Raimatang: A Tryst With Nature

A little village in the Jalpaiguri district of West Bengal, Raimatang is located 45 kilometres (about an hour’s drive) away from Alipurduar. It is a preferred tourist destination for those who opt for a visit to the Western Dooars. The village is a part of the Buxa Tiger Reserve and rests by the side of River Raimatang. Tourists need to cross this river to reach the forest village. Tourism in Raimatang is the latest addition, with a large part of the area being virgin and untouched even today. The forest is a home to Asiatic Elephants and diverse wildlife like peacocks, parakeets, wild dogs, hornbills, and hoopoes. If you happen to visit the place during the harvesting season, you will surely be able to spot an elephant or two in the paddy fields here. Because tourism is still in its nascent stage, amenities are very basic.

How To Reach Raimatang?

If you have taken the railway route, you have to get down in Alipurduar or New Jalpaiguri. From Alipurduar, the distance is 45 kilometres and from New Jalpaiguri, it is 170 kilometres. If you have taken the air route, the nearest airport is Bagdogra 182 kilometres away. Please note that Raimatang is only reachable by road and not by any other means. The nearest destination to the village is Kalchini. After reaching here, you have to take the northern road through tea garden roads and the Rivers Chuapara, Gangutiya, and Mechpara. Last will come River Raimatang. Once you cross the riverbed, you will reach Raimatang village after 15-20 minutes of driving approximately 4 kilometres. It is recommended that you hire an SUV or any vehicle with a high ground clearance.

What To See And Do In Raimatang

• Bask in the natural beauty of the landscapes.
• Sit by the river and soak in some Vitamin D.
• Visit the watchtower nearby and spot wildlife.
• Arrange for a visit to the Buxa Tiger Reserve.
• Look out for butterflies; they are everywhere.
• Stroll through the tea gardens of Raimatang.
• Trek 20 kilometres from Raimatang to Lepchakha via Aadma and Chunabhati.

When Is The Best Time To Visit Raimatang?

Choose any time slot except the monsoons. During this season, the river enlarges due to heavy rainfall. To try and cross the riverbed could be very risky. Vehicles could become stuck or defunct due to the water seeping in the engine.