Jhalong is a small, picturesque village located in the northern region of West Bengal, India. Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, Jhalong is known for its stunning natural beauty and abundance of flora and fauna.
The village is situated on the banks of the Jaldhaka River, which flows through the dense forests of the Jaldapara National Park. The park is home to various flora and fauna, including the Indian rhinoceros, elephant, bison, deer, and several species of birds and reptiles.
Jhalong is also known for its hot springs, which are believed to have medicinal properties. The water from these springs is believed to have therapeutic effects on various skin and respiratory ailments. Visitors to Jhalong often bathe in the hot springs to relieve stress and relax their muscles.
The village is also famous for its trekking trails, which offer breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and forests.
One of the popular trekking trails is the Jaldhaka-Bindu trail, which takes hikers through the dense forests of the national park, offering stunning views of the mountains and forests along the way.
Jhalong is also a popular destination for adventure sports enthusiasts. The Jaldhaka River is known for its white-water rafting opportunities, and the village has several professional rafting companies that offer rafting trips on the river. The rapids on the river are not too challenging, making them suitable for beginners as well as experienced rafters.
Apart from rafting, Jhalong offers other adventure sports such as paragliding, rock climbing, and zip-lining. The village has several professional adventure sports companies that provide equipment and training to those interested in trying out these activities.
In addition to its natural beauty and adventure sports opportunities, Jhalong is also known for its cultural attractions. The village has several temples and monasteries that are popular among visitors.
The Jhalong Monastery, also known as the Golden Temple, is one of the most famous attractions in the village. The monastery is known for its intricate architecture and beautiful paintings and carvings.
Visitors to Jhalong can also explore the local market, which sells a variety of handicrafts, souvenirs, and traditional clothing. The village is also home to several local artisans who create beautiful handicrafts using natural materials such as bamboo, wood, and clay.
The place is a perfect destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. To enjoy the peace and tranquility of the great outdoors. The village offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury resorts to budget hotels, to suit the needs and preferences of different travelers.
Places to See
Jhalong, located in the Dooars region of West Bengal, India, is a beautiful destination that offers a mix of natural beauty, wildlife, and cultural experiences. Here are some of the best places to see in Jhalong:
Jaldhaka River: It is one of the main attractions. It has crystal-clear water and scenic surroundings offer a serene and tranquil experience.
Bindu Dam: Bindu is a popular destination for tourists visiting Jhalong. It is a beautiful spot for picnics and offers a spectacular view of the surrounding hills.
Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary: Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary is a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts. It is home to a variety of animals, including elephants, tigers, leopards, and several species of birds.
Neora Valley National Park: It is located about 30 km from Jhalong. It is a beautiful spot for trekking and bird-watching. It is also home to several rare species of plants and animals.
Jhandi Dara View Point: It is a popular destination for tourists looking for panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
Paren View Point: The Paren View Point is located about 15 km from Jhalong and is a beautiful spot to enjoy the sunset and take in the natural beauty of the area.
Samsing: Samsing is a beautiful village located about 12 km from Jhalong. It is a popular spot for trekking and offers stunning views of the surrounding tea gardens and forests.
These are just a few of the best places to see in Jhalong. Visitors to Jhalong will find plenty of opportunities to enjoy the natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of this beautiful region.
Best time to visit Jhalong
For visitors looking to engage in adventurous activities such as trekking and camping, the ideal time to visit Jhalong is the post-monsoon season. Specifically during October and November.
This is because, during this time, the current of the river stream is moderate. Tourists can take advantage of the crystal clear water for activities such as rafting and fishing. Additionally, the weather during this season is relatively pleasant and cool, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities.
How to reach
Jhalong is a scenic village located in the Dooars region of West Bengal, India. It is well-connected by road, rail, and air. Here’s how to reach Jhalong:
By Road: The place is well-connected to major cities in West Bengal and neighboring states through a network of roads. National Highway 27 and National Highway 17 pass through the region. Visitors can hire taxis, and private cars, or take state-run buses to reach Jhalong from nearby cities like Siliguri, Kolkata, and Guwahati.
By Rail: The nearest railway station to Jhalong is New Mal Junction, which is located about 60 km away. Visitors can take trains from major cities like Kolkata, Delhi, and Guwahati to reach New Mal Junction. From the station, taxis and private cars are available for hire to reach the place.
By Air: The nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport, located about 100 km away. It is well connected to major cities in India like Delhi, Kolkata, and Guwahati. From the airport, visitors can hire taxis or private cars to reach Jhalong.
Overall, Jhalong is well-connected to major cities in West Bengal and neighboring states. This makes it easily accessible to visitors.
In conclusion, Jhalong is a hidden gem in the northern region of West Bengal. Explore stunning natural beauty, adventure sports opportunities, and cultural attractions. Whether you are looking to relax in the hot springs, trek through the forests, or try your hand at adventure sports, Jhalong has something for everyone.
