Alipurduar

Alipurduar, a district and town in West Bengal, holds strategic importance as the gateway to Bhutan and the northeastern states of India. Carved out of the Jalpaiguri district in 2014, it is the easternmost district of West Bengal, nestled in the Western Dooars region at the foothills of the Himalayas. The district shares borders with Jalpaiguri to the west, Assam to the east, and Cooch Behar to the south, while its northern boundary forms an international border with Bhutan. This unique location has historically made it a significant trading route, even serving as part of the old Silk Route connecting to Bhutan and Tibet.

The landscape of Alipurduar is characterized by undulating terrain, dense forests, numerous rivers and streams flowing from the Himalayas, and lush tea gardens. Major rivers like the Torsa, Raidak, Kaljani, Sankosh, and Gadadhar crisscross the district, contributing to its rich biodiversity. A significant portion of the district is covered by forests, managed by the Cooch Behar Forest Division and the Buxa Tiger Reserve. These moist tropical forests are home to diverse flora and fauna, including some rare and endangered species. The ethnic diversity of Alipurduar is also notable, with a significant population belonging to Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, including communities like Rajbanshi, Rabha, Mech, Santhals, Bodo, and Toto.

While the Alipurduar town itself serves as the district headquarters and a crucial railway junction connecting various parts of India, the district is renowned for its natural attractions. The Buxa Tiger Reserve, known for its tiger population and the historic Buxa Fort, is a major draw for tourists. Other significant sites include the Jaldapara National Park, famous for its one-horned rhinoceros, the Chilapata Wildlife Sanctuary, and the scenic Jayanti area along the Jayanti River. The pleasant climate, especially during the post-monsoon season from October to May, makes it an ideal time to explore the natural beauty and wildlife of Alipurduar.