Things To Do
in Alīpur Duār

Light, spiced freshwater fish curry served with rice — a Bengali staple found in most local restaurants and homestays.

Must-Try!

Fermented rice (panta bhat) and various pithas (rice cakes/pancakes) are seasonal favorites, especially during local festivals and in market stalls.

A spicy, tangy puffed rice snack sold by street vendors — perfect for munching while exploring markets or station platforms.

Freshly brewed Dooars tea, robust and malty, is available at tea stalls and garden estates — try a cup at a plantation visit.

A verbal greeting and a slight nod or 'Nomoskar' (Namaskar) is polite; address elders respectfully and use formal language in markets or homes.

Dress conservatively, especially when visiting villages, temples or attending cultural events. Women may prefer covering shoulders and knees in rural settings.

Ask permission before photographing people, especially tribal communities and workers in tea gardens; some may expect a small token or decline.

Remove shoes before entering homes and many temples; follow local customs and ask if unsure.

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; small tips for restaurant servers (10% in nicer places), guides (a modest sum after a safari), drivers and porters are customary. Tip in cash directly to the person.

Cash (Indian rupees) is widely used — keep small notes for markets and remote areas. Larger hotels and some restaurants accept cards and UPI/mobile payments, but network and POS availability can be patchy outside main town centers.

Hot and humid; daytime temperatures rise into the low to mid-30s°C (high 80s–90s°F). Mornings and evenings are more comfortable for outdoor activities; carry water and sun protection.

Heavy rains and high humidity; forests are lush but some roads and trails may flood or become impassable. Wildlife viewing can still be good but plan for cancellations and bring waterproof gear.

Very pleasant with clear skies, cooler nights and excellent visibility for photography and safaris—one of the best times to visit.

Mild days and cool nights (10–20°C / 50–68°F); comfortable for outdoor activities, birdwatching and treks. Bring a warm layer for early mornings and evenings.

Short to moderate treks to viewpoints and the historic Buxa Fort area inside Buxa Tiger Reserve; offers panoramic views and a taste of the reserve’s forested ridges. Always go with a guide and park permission.

Dense forest trails near the Chilapata area (on the fringes of Jaldapara/Chapramari regions) for wildlife and birding walks — trails are best explored with local naturalists.

Guided walks along the periphery of Jaldapara’s grasslands and riverine stretches, suitable for birdwatching and photography outside core safari hours.

Informal walking paths through tea estates provide gentle hikes through cultivated landscapes and are good for sunrise/sunset photography.

The nearest major airport serving Siliguri/Bagdogra (~140–170 km by road, typically 3.5–4.5 hours depending on route and traffic). It’s the most convenient air gateway for Alipurduar travelers, followed by a road or rail journey.

A larger airport in Assam (~250–300 km away, 5–7 hours by road depending on route). Useful for combining travel in Assam or if flight options to Bagdogra are limited.

The dominant linguistic and cultural group in the district, shaping food, festivals and daily life.

Indigenous and tea-garden communities (including groups with roots in central India) who contribute distinct languages, culture and livelihoods tied to tea and forests.

Smaller Nepali-speaking populations are present, contributing to the multicultural character of the region.

Muslim communities and other minority groups form part of the social fabric, reflected in festivals and cuisine.

Vegetarian options are available (dal, seasonal vegetable curries, rice), but many local dishes center on fish and meat. Specify 'shakahari' (vegetarian) and confirm no fish stock is used.

Vegan choices are limited but possible — request no ghee, milk or yogurt in preparations; simple rice with vegetable curries and lentils usually work.

Halal meat may not be guaranteed at all eateries — ask locally for Muslim-run restaurants or specify requirements; fish and vegetarian dishes are safe options.

Rice is the staple so many meals are naturally gluten-free, but watch out for snacks and gravies that may include wheat-based items or batter.