The quaint land of Chalsa in North Bengal is tucked away in the verdant foothills of the Eastern Himalayas and is encircled by tea estates, woods, and meandering rivers.
This location provides you with peace, birdwatching, and access to wildlife reserves, making it the ideal weekend getaway from the hustle and bustle of the plains. By booking the best resort in Chalsa, you can amplify the delight of your vacation here.
This blog will provide you with step-by-step instructions if you're in Siliguri (or the surrounding area) and intend to visit Chalsa. It will cover all common forms of transportation, estimated times, advice, and things you should know before you go.
Why Travel from Siliguri to Chalsa?
Chalsa, which lies in the Dooars region, is a starting point for visits to places rich in natural beauty, such as Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary and Gorumara National Park. Chalsa, also called Chalsa Mahabari, is surrounded by hills and tea gardens and has an average elevation of 163 meters, offering a perfect, serene retreat.
As you go into the somewhat higher terrain of the Dooars, the trip is rather easy for travelers in Siliguri or the surrounding area and offers picturesque vistas. Chalsa is, therefore, a great place for a quick journey.
Getting Ready: Important Information to Know Before Traveling
- Carry necessities like water, snacks, and a power bank because, despite Chalsa's tranquility and beauty, mobile coverage and amenities might not be as good as in larger towns.
- Booking accommodations in advance is advised if you intend to stay overnight or visit safari areas, particularly during busy times.
- In the foothills, the weather can change rapidly. Here in Chalsa, roads may be slick and some sanctuaries may be closed if you're traveling during or just after the rain (for example, Chapramari closes during heavy monsoon).
- In the event that digital payments are unreliable in some localities, have cash on hand.
Route Options: How to Get from Siliguri to Chalsa
There are two primary ways to get from Siliguri to Chalsa: by train and by car. A summary of each is provided below, along with useful information; have a read:
By Road
Distance and Route
Using national highways, you will mostly go from Siliguri to Malbazar and then to Chalsa. For instance, the route via National Highway 17 (NH-17) connects to the Dooars region by passing through Bagrakote → Chalsa. Chalsa is roughly 60 kilometers from Bagdogra Airport, which is within Siliguri.
Duration of Travel
The trip takes approximately one and a half to two hours under ideal traffic and road conditions.
Modes
- Take a cab from the airport in Siliguri (Bagdogra airport); you can stop along the way if it's more comfortable.
- If you have a car, drive yourself. The roads are good, but be cautious when driving in mountainous or monsoon areas.
- Local buses or shared jeeps are less comfortable but less expensive; check the Siliguri terminal for availability.
Advice for Driving
- For the finest light and to avoid late-day traffic on little roads, leave early in the morning.
- Make sure your car has adequate fuel because there aren't as many gas outlets in other areas of the forest.
- Plan stops at tea garden lookouts, riverbanks like the Murti River, and woodland gates if you're visiting neighboring animals or tea estates.
By Train
Station: On the New Jalpaiguri–Alipurduar line, Chalsa Railway Station.
From Siliguri:
At the Siliguri Junction/New Jalpaiguri (JNP) train station, board a train bound for Alipurduar.
At the Chalsa station, get off.
Travel Duration
Depending on the train, it takes approximately one and a half hours, and the area and the surrounding area are served by the station.
Important Points You Need to Remember:
1. Know train timetables in advance.
2. You could still require a quick cab or auto-ride from Chalsa station to your resort or accommodation.
3. Compared to a straight road taxi that provides door-to-door service, luggage handling could be more difficult.
Which Mode is Best for You?
1.Take a road cab from Siliguri if you're pressed for time and want convenience delivered right to your door. It's simple, you control timing and stops.
2.Take the train if you enjoy leisurely travel and are a rail enthusiast. Specifically, pleasant if you're staying at or close to Chalsa station and have light luggage.
3.You should verify the state of the roads and trains if you're traveling during or after the rainy season.
4.Both options are suitable for subsequent travels (such as to wildlife sanctuaries or forest lodges), though the road might provide more freedom for side breaks.
Some Additional Advice for Your Trip
1. If you like to observe birds, bring binoculars with you because there are many different kinds of birds in the Dooars area.
2. Since many resorts in Chalsa are located on tea farms with hilly terrain, wear suitable walking shoes.
3. It is really satisfying to take early morning walks in the tea garden or close to the border of the forest.
4. Even during the summer, it may be cool in the mornings and evenings. Bring a lightweight jacket.
5. If you're going near sanctuaries, abide by the forest's regulations and the local wildlife; keep your distance and stay away from loud noises.
6. Verify the hours and costs of the forest gates if you intend to drive farther to forests like Chapramari.
7. There may be intermittent internet access; if you are traveling to a remote location, inform someone of your itinerary and download maps offline.
A great escape from the city and a chance to relax in the lap of nature, Chalsa is comparatively easy to get to from Siliguri. Whether you go for the flexible road trip or the picturesque train route, you will enter an area with serene rivers, tea gardens, and forest edges.
A little forethought regarding transportation, accommodation, and scheduling makes the trip a part of your exclusive experience. So, depart from Siliguri and explore the Dooars region in Chalsa. Now is the perfect moment to relax, enjoy some fresh air, and immerse yourself in Bengal's picturesque retreats. And never forget to book the best resort in Chalsa that suits your budget and level of comfort you want.
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