Introduction

Rasik Beel Bird Sanctuary, situated in the Cooch Behar district of West Bengal, is one of India’s most celebrated avian sanctuaries. Rasik Beel Bird Sanctuary in Cooch Behar district is a tranquil oxbow lake cluster near the Duars foothills.

Quick Facts

Attribute Details
Sanctuary Name Rasik Beel Bird Sanctuary
State & District West Bengal (Cooch Behar)
Year of Notification 1998
Total Protected Area 1.75 sq km lake complex
Rivers & Waterbodies Rasik Beel natural lake cluster (Rasik, Neelta, Raichang, Bochamari beels) fed by Bochamari River
Nearest Airport Cooch Behar Airport (COH) – 40 km / Bagdogra Airport – 190 km
Nearest Railway Station Kamakhyaguri Railway Station (KAMG) – 8 km / New Cooch Behar Junction – 35 km
Best Time to Visit November to March

Location

Rasik Beel Bird Sanctuary is geographically located in the Cooch Behar district of West Bengal. 8 km from Kamakhyaguri railway station.

History and Year of Notification

The sanctuary was officially notified in 1998 under Indian wildlife conservation frameworks. Developed by West Bengal Forest Development Corporation (WBFDC) for wetland conservation.

Landscape, Geography and Habitat

Natural freshwater lake cluster, water lilies, marshland, and tropical wet forest.

Flora and Bird Species

Lesser Whistling Teal, Common Teal, Cotton Teal, Pintail, Spoonbill, Stork, Cormorant, Heron, Egret, and Kingfisher.

Other Wild Animals & Wildlife

Leopard (in mini-zoo enclosure), Spotted Deer, Gharial, Marsh Crocodile, Bengal Monitor Lizard, Tortoise, and Python.

Rivers and Water Bodies

The sanctuary’s ecosystem is sustained by: Rasik Beel natural lake cluster (Rasik, Neelta, Raichang, Bochamari beels) fed by Bochamari River.

Other Attractions Nearby

Key tourist attractions and historical sites near Rasik Beel Bird Sanctuary include: Cooch Behar Royal Palace (35 km), Madan Mohan Temple (35 km), Buxa Tiger Reserve (45 km).

Weather and Climate

Sub-Himalayan humid climate (8°C to 34°C).

How to Reach (Airport & Railway Access)

  • Nearest Airport: Cooch Behar Airport (COH) – 40 km / Bagdogra Airport – 190 km
  • Nearest Railway Station: Kamakhyaguri Railway Station (KAMG) – 8 km / New Cooch Behar Junction – 35 km
  • Road Connectivity: 8 km from Kamakhyaguri railway station.

Best Time for Birdwatching

The optimal window to explore Rasik Beel Bird Sanctuary is between November to March.

Accommodation

WBFDC Rasik Beel Eco-resort.. Visitors are advised to book official state government eco-tourism stays in advance.

Last Updated: August 2026