Gajaldoba: A Hidden Gem in North Bengal
Gajaldoba is a small village located in the western side of Teesta River. The village is situated in the Oodlabari area of Jalpaiguri district close to Baikunthapur forests which is around 30 kilo meters away from the Siliguri town. It is famous for the Teesta River barrage built for irrigation of agricultural lands in the nearby areas.
Gajaldoba is a nature lover’s paradise, having an abundance of flora and fauna. The landscape is dominated by wetlands, grasslands, and water bodies, making it a haven for a wide variety of wildlife. The Gajaldoba Wetland Complex is home to over 220 bird species, making it a hotspot for birdwatchers and ornithologists. The wetlands are particularly famous for attracting migratory birds during the winter months, including the magnificent Sarus Crane, Common Teal, and the Eurasian Spoonbill. Apart from birdlife, Gajaldoba is also home to several other animal species, including elephants, leopards, and sambar deer.
When to visit
one can visit Gajaldoba at any time of the year, but the best time to visit is during the winter season. That’s because between November and March, one can see many different kinds of birds that have flown here from places like Ladakh, Mongolia, Russia, Central Asia, Balochistan, Siberia, and Europe.
How to visit
By Air: The closest airport to Gajaldoba is Bagdogra Airport, situated approximately 30 kms away. Upon arrival at Bagdogra, travelers have the option to either hire a taxi or take a bus, with an approximate travel time of about 1 hour to reach Gajaldoba.
By Train: The nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri Junction (NJP), located approximately 28 kilometers away. From NJP, various transportation options are available to reach Gajaldoba.
By Road: Gajaldoba is easily accessible by road from nearby cities such as Siliguri. Visitors can either rent a car or use public transportation to reach their destination.
Things to do
Bird watching- Gajaldoba is a paradise for bird lovers. Many species of birds like the Greylag Goose, Lesser Whistling Duck, Cotton Teal, Tufted Duck, Common Teal, Ruddy Shelduck, Common Shelduck, Eurasian Wigeon, Great Cormorant, Indian Cormorant, Spot-billed Duck, Mallard and many others can be seen here.
Boating- one can do a peaceful boat ride on the Teesta River. There are motorboats and rowboats available for hire. It’s a great way to explore the river’s serene surroundings and take in the beautiful landscapes.
Fishing- fishing is a popular activity here. One can try fishing in the Teesta River and enjoy the fishing environment there.
Photography- It offers various opportunities for photography with its beautiful landscapes, water bodies, and diverse birdlife. One can capture the beauty of this place and the bird species that inhibit the region.
Picnicking- It is a great place for family picnics. One can pack some foods and spent a relaxing day by the river.
Teesta barrage- The Teesta barrage is an important landmark in Gajaldoba. One can take a walk or drive along the barrage as it offers excellent views of rivers and its surroundings.
Place to accommodate
One can stay in Gajaldoba tourists complex which is run by government. It provides basic accommodation and one can stay peacefully here. There are several other private resorts and eco-lodges around Gajaldoba that offer comfortable accommodations. These places often arrange wildlife safaris and bird-watching tours.
It is also close to Siliguri, which has a wider range of accommodation options, including mid-range hotels, budget hotels and luxury hotels.
Conclusion
Gajaldoba is a hidden gem for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers. This small village nestled in the western side of the Teesta River have a rich ecosystem. It provides a serene and nature-filled experience for travelers, making it a destination worth exploring for its rich biodiversity and tranquil surroundings. Whether you are a bird enthusiast, a photography enthusiast, or simply seeking a peaceful getaway, Gajaldoba has something to offer everyone.
