Chilapata Forest is a dense natural forest
near Jaldapara in Dooars. It is about 20 km from Alipurduar
town and is within the Jalpaiguri District. A drive through
the forests is an interesting experience. Sighting of elephants
are almost regular.
The chief attraction at Chilapata is the "Nalraja
Garh" or the fort of the Nal kings. The fort was built during
the Gupta
period in the fifth century, although the fort itself is in
ruins now, it has tremendous archeological importance and reminds
one of the golden age in the history of India. The site is not
maintained very well and wildlife sighting at this place is
not unusual.
The area was infamous for dacoity and local
villagers were blamed for the menace for long. During the past
couple of years efforts of the forest department and police
has brought fruit as the cases of decoity has stopped and tourists
can pass through the forest safely.
The West Bengal Forest Development Corporation
(WBFDC) has opened a eco tourism resort at Kodalbasti next to
the Chilapata forests. Basic accommodation is available at this
place. The place is just a few minutes drive from Hasimara town
and also not very far from the
Malangi Lodge of WBFDC
Chilapata
Gupta
period in the fifth century, although the fort itself is in
ruins now, it has tremendous archeological importance and reminds
one of the golden age in the history of India. The site is not
maintained very well and wildlife sighting at this place is
not unusual.