Jayanti is a small forest village inside the Buxa Tiger Reserve in West Bengal. Located along the banks of Jayanti River, this is the only settlement inside a forest area where you can spot tigers. This is where visitors can enjoy the thrill overnight. The river forms a natural barrier with the Bhutan hills on the other side of the forest. Known popularly as the ‘Queen of Dooars’, the Jayanti village is a pristine place with a wide variety of flora and fauna. Free from the pollution of city life, this vast green zone is bound to take your breath away. Staying in the village within the Buxa Tiger Reserve is a memorable experience for any traveler.
How to Reach Jayanti
If you are traveling by air, then Bagdogra is the only airport in the proximity although it is 195 kilometers from the destination. Alternatively, if you have taken the train, then disembark at Alipurduar station which is only 30 kilometers from Jayanti. You can hire taxis from Alipurduar station to reach Jayanti. Jayanti can also be approached from Cooch Behar and Jaldapara through Rajabhatkhawa. Jayanti can be visited any time of year because of its pleasant weather. However, it is advisable to avoid the monsoons.
Accommodation in Jayanti
Accommodation facilities in Jayanti are basic. You will be able to enjoy your sojourn in the cottages with single and double bedrooms inside the forest area which is exciting. Attached bathrooms with hot water are available 24/7. You can savor the lovely view of the Bhutan hills and the Jayanti River from the windows. The spectacular scenic beauty of the place will leave you asking for more. The owners of the homestays will arrange for guides and permits to explore the forest area and also visit the watchtower to spot animals. The food served is essentially Bengali cuisine and it is delicious.
Attractions & Activities in Jayanti
Apart from exploring the forest and spotting animals like tigers, leopards, peacocks, deer and elephants from the watchtower you can visit the other tourist attractions nearby. The ruins of Buxa Fort are a historical site located at an elevation of 2600 feet. It was built during the British reign in India and used to serve as a prison for the freedom fighters. Later it became a refugee camp area for the Tibetans and Bangladeshis flees to India. There is a lake known as pokhri by the locals close to Pokhri Hill which is a sacred place for the local population. The fun part is that you have to trek to these spots.
The Mahakal temple is a popular religious site for the Hindus located near Bhutan border. It is actually a cave dedicated to Lord Shiva and is also famous for bird watching. Also the Bala River bed is another spot for bird watching. Peacocks are easily spotted in this zone and taking a stroll along the bed will be gratifying. However, tourists are not allowed here at evening because of frequent visit from leopards. You can also visit the Bhutia Basti located 1.5 kilometers from Jayanti. Narthali Lake, Rajabhatkhawa and Santarbari are other tourist spots.
Photo Courtesy: Subhadip Chowdhury, Weekend Destinations, Pranab K De and santanu1977