The park is home to the largest population of Indian one-horned rhinoceros in West Bengal after Kaziranga. Other significant mammals include Asian elephants, Bengal tigers, leopards, gaur, and various deer species like hog deer and barking deer. The park supports over 240 bird species, including the endangered Bengal Florican, crested eagle, and various hornbills. Reptiles such as pythons, monitor lizards, and several turtle species also inhabit the park.
Jaldapara's vegetation comprises semi-evergreen forests, riverine forests, and extensive savannah grasslands. The dominant tree species include Sal, Simul, Sissoo, and Khair. The grasslands feature tall elephant grass species such as Saccharum spontaneum and Imperata cylindrica. The park also harbors numerous medicinal plants, orchids, and climbers. The riverine patches support rich biodiversity with species like Bombax ceiba and various ferns, creating essential wildlife corridors.
The park lies in the eastern Himalayan foothills, characterized by alluvial floodplains created by the Torsa River and its tributaries. The terrain consists of grasslands, riverine forests, and sandy river banks, with elevations ranging from 61 to 130 meters above sea level. The soil is primarily composed of alluvial deposits, making it extremely fertile and supporting diverse vegetation. Several natural salt licks are scattered throughout the park, attracting various herbivores.
Established in 1941 as Jaldapara Wildlife Sanctuary and later upgraded to National Park status in 2012, the area was originally created to protect the endangered Indian one-horned rhinoceros. The park's name derives from the village Jaldapara and the river Jayanti. Historically, the region was part of the Cooch Behar kingdom and served as a hunting ground for royal families. During the colonial period, the area faced severe deforestation and poaching, which led to conservation efforts in the early 20th century.
Key attractions include elephant safaris offering close encounters with rhinoceros, the Hollong Tourist Lodge providing panoramic views, and the Chilapata Forest with its ancient ruins. The Mendabari Watch Tower offers excellent bird watching opportunities, while the Jaldapara Interpretation Centre educates visitors about local wildlife and conservation efforts. The park also features the Kunjanagar Watch Tower, perfect for spotting animals at dawn and dusk, and the scenic Torsa River banks where various wildlife congregate.
Jaldapara National Park experiences three distinct seasons: summer (March-May) with temperatures reaching 37°C, monsoon (June-September) with heavy rainfall averaging 3,000mm annually, and winter (November-February) with temperatures dropping to 10°C. The best time to visit is between November and March when the weather is pleasant and wildlife viewing conditions are optimal. The park occasionally closes during peak monsoon season when flooding occurs along the Torsa River.
India
26.7170°, 89.2830°
2012
216.51
Jaldapara National Park is famous for its significant population of one-horned rhinoceros. The park consists of grasslands and riverine forests along the Torsa River. It also supports populations of elephants, leopards, and numerous bird species.