Murti – Sightseeing In Dooars: What fascinates you the most? Is it the glitter of the cities or the peace and natural splendor of the faraway places? Well, if you prefer the latter, you don't have to travel that far to experience one! Located a few hours' drive from Siliguri, Murti remains one of the major attractions in Dooars. It snuggles between Chapramari Forest and Gorumara National Park. Abode to rich biodiversity, the Murti river comprises one of the scenic destinations in the Dooars region. Murti thus caters to the quest of nature lovers and peace seekers — mainly during winters.
The region gains popularity for its natural splendor and its offbeat element. It caters to the bent of travelers seeking an escapade from the urban rush. It is also a haven to explorers with a love for adventure pursuits and those seeking a short trip or a weekend break. Owing to its rich variety of flora, the place serves as an abode to exotic birds. During the peak season, the place remains ideal for spotting exotic seasonal birds. The region is also known to be the habitat of the wilds — such as bison, spotted deer, barking deer, Royal Bengal tiger, wild pigs, sambhar, and elephants, which can be spotted if you delve into the deeper parts of the forest.
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Originating from the Neora Valley National Park in Kalimpong District, the perennial stream gushes down to join the Jaldhaka River in the Dooars. The river crisscrossing through the enchanting region not just adds to the fertility of the region but also caters to the requirements of the thriving vegetation. The water flowing amid the rich and enchantingly beautiful forest quenches the thirst of the wildlife living in the region.
Activities
Murti has so much to offer when it comes to activities. If you are a nature lover and the wildlife fascinates you, you will never experience monotony. If you love to explore the depths of the wilderness and catch glimpses of wild animals, then you can indulge in jungle safaris. Jeep safaris for exploring the wild can be booked through an authorized travel operator.
The place also offers a plethora of nature photography opportunities to photographers. Birding is another leisurely activity at the Murti River. A good number of birds can be spotted here. Other major activities include picnicking, fishing, short treks, and camping amid nature.
Where to stay?
A good number of accommodation facilities are available in Murti. You can either choose to stay at private resorts or the government resorts managed by WBFDC and WBTDC. One of the most well-known resorts is Banani Murti Resort. Being offbeat, one cannot seek extravagant luxury hotels in Murti. The forest bungalows, private resorts, and lodges render all the basic amenities — such as hot and cold running water, meals, room service, etc.
Booking for the government resorts can be done online. The perks of staying at these lodges are that they are enclosed by a breathtaking sight of the vast wilderness.
Getting there
The nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport. From the airport, you can get prompt taxi services to Murti. It will take about 3 hours to reach Murti from the airport and 2 hours from Siliguri Bus Stand (Junction).
The nearest railway station is NJP. However, the most convenient railway junction or stoppage is at Chalsa. From Chalsa, it will take about 42 minutes by taxi to reach Murti. If you plan to get down at NJP, you can hire instant taxi services rendering transport facilities to various parts of Dooars.
Best time to visit Murti River
The best time to visit the Murti River is from mid-October to March. Summers are extreme, and the monsoon season calls for heavy downpours. Due to the waterlogged forests and the raging water bodies, monsoon calls for hazards. Besides, the safaris remain closed during monsoon, as it is the breeding season of the wild animals.
The autumn, winter, and spring seasons (occurring between October and March) are the ideal time for traveling here. The weather remains pleasant throughout this time. The favorable climatic conditions enable visitors to indulge in leisurely activities based on their preferences.
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