nature · Jhalong, Paren and Bindu, Dooars
An evening on the Jaldhaka at Jhalong
The Jaldhaka at Jhalong is a proper mountain river: wide, quick and loud, with clear green water in winter and grey flood in summer. Paths lead from the road and homestays down to the bank. The hills across are in Bhutan, and you may see a few homes and fields on the far slope.
Bring a flask of tea and find a flat rock. In the last hour of light, river birds are active: plumbeous redstarts, white-capped redstarts, forktails and wagtails. The sun leaves the valley early, and the temperature drops quickly, so carry a jacket from November to February.
Stay on the Indian bank and away from the water's edge where the current is strong. Levels can change with releases from the barrage upstream, so do not sit on low rocks in mid-channel. Be back at your homestay by dark.
Good for
Questions people ask
Good to know
Is the Jaldhaka river the Bhutan border
Along this stretch near Jhalong and Bindu, the Jaldhaka forms the boundary between India and Bhutan, so the hills across the river are Bhutanese. It is not an open crossing for tourists. Enter Bhutan only through official points such as Jaigaon–Phuentsholing with the right permit.
Can I swim in the Jaldhaka at Jhalong
No. The river is fast and cold, and water levels can change with releases from the Bindu barrage. Stay on the bank and away from low rocks in the channel. Children should be supervised closely near the water.
What is the best time to visit Jhalong
October to May. November to February is clear and cool with the best river birding; March to May is warmer and still pleasant. The monsoon, June to September, brings heavy rain and landslides on the valley road. Check current status before you travel.
Also in Jhalong, Paren and Bindu
