Nestled at the gateway to North Bengal, just 8 km from the bustling city of Siliguri, Bengal Safari invites wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers to immerse themselves in its expansive beauty and diverse fauna. Officially known as the North Bengal Wild Animals Park, this sprawling 297-hectare sanctuary is a pioneering initiative by Dr. B R Sharma and Sri U K Bhattacherjee, designed to showcase the rich biodiversity of the region in a natural setting.
Unique Safari Experiences
Mixed Herbivore Safari
Spanning an impressive 91 hectares, the Mixed Herbivore Safari offers a 20-minute journey through lush landscapes inhabited by a variety of herbivores in their natural conditions. Visitors can spot an array of animals including Spotted Deer, Barking Deer, Sambar, Hog Deer, Swamp Deer, and the majestic One-Horned Rhinoceros. The area also thrives with vibrant birdlife like Peacocks, Red Jungle Fowl, Black Ibis, Kingfisher, Emerald Dove, Drongo, and Hornbills, making it a bird watcher’s paradise.
Tiger Safari
Home to three magnificent tigers – Shenasish and Sheela from Nandankanan Zoological Park, Orissa, and Viban from Tata Steel Zoological Park, Jharkhand – the Tiger Safari spans 20 hectares. This intense 15-minute safari gives visitors a thrilling encounter with one of nature’s most awe-inspiring predators.
Asiatic Black Bear Safari
Also covering 20 hectares, this safari is dedicated to the Asiatic Black Bear, featuring two bears, Dhruba and Jennifer, brought from Padmaja Naidu Zoological Park in Darjeeling. The encounter promises a unique glimpse into the lives of these intriguing creatures over a 15-minute exploration.
Leopard Safari
The Leopard Safari introduces visitors to four leopards – two males (Sachin and Saurav) and two females (Sital and Kajal), within a similarly sized 20-hectare area. Like the Tiger Safari, this 15-minute journey offers a close-up view of another of India’s iconic big cats.
Additional Attractions
Aviary Trail
The park features a fascinating aviary trail where guests can stroll and observe a diverse mix of birds including the Red Jungle Fowl, Peafowl, White Peafowl, and various exotic species, further enhancing the aviary’s appeal as new enclosures continue to develop.
Lesser Cats Trail
This trail offers a special look at smaller feline species such as the Jungle Cat, Toddy Cat, and Fishing Cat in open-top enclosures, providing insights into their lives and behaviors.
Gharial & Crocodile Pond
A visit to the Gharial & Crocodile Pond allows guests to see these remarkable reptiles thriving in their natural, free-flowing water environments.
Commitment to Conservation
Bengal Safari is not just a wildlife park, but a vital conservation effort that preserves and presents the rich flora and fauna of the region. The park is developed around the natural habitat of Sal trees and their associated species, which forms a perfect backdrop for the animals and birds residing here.
Since its inauguration by the Honorable Chief Minister of West Bengal on January 22, 2017, Bengal Safari has been a testament to the state’s commitment to wildlife conservation and an educational resource that offers invaluable lessons in biodiversity.
Plan Your Visit
Whether you are drawn by the thrill of the safaris or the tranquility of the natural settings, Bengal Safari offers a memorable adventure for every visitor. It stands as a beacon of wildlife conservation, education, and sustainable tourism right at the heart of Siliguri, serving as a proud reminder of the natural treasures of West Bengal.
Eco-Friendly Initiatives and Educational Opportunities
Bengal Safari is deeply committed to eco-friendly practices and strives to educate its visitors about the importance of conservation and sustainable interactions with nature. The park organizes regular educational tours for schools and interest groups, focusing on environmental awareness and wildlife conservation. Each tour is designed to inspire visitors, young and old, to appreciate and respect the natural world.
Interactive sessions and guided tours led by knowledgeable staff help deepen understanding of the ecological roles each species plays. These experiences are enriched by the park’s careful planning to ensure that all animal habitats are as close to their natural environment as possible, promoting healthy, stress-free living for the animals.
Community Engagement and Cultural Integration
The park also plays a pivotal role in the local community by providing employment and fostering a conservation mindset among the local population. It’s a living laboratory that blends the conservation of wildlife with cultural heritage, showcasing local art, crafts, and traditions at various points throughout the park. Seasonal cultural events and festivals are celebrated within the park, creating a vibrant atmosphere that celebrates both the region’s biodiversity and its rich cultural tapestry.
Future Developments
Looking ahead, Bengal Safari is continuously expanding and enhancing its offerings. Plans are underway to develop more specialized trails and interactive exhibits that focus on specific ecosystems and animal groups. This includes expanding the Lesser Cats Trail and further developing the aviary section to include more species of birds and even interactive feeding sessions.
Moreover, there are proposals to integrate more advanced technology, such as augmented reality (AR) stations along trails, where visitors can receive enhanced information about the flora and fauna they observe. This tech-forward approach aims to merge education with cutting-edge technology to create immersive learning environments.
A Destination for All Seasons
Bengal Safari is designed to captivate visitors year-round, with each season offering a unique perspective of wildlife and natural beauty. The lush monsoon season brings vibrant greenery and active wildlife, making it ideal for photographers and nature enthusiasts. The cooler winter months are perfect for comfortable safari rides and spotting animals as they bask in the mild sun. Meanwhile, the spring brings a burst of color as the local flora blooms, creating picturesque landscapes that are perfect for leisurely walks and picnics.
A Visit to Remember
Each visit to Bengal Safari not only contributes to the local economy and conservation efforts but also leaves guests with a deeper appreciation for the natural world and the need to protect it. Whether you’re seeking an adventurous safari experience, a peaceful encounter with nature, or an educational trip with your family, Bengal Safari offers an enriching escape into the wild that will be remembered for a lifetime.