Chilapata Forest
Chilapata is a dense forest in the northern plains of West Bengal, India.
Understand
Landscape
Chilapata lies in the heart of Eastern Dooars at the foothills of Eastern Himalaya and is perched between Buxa Tiger Reserve and Jaldapara National Park. The ecological boundary of Chilapata spreads along the banks of River Bania in the east and River Torsha in the west. Both rivers bring fresh monsoon alluvial to support and protect the grassland ecosystem of the forest.
Flora and fauna
Chilapata Forest is a migration corridor of rhinos and elephants. Due to the hunting of the Maharajas of Cooch Behar, rhinos have become rare. The dense natural forest is also home to leopards, bison, 4 species of deer, peacocks, wild boar, 22 species of snakes, 180 species of birds, and a large diversified variety of butterflies. Reptiles found here include python, krait, cobra, water monitor and freshwater turtles; as well as birds like fishing eagle, shikra, crested eagle, jungle fowl, peaceful partridge, Bengal florican, paradise flycatchers, racket-tailed drongo and pied hornbill.
A particular kind of plant known as Ramgua or Ramguna tree is found in this forest. These trees have unique blood-like red sap, that comes out of their bark when cut.
Climate
Cool and pleasant climate throughout the year.
Fees and permits
Chilapata forest jeep safari for wildlife sighting requires the hiring of gipsy and guides, trained by the Forest department. It takes place twice in the morning and twice in the afternoon. The fee for gipsy hire is ₹1300/- per car, the fee for guide hire is ₹300/-, the fee for vehicle entry is ₹300/- and the fee for per-person entry is ₹100/-. A tribal dance performance is included in the safari only for the fourth trip during the afternoon. The charge is ₹50/- per person.
See and do
- Nalrajar Garh (নলরাজার গড় Nalrājār Gaṛ). A fort hidden in the deep forest. It was built during the Gupta period in the fifth century CE. Although poorly maintained, the site has considerable archaeological interest.
Eat and drink
Chilapata has homestays and resorts where you can eat. No drinks inside the forest. For consumption in the hotel, it is better to carry your own choice.
Sleep
Lodging
- Bamboo Village Resort, Uttar Chakoakheti, ☏ 033 6607 7252 This resort has both A.C. and Non-A.C. rooms and an onsite restaurant serving Bengali dishes.
- Chilapata Homestay, Uttar Chakoakheti, ☏ +91-9903362610 This resort-cum-homestay has 18 A.C. rooms and an onsite restaurant serving Bengali and Chinese dishes. Jeep safari arranged from the resort.
- Humro Home Chilapata, Kumai Busty, ☏ 1800-123-3759 This homestay has 2 Non-A.C. rooms and food arrangements for guests. Serves local food.
- Nalgarh Retreat Chilapata, Uttar Simlabari, ☏ +91 8013311814 This resort has both A.C. and Non-A.C. rooms and food arrangements for guests.
Camping
- Chilapata Jungle Camp, Uttar Chakoakheti, ☏ +91-89187 18498 This resort has 9 rooms, both A.C. and Non-A.C. rooms and an on-site restaurant.