Malbazar

Surrounded by lush tea gardens and nestled beside the gentle Mal River, Malbazar is a key town in the Eastern Dooars region of North Bengal. Located in the Jalpaiguri district, Malbazar may not be a tourist attraction by itself, but it serves as an excellent base for travellers exploring Gorumara National Park, Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary, Samsing, Jhalong-Bindu, and the Kalimpong hills.

From colonial-era tea estates to multicultural neighbourhoods, Malbazar offers an authentic Dooars experience without the crowds of touristy hubs.

Orientation and Local Character

Once a modest trading centre for nearby tea gardens, Malbazar grew rapidly post-Independence, especially with the arrival of refugees from East Pakistan (now Bangladesh). Today, it is a bustling urban hub with commercial, educational, and administrative significance in the Dooars.

The Mal River flows along the town’s eastern edge, while the National Highway (NH 12 / Asian Highway AH48) runs across its northern boundary. The heart of the town lies around Subhash More, Caltex More, and the Station Road, where you’ll find shops, eateries, banks, and essential services.

The New Mal Junction, the main railhead, is located about 4 km away from the town centre, offering excellent rail connectivity to Siliguri, Kolkata, and Alipurduar.

People and Culture

Malbazar is a true melting pot of cultures. With a population of around 30,000, the town is home to:

• Bengalis, many of whom trace their roots to Bangladesh

• Nepali and Gorkha communities

• Adivasis and tribal groups, many of whom work in nearby tea estates

• Rajbanshis / Coach community, with deep historical ties to the region

Despite this cultural diversity, Malbazar is known for its religious harmony:

• Hindu temples like NBS Kalimandir and Hanuman Mandir

• Christian churches, including St. John Paul’s Catholic Church, Living Hope Church, and The Light Church

• Three mosques for the Muslim community

• A Buddhist temple for the town’s Buddhist residents

The town celebrates Durga Puja, Christmas, and local tribal festivals with equal enthusiasm.

Mal River – The Town’s Lifeline

The Mal River defines the eastern edge of the town and plays an essential role in its daily life and landscape. A tributary of the Neora River, this small stream can be crossed on foot for most of the year. However, during the monsoons or sudden upstream rainfall, it may turn dangerous and has been the site of tragic flash floods, such as the 2022 Durga idol immersion incident, when several people from the town lost their lives in a flash flood.

The river also serves as a quiet retreat for locals and photographers, especially during sunset.

Attractions in Malbazar

While the town itself isn’t packed with tourist attractions, it offers a couple of spots for short visits:

Mal Udyan (Malbazar Park)

A green recreational zone maintained by the West Bengal Forest Department, perfect for a stroll or relaxing with family. It’s especially popular among locals in the evening.

Malbazar Tourist Lodge (WBTDC)

Adjacent to the park, this government-run property is a landmark for travellers and a useful base for exploring the region. Safari bookings, travel consultations, and local cuisine are often available here.

Places to Visit Around Malbazar

Malbazar’s central location on the National Highway makes it a perfect launchpad for excursions:

These locations are easily accessible by booking a travel package through NBTT.

Accommodation in Malbazar

While not a resort town, Malbazar has basic to mid-range accommodation options suitable for a stopover or as a base for day tours.

Recommended Stays:

• Malbazar Tourist Lodge (WBTDC)
  Once renowned for its hospitality, it still offers clean rooms, helpful staff, and a great location near the town centre and bus stand.

• Udichi Guest House
  A simple yet functional stay maintained by Malbazar Municipality, ideal for budget travellers.

• Private hotels and small guesthouses
  Several new accommodations have emerged around Barodighi–Tesimla, a quieter zone south of town with forest views.

Need help choosing your stay? Contact NBTT Travel Solution Pvt Ltd at 9733000592 / 593 / 594 for personalised recommendations based on your travel style and budget.

Getting to Malbazar

Malbazar is well-connected by road and rail, and getting here is straightforward from major transit points:

• By Road:

  • From Siliguri: 57 km / 1.5 hours via NH 12 / Asian Highway AH48

  • From Jalpaiguri: 65 km / 1.5 hours
    The highway has been recently upgraded, making for a comfortable drive.

• By Rail:

  • New Mal Junction (NMZ) is the primary rail station, 4 km from town.
    Most long-distance trains, including those from Sealdah, Howrah, Guwahati, and Delhi, stop here.

  • Malbazar station (closer to the town) handles only local trains.

NBTT Travel Solution Pvt Ltd offers pickup and drop services from both rail stations, as well as vehicle hire for sightseeing and transfers.

Why Base Your Dooars Tour in Malbazar?

Well-connected by both highway and rail
Budget-friendly accommodations
Access to forest safaris and hill treks
Authentic local culture and cuisine
Proximity to unexplored and offbeat destinations

Malbazar combines convenience with authenticity, making it an ideal starting point or overnight halt for your Dooars exploration.

Travel Assistance & Bookings

Want to explore the best of Eastern Dooars without the stress of planning?

NBTT Travel Solution Pvt Ltd offers:

• Customised tour packages from Malbazar

• Car rentals with knowledgeable drivers

• Jungle safari bookings (Gorumara, Chapramari)

• Hotel and lodge reservations

• Day trips to Samsing, Jhalong, Bhutan border, and more

Call our travel consultants at 9733000592 / 593 / 594
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