Santalabari is a charming little village Located in the heart of the Buxa Tiger Reserve in West Bengal. This village is a beautiful place with lots of green trees and big hills, and many people who love nature really like to visit it. It’s considered one of the most beautiful areas inside the reserve, making it perfect for anyone who loves peace, wildlife, and adventure.
Santalabari
The Buxa Tiger Reserve is a special place in West Bengal where tigers live, and it’s located in a region called Alipurduar.
It stretches along the southern hills of Bhutan, with its northern boundary touching Bhutan and its eastern side bordering Assam. The Sinchula hills make this place look really pretty. The forest is home to amazing animals like tigers, civets, and red jungle fowls.
Things to Do in Santalabari
1. Visit the Jayanti River Bed
The Jayanti River flows along the Bhutan hills, creating a picturesque riverbed that hikers love. The sights of the nearby trees and hills are really beautiful.
A 13-kilometer trek from Buxaduar to Jayanti takes you through dense forests and is perfect for adventure seekers.
2. Go Trekking
If you love trekking, Santalabari is the perfect place.
- Buxa Fort Trek: A 2-hour trek from Santalabari takes you to Buxa Fort, located 2,600 feet above sea level.
- Lepchakha : Lepchakha Village is called the “Queen of the Dooars” because it’s a special little village on a tall hill inside the Buxa Tiger Reserve.
- Rover’s Point Trek: From Buxa, you can trek another 4 kilometers to Rover’s Point, a paradise for bird lovers at 4,500 feet.
- Roopam Valley Trek: For the more adventurous, a 14-kilometer trek to Bhutan’s Roopam Valley is an unforgettable experience.
- Mahakal Cave: Don’t miss visiting the stalactite cave at Jayanti, also known as the Mahakal Cave. It’s essential for anyone visiting the area to see this.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal times to visit Santalabari are in the summer and winter months, when the weather is enjoyable. Avoid the monsoon season as the village becomes hard to access due to heavy rains.
How to Reach Santalabari
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Alipurduar Junction, just 17 km away. For longer journeys, you can get off at New Jalpaiguri Station, 150 km from Buxa.
- By Air: Bagdogra Airport, around 160 km away, is the closest airport.
Whether you’re looking for an adventurous trek, a peaceful nature retreat, or just some quiet time in the lap of nature, Santalabari is a destination you’ll cherish forever.
Where to Stay in Santalabari
Santalabari offers basic homestays and forest rest houses, providing an authentic experience with local hospitality. If you prefer more comfort, nearby Jayanti and guesthouses.
1. Homestays
The best way to experience Santalabari is by staying in a homestay. These are run by friendly local families who will make you feel at home.
| Homestay | Contact No | Website |
| Adhikari Home Stay | 9163326446 | www.adhikarihomestay.com |
| Buxa Homestay | 9831231358 | www.buxahomestay.com |
You’ll get to eat delicious homemade food and learn about their way of life. Staying in a homestay helps the people in the neighborhood because it gives them money and helps their businesses.
2. Forest Rest Houses
If you want to stay close to the forest, the rest houses managed by the forest department are a good option. They are simple and basic but surrounded by nature, giving you a real jungle experience. You’ll need to book these early since there are only a few rooms available.
3. Nearby Jayanti
If you don’t find a place in Santalabari, you can stay in Jayanti, a nearby village.It’s just a quick drive away and has more options for guesthouses and lodges to choose from. It’s also a good spot for exploring the Buxa Tiger Reserve.
Wherever you stay, remember to book in advance, especially if you’re visiting in the winter or summer, as these are the busiest times.