-bamboo forest, deep ravines, and mountain peaks. |
| Major Rivers & Waterbodies | Neora River (supplying drinking water to Kalimpong town) |
| Nearest Airport | Bagdogra Airport (IXB) – 100 km |
| Nearest Railway Station | New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP) – 90 km |
| Best Time to Visit | October to April |
Location
The national park lies in the Kalimpong region of West Bengal. Via Lava or Kolakham gateway from Kalimpong.
History
Notified as a National Park in April 1986 under the Wildlife Protection Act.
Landscape, Geography & Habitat
Covering an expansive area of 88 sq km, the park’s terrain features Dense sub-tropical and temperate montane rhododendron-bamboo forest, deep ravines, and mountain peaks.
Flora
Dominant vegetation and floral species include: Dense sub-tropical and temperate montane rhododendron-bamboo forest, deep ravines, and mountain peaks.
Fauna
Primary Mammals & Key Species: Red Panda (State Animal), Royal Bengal Tiger (high-altitude tigers documented at 10,000 ft!), Clouded Leopard, Leopard, Asiatic Black Bear, Himalayan Tahr, Serow, Goral, and Flying Squirrel.
Other Wild Animals & Wildlife
Avifauna & Bird Species: Rufous-necked Hornbill, Satyr Tragopan, Crimson-breasted Woodpecker, Jerdon’s Baza, Rusty-fronted Barwing, and Golden-breasted Fulvetta.
Rivers & Water Bodies
The lifeline of Neora Valley National Park is sustained by: Neora River (supplying drinking water to Kalimpong town).
Other Attractions
Major nearby tourist attractions, historic monuments, and viewpoints include: Rachela Pass Trek (3,168 m highest point, 15 km trek), Lava Monastery (10 km), Rishyap (12 km), Kolakham Village (5 km), Changey Waterfalls (8 km).
Weather & Climate
Cold mountain climate (4°C to 20°C).
How to Reach
- Nearest Airport: Bagdogra Airport (IXB) – 100 km
- Nearest Railway Station: New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP) – 90 km
- Road Connectivity: Via Lava or Kolakham gateway from Kalimpong.
Best Time to Visit
The optimal tourism season for wildlife viewing in Neora Valley National Park is from October to April.
Accommodation
WBFDC Eco-resort Lava & Kolakham, Homestays in Rishyap.. Advance booking through official State Tourism or Forest Department portals is highly recommended.
Conservation Highlights
Documented camera-trap proof of Royal Bengal Tigers thriving at high altitudes above 10,000 ft.
Visitor Tips
Trek to Rachela Pass where the borders of West Bengal, Sikkim, and Bhutan meet.
Did You Know?
- Pristine virgin forest reserve where high-altitude Tigers were camera-trapped at 10,000 feet.
- Rachela Pass inside the park marks the tri-junction border of West Bengal, Sikkim, and Bhutan.
- Contains untouchable dense bamboo thickets protecting the Red Panda.
Last Updated: August 2026