government lodge · Jaldapara National Park, Dooars

Aranya Tourism Property, Jaldapara (WBTDC)

Name: Aranya Tourism Property, Jaldapara (WBTDC)
Address: Jaldapara National Park

comfort

WBTDC's lodge at Madarihat, formerly the Jaldapara Tourist Lodge, a short walk from the Jaldapara safari counter. The most convenient government base for rhino safaris.

For years this was simply the Jaldapara Tourist Lodge, or the Madarihat Tourist Lodge, and many drivers still call it that. WBTDC now calls it the Aranya Tourism Property. It sits at Madarihat in Alipurduar district, close to the park's main entrance and the safari counter, which matters when your jeep leaves at dawn.

Rooms range from standard to better categories with air-conditioning, and there is a restaurant. The lodge has long been a meeting point for safari jeeps and guides, and staff can help with local arrangements such as trips to Totopara and South Khayerbari. Book through WBTDC's official channels well ahead for winter weekends and holidays.

Why we like it

A short walk from the Jaldapara safari counter
Government-run with published tariffs
Good base for Totopara, Khayerbari and Chilapata

Watch out for

It is a government lodge: maintenance and service can be uneven, so ask for a renovated room when you book.

Questions people ask

Good to know

Is Jaldapara Tourist Lodge still open

Yes. WBTDC's lodge at Madarihat, formerly the Jaldapara Tourist Lodge, now operates as the Aranya Tourism Property. It is a different building from the Hollong lodge inside the park, which burned down in June 2024. Check current status before you travel.

How far is Aranya Tourism Property from the Jaldapara safari gate

It is at Madarihat, a short walk or a two-minute drive from the safari counter and main entry gate. That makes dawn safaris easy. The South Khayerbari rescue centre is a short drive away.

How do I book the WBTDC lodge at Jaldapara

Book through the West Bengal Tourism Development Corporation's official booking channels or its offices. Rooms sell out for Puja, Christmas and long weekends, so book early. Rates are roughly ₹2,500–6,000 per room night, indicative.

Packages

Packages that can use this stay

Nº 47956 · Dooars4N / 5D Chilapata, Buxa Fort and Jayanti in 4 nights Chilapata Forest → Buxa Tiger Reserve and Buxa Fort → Jayanti Budget fare from
per person, twin₹13,500

Nº 40760 · Dooars7N / 8D Jaldapara and Bhutan by road in 7 nights Jaldapara National Park → Phuentsholing → Thimphu → Paro → Phuentsholing Budget fare from
per person, twin₹26,000

Nº 27071 · Dooars3N / 4D Dooars on a budget by train in 3 nights Murti → Lataguri → Jaldapara National Park Budget fare from
per person, twin₹6,500

Nº 18811 · Dooars5N / 6D Dooars family holiday from Kolkata in 5 nights Lataguri → Jhalong, Paren and Bindu → Jaldapara National Park Budget fare from
per person, twin₹13,500

Nearby

Other stays in Dooars

budget

Mainak Tourism Property (WBTDC) Government lodge · Siliguri (NJP and Bagdogra) ₹2,000–4,500 per room night, indicative budget

Murti Banani Eco-Tourism Centre (WBFDC) Forest lodge · Murti ₹1,500–4,000 per room or tent night, indicative budget

Malangi Lodge, Hasimara (WBFDC) Forest lodge · Chilapata Forest ₹2,000–2,700 per room night plus meals, indicative

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