Jayanti riverbed and the path to Mahakal
Jayanti village sits beside a broad, stony river that comes out of the hills and spreads over the plain. In the dry season you can walk on the riverbed with forest on both sides and the hills ahead. It is a fine place for a quiet morning, birds and photographs.
With a local guide you can follow the river and then a steep path up to the Mahakal caves, limestone caves held sacred by local Hindus, which make a half-day outing. The path crosses water and rocks and is not suitable after rain. Do not go alone; ask in Jayanti about the current state of the path.
Questions travellers ask
Good to know
How far is Jayanti from Rajabhatkhawa?
About 13 km through the forest of Buxa Tiger Reserve, roughly 30–40 minutes by car. Pay the reserve entry fee at Rajabhatkhawa. From Alipurduar it is about 30 km. Local jeeps run from Alipurduar and Rajabhatkhawa at irregular times.
Is the Mahakal cave walk difficult?
It is moderately hard: a walk along the river and over stones, then a steep climb. Allow half a day with a local guide. Do not attempt it after heavy rain, when the river rises fast. Wear shoes with grip and carry water.
Can I swim in the Jayanti river?
It is not advised. The river is shallow for much of the dry season but has fast channels, and floods can come suddenly after rain in the Bhutan hills. Paddling at the edge with others nearby is fine in winter.
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