Bengal Safari

Bengal Safari is a popular wildlife park located on the outskirts of Siliguri, in the Indian state of West Bengal. It is officially known as the Bengal Safari Park or Bengal Safari: North Bengal Wild Animals Park. This park is a part of the Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary and was developed to promote eco-tourism and wildlife awareness in North Bengal. The park is managed by the West Bengal Forest Department and attracts thousands of visitors each year, including tourists, families, nature lovers, and school groups.

Location and How to Reach

Bengal Safari is located approximately 8 kilometers from Siliguri town, near the New Jalpaiguri (NJP) railway station and Bagdogra Airport. It is well connected by roads, and one can easily reach the park by car, taxi, or auto-rickshaw. From NJP station, it takes around 30 to 40 minutes to reach Bengal Safari by road. For tourists traveling from Darjeeling, Kalimpong, or Gangtok, the safari park is a perfect short stop during their journey through Siliguri.

History and Development

The idea of Bengal Safari began with the goal of conserving local wildlife and creating awareness among the public. It was inaugurated in 2016 and soon became a popular tourist destination in North Bengal. The park is spread across a large area of natural forest and open spaces, where animals can live in near-natural habitats. Over the years, new animals and safari options have been added to make it more interesting and educational.

Safari Options Available

Bengal Safari offers different types of safaris where visitors can enjoy close-up views of animals in their natural surroundings. Each safari is done in a secure, caged vehicle under the guidance of trained staff.

1. Herbivore Safari: In this safari, visitors can see animals like spotted deer, sambar deer, barking deer, and Indian gaurs. These herbivores live in open forested areas and can be seen grazing or resting in groups.

2. Tiger Safari: The tiger safari is one of the most exciting parts of the park. Here, visitors can see the majestic Royal Bengal Tigers roaming freely inside a large enclosure. The tigers are often seen resting under trees or walking around, offering a thrilling experience.

3. Leopard Safari: This safari lets you see the elusive and beautiful leopards. Though shy by nature, leopards can sometimes be spotted climbing trees or lying on rocks inside their enclosure.

4. Bear Safari: The Himalayan black bears are part of the bear safari. These bears are playful and often seen near the water or exploring their territory.

5. Combined Safari: Some visitors choose the combined safari that includes all major animals – tiger, leopard, bear, and herbivores – in a single trip. This is suitable for those who want to enjoy the full experience in one go.

Other Attractions Inside the Park

Apart from safaris, Bengal Safari also has a range of other attractions that make the visit enjoyable for both kids and adults.

• Aviary: The park has a beautiful aviary where visitors can see different species of colorful birds, such as parrots, pheasants, peacocks, and more. This area is peaceful and perfect for bird lovers.

• Reptile House: Here, visitors can learn about snakes, lizards, and turtles. Some of the snakes are kept in glass enclosures for safety. The reptile house is educational and suitable for students.

• Fishing Cat Enclosure: Fishing cats are small wild cats that are native to the region. They are good swimmers and are part of the park’s conservation efforts.

• Hog Deer and Wild Boars: These smaller wild animals can be seen in separate enclosures. They are native to the forests of Bengal and are interesting to observe.

• Nature Trails and Walkways: For those who enjoy walking, the park has well-maintained paths through forested areas where one can enjoy the greenery, fresh air, and bird songs.

Boating Facility

The park also has a small lake where visitors can enjoy paddle boating. The boating area is calm and scenic, offering a relaxing break after the safaris. It is a favorite activity for families and couples.

Children’s Park and Play Area

There is a dedicated play zone for children inside Bengal Safari. It includes swings, slides, and other play equipment. While parents relax or enjoy the nearby snacks stalls, kids can have fun in the play area.

Cafeteria and Refreshment Options

The park has a clean and hygienic cafeteria where visitors can enjoy tea, coffee, cold drinks, snacks, and meals. Local Bengali food items, South Indian dishes, and fast food are available. The seating area is shaded and offers a good resting spot during the visit.

Eco-Tourism and Education

Bengal Safari promotes eco-tourism and wildlife education. It is not just an entertainment zone but also a learning center for young students and wildlife enthusiasts. The park organizes educational programs, awareness campaigns, and guided tours to help people understand the importance of forest conservation, biodiversity, and animal protection.

Animal Care and Conservation

All animals in Bengal Safari are well cared for. The staff includes trained veterinarians, animal keepers, and forest officers who ensure the animals are healthy and comfortable. The park follows ethical practices and plays an active role in conservation efforts for endangered species like tigers and leopards. The environment inside the enclosures is kept as natural as possible.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Bengal Safari is from October to March, during the winter season. The weather is pleasant, animals are more active, and safaris are more enjoyable. During summer months, safaris still operate, but the heat can be uncomfortable. The park remains closed during heavy rains or on certain public holidays, so checking the timing before visiting is a good idea.

Entry Fees and Ticket Information

Bengal Safari has a reasonable entry fee for Indian and foreign tourists. The safari tickets are charged separately depending on the type of safari. There are discounted rates for children, students, and senior citizens. Tickets can be bought at the counter or booked online through the official website of Bengal Safari.

Tips for Visitors

It is recommended to reach the park early in the day to avoid long queues, especially on weekends and holidays. Wearing comfortable clothes, carrying water, and keeping a camera or binoculars can make the visit more enjoyable. Visitors are not allowed to feed or disturb the animals. Following park rules helps maintain the safety of both humans and animals.

Nearby Attractions

Tourists visiting Bengal Safari can also explore nearby places such as Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary, Sukna, ISKCON Temple Siliguri, North Bengal Science Center, and the Hong Kong Market. Many tourists include Bengal Safari as part of their Darjeeling or Sikkim travel itinerary since Siliguri acts as a gateway to these hill stations.