Chalsa – Your Gateway to Gorumara

The road unwinds from Siliguri, and just when the lowland dust gives way to the promise of greener times, Chalsa appears—quietly nestled between tea gardens, river valleys, and the dense emerald world of Dooars forests. It is not loud or flamboyant. And that is precisely why travellers who seek something deeper, something authentic, find their way here.

Where is Chalsa

Chalsa sits at the eastern edge of the Dooars region in West Bengal. It is more than just a dot on the map—it is a strategic confluence, a junction where the wilderness of Gorumara and Chapramari brushes against the sophistication of tea estates and old-world colonial retreats. Just 7 kilometres from Malbazar and around 60 kilometres from NJP Railway Station, Chalsa serves as the natural hub for exploring the eastern Dooars.

The National Highway 17, which connects Siliguri to the Northeast, runs through Chalsa, giving it superb connectivity. The town sits at a crossroads—Samsing is to the north (15 kilometres), Lataguri and Gorumara lie to the south (20 kilometres), and the road east leads to the picturesque Jhalong, Bindu, and Paren area.

Getting to Chalsa

From NJP (New Jalpaiguri) or Bagdogra Airport, you can reach Chalsa in just over an hour via two main routes. The traditional route runs through Sevoke, Oodlabari, and Malbazar along NH17. The alternate and more scenic route is via Gajoldoba, cutting through the Apalchand forests and Teesta Barrage backwaters before connecting with NH17 near Oodlabari. Both routes are beautiful, but the Gajoldoba drive is especially recommended for those who love birding and photography.

If you are planning your travel with NBTT Travel Solution Private Limited, we can help you customise your route based on what you want to experience, even before you reach your destination.

Orientation

At first glance, Chalsa might seem like a sleepy roadside town. But slow down and take in the details.

The Chalsa Crossing is the nerve centre. From here:

• Head south towards Lataguri and you will pass through Tiabon forest, home to groves of sal trees and vibrant flocks of parakeets.

• Towards the north, a zigzag road climbs a small hillock after crossing the rail tracks. Here sits the PWD bungalow, an old British-era structure that still offers lodging, home-style food, and sweeping views of the valley below.

• Chalsa Viewpoint is located slightly uphill from the PWD bungalow and offers a panoramic view of the town, Gorumara National Park, and the distant Himalayan foothills.

To the east, you will find eateries, a petrol pump, and basic shops—useful for travellers heading deeper into the Dooars. To the west lies the railway station and the old market area. Do not miss Mangalbari Hat if you are in Chalsa on a Tuesday—it is a traditional weekly market that showcases the pulse of rural Dooars.

And just beyond the hilltop lies the most luxurious address in the region—Sinclairs Retreat Dooars, a resort with colonial architecture, a swimming pool, garden cottages, and excellent food. If your travel style leans towards comfort without compromising immersion, this is your go-to.

What to See and Do in Chalsa

Chalsa is not about ticking boxes. It is about experiences—long walks through misty tea gardens, sundowners by the Murti River, wildlife safaris in the forests, and conversations with tea pluckers under banyan trees.

Wildlife Adventures

Gorumara National Park is just 12 kilometres south of Chalsa and is one of the most visited wildlife destinations in North Bengal. Known for its grasslands and Asiatic one-horned rhinos, Gorumara is best explored on a jeep safari, preferably early morning or late afternoon.

Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary, barely 8 kilometres away, is a quieter and more pristine stretch of forest. Spot elephants, bison, barking deer, and a wide variety of birds, including peacocks and hornbills. The Khunia Crossing, where several forest roads meet, is ideal for jungle lovers and bird watchers.

If you want a customised safari experience with expert guides and proper permissions, contact NBTT Travel Solution Private Limited at 9733300696. We will take care of every detail.

River Escapes

The Murti River, about 8 kilometres from Chalsa, is more than a picnic spot. In the mornings, mist rises over the stones, and in the evenings, you might find yourself quietly meditating to the river’s rhythms. Ideal for day trips, nature walks, and forest camping.

Scenic Drives and Day Trips

Chalsa is perfectly placed for excursions to:

• Bindu, Jhalong, Paren, and Jaldhaka (32 kilometres): Mountain rivers, Bhutanese borderlands, hydel projects, and chirpy village life.

• Samsing, Suntalekhola, and Rocky Island (15 to 20 kilometres): Adventure trails, suspension bridges, and lush valleys.

• Gajoldoba Birding Wetlands (45 kilometres): Ideal for birders and photographers, especially during the winter migration.

With an experienced tour operator like NBTT Travel Solution, you can blend these experiences into a well-curated itinerary.

Tea Tourism

You cannot visit Chalsa and ignore its tea heritage. The region is surrounded by historic and beautiful estates:

• Chalsa Tea Garden is the closest, with walking trails and plantation workers busy at their craft.

• Aibheel Tea Estate and Sathkaya Tea Garden are scenic and tranquil. With prior permission, plantation tours and tea tasting can be arranged.

Where to Stay

While the town itself is small, the surrounding area has a range of stays, from forest lodges to boutique resorts:

• Sinclair's Retreat Dooars (2 kilometres uphill): Best for comfort travellers looking for a scenic location, private cottages, and modern amenities.

• PWD Bungalow Chalsa: Simple and traditional; book in advance.

• Murti Eco Resorts: On the banks of the Murti River, great for forest lovers.

• Numerous homestays and budget resorts are scattered across Lataguri, Samsing, and the Gorumara area, all within a 15 to 20-minute drive.

NBTT Travel Solution has curated tie-ups with the most reliable stays based on your travel style—whether you want riverside cottages, forest bungalows, or immersive village homes.

When to Visit Chalsa

Chalsa has a classic subtropical climate:

• Winter (November to February): The best time for wildlife spotting and scenic beauty. Crisp air, clear skies, and great visibility.

• Spring (March to April): Blooming tea gardens and birdwatching galore.

• Monsoon (June to September): Lush green, waterfalls, and magical mist, but forest safaris may be restricted.

• Autumn (October): Festive atmosphere and verdant beauty post-rains.

Each season has its charm. If you are unsure when to go, we are here to help plan your perfect trip.

Why Choose NBTT Travel Solution for Your Chalsa Trip

We are not just travel planners. We are rooted in this land, with 23 years of deep local experience across North Bengal and Dooars. Whether you are a solo traveller seeking hidden trails, a couple wanting romantic escapades, or a family looking for a seamless forest holiday, we personalise your journey, end-to-end.

Call us today at 9733300696
We will help you design the perfect Chalsa and Dooars holiday—complete with transport, accommodation, safaris, guides, meals, and moments you will carry forever.

Chalsa is not just a destination. It is the thread that ties the soul of Dooars together. Let us help you discover it, the way it deserves to be seen.