wildlife · Chilapata Forest, Dooars
Jeep safari through Chilapata from Kodalbasti
Chilapata safaris are sold by the forest department alongside the Jaldapara routes and start from the Kodalbasti side near Hasimara. Jeeps are forest-registered with local drivers, and a guide comes along. The track runs through tall forest with a thick understorey, crosses streams, and opens briefly at clearings and riverbanks where animals come out.
Because visibility in the forest is shorter than on Jaldapara's grassland, sightings come suddenly: a gaur bull standing in the shade, a sambar crashing away, an elephant herd moving through bamboo. Leopards are still common in Chilapata, and the guides know their crossings. Birds include hornbills, woodpeckers, drongos and the loud calls of red junglefowl.
Book online or at the Madarihat counter and ask specifically for the Chilapata route. Afternoon slots are warmer in winter and often better for elephants. Keep silent and seated, and do not ask the driver to leave the track. Check current status before you travel.
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How do I book a Chilapata safari
Chilapata routes are sold by the West Bengal forest department alongside Jaldapara safaris, online through its booking portal and at the Madarihat counter. Ask for the Chilapata route specifically. In autumn 2026 online booking for this area was down for a time, so check current status before you travel.
Is Chilapata better than Jaldapara
They are different. Jaldapara is open grassland and the best place for rhinos. Chilapata is dense forest, better for the feel of a jungle, elephants, gaur and leopards, with fewer rhinos. If you have two safaris, do one of each.
Can I see leopards in Chilapata
Leopards are still common in Chilapata, but they are shy and mostly active at night, so daytime sightings are uncommon. Your best chance is the first morning or last afternoon slot. Look for fresh pugmarks on the track; the guides are good at spotting them.
Also in Chilapata Forest
