Dooars
Introduction
Have you ever heard of the Dooars? The mesmerizing region in the foothills of the Himalayas, spanning across the Indian states of West Bengal and Assam, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.
Dooars, also known as Duars or Doors, is derived from the word ‘door’ meaning ‘gateway’ as it served as a gateway to Bhutan from India.
The region is known for its exotic wildlife, lush green tea gardens, and picturesque landscapes. In this article, we will explore the beauty and attractions of the Dooars region in detail.
History of Dooars
- The region was once inhabited by indigenous tribes like Mech, Toto, Rava, and Koch Rajbongshi.
- The British East India Company annexed the region in the early 19th century, leading to the construction of roads and railways for transportation.
- In 1950, a treaty between India and Bhutan was signed, which demarcated the border and allowed the free movement of people across the region.
Geographical Features of Dooars
- The Dooars region is situated in the lower Himalayas, with an average elevation of 150-200 meters above sea level.
- The region is surrounded by Bhutan in the north, Sikkim in the west, and Assam in the east.
- The major rivers in the region are Teesta, Torsa, and Jaldhaka, which originate from the Himalayas and flow through the plains of West Bengal and Bangladesh.
- The region is covered with dense forests, mainly sal, teak, and bamboo, and is home to many wildlife sanctuaries.
Wildlife Sanctuaries in Dooars
- Buxa Tiger Reserve: Spread across an area of 760 sq km, the reserve is known for its diverse flora and fauna, including the Bengal tiger, clouded leopard, elephant, and gaur.
- Jaldapara National Park: The park is home to the famous one-horned rhinoceros, Asiatic elephant, and Bengal tiger.
- Gorumara National Park: The park is known for its beautiful landscapes and diverse wildlife, including the Indian rhinoceros, leopard, and Indian bison.
Tea Gardens in Dooars
- Dooars is known for its lush green tea gardens, which cover an area of over 50,000 hectares.
- The tea gardens produce high-quality tea, which is exported to different parts of the world.
- Some of the famous tea gardens in the region are Makaibari, Castleton, and Glenburn.
Adventure Tourism in Dooars
- The region offers a variety of adventure sports like river rafting, trekking, and camping.
- The Teesta River is known for its rapids and is a popular destination for river rafting.
- Trekking in the region is an excellent way to explore beautiful landscapes and wildlife.
Culture and Festivals of Dooars
- The indigenous tribes in the region have a rich culture and heritage, which is reflected in their art, music, and dance forms.
- The Toto tribe is known for its unique musical instrument, the tungna, which is made of bamboo.
- The region celebrates many festivals like Bihu, Durga Puja, and Diwali, which are a blend of Hindu and tribal traditions.
How to Reach Dooars
- The nearest airport to the Dooars region is Bagdogra Airport, which is well-connected to major cities like Kolkata, Delhi, and Guwahati.
- The nearest railway station to the region is New Mal Junction, which is connected to major cities in India.
- The region is well-connected by road, with regular buses and taxis available from Siliguri and other nearby cities.
Best Time to Visit Dooars
- The best time to visit Dooars is from October to March when the weather is pleasant, and the wildlife is active.
- The monsoon season from June to September is not recommended as heavy rains can cause landslides and disrupt travel.
Accommodation in Dooars
- Dooars offers a variety of accommodation options ranging from budget to luxury.
- Some of the popular resorts in the region are Sinclairs Retreat Dooars, The Riverwood Forest Retreats, and The Reserve Gorumara.
Conclusion
Dooars is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. The region offers a unique blend of wildlife, tea gardens, and indigenous culture that is sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who visits.
Whether you want to explore the wildlife sanctuaries or relax in the scenic tea gardens, Dooars has something to offer for everyone.
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