Siliguri to Jaldapara
Your options
Ways to make the trip
4–4.5 hours
₹150–250 a seat · North Bengal State Transport and private buses for Jaigaon, Hasimara and Alipurduar leave the Tenzing Norgay bus terminus through the day. Ask for one that runs via Birpara and Madarihat, and get off at Madarihat, close to the Jaldapara Tourist Lodge.
3–3.5 hours
₹3,800–5,000 per car · Hire a car from Siliguri, NJP or Bagdogra. The road runs via Sevoke, Malbazar, Chalsa, Nagrakata and Birpara. Break the trip at Gorumara if you have time.
3.5–4.5 hours
₹50–500 depending on class · Trains on the Dooars line from Siliguri Junction or NJP towards Alipurduar stop at Madarihat and Hasimara. Madarihat station is within walking distance of the tourist lodge. Check current timings; services are limited.
Worth a stop
- Malbazar
- Chalsa hilltop view over the Dooars
- Tea estates around Nagrakata and Banarhat
- Birpara
Questions travellers ask
Good to know
How far is Jaldapara from Siliguri?
Madarihat, the entry town for Jaldapara National Park, is about 125 km from Siliguri. A car takes 3–3.5 hours along the Dooars road through Malbazar, Chalsa and Birpara. Buses take 4–4.5 hours with stops. From Bagdogra airport allow an extra 30 minutes.
How much is a car from Siliguri to Jaldapara?
A reserved sedan or hatchback costs roughly ₹3,800–4,500 one way and an SUV ₹4,500–5,000. If you combine Gorumara and Jaldapara with a driver for three or four days, expect ₹3,500–4,500 a day plus the driver's food and stay. Rates are indicative.
Can I go from Siliguri to Jaldapara by train?
Yes. Trains on the Dooars line between Siliguri Junction or NJP and Alipurduar stop at Madarihat and Hasimara. Madarihat station is close to the Jaldapara Tourist Lodge. There are only a few services a day, so plan around them and book ahead for longer-distance trains.
Which is nearer to Jaldapara, Madarihat or Hasimara?
Madarihat is the main entry point, with the tourist lodge, safari counter and park gate. Hasimara is about 20 km further east, closer to Chilapata, Jaigaon and the Bhutan border at Phuentsholing. Stay at Madarihat for Jaldapara safaris and at Hasimara or Chilapata for the eastern forests.