The Himalayan Foothills: A World Above the Clouds

Although our circuit does not start here, the Himalayan Foothills is a crucial region in this tour. It is blessed with lush green forests and dramatic elevational changes. Here, the Neora Valley National Park and Singalila National Park are our prime destinations. Let us look into the wonders of this terrain.

Neora Valley National Park

Nestled in the Eastern Himalayas, Neora Valley National Park presents an enchanting spectacle. The towering Kanchenjunga range provides a breathtaking backdrop to this pristine wilderness. Here, the elevation ranges from 1,000 meters to a staggering 3,600 meters above sea level, creating distinct biomes.

Wildlife Activity: In this region, you’ll encounter the Red Panda, a master of treetop living. The dense rhododendron forests and bamboo thickets provide the perfect habitat for these elusive creatures. Look up, and you might spot Ward’s Trogon with its vibrant plumage. This is also the realm of Rufous-necked Hornbills, which thrive in the upper reaches of the park.

Singalila National Park

As we ascend further into the Singalila range, we enter a broadleaf montane rainforest habitat, a last refuge for the Red Panda.

Wildlife Activity: Singalila offers the best chance to spot the elusive Red Panda along with Himalayan Black Bears, Clouded Leopards, and a variety of bird species. Don’t forget to admire the diverse flora, including the world’s highest variety of orchids and the fascinating Cobra Lilies.

The Floodplains of Bengal: Where Land Meets Water

Another crucial part of this Bengal Wilderness Circuit would be the sprawling floodplains of Bengal. This is a different world altogether, where the land meets the sea in the Sundarbans, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Let us briefly explore this unique landscape.

Sundarbans

The Sundarbans, covering over 4,000 square kilometers, is the largest tiger reserve and national park in India. This mangrove forest is a maze of waterways, mudflats, and small islands.

Wildlife Activity: The Bengal Tiger rules this watery realm, adapted to the saline and aquatic environment. As you navigate the maze of creeks and tributaries, keep an eye out for masked finfoot, mangrove pittas, and mangrove whistlers. Don’t forget the opportunity to see the elusive Ridley Sea Turtle.

The Grasslands of Dooars: Where Giants Roam

Next up, comes the Dooars region, where the Himalayan foothills transition into vast grasslands and forests.

Gorumara National Park: In the Dooars, Gorumara National Park awaits, a medium-sized park known for its population of Indian one-horned rhinoceros.

Wildlife Activity: Early mornings in Gorumara are magical. As the sun rises, set out on jungle safaris to witness Indian one-horned rhinos, Indian Gaurs, Bengal Floricans, leopards, and tigers. The grasslands offer prime grazing grounds for these magnificent creatures.

The Hills of Mahananda: Where Birds Rule the Skies

Another region we will explore in the Bengal Wilderness Circuit is the Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary, where the terrain ascends from 500 feet to 4,300 feet.

Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary: This sanctuary provides safety to the Indian Bison and Royal Bengal Tiger, both listed as endangered species.

Wildlife Activity: With over 300 bird species, Mahananda is a paradise for birdwatchers. Keep your binoculars ready for sightings of Green Cochoas, Asian Emerald Cuckoos, and Yellow-vented Flowerpeckers. The elusive Yellow-throated Marten might make an appearance if you’re lucky.

Exploring Bengal’s Wilderness

Bengal’s varied terrain, from the Himalayan foothills to the floodplains and grasslands, creates a dynamic ecosystem that supports an incredible range of wildlife. Every landscape offers a unique experience, unveiling the captivating stories of nature’s inhabitants.

Wild Nature Scapes invites you to embark on this extraordinary journey through Bengal’s diverse terrain, where each turn in the path brings you face to face with the magic of the wild. Whether you’re an avid wildlife enthusiast or a first-time adventurer, these landscapes will leave an indelible mark on your heart.

So, gear up and join us to witness the wonders of Bengal’s wildlife activity, shaped by its stunning terrain. Let us together explore the secrets of the Red Panda’s forested realm, follow the trail of Bengal Tigers through watery labyrinths, and marvel at the giants of the grasslands. Then, let the birds of Mahananda serenade you as you immerse yourself in nature’s symphony.

In Bengal, the terrain isn’t just a backdrop; it’s an integral part of the wildlife story. Weathering the terrain is not just about survival; it’s about thriving in some of the most challenging, beautiful, and biodiverse landscapes on Earth.