Chalsa or the Gateway of Dooars is situated in the western Dooars region of West Bengal. Located on the foothills of the Himalayas and amidst scenic natural beauty, Chalsa has been a favourite sightseeing location among tourists for a long time. You can consider staying at the Firefly Resort, the best resort in Chalsa to embark on an unforgettable vacation experience.
This less-explored hill station is situated at a pictorial location which can also be a base for your Dooars trip. The proximity of Chalsa to the nearby wildlife hotspots and tourist locations makes it an ideal place to stay. Herein, the scenic driving routes, wondrous vistas, lush green forest reserves, and landscapes of this mountainous valley will indeed offer you cherishing travel memories.
Best Time To Visit Chalsa
Chalsa is a year-round destination as it can offer a unique beauty in all seasons. However, considering the natural beauty, soothing weather, and lush green surroundings it can said that September to March is the best time to explore Chalsa.
After monsoon stops in the area, you get a calming and fresh ambiance here which is ideal for sightseeing and other outdoor activities. Herein, it is always advised to avoid travelling to Chalsa during monsoon as the constant rain can spoil your travel itinerary. You must also note that the surrounding wildlife reserve also remains closed during this time.
How To Reach Chalsa?
- By Train: To travel to Chalsa by train, you can reach Siliguri Junction and then board a train to the Chalsa Station. Alipurduar Jn Intercity Express and Alipurduar Jn Tourist Express are the two trains that have stoppages in the Chalsa station. It may take you around 1 hour. 45 mins approx. to reach Chalsa from Siliguri by train.
- By Air: Bagdogra Airport is the nearest airport to Chalsa which is well-connected to the major cities of India. You can take a flight to this airport and then hire a car or taxi from the airport to reach Chalsa by road.
- By Car: A road journey from Siliguri to Chalsa is extremely scenic as you will be able to witness mesmerizing views of the hills, River Teesta, and lush green tea gardens. It may take around 1 hour. 54 min via NH10 and NH17 to reach Chalsa by road.
Top Activities That You Must Try During Your Chalsa Trip
1. Arrange a tranquil long drive
Chalsa is surrounded by scenic driving routes and indulging in a tranquil drive from here will take you through majestic tea gardens, tall trees, and scenic views. You can also drive to the nearby viewpoints to immerse yourself in the mesmerizing natural beauty of the region covered with clouds, soothing breezes, and captivating views.
2. Explore the nearby wildlife hotspots
During your Chalsa tip, you must not forget to explore its nearby wildlife hotspots. Some such popular attractions include Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary and Gorumara National Park. Herein, you can consider exploring the beautiful watchtowers to spot some endangered animals such as Asian elephants, one-horned rhinoceros, and leopards.
3. Enjoy a relaxing staycation
Chalsa is a perfect location for a laid-back vacation away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. You can pre-book a room at the best homestay in Dooars to enjoy a calm and comforting staycation in Chalsa. The modern room amenities, hospitality, and promising views from the homestay will surely uplift your vacation experience.
4. Discover the nearby tourist attractions
Travelling to the major sightseeing attractions of Dooars can become extremely easy from Chalsa. This is why you must not forget to arrange a day excursion to the nearby scenic locations. The best locations that you must explore with your friends and family are Murti, Lataguri, Samsing, Bindu, and Malbazar.
5. Try some thrilling adventure activities
Your Chalsa trip will be incomplete if you don’t try any adrenaline-rushing adventure sports. One of the most popular activities is jungle safari in Gorumara and Chapramari to spot some rare wildlife species. Apart from this, you can also consider trying trekking, angling, camping, and picnicking in Chalsa for a remarkable holiday.
6. Visit a blooming tea garden
Another amazing activity that you can do in Chalsa is visit a tea garden. The idyllic vibes and witnessing the Himalayan water streams flowing through the garden offer a unique experience. You can explore the tea processing units of this garden to learn about the authentic tea-making process. Don’t forget to buy a packet of aromatic tea leaves from here.
7. Embark on a gastronomic journey
Chalsa is known for its cultural diversity and richness. This diversity is also reflected in this food as you can find multiple restaurants here serving various Bengali, continental, and Chinese cuisines. You can arrange a lunch or dinner in a multicuisine restaurant to try some amazing food items while cherishing the mesmerizing views.
8. Spot some exotic bird species
If you’re visiting Chalsa during the winter season then it will definitely be a paradise for birdwatchers. You can explore the nearby birding points while staying at the best resort in Chalsa to spot some vibrant avifauna species. Some birds that you can spot amidst the lush green carpet of tea gardens are thick-billed green pigeons, black storks, and oriental pied hornbills.
9. Witness a magical sunset at the Chalsa Viewpoint
Chalsa Viewpoint is a perfect place where you can spend a tranquil evening while witnessing a magical sunset. This viewpoint offers a kaleidoscopic view of the lush green surroundings. There are also various seating arrangements in this location which is perfect for spending some quality time.
10. Indulge in a photography session
Chalsa is a haven for nature and wildlife photographers as every corner of this place is equipped with capturing views. You can explore the offbeat forest trails and nearby roads to see some amazing pictures. These memorable and vibrant pictures will be a perfect souvenir for your Dooars trip.
Staying at the best resort in Chalsa will ensure in-depth cultural immersion where you can also visit the Chalsa village to know the heritage of the Dooars region. A comfortable stay in a scenic location is perfect to take away the stress of your daily life and fill you with life-long memories.