Chunabhati Forest Trail & Ruins

Overview

What it is: Chunabhati is an abandoned British-era forest settlement now reclaimed by nature, offering a unique blend of history and wilderness.

When to Visit: Ideal to explore during the dry season (October to May) to comfortably trek the forest trails and ruins.

Where it is: Situated within the Chilapata Forest Range, near Alipurduar, accessible via forest permits and local guides.

Details

The Chunabhati Forest Trail leads visitors through lush, dense forests interspersed with remnants of colonial-era buildings, stone paths, and bridges. This ghost village was once a hub for forest officers and their families during British rule, now overtaken by the wild. Highlights include:

• Crumbling colonial quarters and administrative buildings,
• Old stone pathways and wooden bridges hidden by foliage,
• Rich biodiversity with sightings of rare birds, butterflies, orchids, and wild mammals.

The trail is popular with wildlife enthusiasts, history buffs, and adventure seekers. Walking through Chunabhati feels like stepping back in time while immersed in the vibrant sounds of the forest. The site is also a reminder of forest conservation history and the evolving relationship between humans and nature in this region.

Itinerary

• Begin your trek from the forest entry point, after securing the necessary permits and hiring a local guide.
• Follow the marked trail through dense forests, observing diverse flora like wild orchids, ferns, and bamboo groves.
• Explore the ruins of British-era buildings: old residences, offices, and storage houses partially overtaken by vegetation.
• Cross the ancient stone bridges and walk along weathered pathways that tell tales of a bygone era.
• Keep an eye out for wildlife such as deer, monkeys, and numerous bird species, ideal for birdwatchers and photographers.
• Pause occasionally to appreciate the serene, untouched natural surroundings and soak in the mystery of the abandoned hamlet.
• Conclude your visit by retracing the trail back to the entry point or continue onwards if combining with nearby forest attractions like Chilapata Wildlife Sanctuary.

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