Overview Neora Valley National Park

Neora Valley National Park, located at Kalimpong, West Bengal, is one of India's finest and least explored wildlife parks. This beautiful green land lies in the Eastern Himalayas and is filled with natural beauty, colorful birds, and steep terrains for thrill seekers. It was developed in 1986; the park is 88 km2, 200 meters and over 3,200 meters above sea level.

Neora Valley has become famous due to its natural vegetation, varied flora and fauna, and lovely scenery. It is one of the best places to conserve rare species, such as the Red Panda. The unspoiled landscape of the park can be a rather unique experience for most tourists who seek solitude and thrill. Whether you are a trekking freak, wildlife shutterbug, or any nature lover, Neora Valley National Park is a spot you would never want to miss.

Flora and Fauna in Neora Valley National Park

Neora Valley is indeed an ecological paradise. Due to the presence of fauna and flora, the park is recognized as one of the essential biodiversity sites in India.

Flora

The vegetation in the park has also been found to the altitude range, producing a special bio-physiography.

• Lower Altitude (200m - 1,500m) – Subtropical forests with bamboo groves and ferns.
• Mid Altitude (1,500m - 2,500m) – Dense temperate forests with Oak, Magnolia, and Rhododendrons.
• Higher Altitude (Above 2,500m) – Alpine vegetation with rare medicinal plants.

Thick vegetation ensures that numerous endangered species have an ideal environment in which to dwell.

Fauna

The park is known to be home to some of India's most endangered animal species.

• Red Panda: The most notable and endangered mammal found here.
• Clouded Leopard: A Big cat that is rare to sight.
• Himalayan Black Bear: Found in dense forest areas.
• Goral and Himalayan Thar – Rare mountain-dwelling species.
• Barking Deer and Sambar Deer – Often found in the open forest areas.

Neora Valley National Park is another perfect location for these creatures, as it is a dense and relatively untouched forest.

Birdwatching in Neora Valley National Park

Neora Valley is a paradise for bird lovers, especially bird watchers. Some are threatened species, and the park provides a habitat for more than 250 birds. Some of the highly demanded bird species include:

• Rufous-necked Hornbill – A majestic and rare bird.
• Satyr Tragopan – A brilliantly colored pheasant species.
• Golden-breasted Fulvetta– A bird unique to the Eastern Himalayas.
• Fire-tailed Myzornis is a beautiful and rare bird mainly found in dense forests.

Nature enthusiasts should visit the park in the period between March and May since there are many migratory birds.

Best Time to Visit Neora Valley National Park

Regarding the time when it is best to visit the park, it all depends on one’s choice:

• Summer (March- June) - It is somewhat warmer throughout the day but relatively dry and ideal for trekking, bird watching, etc.
• Monsoon (July to September) – Good for reaching sites, but it rains heavily, which is unsuitable for trekking.
• Winter (October to February) – Recommended for observing wildlife and stunning sceneries as the Himalayas are covered with snow.

The best time to visit the Neora Valley National Park is from October to April, when the climate is suitable for travel and to increase the chances of viewing wildlife.

Trekking in Neora Valley National Park

Trekking is one of the most preferred and recommended ways of visiting the park. The surreal track routes for trekking in Neora Valley are through the forest land, mountains, and magnificent vantage points.

Popular Trekking Routes:

• Tiffin Dara Trek: This is another short trek where travelers will have a clear view of Kanchenjunga.
• Rachela Pass Trek – The highest point in the park, famous for its biodiversity.
• Alubari Trek – A peaceful trail ideal for nature lovers.

These treks give the tourists a feel of the virgin landscape of the Eastern Himalayas.

How to Reach Neora Valley National Park

To get to Neora Valley, one must travel by air, rail, and road.

• By Air – The nearest airport is Bagdogra, which is about 100 km away from the park. Taxis and shared cabs are available at the airport to move tourists to different destinations within the city.
• By Train – The nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP), about ninety kilometers from Darjeeling. After arriving at NJP, one has several options to reach Lava, including taking a taxi or a bus to Lava or Kolakham.
• By road: Lava is a town located 30 km from Kalimpong. There are usually private cars and taxis that operate frequently on this route.

Lava is the starting point for treks into the Neora Valley National Park; one must cover the distance on foot or by forest department transportation.

Final Thoughts

Unknown to many, Neora Valley National Park is a unique wildlife and bird sanctuary in North Bengal. Due to the presence of tropical forests, wildlife, birdlife, fascinating trails, and scenic viewing points, the park is unique for all. It can be for trekkers, bird lovers, or those who prefer to be alone with nature. Neora Valley National Park shall prove to be the ultimate destination.

So, what are you waiting for? Come and plan your trip today to feel the magic of this unexplored paradise in the Himalayas!