Dooars

Culture

It is definitely a culmination of many ethnic tribes that came here long ago and exist even today but in harmony. Tribal culture with its folk dance, drama, songs and folklore is an integral part of the culture of the region. The tribal communities of Raj Bangshi, Mech, Rava, Toto, Limboo, Lepcha and the Bengali and Nepali community populate the region and provide a rich flavor to the rich cultural diversity of Dooars. Many festivals are celebrated here and everyone here seems to take part in it.

History

Let us see the long history of Dooars that resulted in the present day Dooars. The Dooars belonged to the Kamata Kingdom under the Koch dynasty; and taking advantage of the weakness of the Koch kingdom in subsequent times, Bhutan took possession of the Dooars. This region was controlled by the kingdom of Bhutan when the British annexed it in 1865 after the Bhutan War under the command of Captain Hedayat Ali. Again in the year 1869, the name was changed to Jalpaiguri District. After the end of the British rule in India in 1947, the Dooars acceded into the dominion of India and it merged with the Union of India shortly afterwards in 1949.

Things to do in Dooars

Exploring Buxa Fort

There is a huge list of history that needs to be explored here and Buxa Fort is one of them. Located at an altitude of 867 meters in the Buxa Tiger Reserve, Alipurduar. Buxa fort is about 30 km from Alipurduar town and about 18 km from Rajabhatkhawa. From Rajabhatkhawa, you have to enter the forest and drive for about 14 km to reach Suntalabari. From here a trek of about 4 km will take you to the fort.

Weekend trip to Jayanti

Your weekend needs a good plan and Jayanti must be the best plan that your weekend may ever get. Jayanti is a small forest village within Buxa Tiger Reserve in Alipurduar district of West Bengal, India. It is located along the Jayanti River, forming a natural border with the Bhutan hills. It is popular with hikers for its beautiful views of the surrounding landscape and wild fountains.

Fishing at Murti

You cannot miss out the joy of fishing while here. Take a dip in the crystal clear waters of Murti River or do some fishing along the river stretch. Camping is the most popular activity in Murti along with hiking. The Gorumara National Park, which is home to Indian Rhinos, Wild Elephants and various bird species is just a stone's throw from Murti.

Jungle Safari

There are many National forest and wildlife Sanctuaries that have been preserving the Flora and Fauna for many years. You could take a Safari at any of these Wildlife reserves and see the best of animals and birds that are very rare and scarce. It will be an adventurous tour that should be of the most memorable trips that you will remember forever.

Nature Walk or Tour

The Dooars is the best conservation of Greenery that you will find anywhere else in the region and so must be explored whenever possible. You could just take your backpack and see the best of natural wonders and beauty that this region has to offer to you. Tour the natural trails and see the insights of Dooars that is not possible through a Road trip.

Places to Visit in Dooars

• Jaldapara National Park.
• Gorumara National Park.
• Rasikbil Bird Sanctuary.
• Buxa Tiger Reserve.
• Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary.
• Jayanti river

---