Situated in Kalimpong sub-division of
Darjeeling District,
West Bengal, Neora Valley National Park spreads over an area of 88 sq km. It is a region of rich bio-diversity lying in the Himalayan foothills and is bordered by Bhutan and the forests of
Sikkim. Rechela Danda (10600 ft) is the highest point in the national park.
Neora Valley has tropical, sub-tropical, sub-temperate, and temperate vegetative system and contains a wealth of flora and fauna. There are natural forests, dense bamboo groves, canopy of Rhododendron trees and numerous species of orchids. Meandering rivers and streams surrounded by snow-capped mountains enhance the beauty of the park.
A number of animals such as
red panda, Himalayan thar, tiger, goral, Himalayan black bear, wild boar, wild dog and clouded leopard and birds including redstart, whistling thrush, Himalayan griffon, golden headed black finch, niltava, yuhina are found in this National Park. King cobra, common cobra krait, green pit viper, blind snake and lizards are also seen. Many colorful insects such as butterflies, moths, beetles, bees, wasps, and bugs cicadas add attraction to the valley.
March to June and September to November are the best times to visit the park.
Nearest airport is at Siliguri. Darjeeling is the nearest railhead. Lava, 30 km from Kalimpong, and Samsing, 80 km from Siliguri are the entrance points of the park.
Visitors should take an entry permit from the park authorities in Lava or Samsing.
