Jayanti Dooars

Jayanti is a tiny forest village in the Dooars region of West Bengal, where time seems to slow down and nature takes the spotlight. Jayanti is situated deep inside the Buxa Tiger Reserve core area along the Jayanti River, its pebble-strewn banks glinting under the sun.

Jayanti lies in the Alipurduar district of West Bengal, about 30 kilometres from Alipurduar town, nestled at the edge of the Buxa Tiger Reserve. It’s a stone’s throw from the Bhutan border, with the Jayanti River forming a natural boundary between India and the Bhutanese hills. The village is part of the Kumargram block, surrounded by dense forests and rolling hills, making it a perfect base for exploring the eastern Dooars.

How To Reach

Depending on where you are coming from, take the National Highway 31A via Rajabhatkhawa, passing through the Buxa Tiger Reserve. At Rajabhatkhawa, there is a forest check post where you have to enter your details. From here, Jayanti is about a 15 km drive through dense forests.

What to See at Jayanti

Jayanti’s attractions are all about nature’s raw beauty. The Jayanti River, often dry but always stunning with its white pebble beds, is the village’s heart. The Buxa Tiger Reserve, a biodiversity hotspot, is home to elephants, leopards, and over 200 bird species. The historic Buxa Fort, perched at 2600 feet, whispers tales of British-era prisoners and freedom fighters. Nearby, the Pokhri Lake, a sacred pond on Pokhri Hill, is a serene spot where locals and Bhutanese pay homage. The Mahakal Cave, a stalactite wonder near the Bhutan border, draws both pilgrims and adventurers. Every corner of Jayanti feels like a scene from a nature documentary.

There’s no shortage of activities to keep you busy. Jungle safaris by jeep, starting from Jayanti, take you to watchtowers like Bhutia Busty for glimpses of wildlife—think spotted deer or a herd of elephants if you’re lucky. Trekking is a big draw; the 13-kilometre trail from Buxaduar to Jayanti winds through dense forests, while the shorter 4-kilometre hike to Pokhri Hill is perfect for beginners. Birdwatchers will love the Bala Riverbed, a hotspot for peacocks and egrets, though you’ll need to leave before dusk due to leopard activity.

The Dooars region is dotted with nearby attractions. Rajabhatkhawa, 17 kilometres away, is the gateway to Buxa with a Nature Interpretation Centre, reachable in 30 minutes. Raimatang, a forest village 25 kilometres away, offers a thrilling riverbed drive, about 45 minutes by car. Cooch Behar, 70 kilometers away, is a 90-minute drive to its royal palace and heritage charm. Jaldapara Wildlife Sanctuary, 50 kilometres away, is an hour’s drive and a must for rhino spotting. Chilapata Forest, 40 kilometres away, is another 50-minute trip, known for its elephant corridors and ancient ruins. Each spot adds a new layer to your Dooars adventure.