NEORA VALLEY NATIONAL PARK

Neora Valley National Park is an old and biodiverse national park located in the Kalimpong district of West Bengal, India. It is known for its green forests, rich wildlife, and scenic views.
 
Geography and Climate:
  • Location: The park is located in the Eastern Himalayas, covering parts of Kalimpong district and bordering the state of Sikkim.
  • Area: It is spread over an area of ​​about 88 square kilometers.
  • Altitude: The elevation of the park ranges from 183 meters (600 feet) to 3,200 meters (10,500 feet).
  • Climate: The Neora Valley has a varied climate from subtropical to alpine, with heavy monsoons from June to September.

Where is it located?

Flora and fauna

  • Flora: The park is home to bamboo, rhododendron, oak, and a variety of ferns and orchids. It is one of the last virgin forests in the region.
  • Fauna: The Neora Valley is home to endangered wildlife, including the endangered red panda, Himalayan black bear, clouded leopard, and several species of deer. The park is a birdwatcher’s paradise, home to more than 265 species of birds.
neora valley national park

Trails and Trekking

  • Trekking Routes: The park has several trekking routes that take you through dense forests, and scenic landscapes. Popular trekking routes are Rachela Pass, Alubari, and Rachela Danda Viewpoint.
  • Nature Walks: For those who prefer short hikes, there are many nature walks that offer an opportunity to observe the park’s flora and fauna up close.
  • Rachella Pass: This is the highest point of the park, at about 3,200 meters, from which you can get a panoramic view of the Kanchenjunga range and the Sikkim range.
  • Waterfalls and Streams: The park is dotted with numerous waterfalls and streams, which add to its natural beauty. Changey Water Falls is now a famous waterfall.

Access and accommodation

  • How to reach: The nearest town is Kalimpong, from where you can hire a car to reach Lava, the park entrance. The nearest airport is Bagdogra, and the nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri (NJP).
  • Accommodation: There are several accommodation options around Lava and Kolakham, including lodges, guest houses, and homestays. The park also has camping sites for trekkers.
neora valley forest

conservation efforts

  • Eco-tourism: The park encourages eco-tourism to ensure sustainability and minimal impact on the natural environment.
  • Protection of Endangered Species: Various initiatives have been taken to protect the habitats of endangered species like the Red Panda and Himalayan Black Bear and monitor their populations.
neora valley jangal safari gate
  • Neora Valley National Park is an ideal place for nature lovers, trekkers, and bird watchers.

FAQ

  • What is the highest peak in Neora Valley National Park?

    The highest peak in the Neora Valley National Park is Rachella Pass, which stands at an elevation of about 3,152 meters (10,341 ft). Rachella Pass is located at the tri-junction of the borders of West Bengal, Sikkim and Bhutan and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape including the Himalayan mountains.

  • Which river passes through Neora Valley National Park?

    The Neora River is the primary river that passes through Neora Valley National Park.

  • Neora Valley National Park in which district?

    Neora Valley National Park is located in the Kalimpong district of West Bengal, India.

  • Neora Valley National Park is famous for which animal?

    Neora Valley National Park is particularly famous for the red panda, which is one of the park's key attractions.