Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary is a wildlife haven situated in the Jalpaiguri district of West Bengal, India. It is closely associated with the Gorumara National Park and together, they form an extensive contiguous habitat for a wide array of flora and fauna. The sanctuary is renowned for its population of Asian elephants and Indian bison (gaur), along with various species of reptiles, birds, and other mammals.
Tourism at Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary can be traced back to the colonial times when the British used the forests for timber and as a hunting ground. However, with independence and the rise of wildlife conservation efforts, the forest was accorded the status of a wildlife reserve in 1969, which paved the way for regulated tourism centered around wildlife watching and nature experiences.
Over the years, the sanctuary has become a prominent spot for ecotourism, attracting both domestic and international tourists. This shift has been crucial in the sanctuary's conservation efforts, providing economic benefits to the local communities and fostering a culture of wildlife protection amongst the locals and tourists alike.
The sanctuary offers various attractions such as watching towers for a close view of the wildlife, safaris, which provide visitors with the opportunity to witness animals in their natural habitat. Bird watching is also a popular activity, with several exotic species found here due to the sanctuary's diverse ecosystem.
Lately, sustainable and responsible tourism practices are being embraced more fervently, with an emphasis on minimizing human impact on the environment. The sanctuary management has been working towards improving eco-friendly infrastructure, thereby ensuring that tourism activities do not disturb the wildlife or deplete the natural resources.
Additionally, with the advent of social media and digital marketing, Chapramari has witnessed increased visibility which, in turn, has led to a surge in its popularity among those seeking off-the-beaten-path nature and wildlife experiences.
Travellers interested in visiting the sanctuary should plan their trips keeping in mind the monsoon season, as the sanctuary remains closed to visitors during this time due to safety concerns. The best time to visit Chapramari is from October to March when the weather is conducive to wildlife spotting.
Note: It is important for visitors to follow the guidelines set by the sanctuary authorities to ensure a safe and responsible exploration of Chapramari's diverse ecosystem.
