Buxa Tiger Reserve is a famous place in North Bengal. It is situated in the northeastern region of West Bengal. Earlier it was known for dolomite mining. Buxa Tiger Reserve was established on 16 February 1983 making it the fifteenth tiger reserve in the country at that time. It is situated close to the Assam-Bhutan border in the Alipurduar District.
The whole Buxa Tiger Reserve covers a region of 760 km. The Buxa hills, a part of the Sinchula range, are still unexplored because of the rough landscape. One really interesting thing about this tiger reserve is that it helps connect elephants from India and Bhutan. This happens because of the Phipsu Wildlife Sanctuary in Bhutan. It is close to the top part of the Buxa Tiger Reserve.
WILDLIFE AT BUXA TIGER RESERVE
The eye-catcher of Buxa Tiger Reserve is watching the Tiger with all its majesty. The world-famous Royal Bengal Tiger, a jeopardized species, has made Buxa Tiger Reserve it’s home. This tiger is an example of quite possibly the most excellent manifestations of nature seeing the blazing orange skin with pure black stripes, roam through thick meadows as though they own the land, will undoubtedly leave you in awe. There are only a few Tigers left in BTR.
The West Bengal forest department has recently brought 6 royal Bengal tigers to maintain the number of tigers in the reserve and it is expected that these 6 are the only tigers left in Buxa. Although leopards are very frequently available and are seen while travelling through the Buxa forest or during the Core Safari. There are also different types of Bengal tigers and cats; like fishing cats, jungle cats.
The reserve holds the largest number of elephants, Bisons, Indian buffalo, panther, numerous varieties of deer and other warm-blooded creatures, countless types of Himalayan birds and reptiles. In this region, the Chinese pangolin and Regal python can also be found by the sightseers. Buxa is rich in biodiversity. It has an extraordinary compilation of uncommon orchids. Several medicinal plants are available in the reserve.
Total of more than 284 bird species are found in this locality. The streams Rydak and Jainti that move through this region invite numerous beautiful birds like The Himalayan Migratory Goosanders, Ibis Bill, Fork-Tails, Whistling Teal, White-looked at Poachared. In the late winter season when the weather is chilly then the incredibly uncommon Black-necked Crane regularly moves here and there. The Black Stork is additionally a regular guest to this area. The modest Ashy Minivet skips around as summary season and The Pied Hornbill, Minivets and Sultan Tits show up as the Rainy season closes.
THINGS TO DO AT BUXA TIGER RESERVE
Jungle Safari: The Jungle Safari is the most adventurous and the must-do thing in Buxa Tiger Reserve. Going deeper into the wild forest, far away from the busy city, surrounded by the peacefulness of nature. The delicate cool wind is an unforgettable experience you should leave yourself alone to take over with you.
You can pick morning or Evening safaris that last 2-3 hours each. Morning safaris begin at 6:00 in the morning, and evening safaris start at 3:00 in the afternoon. Buxa Tiger reserve core safari will cost you Rs. 1500 while Chuniya basti, bhutiya basti watchtower safari will cost you Rs.1200.
Trekking: There are plenty of opportunity for the tourists to trek here in Buxa Tiger Reserve.
Mahakal: Mahakal, more specifically Boro Mahakal is the most exciting trek of Buxa Tiger Reserve. Car services are available from Jayanti to reach Choto Mahakal but trekking starts from Choto Mahakal to reach Boro Mahakal. Boro Mahakal is recommended only for the people who are a little experienced because it can be a very risky for aged people.
BUXA Fort: Car services are available till Santalabari. You can even go 2 Km further till the Zero point on a public car from Santalabari. But after that there is a trek to reach Buxa fort. It is 5 Km away from Santalabari and the route is beautiful and safer. It goes through the dense buxa forest and often you would be able to see the view of Jayanti River from the cliff.
Lepchakha: Lepchakha is one of the most beautiful places of Buxa Tiger Reserve but the only way to reach there is a 3 Km trek from Buxa fort. The view of the entire Buxa tiger reserve and it’s rivers will mesmerize you.
Pokhri hill/ Pukhri hill: Pukri Mai is a little sanctified lake inside the park. The fishes like magur and singi and turtles are in the lake.
Here, Buddhist and Hindus both Celebrate festivals during a specific season each year with utmost devotion. Dukpas gathered to witness this special event.
How to Reach Buxa Forest
| Transport Type | Nearby Option | Distance |
|---|---|---|
| Railway station | Alipurduar Junction New Alipurduar Rajabhatkhawa | 37 km 37 km 40 km |
| Airports | Bagdogra | 180 km |
| Highways | NH-31 | 10 km |
By Flight:
To get to Buxa Forest, you need to fly to Bagdogra Airport. The forest is about 175 km away from the airport, and it takes around 5 hours to travel there by car. When you arrive at the airport, you can borrow a car to drive to Buxa Forest.
By Train:
There are several small railway stations near Buxa Forest, like Raja Bhat Khawa, Garopara, and Kalchini stations. However, the main station nearby is New Jalpaiguri Junction (NJP). From NJP, it’s about 175 km to Buxa Forest, and the journey takes around 4 hours by car.
By Road:
You can also reach Buxa Forest by road, as it is well-connected to nearby cities. From places like Alipurduar (27 km away) and Siliguri (170 km away), you can easily rent a car to get to the forest.
Buxa Tiger Reserve Online booking
To book safaris or entry tickets for Buxa Tiger Reserve online, you can visit the official website of the West Bengal Forest Department or use their authorized portals.
| Transport Type | Entry Fee |
|---|---|
| Bike | 200 Rs. |
| Car | 400 Rs. |
| Per Person | 120 Rs. |
You can explore the dense forest of Buxa Tiger Reserve through an exciting jungle safari. Here’s what you need to know:
- Entry and Permits:
To go into the forest, you have to get a ticket at the main entrance in Rajabhatkhawa. For the safari permit, visit the Jayanti Range Office, where you can also hire a guide if needed. - Safari Details:
The jeep safari covers about 17 km and takes you through the lush greenery of the tiger reserve. - Timings:
- Morning Shift: 6:00 AM to 11:00 AM
- Afternoon Shift: 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM
- Cost:
The cost of the safari may vary, so it’s best to call and confirm the current prices.
Experience the thrill of wildlife spotting and discover the stunning beauty of Buxa Tiger Reserve.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
The Buxa Tiger Reserve stays restricted to guests from fifteenth June – fifteenth September every year because of extreme downpours and animal’s mating season. So October – November will be the best time to visit this place. In that time the sky will stay clear, the travelling experience will be best in this period.
Where to Stay in Buxa National Park
Visitors to Buxa National Park can choose from a variety of accommodations, including:
- Forest Rest Houses:
Managed by the Forest Department, these rest houses offer a simple stay close to nature. They are located in scenic spots like Rajabhatkhawa, Jayanti, and Buxa Fort. Advance booking is recommended. - Eco-Resorts:
Eco-friendly resorts in nearby villages like Jayanti provide a comfortable stay with a rustic charm, surrounded by lush greenery. - Homestays:
Homestays in Jayanti and other nearby areas offer a chance to experience local hospitality and cuisine while staying close to the forest. - Hotels in Alipurduar:
For more amenities, travelers can stay in hotels in Alipurduar, which is about 30 km from Buxa.
Choose an option based on your preference for comfort and proximity to the park.
PLACES NEARBY
Buxa Fort – A Historical Place where you can reminiscence many unknown historical facts related to British Raj. Trekking is mandatory from zero point or Santalabari to reach here.
Jayanti – The main attraction of Buxa Tiger Reserve, Jayanti is also called the Queen of Dooars because of it’s beauty.
Mahakal Caves – Chota mahakal can be reached from Jayanti in a car but to reach Bara Mahakal you need to trek for 2 hours from Chota Mahakal.
Rajabhatkhawa serves as another entry point to the Buxa Tiger Reserve and is located 17 kilometers from Alipurduar.
Sikiajhora -The street interfacing the Jayanti riverbed, which is 22 km from Sikiajhora goes through the thick Forest of Buxa. It is called the Amazon of Dooars due to the backwater boat ride experience.
FAQs About Buxa Tiger Reserve
Where is Buxa Tiger Reserve located?
It is located in the northeastern corner of West Bengal, specifically in the Alipurduar district, close to the Assam-Bhutan border.
What is the best time to visit BTR?
The best time to visit is from October to March because the weather is nice, and you can see a lot of animals.
What can I do at Buxa Tiger Reserve?
Activities include jungle safaris, trekking to Buxa Fort and Mahakal Caves, birdwatching, and exploring the local wildlife.
What are the safari timings?
Morning Safari: 6:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Afternoon Safari: 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM
What wildlife can be seen in Buxa Tiger Reserve?
You may spot Royal Bengal Tigers, leopards, elephants, Indian bison, pangolins, and a variety of birds, including migratory species.
Where can I stay near Buxa Tiger Reserve?
Options include Forest Rest Houses (WBFDC), eco-resorts, homestays in Jayanti, and hotels in Alipurduar.
Is trekking available at Buxa Tiger Reserve?
Yes, popular treks include routes to Buxa Fort, Lepchakha, and Mahakal Caves.
What is Buxa Tiger Reserve famous for?
It is known for its dense forests, Royal Bengal Tigers, the iconic Buxa Fort, and diverse wildlife, including Asian Elephants, Gaurs, Wild Buffaloes, and Hog Deer.