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Image by Parichay Sen, Unsplash Assam the land of “Blue hills and Red rivers” is situated in the north-eastern part of India. It's a stunning place with beautiful landscapes. Assam is surrounded by several hills and major rivers like the Brahmaputra and Barak. This beautiful state is famous for its tea gardens, one-horned rhino, scenic beauty, diverse cultures, and the gorgeous Assam silks & Mekhla chadors. I have been lucky enough to visit this magnificent place more than once. I made my first trip to Assam in the year of 2013. There are several trains and flights available to Guwahati from Kolkata. We booked the tickets for Saraighat express, and our booking was confirmed on a 3-tier compartment from Kolkata station. We started our journey in the evening. Generally, it takes almost 18 hours to reach Guwahati from Kolkata. Though our train was a little late, the journey was quite comfortable. After crossing Siliguri the landscape and backdrop changed dramatically. It was all green and hills. It was almost like I am suddenly going through my old drawings copy. I have always loved mountains and this was my very first experience of mountains. Hills and mountains have their charms; you can't resist yourself to fall in love with them. After all the admiring, finally, we arrived at Guwahati station on the next day, afternoon and reached our destination by the evening. Though we had stayed at my brother’s place, as he at that time was posted there. Guwahati is a busy city with all the hustle-bustle. For the first time, I heard the Assamese language. Apart from a few differences, it's quite similar to Bengali. I don’t know the exact reason, but Assam felt like home. It was all comfortable and warm. Maybe it was my love for hills. Image by Santanu Misra, Unsplash Kamakhya Temple Assam is full of amazing places and the most famous one is the Kamakhya Mandir. This temple is one of the most famous pilgrimage sites in India. Devotees from all over the country come here for the "Darshan” of Maa Kmakhya. There are many engaging stories behind this Shakti Peeth. It is believed that during the time of “Ambabuchi", a stream of red-coloured water flows from an unknown source inside the temple. Thousands of devotees come here during that time. People believed it was the pure blood of Maa Kamakhya, as the Devi goes through her menstruation. Located on the top of Nilachal hill, this place is the oldest centre of Tantric practices. On my second trip to Assam, we just came for the ‘Darshan’ of Maa Kamakhya. During this visit, we went to the "Garbhagriha” of the temple. The experience was fascinating. After taking a few steps under the temple in the absolute darkness you'll find the "Shila murti”. Only a small Diya is there and the whole place is dark as night. A strange stream of water flows here. This whole ambience would give you chills. You would be able to feel the intense energy of this place. The only thing that gave me the pain was seeing those goats, waiting for death. This tradition of animal sacrifice is heartbreaking. Mayong Village Apart from Kamakhya Temple, there is a village in Assam named Mayong. It is known for being the ancient centre of Tantra kriya. Its located on the bank of the River Brahmaputra and is only 40 km away from Guwahati. This place is famous for its history. In fact, in Mahabharata, this village has been mentioned. It is believed that in ancient times, Tantrics used to perform “Narabalis” ( human sacrifices ) here. Many mysterious stories are heard about this place. Mayong is still known as "the land of black magic and witchcraft". After the Kamakhya temple, we visited another temple of Tirupathi Balaji. The temple is situated in Guwahati near the District Transport office. This temple is located over a large area and has amazing architecture. It's noticeably clean and very aesthetically decorated. Another engaging place in Guwahati is the Assam State Zoo and Botanical Garden. This place is located within the Hengrabari Reserved Forest. The zoo is spread across 432 acres of land. It has more than 800 animals and over 100 species of animals and birds. it’s a good place to spend your whole day. Time will flow effortlessly if you cover the whole zoo. Well, Assam holds many more mesmerising assets for you. The visual beauty of Assam is magnificent. The tea gardens, the Brahmaputra river and the hills have created some sort of magic here. My Kaziranga Tour The next place that we visited is the world-famous wildlife destination, the Kaziranga National Park, the home of one-horned Rhinos. By car, this place takes more than 3 hours to reach from Guwahati. So, it took almost a whole day. Kaziranga National Park is declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This place is home to so many magnificent animals like elephants, Bengal tiger, one-horned rhino, swamp deer, wild water buffalos and lots of birds. This park is also declared a Tiger Reserve. Kaziranga is not only a tourist spot but also hugely important for our environment. There are many more tourist attractions in Kaziranga. Many tour packages are available. It's best to stay there for a few days to get the proper feel of this place. Sadly we had to return, as the next we were about to visit Shillong. The journey from Guwahati to Shillong takes almost 2:30 hours by car. Though many trains are available, we travelled by car. It was a little expensive but the beauty of the journey was nothing in front of it. Here is a warning, if you’re a person who’s not comfortable with hilly roads then go for trains. These stunning roads that go upwards through the hills and greens are the best part of the journey. Shilling is a beautiful city, full of life. We stayed here for one night and two days. We only managed to visit the Shillong Peak and Elephant Falls. Shilling peak is a beautiful place. The view from here, the road that took us there and the cold breeze; seemed like a dreamy destination. We sat there for a long time and enjoyed hot tea and Maggie noodles. After a while, we went to see the Elephant falls. It was my first time witnessing a waterfall. I can never forget that sound of water, my mind can play it forever. It was so beautiful that my word can not do justice. I sat in front of it for almost one hour, but still, it was not enough. On both my trips I got very little time to spend in Assam. There are many places I didn't get the chance to visit but whatever I saw is very much cherishable. I can still feel the dark path that led us towards the ‘Bigraha’ of Maa Kamakhya and still get goosebumps. The chilling breeze and raindrops of Shillong peak still touch my face. Assam holds a fond part of my memory. Such memories never die. Debjani Dasgupta Debjani is a writer and travel blogger. She loves to explore relatively unexplored destinations, and share those stories with people. She cares for animals and spend her time with books.

Wildlife Image by Lakshmi Narasimha, Unsplash Ranthambore national park, also known as the Land of Tigers, is one of the most prominent destinations for wildlife safaris in India. With its diverse species of plants and animals, exploring this park is on the top list of nature enthusiasts. Ranthambore Tiger Reserve is also very famous for its high probability of seeing the Royal Bengal Tiger in action! Safari Zones of Ranthambore national park Popular Tourist Spots of Ranthambore national park Jungle Safari Planning of Ranthambore national park Best Time to Visit of Ranthambore national park How to Reach of Ranthambore national park The Ranthambore National Park is a popular wildlife tourist destination which attracts wildlife photojournalists and videographers. Situated in the Sawai Madhopur district of southeast Rajasthan, the park is considered among North India's best and largest national parks. It is about 130 kilometres from Jaipur and is sited at the confluence of the Vindhya and Aravalli mountain ranges. It is one of the best places to see wild animals, particularly because they get used to safari vehicles here. In 1973, it was designated as a project for Tiger reserves in India. It was finally on 1st November 1980 when the Ranthambore National Park was officially established, with the adjacent northern forested area titled the Kela Devi Sanctuary in the year 1983. Correspondingly, Sawai Mansingh Sanctuary was founded on the southern side in 1984. Ranthambore National Park is regarded as one of the best places to see the mighty and magnificent Royal Bengal Tiger. Hundreds of tiger enthusiasts from throughout the globe travel here every year to experience wildlife safari. In addition to the tigers, you can see many other animals, such as sloth bears, spotted deers, crocodiles, leopards, eagles, vultures, jackals, wolves, foxes, hyenas, mongooses etc. With its steep mountainous terrain, the Ranthambore National Park's greenery is a tropical thorn and dry deciduous. This reserve has various water sources. Water flows from narrow valleys as well as three lakes named Malik, Padam, and Raj Bagh Talab. Padam Talao is the widest of them all, and the red sandstone Jogi Mahal is at the very edge of this lake. A massive banyan tree, which happens to be the 2nd biggest in India, is located near this lake. Overall, with more than 40 mammal species, 40 reptile species, 50 butterfly species, 320 species of birds, and approximately 300 plant species. While tourists and nature lovers appreciate the beautiful scenery, historians are mainly attracted to the remains of the fort of Ranthambore. The valleys have witnessed many historical wars. Ruins of abandoned settlements that have been overrun by natural disasters are also worth a visit. The park also attracts religious worshipers or travellers to the temple and other religious shrines seen on the premises. Ranthambore Safari Zones Ranthambore National Park has a total of ten safari zones, i.e. Zone 1 to 10. Originally, the park had only five zones. The other five were added since it gained popularity. Due to the types of habitat, Zones 1, Zone 2, Zone 3, Zone 4 and Zone 5 have the best chances of tiger sightings. The popular forts, on the other hand, fall under zone 3 and zone 5. All the zones are equally attractive and full of wildlife and beautiful jungle scapes. Safari prices vary from zone to zone and can certainly be denied on occasions where there are fewer available slots. New restrictions for full-day and half-day safaris in Ranthambore National Park have been implemented by the Forest Department and were in effect from October 1, 2019. As a result of the new rules, visitors on full-day and half-day safaris will henceforth be limited to travelling in Ranthambore's safari zones 1 to 5 for three and a half hours during the normal safari time, rest of the time they need to explore zones 6 to 10. Please note tiger sighting is not the only attraction of wildlife safari. Enjoy the wilderness of the jungle, other animals and numerous birds. Tiger sightings depend on many factors including luck, hence you should treat tiger sighting as an added achievement only. Only focusing on tigers will definitely reduce your overall jungle experience. Tigers are free and masters of their own will. Tigers have their territory and this territory may include parts of multiple zones, below we have tried to provide you with an idea but you can see many more youngsters in these zones. Image by Vishal Daryani, Unsplash Zone 1 of Ranthambore National Park This is a buffer zone and is known for many famous tigers including Sultan (T-72), and Ustad (T-24). What makes it popular is the T-39 (Noor) and her cubs, who were the show stopper during 2016 and 2017. The main entry gate is titled the Singh Dwar. Zone 2 of Ranthambore National Park Perhaps one of the best zone for tiger sighting. T-24 (Ustad), T-72 (Sultan), T-20 (Jhumru), T-19 (Krishna), and occasionally the Noor (T-39) have all been seen in this area. Phuta Bandha, Jogi Mahal, Nal Ghati, Phuta Kot, and Lahpur Tiraha, are popular spots where chances of sightings are very high. Zone 3 of Ranthambore National Park Apart from wildlife this zone is also very popular for its architectural marvels and landscapes. The Padam Talab, High Point, Mandook, Jogi Mahal, and Raj Bagh Ruins, are some such examples. Popular tigers, including T-19 (Krishna) and T-28 (Sitara), made this zone vibrant. Image by Avik Chakraborty, Unsplash Zone 4 of Ranthambore National Park This zone is the world-famous for Machli, the most photographed tiger in the world. Perhaps she made Ranthambore National Park famous among the photographer community. Berda, Lambi, Lakkad Da, Malik Talab, Tamakhan, and Singh Dwar are some of the common sighting locations. Popular tigers seen at this zone are T-19, T-25, T-28, T-41, T-64, T-75. Zone 5 of Ranthambore National Park This zone shares its tigers with zone 4. Tiger spotting such as the T-17, T-25, T-28, T-74, and T-75. Zone 6 of Ranthambore National Park This zone has large meadows, where you can enjoy gazing at animals in the backdrop of mountains. Since Zone 6 and Zone 1 have the same boundaries, you can see zone 1 tigers in this zone also. It's also very popular among birders. Zone 7 of Ranthambore National Park There are fewer points in this zone than in the rest of the zones. This area has fewer chances of tigers spotting. However, in the past tigers such as T-8 and T-34 have been occasionally sighted. Zone 8 of Ranthambore National Park Similar to Zone 7, the T-8 and T-34 tigers are spotted in this zone as well. The prominent spotting locations are Balas, Bhat, Kherai, Kali, Mahakho, and Neemli Dang. Zone 9 of Ranthambore National Park This area is situated on the banks of the Chakal River. Tourists will be able to see aquatic birds, and sloth bears. Tiger Fateh, the aggressive male tiger known for chasing and bear killing, is from this zone. Zone 10 of Ranthambore National Park There are a few attractive waterbodies and mountainous paths in Zone 10, which have only recently been added to the safari route. Many tigers have been spotted in this area over the years including T-43, T-13, and their pups. Travellers can catch a glimpse of the T-42 (Fateh) while they are in this area. Image by Lakshmi Narasimha, Unsplash Popular Tourist Spots of Ranthambore National Park Ranthambore Fort The 10th century Ranthambore Fort is among the oldest forts in India. It is also designated as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO for its rich historical relevance. This gigantic fort, situated in the middle of the jungle, is 13 kilometres from the Sawai Madhopur train station. It was established in 944 AD by the Chauhan Rajputs and has thus witnessed Rajasthan's long and rich history. Before India got Independence in 1947, the fort had been under the control of the Maharaja of Jaipur. It was the pinnacle of the acts of bravery and glory of the Rajput monarchs of the different dynasties. Trinrtra Ganesha Temple of Ranthambore National Park The Trinrtra Ganesha temple, which is near the entrance gate to the Ranthambore Fort, has been popular among pilgrims. This special temple happens to be the only holy place of worship for the idol of Trinetra Ganesha along with his wives, Riddhi and Siddhi. Kachida Valley of Ranthambore National Park The Kachida Valley, situated on the outskirts of the tiger reserve area, is a must-see for wildlife enthusiasts due to its leopards, bears, and other wild animals. It also has a distinct and captivating scenery with steep, small valleys, low hills, ravines, and water bodies. This stunning yet peaceful environment transforms this area into an authentic wilderness. Jogi Mahal of Ranthambore National Park The Jogi Mahal is a palace located on the bank of the famous Padam Lake in the park. It is an incredible location for architecture enthusiasts. Bakula Area of Ranthambore National Park The Bakula area, which has a breathtaking landscape enclosed with thick vegetation, is regarded as the best location for watching tigers in the Ranthambore forest. Due to the densely thick jungle as well as the availability of water from countless ponds, lakes, streams, and rivers, the place is a haven for wild animals and wildlife lovers. Tiger sightings are fairly common in this region, and visitors are frequently treated to the glimpse of a restful sleeping, sitting or moving tiger or tigress or even their cubs! Jungle Safari Plannings & Reservations The Ranthambore National Park gives an extraordinary experience of Sightseeing and Wildlife Safari in India. The park attracts a large number of both Indian as well as foreign tourists. An online website-based reservation for Jungle Safari Booking can be made for the Ranthambore Tiger Reserve. Advance booking start 90 days in advance. Best Time to Visit Ranthambore National Park Ranthambore National Park is mainly open from the 1st October to 30th June for wildlife safari. The winter season is regarded as the best moment to tour the park due to the lovely weather conditions, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 30°C. As a result, the months of October to March are the ideal time to visit this park. Throughout this time of year, animals are seen basking in the sun in broad daylight. During months from April to June, the park experiences the heat of the summer season with temperatures reaching 40°C. While April is still pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 30 to 35°C. The months of May to June are intolerably humid. But, there is a greater chance of seeing tigers and other animals that must regularly visit water sources to escape from the summer heat. The thing that must be noted is that during the rainy season, which happens from July to September, most areas of Ranthambore National Park are closed to tourists. So, it is preferable not to visit the park during monsoon times. How to Reach Ranthambore National Park Roadway You can either drive yourself or take a bus to get to the Ranthambore National Park. Road networks connect Ranthambore to Jaipur, Udaipur, and Kota. So, travel from any part of the country, you will have no trouble reaching Ranthambore Park. Railway The closest rail station is Sawai Madhopur Railway Station, about 11 kilometres from the park. The station is a popular tourist destination with regular trains from major Indian cities such as Jaipur, Delhi, and Mumbai. You can either book a taxi or take the public bus to get from the station to the national park. Airway The closest airport is the Jaipur International Airport. It is about 160 kilometres away from the Ranthambore National Park. There are numerous domestic and international airlines linking Jaipur to different parts of India and overseas. To finally reach the Ranthambore National Park, you can easily get a taxi or bus from the Jaipur airport.

Wildlife Image by Unknown Traveller, Unsplash Gir National Park, also known as Sasan Gir, is the only wildlife sanctuary left in the world where the endangered Asiatic lions can be seen. In fact, Gir Sasan Park is the only place other than African Savanna where you can see majestic lions, freely roaming around in their natural habitat. Gir National Park has a diverse variety of wildlife, and plants, along with some notable tourist spots. Wildlife of Gir National Park Lion Safari Zones of Gir National Park Popular Tourist Spots of Gir National Park Reservations of Gir National Park Best Time to Visit Gir National Park How to Reach Gir National Park On September 18, 1965, the Government officially announced the vast 259 square kilometres of the land of Sasan Gir as a "National Sanctuary". The park encompasses a total of 1,412 sq km area of hilly, forested, dry heathland located near the coast of Gujarat. It's situated midway between Veraval and Junagadh. Sasan Gir National Park falls under a portion of dry deciduous forest of the Kathiawar-Gir, with a blend of dry deciduous scrub and dry savanna vegetation. The area is full of teak, with densely forested valleys and grassy plateaus. Many Gir travellers will also enjoy visiting the tribal regions of the uniquely dressed Maldharis (herders) and the Siddis (African-originated tribes) who have lived in harmony with the lions on the Sasan Gir forest grounds for ages. As per the Gujarat Forest Department's 2020 survey, the population density of Asiatic lions in the Gir forest is 15.2 per 100 square kilometres. The Census 2020 data showed that lion populations in Gir have risen from less than 200 to around 674 since the late 1960s. This was all thanks to the endless efforts of the Forest Department, NGOs and wildlife activists who took the initiative of preserving the Asiatic lions, which were originally on the verge of extinction. Image by Daljeet Singh Sandhu, Unsplash Wildlife of Gir National Park Aside from the Asiatic lions, the Gir national park also has 300 leopards. The sanctuary has around 38 species of mammals. The hare and porcupine are common among the smaller mammals. The most rarely seen mammal in the park is the pangolin. Tourists will also be able to spot other carnivorous animals like striped hyena, golden jackal, jungle cat, rusty-spotted cat, desert cat, the Asiatic wildcat, honey badger, Bengal fox, Indian ruddy mongoose etc. Wild boar, spotted deer (Chital), gazelles (Chinkaras), Sambar, blue bulls or Nilgais, and four-horned antelopes (Chousinghas) are among the main herbivores of Gir National Park. During your Gir travel, there's also the probability of seeing Blackbucks coming from the surrounding area of the park. The national park has a large population of around 40 species of reptiles and amphibians. Some notable reptile species are soft-shelled turtles, mugger or marsh crocodiles, star tortoises, monitor lizards, etc. There are numerous snake species, such as the Indian rock pythons, King Kobra, Krait, Russell's viper, and Saw-scaled viper. The river banks of the park also happen to be a dwelling place for around 300 species of birds. Commonly sighted birds include the Crested Hawk-Eagle, Rock Bush-Quail, Indian Eagle-Owl, Lesser Florican, Sarus Crane, Black-Headed Oriole, Pygmy Woodpecker, Crested Treeswift, Indian Pitta, Malabar whistling thrush,King Vultures, Crested Serpent Eagle, Brown Fish Owl, Orange-headed ground thrush, Paradise flycatcher, Black-naped flycatcher, Tawny Eagle, Painted storks, Pelicans, Peafowl etc. as well as the endangered Bonelli’s Eagle. The park is also home to 2,000 insect species which are seen flying or dwelling around a wide variety of plant species like the Amla, Amli, Asundro Jambu, Dhavdo, Kalam, Khakhro, Samai, Simal, Timru, Umro, Vad, Dudhlo, Khair, Ber, Desi Baval, Hermo, Sadad, Ashitro, Saledi, Modad, Khakhro, etc. Image byTasmay and Shikha Rachhadia, Unsplash Gir Lion Safaris To get the best experience of lion safari in India the Gir National Park authorities have arranged three major lion safaris: the Gir Jungle Trail, the Devaliya Safari (Gir Interpretation Zone) and Kankai Jungle Safari. Gir Jungle Trail Lion Safaris There are three Gir Jungle Trail lion safaris per day. The Jungle Trail Lion Safari consists primarily of jeep safaris and guided walking safaris. This three-hour Jeep safari is meant to take the visitors on an exciting and knowledgeable tour through a dense Indian forest while spotting lions in their native surroundings, as well as other mammals and colourful birds. The morning safari offers stunning scenery of the sunrise. Moreover, there's a high chance of spotting Asiatic lions in action. The lion safari time slots are 6 a.m. to 9 a.m.; 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.; and 3 p.m. to 6. Gir Interpretation Zone (Devaliya Lion Safari) The Devalia Lion Safari Park is a fenced area of the Gir National Park, with a double-gate entrance. It is situated roughly 12 kilometres from the Gir Sanctuary and is excellent for a fast and easy Gir forest tour. The lion safari to this park was designed to provide a better understanding of the Gir ecosystem and the importance of preserving biodiversity among the visitors. Not only lion, but it also increases the probability of spotting wildlife, particularly prominent animals such as lions and leopards. There are also stores within the park where you can purchase souvenirs such as tees, coffee mugs, keychains, caps, calendars, stationery items, etc. The lion safari time slots are 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Kankai Jungle Lion Safari The Kankai Lion Safari will take the tourists to the Kankai Temple, which is 25 kilometres from Sasan Gir. Also known as the Kankai Mataji Temple, this place for worship is dedicated to Shri Kankeshwari Mataji, the goddess who is the rescuer of props lost in the Gir forest. Since the Kankai Mata temple is located within the Gir National Park, it is an ideal location for wildlife enthusiasts to get a good view of a large gathering of wildlife. Even within the temple, visitors can occasionally hear the roar of the lion. There are two slots for Kankai Lion Safari, the morning shift from 6.30 a.m. to 12 a.m. and the evening shift from 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Gir Travel Tourist Spots The popular tourist spots or attractions of the Gir National Park mainly include the Crocodile Breeding Center, Jamjir Waterfall, Kamleshwar Dam; Temple of Tulsi Shyam, and Sasan Gir Museum as well as the tribal villages. Image by Bhautik Andhariya, Unsplash Crocodile Breeding Center In 1977, the Forest Department of Gujarat launched the Indian Crocodile Conservation Project. The project involved releasing approximately 1,000 mugger crocodiles into the Kamleshwar Dam. The park thus has the highest population of mugger crocodiles in India. Tourists will be able to watch and photograph these tough reptiles basking in the sun or catching prey. The visiting hours for this spot are from 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Kamleshwar Dam The Kamleshwar Dam, also known as the Hiran-I Dam, is a long-established dam on the Hiran River. The Dam is located inside the Gir National Park, in the western patch of forest. While going for Gir lion safari rides, tourists can stop by the Kamleshwar Dam. The reservoir formed by the dam is popular for its bird populations, mugger crocodiles, and other reptiles that have been spotted often. The visiting hours for this site are also from 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Temple of Tulsi Shyam This well-known temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna, is one of the must-see attractions within Gir National Park. According to mythology, Lord Krishna defeated the demon Tul, and thus the location is linked with his name. It also features Lord Krishna as "Shyam" in Tulsishyam. The Lord Tulsishyam idol, made out of black stone, is said to be 3000 years old. The visiting hours for this temple are from 6:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Image by Gautam Arora, Unsplash Sasan Gir Museums There are many museums and tourist attractions in Sasan Gir National Park. It is a place to learn about the diverse animal and bird species on display. The Junagadh Zoo Museum, located at the foothills of Mount Girnar, is one of these museums. It is the oldest museum in the state of Gujarat and is home to a variety of motley-coloured birds, such as flamingos, as well as animals such as tigers, lions, leopards, etc. The visiting hours for this place are from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Jamjir Waterfall Jamjir Waterfall is a beautiful location near Sasan Gir. It is located in the Saurashtra district, close to Kodinar. Regarded as the largest in Gujarat, the Jamjir waterfalls are an excellent location for bird watching and photography. Tribal Settlements The last but not least tourist attraction is a visit to Gir National Park's distinct tribal communities. It is an incredible opportunity to connect with the Maldharis Tribe and the Siddis Tribe and learn more about the culture, traditions, and natural surroundings. Maldhari Tribe The Maldhari Tribes is a rural community that moved to the Gir area approximately 125 years ago. They have become an integral part of the forest region by coexisting with wild animals, including lions. These vegetarian tribesmen live in nesses and rely on cow raising for survival. Being highly religious they believe that cattle that managed to escape the carnivores of the park are 'prasad' (offerings or gifts) in exchange for living in someone else's house. Siddis Tribe The Siddis are India's single most important African settlement, having arrived 800 years ago and have lived here ever since. In addition to the Gir National Park, these tribes can be found in small villages in areas of Hyderabad, Karnataka, and Maharashtra as well. Like the Maldhari Tribe, the Siddis Tribe also lives in harmony with the wildlife of the park. Note: These tribal settlements can be visited anytime but tourists must bring a guide along with them. Image byTasmay and Shikha Rachhadia, Unsplash Gir Safari Planning & Reservation The Gir National Park's entrance is at Sasan Gir. Travellers must first make their way to the forest department's guest house, Sinh Sadan. The Gir National Park's reception is right next to it. It is best to reserve a jeep safari permit in advance, be it for the Jungle Trail Safari, Devaliya Safari, or Kankai Jungle Safari. It must be noted that only a maximum of 6 adults and 1 child will be allowed per jeep. During safari booking, those under the age of 12 are considered children, while those over the age of 12 are considered adults. If there are fewer adults, more children can be accommodated, but it has to be within the limit of seven. Since the prices are per Jeep rather than per person, the prices would be the same for 1 person and 6 people booking the safari. Online booking systems are also available for Gir National Park and Lion Safaris. Tourists must provide information such as their ID, name, age, gender, and so on. It should also be noted that permits obtained online are non-refundable. Best Time to Visit Gir National Park The winter season, which runs from December to March, is the most popular time to visit Gir National Park and experience one of the present best lion safari in India. This is largely because the average temperature in Gujarat during the winter months is around 20 °C, which is suitable for all sorts of activities in the park, including the lion safari. However, during these rush hours, it can become overcrowded, resulting in lengthy queues. So, alternatively, you can go for a Sasan Gir travel safari during the hot and dry season, which is from March through May. This is the time when animals gather more near the edge of the river or lakes so that you can easily spot them and take photographs of them. Gir National Park is closed annually from June 16 to October 15 during the monsoon season. How to Reach Gir National Park Gir travel can easily be done via all three modes: road, rail, and air. By Road: The National Park is 13 kilometres from Sasan Gir, 56 kilometres from Junagadh City, and 64 kms from Veraval by road. The nearest bus stands to the Gir national park are the Sasan Gir bus stand (0.5 kms). The average bus duration from Junagadh to Gir is 1 hour 17 mins and Veraval to Gir is 1 hour 10mins. Several GSRTC AC bus services run from big cities such as Rajkot, Somnath, and Junagadh to Gir. If not GSRTC, many private companies operate AC bus services from these locations. By Rail: Traveling by train from Junagadh is probably the best way to conduct Gir travel. Tourists can first travel to Junagadh via major urban cities like Rajkot or Ahmedabad, and then they can take a local train from Junagadh to Sasangir Village. As per the Indian Rail Network, the distance from Junagadh railway station to Sasan Gir National Park is 72km, and so it takes approximately 2 hours 29 mins to reach there. After reaching the station, tourists can easily get a taxi, cab or bus to finally reach the park. By Air: The closest airports to the Gir National Park reserve area are Keshod (90 kilometres), Diu (92 km), Rajkot (160 kilometres), Bhavnagar (193 km) and Ahmedabad International Airport (326 km). Tourists can catch flights to any of these airports and then take a cab, bus, or taxi to reach Gir National Park.

Wildlife | Reptile Image by Lance Anderson, Unsplash Introduction | Scientific Name | Physical Description | Life Cycle | Characteristics | Diet Introduction of Crocodile Crocodiles are large semiaquatic reptiles. They are amphibious, meaning they can survive in water and on land. Crocodiles are considered apex predators because they don't have any natural predators. They have robust bodies, strong jaws, and high speed. They can swim at a speed up to 35 KM per hour. Crocodiles usually live in swamps, freshwater rivers, lakes, and wetlands. They are sometimes also found on seas. The crocodile is a protected animal under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) identifies 23 known species of the crocodile. Of these, 7 are listed as Critically Endangered, 4 as Vulnerable, and 12 as Least Risk. Some species of crocodiles are more aggressive than others. Scientific Name of Crocodile Crocodylus Some of the well-known species are; Nile Crocodile (Crocodylus niloticus), Mugger Crocodile (Crocodylus palustris), Saltwater Crocodile (Crocodylus porosus), etc Physical Description of Crocodile Crocodiles have a streamlined body structure, which helps them swim faster in water by reducing water resistance. The large species of crocodiles can be over 5 or 6 metres long and can weigh over 1,200 kg. Saltwater Crocodiles are the largest among other and can grow up to 7 meters. The male crocodiles grow faster and larger compared with female crocodiles. The webbed feet allow them to manoeuvre swiftly in water. Their jaw is lined with multiple conical teeth and the pupils are vertical and slit-shaped. Crocodiles have 80 teeth. These are regenerated around 50 times in the lifetime of a crocodile. The shape of the eyes is similar to many nocturnal animals. They have a long tail. Their skin is thick and has scales all over. The body is shaped in such a manner that the eyes, ears, and nostrils can remain above water while the rest of the body stays submerged. Life Cycle of Crocodile Generally, the lifespan of crocodiles is 35-70 years. However, it varies between subspecies. Nile Crocodile can live up to 80 years whereas Alligators live up to 60 years. Crocodiles get matured sexually by the time they turn 10 years old. A female can lay up to 48 eggs and the incubation period is 55-100 days. These eggs are hard-shelled and may weigh 50-160 gm. The temperature of the incubating eggs during the first half of the incubation determines the sex of the embryo. The embryo may creak while still in the egg to indicate that it is ready to hatch. Characteristics of Crocodile Crocodiles are nocturnal animals and have very good night vision. Although they are known to travel distances of many kilometres over land, they spend the majority of their time in the water. Crocodiles have been known to kill humans on rare occasions. However, this fact varies on geography. Nile Crocodiles are very aggressive and have a reputation for killing humans more frequently. Worldwide they are killing more than 1000 humans every year. The scales surrounding their mouths have pressure sensors that can detect vibration. By moving their muzzles sideways, crocodiles can swallow aquatic animals in their jaws. Crocodiles are cold-blooded animals and regulate their body temperature by basking in the sun and going to cooler water. Crocodiles use vocalisations to communicate with others. There are many different squeaking and grunting sounds that young animals and adults make. With a bite force of 3,000 pounds per square inch, crocodiles have incredibly strong jaws. Female crocodiles are loving mothers. Their eggs are rolled in their mouths to aid the hatching process, unlike most other reptiles, the crocodile mother takes great care of their nests. Until they can swim on their own, crocodile mothers carry their newborn offspring to the water and shield them from predators. Crocodiles are known for cannibalism. This process helps in controlling the crocodile population in the Wild. A crocodile can hold their breath for up to one hour. Crocodiles have the most acidic stomach among other vertebrates, they also sallow small stones to improve their digestion. Diet of Crocodile Crocodiles are carnivorous. Adult crocodiles can live up to one year without food. Crocodiles ambush their prey while hunting. Younger crocodiles eat insects, small fishes, frogs, snails, etc. As they grow older, they start feeding on mammals and larger fishes.

Wildlife Image by Geoff Brooks, Unsplash On May 22, 2022, on World Biodiversity Day, the Amagarh Leopard Reserve opened in the Pink City of India - Jaipur, Rajasthan. With this establishment, Jaipur becomes home to two Leopard Safari. The combination of this newly announced Amagarh Leopard Reserve and the Jhalana Leopard Reserve has made Jaipur the very first city in World to have two leopard reserves. Amagarh Leopard Reserve Jhalana Leopard Reserve Image by Mirza Yawar Baig, Unsplash Jhalana Leopard Safari of Jaipur In 2017, Jhalana became the first place in India where visitors can enjoy a jungle safari to see a leopard in its natural habitat. Spread over nearly 25 square km, the Jahalana Safari Park lies in the heart of the Aravalli Hills. This park is situated in the Malviya Industrial Area in the city of Jaipur. The Jhalana Safari Park is home to a wide variety of animals and plants, including the elusive leopard. There are approximately 30 to 35 leopards and five cubs in this reserve. Sighting hunts are common in this safari park. In the heart of the reserve, there is a royal hunting lodge, the three-story Shikaar Audhi. It's also a great spot to watch the sunrise and sunset. Many from nearby cities come to visit for a one-day trip. Jhalana Leopard Reserve's Flora and Fauna Due to its deciduous nature, Jhalana's forest remains largely arid for the majority of the year. During the dry season, most of the leaves turn brown and fall off the trees. The park is dominated by juliflora and khejri. Flowers like Dhak, Dhonk, Kumta, and Salar are also common in this region. Leopards aren't the only animals in this park. Desert foxes, jackals, Blue Bull (Nilgai), Hyena, monitor lizards, mongooses, spotted deer, and jungle cats are also available in this park. Leopards can even be seen during the daytime as they have become habituated to the presence of jeeps and humans. As a birdwatcher's paradise, Jhalana National Park is a must-visit place for photographers and bird enthusiasts. The park is home to a variety of bird species, including the Dusky Eagle, Spotted Owlet, Indian Pitta, and Owl. Best Time to visit The Jhalana Leopard Reserve of Jaipur Because of its exotic beauty and commitment to conservation tourists visit this place all year round. The Jhalana Leopard Reserve is open throughout the year. From November through April, the weather is pleasant, and the months of March through May are ideal for viewing the Jhalana Leopard in its natural habitat. Jhalana Safari of Jaipur In the morning and the evening, safaris are available. You can hire a six-passenger jeep. For Photographers, a half-day safari can also be arranged. One needs to pay permit charges, the entrance fee, guide fee vehicle fee and additional fees for the professional guide and drive facility. An online booking facility is available, these bookings are non-transferable and the booking cannot be cancelled. Id proof submitted at the time of booking is the same passenger is asked for proof at the park. Reaching Jhalana, Jaipur Leopard Reserve Jhalana Leopard Reserve can be accessed by rail, road, or air. Jhalana Leopard Reserve is around 6 km from Jaipur International Airport. The Jhalana Leopard Reserve is a distance of 12 km from the Jaipur Junction Railway. The Jhalana Leopard Reserve contains highways that connect to important towns like Ahmedabad, Mumbai, Kota, Udaipur etc. Image by Yash Parashar, Unsplash Amagarh Leopard Reserve of Jaipur The Amagarh Leopard Reserve covers an area of 16 square kilometres in east Jaipur and is located in the Aravalli mountain range. The reserve is currently home to around 15 to 20 leopards, along with many other wild animals, birds and plant species. Besides all these attractions, tourists can also enjoy the sight of Amagarh fort, Amabamata temple, Galta temple, and Raghunath fort, which are also part of the park. Amagarh Leopard Reserve's Flora and Fauna The Amagarh forest region is classified as a tropical mixed or monsoon forest type. The common plants which grow in the park include Dhonk, Goya Khair, Kumtha, Salar, Totalis, etc. They are mainly spotted on the steep slopes of the Khejri hill in the plain, sandy areas of the park. Although the Amagarh Reserve is mainly popular for its leopards, there are also a lot of other carnivorous as well as herbivorous animals dwelling in the shelters of the reserve. The list includes Asian deer, hyenas, jackals, wild cats, foxes, civet cats, monkeys, rabbits, sambhar, nilgai, etc. The Amagarh Leopard Reserve Park has around 250 different bird species. Tourists will be able to spot bulbuls, babblers, doves, mynas, peacocks, parakeets, partridges, robins, shikra, woodpeckers, and other birds. Besides these, migratory birds such as the Eurasian cuckoos, golden orioles, northern goshawks, Orient scops owls, Pallid scops owls, pittas, pied cuckoos, and paradise flycatchers can be seen occasionally in this forest reserve. Best Time to visit The Amagarh Leopard Reserve of Jaipur Leopard sightings are common throughout the year in both Jaipur's reserve parks, Jhalana and Amagarh. However, the months of November to April are considered to be the best for visiting these leopard reserve parks. The winter months, from November to February, are ideal for birdwatchers and photographers due to the pleasantly cool weather. Amagarh Safari of Jaipur Safari drives are available in two main shifts: the morning shift and the evening shift. The morning shift is from 5.30 a.m. to 8 a.m. and the evening shift is from 4.45 p.m. to 7.15 p.m. Two major and one minor safari track have been created within the forest area to provide the best leopard safari experience in Amagarh Park. Around ten safari jeeps with a capacity of 120 passengers will be available daily. Tourists will enter and exit the park through a gate near Galata's Vipassana core zone. Reaching Amagarh, Jaipur Leopard Reserve The Amagarh Leopard Reserve can be reached by car, taxi, or bus from Jaipur (25 to 30 min from city). You can also take a train to Amagarh station. You can also use airports Jaipur airport (18 Km), which have direct flights to all major Indian cities.

Image by aceofnet, Unsplash Right before the havoc of covid in 2020, February I took a trip to Purulia. It’s a beautiful city in West Bengal and famous for its hills, temples, ancient buildings and several archaeological excavations. The city has a rough and rugged kind of beauty where nature will amaze you. We stayed at Bagmundi, a small village of Purulia surrounded by the famous Ayodhya Hills. We were there for three days and two nights. The place is far from all the chaos of the city. Hills, temples, lakes, and waterfalls have made it a beautiful tourist destination. Spring is the best time to give visit this place, as the Polash flowers paint the city red. It's just too much beauty to hold in our eyes. The rugged Ayodhya hill with all the greenery and the Polash. People also come here to photograph the beauty of Polash. Places like Ayodhya hills, Marble lake, Bamni falls, Pakhi Pahar and the famous Mukhosh Gram (where the masks are made for the famous Chou Nach) are the main attractions of Baghmundi. Apart from these some temples, Adivasi villages, and dams are also there. All these places are near Bagmundi. If you stay in Purulia town then Garhpanchakot, Baranti lake, Joychondi Pahar etc are the nearest tourist spots. Ayodhya is a famous mountain range and all the other tourist attractions of Purulia are centred around it. Beautiful roads have been made through this hill. Many resorts are there amidst the Ayodhya hill. Several dams, some villages and temples are also there. The view is absolutely gorgeous from the top of the hill. The most beautiful and adventurous spot is the Bamni falls. This is a hidden fall and you have to take at least 600 steps to reach here. Going there was not the toughest thing but climbing back was quite hard and risky for old people, pregnant ladies or people with any kind of physical condition. After going through this long and hard journey the Marble Lake gave us much-needed relaxation. It is a beautiful lake with crystal clear water surrounded by huge marble rocks. You can see beautiful pebbles on the lake floor. According to me, the Mukhosh Gram is the most interesting place. A small village where every household is making masks as their occupation. These masks are bold in colours with vivid expressions, and will surely brighten up your living room. Visually the most beautiful place was the Pakhi Pahar. The area is full of trees, the dry and yellow leaves will take you to another world. One can spend a whole day just sitting there. The Pakhi Pahar(Birds Hill) has paintings all over it, paintings of birds in blue and white colour. The Adivasi village here is also praise-worthy. Very neat and clean, the houses are beautifully painted. There is a small temple of Maa Durga beside this village. Interestingly only pure cow ghee is offered to the deity as ‘Prashad’. These were the note-worthy places we visited, around the Ayodhya Hill. It took us a whole day to visit all these places. We hired a four-wheeler through the hotel we stayed at. Our driver was very friendly and guided us in a great manner throughout the trip. On the third day we went to the town Purulia, from there we went to Garh Panchkot. It was also a hill accompanied by an ancient temple of Radha Krishna with great architecture. It took us almost 1.5 hours to reach there from Purulia. This place is full of natural beauty. After Garh Panchkot we went to the Baranti Dam which is a secluded place. The Baranti hill was surely the most beautiful one, full of greens. It gives peace to the eyes. We had our lunch here. Simple Bengali cuisine was served, like – fish and rice. It was good in quality and taste. Then we ended our trip by visiting the Joychondi hill. There is a temple there on the top of the Joychondi Hill but we didn’t attempt to reach there as the sun was going down. So, we started our journey towards our hotel. By that time it became dark outside and that experience was something else. Only the lights emitting from the car were making some of the road visible. The rest of the area was dark and elusive. The long fields of crops, rarely accompanied by some small huts seemed like some scenes out of a horror story. It gave us chills. Thus, enjoying the view our journey came to an end. On the day of our return, we just explored some local places. ate breakfast from a local tea stall. We left Purulia with a desire of coming back again sometime. Our train was quite late but that increased the happiness. We chatted for a long time about various topics and life. The small and empty stations on our way back to Kolkata made me melancholy. Don’t know why but I experienced a stunning change in my emotion. They seem to me romantically sad, like some couple must have parted ways there. With all these thoughts running inside my head we finally reached Kolkata. Many hotels and resorts are available, and some of them have great views. You can choose according to your budget. Trains and buses are very much available to reach Purulia. The Barabhum station is nearer to Bagmundi. So, if you are planning to stay at Bagmundi then go this way. The trip can also be done with a four-wheeler. Purulia is full of natural beauty and traditions. A small trip to this rural area gave me an inclusive perspective of Bengal’s traditions, cultures and beauty. The view of the mountains from my hotel window was something so beautiful that I will remember always. The late-night long drive over the Ayodhya Hills, the breeze, and the Bengali thalis still gives me a feeling of happiness. Debjani Dasgupta Debjani is a writer and travel blogger. She loves to explore relatively unexplored destinations, and share those stories with people. She cares for animals and spend her time with books.

Our marriage was simple as a typical Indian one. But we had planned our honeymoon carefully, including our specific interests. I like hill station, but my husband is a wildlife enthusiast. We want to spend our time in India only, and there are multiple options across the country where we can find both flavours. After lots of deliberations (please read fight), we have finally frozen our itinerary. Kolkata > Chennai > Madurai > Munnar > Therkaddy > Cochin > Tirupati > Chennai > Kolkata. Ok, don't start judging us; we spend, 2 nights in Munnar, 3 nights at Therkaddy, 1 night in Chennai and 2 nights on the train. On the Way to Munnar Day One: We started very early, around 4 am. Our flight was at 6. It was my first flight, and obviously, I was a little nervous. It was a two and half hours flight to Chennai. We had a 2 hrs layoff at Chennai airport, then took our next flight to Madurai. This flight was an ATR and flying low. As a first time traveller it's an wonderful experience. We reached Madurai by 11:30 am. A cab was prebooked, and the driver was waiting at the arrival gate. It was a nice route with good road conditions. Especially after Theni, the road passes through various hills and valleys. This road trip was also delightful. As per Google, it was supposed to take Four and Half hours; however, because of breaks for food and enjoying the mountainous road, it took us around five hours and thirty minutes. It was mid of February, and in this region still very cold at night. We were not prepared for this. By the time we reached our hotel, it was almost dark. Day Two: We wake up late. Today we plan to roam around and explore Munnar. Our hotel was a bit far from the city. The hotel was located inside a tea estate. After breakfast, we came out of the hotel and started walking. Fortunately, we got an auto to reach Munnar City. It is a small city, always full of tourists. There are lots of shops for shopping, food etc. I brought an umbrella, which broke within 10 minutes of usage. We hired a Tuktuk for the day. There are many tourist places in and around Munnar. We visited Eco Point, Kundala Lake, Dam, and Some gardens. The Rajamalai park was closed due to some reasons. We came back late afternoon to our hotel. Before releasing the Tuktuk, we casually asked the driver whether he would be interested in dropping us in Therkaddy the next day, and he readily agreed. Fortunately, he asked for half price of than car rental charge. On the Way to Thekkady Day Three: After having breakfast, we checked out from the hotel. Our Tuktuk booking was not only benefited us financially but also allowed us to explore rural Kerala. The driver took the village route. The road was through various plantations, villages, and mountain streams. The beauty of the surroundings is hard to explain in words. Moreover, it was an open vehicle. Hence the view from the car was also panoramic. We had authentic Kerala lunch from a roadside hotel. The last one and half hours of a journey through mountain passes are like a roller coaster ride. Ups and downs, turn and bend. I finally through up, and instead of consoling me, my husband was much busier in photography. We reached Periyar around 2 pm. We had booked a homestay. It was at the fringe of the reserve, and next to your room, the reserve starts. The family was very welcoming, and every one of the family took care of their guests. In the evening, the owner took us to the forest booking counter for the next day's Jungle Trekking. WE book tickets and then roam around for some time. We had early dinner and came back to our homestay. Periyar Tiger Reserve Day Four: Periyar Tiger Reserve offers many activities, including Jungle Walk, Night Walk, Tiger Trail, Boat Safari etc. We have booked Jungle Walk for the whole day. It starts around 6 am and ends at 6 pm. They form a team of 8 to 10 tourists, 8 forest guards and 1 forest officer with a gun. Before starting the expedition, they will give you some advice on Dos & Donts, and finally, you have to sign a "Declaration" stating no one will be responsible for any mishaps during the walk. This Jungle Walk is an experience I will never like to take twice. The walking path starts through the dense vegetation of the core area of the tiger reserve. Inside this jungle, we found a carcass of a tiger kill. Footprint and pug marks were everywhere. The distance sounds added more thrill to the overall ambience. We encountered a herd of elephants from a very close proximate in this area and ran for quite some distance. After the dense jungle, a vast meadow starts. This stretch of around 3 km ends in the Periyar dam backwater. This is a picturesque wallpaper type meadow. After some rest, we used Bamboo Raft to cross the water and reach the other side. Again we entered inside the dense forest. This part of the forest is full of wild animals. We located an Indian Gaur, fresh poop of a tiger and a dead elephant body. After reaching the other side around 12 pm, we had our packed lunch. Then we started the entire way back to the entry point. On our way back, the sun started its journey towards the horizon, so the light was coming down. During this time of the day, the jungle becomes very active. We saw a group of dears, an orphan elephant cab, a pack of Dhole otters, and many birds. Finally, with darkness, we reached the entry gate. Now, after so many years, I feel the rise of my heartbeat while writing this description. Day Five: Today is reserved for our boat safari. It is advisable to take the first ride of the day, as chances are high to sight wildlife across the river bed. We woke up around 4:30 am, reached the queue by 5:30 and secured tickets. It was a pleasant experience. We saw deers, gaur, jackals and many birds. We came back from our morning boat safari around 10 am. We spend the rest of the day by shopping, eating, and birdwatching from our balcony. We thought to have an authentic Kerala message but finally decided to go to the boating point by walking. On the way to Cochin Day Six: Today, we have the plan to visit Cochin for a day trip and then catch a train from Cochin Station. The road from Periyer to Cochin is very beautiful. First, it starts through many tea gardens, then crosses many rivers and mesmerizing landscapes. We had started around 8 am and reached Cochin Fort at 1 pm. We spend 3 / 4 hrs here enjoying beach and fishing activities. We had our train in the evening. However, we reached the station early, had our lunch cum dinner and boarded our train for Tirupati. Tirupati Darshan Day Seven: We reached Tirupati around 3:30 am. We had our hotel booked, but it was the only bad experience on the trip. Rooms were pathetic, full of dust with the dirtiest bed cover and towels. We were upset, but we needed to stay only for an hour; hence we decided to leave as early as possible. We reached to the bus stand and booked tickets for Tirupati Temple. Those who know the Tirupati Temple complex is a vast establishment, and one needs to walk miles to reach the actual temple. We deposited our belonging in the locker room and stood in the queue. After approximately 5 hours, we completed our Darshan and came out of the temple. Again we took a bus and reached the station. Here we took a passenger train and by 9 pm reached Chennai. Day Eight: This is technically the last day of our tour. Nothing much today as we have a morning train for Kolkata. We boarded the train and simply spent most of the day sleeping. Overall, it was a wonderful trip full of adventure, risk, and romantic experiences. Though a bit hectic, it complements our passion and we have enjoyed every part of this trip. Sukanya Guest Author HR by professional, traveller by heart

Wildlife Image by Geoff Brooks, Unsplash Jawai is perhaps the best place in the world to observe leopards in their natural habitat. Jawai leopards are living harmoniously with local people and also become part of local culture. Leopard Safari | Jawai Wildlife | How to Reach Jawai, India’s Leopard Hills, is among the few habitats where you can easily observe leopards. Jawai hill is a unique wilderness in the Pali district of Rajasthan. This area consists of stiff mountains, grassland, Jawai dam and river bed. Natural caves and rocks provide much-needed shelter for leopards and other animals. ​ Several small villages around this hill are inhabited by tribal people who have been living here for generations. Jawai is a perfect example of human and wildlife coexistence. Jawai leopards live harmoniously with local people and become part of local culture. The leopards feed on wild animals like deer, wild boars, nilgai etc. Unfortunately, goats and lambs of the local Rabari community are also on the list of leopard kills, but this community considers it an offering to their God. ​ Places of attractions: Jawai Dam, Devgiri Cave Temple dedicated to Ashapura Mata, and Safari Route. Image by Advik Mehta, Unsplash Leopard Safari Jawai is perhaps the best place to observe leopards in their natural habitat. They are everywhere, in cultivation fields, in open mountains. You can even spot them on the steps of Jawai Temple. Leopard density is among the highest in Jawai. This may be the reason for the unique behaviour of the Jawai leopard. Leopards are solitary animals, but here they live in groups like an extended family. ​ The best time to visit Jawai is June to October. Along with safari, you can enjoy trekking and camping here. The Jawai leopard safari has picked up its popularity with tourists. People are actively coming to this place to experience this incredible wildlife safari and the stunning beauty of this place. Jawai leopard safari is a spectacular adventure. The most suitable time to spot leopards is early morning or evening. You can easily see leopards, blackbucks and other animals in the forest. ​ Your hotel will arrange jeep safari. Unlike other wildlife destinations, safari is not regulated here. Wildlife of Jawai Apart from leopards, this place is also home to different types of wildlife, including bear, wolf, wild boar, jackal, foxes, porcupine, hare, deer, chital, langur, jungle cat, civet, mongoose, striped hyena, and various migratory birds. Jawai is neither a national park nor a protected area, but despite that leopard population is increasing here. How to Reach Jawai Nearest City: Udaipur (130 KM), Jodhpur (170 km), Ahmedabad (270 km). Based on your budget, you can either book taxi or take local bus from these cities. Alternatively, you can use the Jawai Bandh railway station also.

Wildlife Pench is a magnificent forest, especially during the monsoon, It reveals its true beauty. Though the core zones remain closed during the monsoon, you should visit the buffer to relish the beauty of nature. Wildlife | Safari Zone | How to Reach Pench Tiger Reserve is a treasure for wildlife enthusiasts in India. The famous book "The Jungle Book" was written portraying this area. Pench is located in Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra and comprises a wide variety of flora and fauna. In Madhya Pradesh total area covered is 1180 sq km, whereas, in Maharashtra, the total covered area is 740 sq km. It is one of the largest national parks in India. The weather of the region varies from tropical monsoon to temperate. Summers usually prevail from March to June. Winters start from November to February. Rainfall occurs throughout the year, but monsoon shows its might from May and September. However, in the jungle, nights are much colder than daytime. Therefore, you need winter clothes during the morning safari irrespective of the season. ​ December to June is the Best time to Visit Pench National Park. Safari Zones of Pench National Park In Madhya Pradesh, core zones are Turia, Jamtara and Karmajhiri. Buffer zones are Teliya and Rukhad. In Maharashtra, side zones are Sillari and Khursapar. Turia Zone Turia is the most popular zone mainly because of two reasons. Firstly most of the accommodations are close to this gate, and it has more publicity than others, secondly the landscape inside. Sometimes, you may feel that you are doing game drives in African planes. Tiger sightings are also very high in this zone. All most every year, this zone is blessed by new tiger cubs. Karmajhiri Zone Karmajhiri gate is also very popular among tourists. Inside this zone, roads run parallel to the Pench river. During winter, this zone becomes a hotspot of migratory birds. In other sessions, the residential birds will not disappoint you. There is a limited number of accommodations around this gate. The government forest guest house is near this gate only. Khursapar Zone Khursapar is a distant gate from Turia. It's around 30 km from Turia on Nagpur side and situated in Maharashtra side. As the tiger population of Pench is increasing, hence they are spreading across the park. In recent years tigers with cubs have been a very frequent sighting in this zone. Image by Sagar Paranjape, Unsplash Apart from these gates, Teliya and Rukhad are two buffer zone on the Madhya Pradesh side. Rukhad is mainly mountainous terrain. The jeep can go to the top of some mountains. From there, the surrounding view remains vivid in your memory for a very long time. Teliya is adjacent to the village. Hence cattle enter this zone very frequently. ​ On the Maharastra side, the Sillari gate is quite famous. In this zone, the sighting of bears is very frequent. Moreover, there are water holes that provide ample opportunity for animal sightings. Khursapar is also of the same characteristic. ​ While in Pench, you should not miss the opportunity to do a night safari in Wolf Sanctuary or the Rukhad buffer zone. Apart from a jungle safari, you can go cycling outside the park. Image by Rahul Deshmukh, Pixabay Wildlife of Pench National Park Pench is a magnificent forest, especially during the monsoon. It reveals its true beauty. Though the core zones remain closed during the monsoon, you should visit the buffer to relish the beauty of nature. Pench is one of the finest wildlife reserves in India. The place is home to crocodiles, Leopards, Tigers, Indian Wolf, Deer, Wild Boar, Wild Dogs and many varieties of birds. In addition, this is a fantastic place where you can find tigers roaming around in the wild with ample opportunities to sight them. How to Reach Pench National Park The best way to reach Pench is via Nagpur (93 km). From Nagpur, Turia gate is 2.5 hour drive. Road condition is good. otherwise, you can check the train from Seoni junctions (80 km).

Wildlife Image by Syed Ahmad, Unsplash Nagarhole is very famous for its Black Leopard. Crocodile taking sun birth or the elephant mud bath is a common sight in the backwaters of the Kabini River. Wildlife | Safari Planning | How to Reach Kabini forest reserve is situated in Karnataka. This place is covered with dense forests of teak trees, bamboo groves, and other vegetation types. Beautiful hills and valleys surround this place. It has a tropical climate with high rainfall throughout the year. Kabini is situated 61 km away from Mysuru City and 205 km from Bengaluru. Kabini forest is part of Nagarhole National Park. It comprises the south-eastern part of Nagarhole and lies on the bank of River Kabini. This region has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. ​ Kabini is open for tourists throughout the year. In summer, the possibility of spotting animals around Kabini backwater is very high. You can even witness the largest gathering of wild Asiatic Elephants during this time. During rainy sessions, Kabini will surely mesmerise you with its beauty. Lush green vegetation and capturing wildlife in this vibrant background is an experience you should possess. However, considering rainfalls, December to June is the Best time to Visit Kabini Forest. Kabini offers you a complete combination of the natural landscape, jungle beauty and wildlife experience. It's pretty rare for one to miss a wildlife sighting during a jungle safari. You can even spot a good number of animals while travelling through the national highway going inside the park.For some people, Kabini is the romantic gateway, and for some people, it's wildlife heaven. But, irrespective of your category Kabini holds full of surprises for you. Jungle Safari of Kabini Forest Department and Tourism Department operate separate jungle safaris. Forest Department runs canter safari only. The booking counter is available at the forest entry gate. You can book this canter safari without staying in government lodges and enjoy it as part of your day trip. However, there are no online booking options, and you need to be physically present to book the tickets. The demand is high, and the availability of tickets is limited. Hence, tourists often get disappointed. You can book the ticket one day before for the morning safari, and for the afternoon safari, you can book a ticket in the morning. The Tourism Department has multiple options for jungle safari. Jeep, Van, Canter, and Boat are the options. Generally, an open jeep safari is available for Tourism Lodge guests only. There are various options to stay and enjoy this magnificent forest. However, these many options and variables also may confuse travelers. Tourism Department Lodge, Resort operated by private owners but associated with Tourism Department and Resort situated outside the National Park. Image by Sanjaysunadham, Pixabay Wildlife of Kabini The meaning of Nagarhole is " Hole of Snake". This place is famous for its snake population. King Cobra, Rat Snake, and various kraits are commonly found here. The major carnivores animals are Bengal Tiger, Leopard, Dhole etc. Among herbivores, Chital, Sambar, and wild boar are prominent species. Kabini is also famous for its 270 + bird species. Nagarhole is also very famous for its Black Leopard. Crocodile taking sun birth or the elephant mud bath is a common sight in the backwaters of the Kabini River. How to Reach Kabini The nearest airports are Mysore (70 km), Coimbatore (190 km) and Bengaluru (270 km). From there you can hire a cab to take bus to reach Kabini. In taxi it will take 5:30 hrs from Bengaluru and 1:30 hrs from Mysore. Mysore is the nearest railway station.

Wildlife Image by Nick, Unsplash The probability is very high, but tiger sightings entirely depend on several factors, including luck. The best thing is to enjoy the beauty of nature while inside the jungle. Therefore, a tiger sighting should be treated as a bonus experience. Tourist Zones | Wildlife | Safari Planning | How to Reach Kanha National Park is situated in Madhya Pradesh. It is full of lush green trees, widespread meadows and elusive wildlife, including the endangered barasingha, leopard, tiger and gaur. Kanha is one of the finest locations to go for a wildlife safari, and a nature lover can also go for watching birds in this national Park. The Park covers an area of 940 sq. km. ​ If you want to explore the mystery of the jungle, a jeep safari will be best. You will be going through the dense woods, across the streams and over the hills. Observing animals from a close distance and at the same level is an experience of a lifetime. For photographers, it's the best option to capture wildlife moments and for tourists' lifelong memories. ​ One of the best attractions about Kanha is the number of bird species. You can spot them during jungle safari or even from your hotel and surrounding areas. Tourist Zone of Kanha National Park There are four core safari zones open for tourists. Kanha, Kisli, Sarahi, Mukki. There are also four buffer zones, Khatia, Sijhora, Phen and Khapa. ​ Currently, the park administration is expanding the national Park with robust planning and effective implementation. As a result, animal density in buffer areas is also growing in good numbers. Hence, buffer areas will also become key tourist hotspots soon. Because of their hard effort, they have successfully increased the Barasingha population. While on safari, don't focus only on tiger sightings. In this race, you may miss hundreds of other memorable experiences. The sound, the scent, the environment, everything will be different compared to your everyday experience. You need to be sensitive to understand the song of the jungle. Image by Hans-Jurgen Mager, Unsplash Kanha Zone Grasslands in the meadow and dense vegetation are key attractions of this zone. This unique contrast provides an excellent opportunity for landscape and wildlife photography. The possibility of tiger sightings is also very high in this zone. The entry gate of this zone is Khatia. However, you can use any one of the gates for a full-day safari. Apart from wildlife and landscape, you can enjoy Kanha Museum and Shravan Taal, where King Dashrath killed Shravan Kumar under the pretension of killing deer. However, you will not be allowed to leave your vehicle in Shravan Taal. Sarahi Zone This zone is natural hotspot with large meadows and dense forest. The high density of trees sometimes obstructs animal sightings. However, you can encounter Sloth Beer in this zone. The entry gate of this zone is Sarahi. Kisli Zone This zone was part of the Kanha zone; however, it was separated and introduced as the Kisli Zone. These zones are named after respective villages, which are relocated to build and expand this National Park. You will notice saal forest in this zone along with meadow areas. The entry gate of this zone is Khatia. Mukki Zone This zone is also known for high tiger sightings. Unless someone said so, you would not be able to distinguish between zones. There are no natural boundaries. It is the same jungle, and there is no barrier for animals and birds. Safari Planning for Kanha National Park Kanha is one of the demanded jungle safaris in India. Hence it would be best if you plan your travel well in advance. Booking starts 120 days in advance, and core zones are sold out very quickly. Hence you need to be very careful while planning your trip. There is a tatkal booking facility for jungle safari, but you will not be the only one who wants these seats. Moreover fear of uncertainty and involving in safari booking on site, will ruin your travel fun December to June is the Best time to Visit Kanha National Park. Official Website for Safari Booking Wildlife of Kanha National Park Some of the frequently sighted animals of Kanha are Tiger, Chital, Sloth Bear, Gaur, Jackal, Jungle cat, Sambar, Langur and Barasingha. Kanha is also home to more than 300 species of birds. How to Reach Kanha National Park Kanha is 260 km away from Nagpur and 170 km from Jabalpur. Both these cities are well connected through Air, Road and Railways. From this location, you can hire a taxi to reach Kanha. You can also reach Gondia by train and then hire a Taxi for Kanha National Park. Please note that the distance between gates is significant. Hence, please book your accommodation after the finalisation of the safari only.

Leisure Image by Sauvik Bose, Unsplash Districts Wise Travel Information of West Bengal. In This Page, We will Discuss Key Tourist Attractions of 23 Districts. West Bengal is a land of natural wonders. West Bengal is blessed with immense beauty, from the majestic Himalayas in the north to the Gangetic plains and Bay of Bengal in the south. ​ West Bengal is a land of great historical importance and the cradle of many great cultures and has been home to some of the renowned personalities of Indian history. ​ The state is also home to some of India's most beautiful heritage architecture. The palaces of Murshidabad, the terracotta temples of Bishnupur, and the colonial architecture of Kolkata are some of the many architectural wonders. Unknown to many, Kolkata is also known as the "City of Palaces". ​ West Bengal is also renowned for its colourful festivals. For example, the annual Durga Puja celebrations are a spectacular sight to behold, with huge pandals (temporary temples) set up across the state. Apart from this, many Folk festivals attract tourists across the globe. Poush Mela of Shantiniketan, Baul Mela of Kenduli, and Rath Yatra of Mahesh are some examples of continuous traditions. Alipurduar | Bankura | Birbhum | Cooch Behar | Dakshin Dinajpur | Darjeeling | Hooghly | Howrah | Jalpaiguri | Jhargram | Kalimpong | Kolkata | Malda | Murshidabad | Nadia | North 24 Parganas | Paschim Medinipur | Paschim Burdwan | Purba Burdwan | Purba Medinipur | Purulia | South 24 Parganas | Uttar Dinajpur Alipurduar Travel Attractions Alipurduar is situated in the northern part of West Bengal. Alipurduar is adjacent to Assam and Bhutan. Alipurduar is home to some magnificent wildlife reserves and amazing landscapes. Durgapuja, Kalipuja, Lossar, Karam are prominent festival of the district. ​ Some of the popular destinations of Alipurduar; Jaldapara National Park Chilapata Forest Buxa Tiger Reserve Jayanti Buxa Fort Lepchakha Raimatang Malangi Toto Para Mahakal Cave Temple Jaigaon ​ Jaldapara and Chilapata are famous for rhinos and elephants. These jungles are a mix of savanna and dense vegetation. Government organize tourism, helps people to enjoy the beauty of Nature and wildlife. Jayanti is a tranquil place of scenic beauty. In the backdrop of the Bhutan Mountains, this valley is one of the best places to observe and enjoy natural blees. Bankura Travel Attractions Bankura is world-famous for its Terracotta art, especially the "Terracotta Horse." With dense forest, beautiful hills, picturesque river landscape, and ancient temples, Bankura has many things to offer its tourist. Bankura is situated in Eastern Chota Nagpur Plateau and borders Purulia, Burdwan, and Jhargram districts. ​ Some of the Popular Destination of Bankura Mukutmanipur Dam Jhilimili Bishnupur Susunia Hill Biharinath Hill Bardi Pahar Joypur Forest Ghaghor ​ Bankura is famous for its Terracotta Temples. In Bishnupur, there are several excellent examples of these temples. Madan Mohan Temple, Shyam Roy Temple, Jorbangla and Rasmancha are the perfect example of its glorious art and cultural heritage. Mukutmanipur is surrounded by hills and a hosting a Dam in the middle. It is the place of confluence of two rivers, Kangsabati and Kumari. Jhilmil is an elevated forest land on the bank of river Kangsabati. Image by Souvik, Unsplash Birbhum Travel Attractions The literary meaning of Birbhum is "Land of Veer or Warrior". This place is also known as "Lal Matir Desh" or the Land of Red Soil. Birbhum shares its border with the neighbouring state of Jharkhand. Birbhum is rich in culture and various song forms, such as Baul, Kirtaniyas, Kabiyal etc. ​ Some of the Popular Destination of Birbhum; Shantiniketan Tarapith Kankalitala Nalhati Kherai Bakreswar ​ Shantiniketan is famous for the heritage of Kabiguru Rabindranath Thakur and his Visva Bharati University. Visva Bharati University still promotes the concept of Gurukul and Open Air Class Rooms. Birbhum is also the place of several Sati Piths. Tarapith, Kankalitala, and Nalhati are famous pilgrimage. Bakreshwar is renowned for its natural hot spring and Bakreswar Shiv Temple. Cooch Behar Travel Attractions Cooch Behar or Koch Bihar is situated in the northern part of West Bengal. It borders Alipurduar in the North, Assam in the east and Bangladesh in the south. Cooch Behar was a princely state. Cooch Behar has marked its place on the modern-day tourist map. This place is a culmination of Natural Beauty, Forest, Art and Heritage. ​ Some of the Popular Destinations of Cooch Behar; Cooch Behar Palace Madan Mohan Temple Sagardighi Rashik Bill Baneswar Shiv Temple Kamteshwari Temple The palace of Koch King Maharaja Nripendra Narayan is the landmark tourist spot of Cooch Behar. This palace is built in European Architecture of post-Renaissance. This palace is a magnificent example of architecture and historical importance. Rashik Bill is a lake surrounded by dense trees. This is a must-visit place for bird watchers and nature lovers. In addition, this place attracts migratory birds. There is also a small zoo on the lake premises. Dakshin Dinajpur Travel Attractions West Dinajpur district was divided into two parts and formed Dakshin Dinajpur. Dakshin Dinajpur, or South Dinajpur, has a rich history. This area was under Pundravardhana, Pala dynasty and Sen dynasty in ancient times. It borders Bangladesh in the east, Bihar in the West, Uttar Dinajpur in the north, and Malda in the south. ​ Some of the Popular Destinations of Dakshin Dinajpur; Bangarh Sarongbari Kal Dighi Angina Bird Sanctuary ​ Banagarh is a place of historical importance. This place is known for the archaeological ruins of ancient Koti Barsha Pradesh during the Gupta period. Kal Dighi got its name from the black watercolour. It's a popular place for birding. In winter, migratory birds come to this lake. Sarongbari is a picnic location. Tourists visit this place as a day outing. Image by Prabhavanth Chilukuri, Unsplash Darjeeling Travel Attractions Darjeeling is the hill station of West Bengal. It's situated in the lower Himalayas and borders Nepal, Sikkim and Kalimpong district of West Bengal. Panoramic view of snow peaks and tea gardens, this place is a tourist magnet. Throughout the year, visitors come here to enjoy the beauty of the Himalayan Mountains. On a clear day, the Kanchenjunga view from Darjeeling is a memory to behold. Darjeeling is one of the magnificent hill stations of the World. Some of the Popular Destinations of Darjeeling; Tiger Hill Himalayan Railway Batasia Loop Shanti Stupa Ghoom Darjeeling Mall ​ Ghoom is the highest railway station in India. In addition, Darjeeling Himalayan Railway or the Troy Train is declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Tiger Hill is one of the best places in the World to observe Sunrise's beauty. Tourists across the World come to see this mesmerising Sunrise over the snow clad Kanchenjunga. The Mall is the key tourist place in Darjeeling, full of shopping opportunities and views. This district is also World Famous for Its Tea plantation. Darjeeling Tea is exported in huge quantities and has its demand. Hooghly Travel Attractions Hooghly is perhaps one of the most important places in colonial history. This district witness the rule of British, French, Portuguese, Dutch, German and Austrians. Because of this cultural mix, this place holds many architectural marvels of European style. This place is separated by Hooghly or Ganga River from Kolkata. ​ Some of Popular Destinations of Hooghly; Chandannagar Kamarpukur Bandel Church Colonial Cemeteries Itachuna Hanseswari Temple Imambara Situated in Bansberia, Hanseswari temple is a magnificent example of Bengal Temple Architecture. It is a Thirteen Ratna temple or has thirteen Chura (domes) dedicated to the goddess Kali. Bandel Church is one of the oldest Roman Catholic churches in West Bengal. The word Bandel came from the Bengali word "Bondor" or port. In 1600 this place was an important port for European trade. Kamarpukur is the birthplace of saint Sri Ramakrishna Paramhansa Dev. He was the Guru of Swami Vivekananda. Apart from this, the old building of Chandannagar and Chinsurah are architectural marvels of time. Howrah Travel Attractions Howrah is an industrial district of West Bengal. Situated on the west side of the Hooghly river, this district is also famous for its Howrah Bridge. Howrah Station is one of the largest railway stations in India. In british time, Howrah was one of the main junctions for their administrative coordination. ​ Some of the Popular Destinations of Howrah; Belur Kalyaneshwar Temple Indian Botanical Garden Garchumuk Gadiara and 58 gates ​ Belur Math was founded by Swami Vivekananda and is the headquarters of Ramakrishna Math & Mission. Situated at the bank of the Hooghly river, it's a place of tranquillity and harmony. Evening prayer in Belur Math is an experience of its kind. Indian Botanical Garden in Shibpur is one of the oldest and largest in India. It's famous for its age-old banyan tree. Among concrete jungle, this place holds dense vegetation and balances pollution of the whole area. Gadiara is situated at the confluence of rivers Rupnarayan and Hoogly. It is a popular picnic spot. Image by Joy Amed, Unsplash Jalpaiguri Travel Attractions With Tea plantations, dense jungles, wildlife reserves, and a river landscape Jalpaiguri is a tourist hotspot in West Bengal. Tea Plantations amidst dense jungle provide a panoramic view. If you are a nature lover, you can spend days in this place just relaxing in the lap of Nature. For wildlife enthusiasts, this place offers various National Parks and Sanctuaries. ​ Some of Popular Destinations of Jalpaiguri; Gorumara National Park Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary Jhalong Suntalekhola Murti Bindu Gorumara National Park is one of the best places to see One-Horned Rhinos. Gorumara is a mix of Savanna grassland and forest land, providing the ideal location for a Rhino habitat. Chapramari Sanctuary is an extension of Gorumara Forest but is separated by the Murti River. Both the forest is attractive in terms of wildlife and bird population. There is also a place name Murti. Situated on the Murti Riverbank, this is an ideal day outing or picnic spot. Occasionally, you can even see wild animals from here. This district is full of tourist spots; even a month is not good enough to explore all the locations. Suntalekhola is a picturesque place situated in a small river bed among high mountains. The sound of continuous flowing water and the chirping of birds provide a calming environment to its visitors. Jhargram Travel Attractions The meaning of Jhargram is "The Jungle Village". Jhargram is situated in the southern part of West Bengal, but it is entirely different from Gangetic Plains. Jhargram is known for its natural beauty, surrounded by hills and thick forest. Jhargram is very rich in folk culture. Various types of dance to celebrate life and Nature is part of local culture. In Jhargram jungles, you may occasionally encounter elephants and deers. ​ Some of the Popular Destinations of Jhargram; Jhargram Palace Kendua Zoological Park Kankrajhor Forest Jhilli Lake Jhargram is associated with Raja Man Singh and his conquest of this region. The ancient palace of Jhargram still stands tall. Part of this palace is transformed into a hotel. Kendua is a famous bird-watching site. Throughout the year, bird lovers gather here to enjoy sightings. Jhargram is also renowned for its jungles. Significantly during monsoon, the beauty of surrounding jungles amplifies multi-folds. Jhilli lake is also a birding paradise and also open for boating. Kalimpong Travel Attractions Like Darjeeling, Kalimpong is also a hill station with immense natural beauty. Vast Tea Plantations, Dense forest, mountainous landscape, and view of snow peak make this place a perfect tourist hub. Kalimpong is also very rich in flora and fauna. Kalimpong still holds victorian charms with its architecture. Kalimpong is also known for its flowers. There are many nurseries for the production of various types of flowers. Fortunately, most of them are open for tourists as well. ​ Some of the Popular Destination of Kalimpong; Lava Loleygaon Rishop Neora National Park Sherpa View Point ​ Rishop means Mountain Peaks and Tree. It is a calm village situated above 2500 mt. The view from this hilltop is mesmerizing. This place is far away from pollution. In the absence of sun and light pollution, the night sky transforms dynamically. You will feel a different realm with cold mountain air, distance white pick, and a lakhs of stars. Many mountain treks and adventure routes are added advantages for interested tourists. Lava monastery is an important place for Buddhists, and its also open to tourists. Lava is also one of the gateways of Neora National Park. This entire region has a very high place on the World Birding map. Ornithologist across the globe comes here to observe its diversified birds populations. Recently, Royal Bengal Tiger is also observed in Neora Valley National Park. Image by Martin Jernberg, Unsplash Kolkata Travel Attractions Kolkata is the state capital of West Bengal. It is one of India's most important cities and a metro city. In the british era, Kolkata was the capital of India. Kolkata is a mix of its rich tradition and contemporary living. Durga Puja of Kolkata is World Famous and a must-have experience for a lifetime. This city is full of colonial architecture and palaces. Most of these are now Government Offices. Kolkata is rapidly increasing in size in the South, North and East. ​ Some of the Popular Destinations of Kolkata; Victoria Memorial Hall National Museum Birla Planetarium Science City Kalighat Temple National Zoo Nandan and Academy Rabindra Sarovar ​ Kalighat Temple is an important pilgrimage in Kolkata. People across the country come here to offer their pujas. Victory Memorial Hall is an extensive construction of white marble. It is one of the largest memorial buildings in the World. Now it's converted into a museum. The National Museum of Kolkata is India's oldest and largest museum and the ninth oldest in World. It has an extensive collection of artwork, fossils and items of historical important. Birla Planetarium is the largest in Asia and second-largest in World. It is designed like a Stupa and dedicated to propagating knowledge of celestial objects. Malda Travel Attractions In West Bengal, people consider Malda as the starting point of North Bengal. Malda is always the centre of culture and civilizations. Malda is also famous for its mango. Malda was the capital of the Pala Dynasty, Sen Dynasty and Nawabs. Malda is Famous for its Silk as well. ​ Some of the Popular Destinations of Malda; Gour Adina Mosque Firoz Minar Lukochuri Gate Dakhil Darwaza ​ Gour is situated on India and Bangladesh border. Apart from its historical importance, this place is also crucial from an archaeological point of view. Baro Sona Mosque, Dakhil Darwaza etc., are living examples of Bengal's art and craftsmanship. Pandua is another place of historical importance. Murshidabad Travel Attractions Murshidabad was the capital of Bengal before the British era. This place was named after Nawab Murshid Quli Khan. During Nawabs, Murshidabad was very prosperous and the centre of Bengal. British, French, Danish, Dutch established their factories here. It was also home of the wealthiest banker of that time, Jagat Seth. ​ Some of the Popular Destinations of Murshidabad; Hazarduari Palace Madina Mosque Moti Jheel Khosh Bagh Kathgola Palace Kiriteswari Temple ​ Hazarduari, or Palace with Thousand Doors (in actual 900 are there), is the key tourist attraction of Murshidabad. It was built by Nawab Najim Humaun Jah. The current day it has been converted into a museum. This museum has a good collection of art effects and weapons of that era. Near Hazarduari, tourists also visit Nizamat Imambara, Madina Masjid etc. The Kashim Bazar Palace of Maharaja Manindra Chandra Nandy is an excellent example of Art and Architecture. Kiriteshwari temple is among Sati Piths. Kirit, or Crown of Devi, worshipped here. Image by Boudhayan Bardhan, Unsplash Nadia Travel Attractions Religion, history and art, a culmination of these three factors, make Nadia a tourist attraction. Nabadwip was the capital of Bengal during Ballan Sen and his son Lakshman Sen. From the ancient past, Nabadwip was the centre of intellectuals in India. Nadia is the place of Sri Chaitanya Mahapravu. ISKCON headquarters is in Mayapur. ​ Some of the Popular Destinations of Nadia; Mayapur Nabadwip Fulia Krishnanagar Bethuadahari Wildlife Sanctuary Situated at the confluence of Bhagirathi and Jalangi, the grand Iskcon temple of Mayapur is an important tourist place in West Bengal. Mayapur is also the birthplace of Mahaprabhu Sri Chaitanya. From time immemorial, Nabadwip has been the centre of philosophy and religion in India. The Rajbari of Krishnanagar, built by Maharaja Krishna Chandra Roy, is another tourist attraction of Nadia. Fulia is world-famous for its Tant (handloom) Sari. North 24 Parganas Travel Attractions North 24 Parganas are adjacent to Kolkata, and in many places, its becomes an extension of Kolkata. Kolkata Airport is situated in this district. This is also a border of Bangladesh and a major land trade route between the two countries. ​ Some of the Popular Destinations of North 24 Parganas; Dakshineswar Temple Adyapith Temple Taki Gandhi Ghat Bibhutibhushan Abhayaranya ​ Dakshineswar is famous for Kali Temple, built by Rani Rashmoni. Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa was the priest of this temple. Situated on the east bank of the Bhagirathi River, this is a majestic temple complex. Adyapith is also a Kali temple situated near Dakshineswar. The Kali Idol was found during an excavation in Kolkata. Taki is a border town located at the Ichamati Riverbank. During Durga Immersion, both countries gather on the Ichamati bank, and Idol Immersion happens through boats. It is a grand celebration and visitors come from various parts to witness this. Bibhutibhushan Wildlife Sanctuary or Parmadan Avayaranya is a small but beautiful forest. Deers, rabbits and langur are found in enclosures. Paschim Medinipur Travel Attractions Paschim or West Medinipur was part of Medinipur district. Medinipur was one of the epicentres of India's Freedom Fight. Agriculture and allied industries are the primary professions of the people. Shilaboti, Kangsaboti, Subarnarekhs, Dulong, Kelaghi rivers helping agriculture here. ​ Some of the Popular Destinations of Paschim Medinipur; Garhbeta Pathra Gangani Barasuli Dam Kurumbera Fort Karnagarh ​ Gangani is also known as The Grand Canyon of India. It is situated on the bank of River Shilaboti. Because of climatic conditions and soil structure, this canyon-like geography attracts tourists in large numbers. This place also becomes a hotspot for migratory birds in winter. Pathra is a temple village. There are many temples in and around Pathra village. This place is situated in Kangsabati Riverside. In recent days, the Archaeological Department undertaking the maintenance of these temples. Zamindar Bari, Rasmancha, Durga Dalan, and Shiv Temple are some of the famous temples here. Paschim Bardhaman Travel Attractions Paschim Bardhaman or West Burdwan is a industrial district of West Bengal. Bordering Jharkhand, an extension of the Chota Nagpur Plateau, can be seen here. This is also a mining hub, and this region is well known for its Steel Industry. ​ Some of the Popular Destinations of Paschim Bardhaman; Damodar River Maithon Dam Randiha Nehru Park ​ Damodar River is the lifeline of this district. Multiple dams provide much-needed water for its industries. The river bed and adjacent jungles are rich in biodiversity. River beds are full of birds, and during winter, they are joined by migratory cousins. In various places, you will find jackals and wolves. Maithon Dam is situated on the border of West Bengal and Jharkhand. Here you can enjoy natural beauty, boat rides and explore mountain trails. There are many picnic spots like Randiha, Bathanbari etc. All these are mainly the backwaters of Durgapur Dam. Purba Bardhaman Travel Attractions Purba Bardhaman, or East Burdwan, is mainly an agriculture district. East Bardhaman is also known as the "Rice Plate" of West Bengal. This district claims a significant part of West Bengal's history and culture. Birbhum and Murshidabad border it in the north, east Nadia and Hooghly in the south. Some of the Popular Destinations of Purba Bardhaman; 108 Shiv Temple Curzon Gate Purbasthali Lake Kalna ​ Purbasthali Oxbow lake is a birder paradise. This lake gets many numbers of migratory birds in winter. Conservation efforts and awareness among local people enriching the bird population and are also increasing visitors numbers. 108 Shiv Temple in a single complex attracts pilgrims and tourists. It is a heritage temple compound and is maintained well. You will receive calm and positive vibes here. Kalna is famous for Terracotta temples. The art and architecture of Pratapeshwar Deul, Lalji Mandir, attract tourists around the year. Image by Sayan Bhaskar, Unsplash Purba Medinipur Travel Attractions Purba Medinipur or East Medinipur is a coastal district of West Bengal. Purba Medinipur holds its prominent place in India's Freedom Struggle. This district is home to ancient settlements like Tamralipta. In terms of industry, Haldia is a growing industrial hub and a prominent port in West Bengal. ​ Some of the Popular Destinations of Purba Medinipur; Digha Mandarmani Junput Mahishadal Bargabhima Temple ​ Digha and Mandarmani are famous sea beaches in India. However, these two beaches have their distinct characteristics. Digha is for having a good time with beachside markets and many activities. On the other hand, Mandarmani is for quiet and solitary relaxation. A vast sea beach with minimal visitors helps you indulge in the beauty of Nature. All these sea beaches are well connected and have all the modern facilities. Mahishadal Rajbari is a go-to place for history lovers. Geonkhali near Mahishadal is a perfect day outing place. Maa Bargabhima Temple in Tamluk is one of the Satipith. It's a calm and clean temple where devotees can offer their prayer without any disturbances. Image by Aceofnet, Unsplash Purulia Travel Attractions Purulia is part of the Chota Nagpur Plateau and the westernmost district of West Bengal. This district is known for its Sal Forests and hills. Purulia has a vibrant folk culture. Chau Nach and Jhumur songs are the traditions people have kept alive over centuries. For every season, we have different Jhumur Songs. Through these songs, people celebrate the grace of Nature. Chhau Dance is an integrated part of people's life. Through this dance, the artist tells various mythological stories. Chhau dance is now famous across the World. Some of the Popular Destinations of Purulia; Ayodhya Pahar Garh Panchkot Baranti Baghmundi Joychandi Pahar Panchet Dam Murguma ​ Garh Panchkot is a historical place. It is situated at the foothill of Panchet Hills. There are different accounts available about this Garh or Fort. Unfortunately, nothing much left today. However, this place will tell you many sagas of bravery and our proud history. Ayodhya Hills is an extension of the Eastern Ghat range and part of Dalma Mountain. This place is now famous for mountaineering training. The highest point of Ayodhya is Gorgaburu. During monsoon, this entire region transforms dramatically. Joychandi Pahar is named after the Chandi Mata Temple at its top. This mountain is also famous for mountaineering training. Between Marandi and Baranti hills, Baranti Lake is another place of scenic beauty. Especially sunset from this lakeside is an unforgettable memory. South 24 Parganas Travel Attractions South 24 Parganas is the most promising district in terms of Tourism. It is famous on the World tourism map for multiple tourist attractions. Starting from Kolkata and East Medinipur in the West, this district borders Bangladesh in the east and the Bay of Bengal in the south. The World's largest delta and mangrove forest Sundarban is situated in this district. In addition, South 24 Parganas has many islands and rivers. ​ Some of the Popular Destinations of South 24 Parganas; Sundarban Gangasagar Bakkhali Lothian Island Frazerganj ​ Sundarban is the World's largest delta and home to some unique wildlife. This National Park is famous for its Man-Eating Royal Bengal Tigers. Unlike any other reserve forests, tigers here are born maneaters. There are several researches, but till now, it is not concluded this unique behaviour. Apart from tigers, this is also home to giant crocodiles and numerous other animals. Sundarban is also home to many rare and endangered species of birds. Lothian island is famous for Olive Ridley turtles. Bakkhali is a trendy sea beach. Henry Island is another nearby sea beach to Bakkhali. This is one of the best beaches for people who wants to be alone with Nature. On the other hand, Gangasagar is one of the holiest places for Hindus. It is the place of one of the World's largest human gatherings, the Kumbh Mela. Gangasagar is also referred as Sagar Sangam as Maa Ganga confluence with Bay of Bengal. Almost the entire district is held very high on birder's map. Uttar Dinajpur Travel Attractions Uttar Dinajpur or North Dinajpur was earlier part of West Dinajpur, later divided into two districts. In the west, Bihar and the east, it borders Bangladesh. Therefore, in the West Bengal map, one can quickly identify this district as the shortest width on the map. ​ Some of the Popular Destinations of Uttar Dinajpur; Kulik Bird Sanctuary Burhan Fakirs Mosque Karnajora Park ​ Kulik is the second largest bird sanctuary in Asia. It is home to more than 170 species of birds. During the migration period in winter, Kulik Sanctuary provides food and shelter to approximately 80000 to 100000 birds. River Kulik is flowing through this sanctuary. Kulik Sanctuary is situated right beside National Highway in Raiganj. Raiganj Municipality recently developed an Eco Park, which has become quite popular among local visitors.