West Bengal isn’t just about culture, cuisine, and heritage—it’s also a paradise for wildlife lovers. From the mysterious mangrove forests of Sundarbans to the lush Himalayan foothills, the state boasts an incredible range of biodiversity. Whether you’re a birdwatcher, a jungle safari enthusiast, or a nature photographer, these wildlife hotspots will leave you awe-inspired.
Here’s a list of must-visit wildlife destinations in West Bengal, complete with how to get there, nearest airports, railway stations, and bus stands.
Sundarbans National Park
Highlight: Home to the iconic Royal Bengal Tiger, saltwater crocodiles, and spotted deer.
How to Get There:
Reach Canning or Godkhali by road from Kolkata (around 100 km). Boats are available from there to Sajnekhali and other forest entry points.
Nearest Airport: Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, Kolkata (120 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Canning (48 km from Godkhali ferry ghat)
Nearest Bus Stand: Esplanade Bus Terminus, Kolkata
Chintamoni Kar Bird Sanctuary (CKBS)
Highlight: Known as the “Silent Valley of Kolkata,” a birdwatcher’s paradise within city limits.
How to Get There:
Located in Narendrapur, it’s easily accessible from South Kolkata via auto-rickshaws and local buses.
Nearest Airport: Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, Kolkata (35 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Narendrapur Station
Nearest Bus Stand: Garia Bus Depot
Jaldapara National Park
Highlight: Famous for the endangered one-horned rhinoceros, elephants, and Indian bison.
How to Get There:
Take a train to Madarihat, which is the main entry point to the park.
Nearest Airport: Bagdogra Airport (140 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Madarihat
Nearest Bus Stand: Alipurduar Bus Stand
Buxa Tiger Reserve
Highlight: A rich tiger habitat with over 300 bird species, leopards, and the occasional Himalayan bear.
How to Get There:
Entry through Alipurduar or Rajabhatkhawa, connected by rail and road.
Nearest Airport: Bagdogra Airport (180 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Alipurduar Junction / Rajabhatkhawa
Nearest Bus Stand: Alipurduar Bus Stand
Gorumara National Park
Highlight: One-horned rhinos, Indian gaurs, peacocks, and an excellent forest safari experience.
How to Get There:
Reach Lataguri or Chalsa from Siliguri by road; safaris start from here.
Nearest Airport: Bagdogra Airport (80 km)
Nearest Railway Station: New Mal Junction / Chalsa
Nearest Bus Stand: Siliguri Bus Stand
Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary
Highlight: A smaller but scenic sanctuary with elephants, gaurs, leopards, and birds.
How to Get There:
Located just beside Gorumara; accessible via road from Chalsa or Malbazar.
Nearest Airport: Bagdogra Airport (75 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Chalsa / Malbazar
Nearest Bus Stand: Siliguri Bus Stand
Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary
Highlight: Situated between the Teesta and Mahananda rivers, home to leopards, elephants, and more.
How to Get There:
Accessible via road from Siliguri; entry point is Sukna.
Nearest Airport: Bagdogra Airport (25 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Siliguri Junction / New Jalpaiguri (NJP)
Nearest Bus Stand: Siliguri Bus Stand
Senchal Wildlife Sanctuary
Highlight: Near Darjeeling, this serene forest is home to barking deer, Himalayan black bears, and exotic birds.
How to Get There:
Located around 11 km from Darjeeling, accessible via local taxis.
Nearest Airport: Bagdogra Airport (90 km)
Nearest Railway Station: New Jalpaiguri (NJP), then Darjeeling via the Toy Train or road
Nearest Bus Stand: Darjeeling Bus Stand
Travel Tips for Wildlife Lovers in West Bengal
Best Time to Visit: October to April for most parks, though some (like Sundarbans) are accessible year-round.
Safari Booking: Always book official forest safaris through authorized channels.
Stay Options: Most sanctuaries are located near government lodges, eco-resorts, and budget hotels.
Packing Tips: Carry binoculars, insect repellent, light clothing, water bottles, and a good camera.
West Bengal offers a truly diverse wildlife experience—from the predator-stalked mangroves of the Sundarbans to the rhino-filled grasslands of Jaldapara. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, birding enthusiast, or quiet nature lover, the wilderness of Bengal has something for everyone.
