KathamBari Forest

Kathambari Forest is a secret, whispered by the wind and revealed only to those who seek the soul of nature. The morning air here smells of damp earth and wildflowers, while the silence of the forest is broken only by birdsong and the rustle of unseen creatures in the undergrowth. A short journey from the buzz of the city life of Siliguri, Kathambari is where nature slows time down and lets you breathe again. If you’ve ever dreamt of walking through sun-dappled jungle paths or sipping tea while watching elephants graze in the distance, this is your place.

Kathambari is part of the western Dooars landscape in northern West Bengal, nestled between the mighty river Teesta to its West and the famous tea gardens of Dooars on its three sides. Kathambari is part of the Apalchand forests, which are again part of the bigger Baikunthapur forests. Kathambari and Apalchand are not just forests — it’s a bio-rich habitat of moist deciduous trees, bamboo groves, and wide grasslands that make up part of the Eastern Himalayan foothills. This area is an important ecological corridor for wildlife movement, home to elephants, gaurs, leopards, and countless birds. Kathambari is surrounded by tea gardens and tribal settlements, giving it a quiet charm that is both wild and welcoming.

How to Reach

Kathambari is easily accessible by road from Siliguri. It is just across the famous Gajaldoba Teesta barrage, and from NJP it is about 32 km away. From Bagdogra, the distance would be about 47 km. The last stretch of the road meanders through village paths and forest checkposts, so it’s best approached during daylight hours.

Tourist Attractions

Kathambari itself is the attraction — a living, breathing forest where every turn may surprise you with a sudden glimpse of wildlife or a mist-covered trail. Nearby, the Bania River flows quietly along the edge of the forest, its banks ideal for a restful afternoon or a picnic with a view. The Kathambari Watchtower offers a vantage point for spotting animals in the open grasslands, especially in the early morning or at dusk. The Gajaldoba and its adjacent tourism project, Bhorer Alo, are quite near. Tourists can engage in activities such as boating, birding or simply enjoy the roadside eateries at Gajaldoba.

Things to Do (Experiences & Activities)

This is the kind of place where you don't need an itinerary — the forest writes one for you. Early morning jungle walks with trained local guides take you deep into the heart of the forest. Birdwatching is a year-round joy, with sightings of hornbills, drongos, and the elusive racket-tailed drongo. Seasonal rivers invite lazy afternoons of riverside picnics or barefoot walks on pebbled shores. Come winter, the area turns into a birding paradise, while the monsoon paints everything a surreal green, perfect for moody landscape photography. Tea garden trails, cultural visits to local tribal hamlets, and even elephant corridor explorations add richness to your stay.

Nearby Attractions & Day Trips

Just 18 kilometres away lies the famed Lataguri resort town of Gorumara National Park, known for its thriving population of one-horned Rhinoceroses and Elephants. A safari here complements your forest walks in Kathambari beautifully.

Weather and Best Time to Visit

Kathambari has a typical subtropical climate. The winter months from November to February are ideal — dry, cool, and perfect for wildlife sightings. Spring (March–April) brings blooming flowers and forest freshness, while the monsoon (June to September) cloaks the landscape in dramatic greens, though forest access may be limited due to rain. Avoid the peak summer months (May–early June) unless you’re a true heat-tolerant adventurer.

Accommodation Options

In and around Kathambari, options are limited but charming. You can choose from eco-friendly jungle lodges, rustic forest bungalows, or community-run homestays that offer clean rooms, home-cooked meals, and local stories. There is a forest Bungalow at Kathambari itself. Gajaldoba, about 4 km away, has both private and government accommodations. Lataguri, about 18 km away, has dozens of tourist resorts. For bookings, contact NBTT Travel Solution Private Limited at 9733000592, 9733000593, or 9733000594. Their local expertise ensures you get the most suitable and safe stay options.