Gorumara was declared a national park in 1994, transitioning from its previous status as a wildlife sanctuary.
The park is situated on the floodplains of the Murti River, which causes seasonal variations in vegetation density.
It is a prominent site for the 'Sal' (Shorea robusta) tree, which dominates the canopy of the forest region.
The park acts as a critical biological corridor connecting the forests of the Neora Valley and the Jaldapara National Park.
Unlike larger reserves, Gorumara has no internal human settlements, minimizing habitat fragmentation within its boundaries.
The park provides habitat for the endangered Hispid Hare, a species that is otherwise rarely sighted in other protected areas of West Bengal.
Gorumara National Park is a protected area located in the Terai region of the Himalayan foothills in West Bengal. It is specifically recognized for its significant population of Indian one-horned rhinoceros. The park spans 80 square kilometers, characterized primarily by moist deciduous forests and riverine grasslands along the Murti and Raidak rivers. Unlike many other Indian national parks, Gorumara does not permit private vehicle movement within the core forest zones. Visitors must utilize forest department-approved vehicles to access specific observation towers located throughout the park. The landscape is a vital corridor for migratory elephant herds moving between the forest patches of the Dooars. The park's biodiversity includes rare species such as the Indian bison, leopards, and various deer species. It remains one of the few places in India where rhino populations have been successfully rehabilitated and protected in a small, concentrated habitat.
Jatraprasad Watch Tower, which offers an elevated vantage point over the grassland where rhinos frequently graze.
Book your entry permits and vehicle safaris in advance, as they are mandatory and limited in number.
Carry binoculars to improve the chances of spotting wildlife from the designated forest observation towers.
Maintain absolute silence during safaris to increase the likelihood of viewing rhinos and elephants.
Avoid booking unofficial tours from private operators; stick strictly to the government-authorized forest department counters to ensure entry validity.
The park is strictly closed to tourists during the monsoon season, typically from mid-June to mid-September.
Do not wear bright colors; opt for neutral tones like olive, beige, or grey to blend into the environment. Refrain from using flash photography and do not exit the vehicle.
