Jungle Safari #1

05:30 AM – 09:00 AM

Jaldapara National Park

Safaris can be taken in two ways – elephants and jeep.

Elephant Safari:

First elephant safari begins at 06:00 AM and last safari begins at 08:00 AM. These elephant safaris lasts for 60 minutes. The problem with elephant safari is that there are only 4 elephants, each carrying 4 tourists, in 3 shifts. So only 48 person can enjoy the elephant safari in one day. Bookings cannot be made beforehand. Tourists at Hollong Lodge are given priority because the property and elephant safaris are maintained by WBTDCL.

Price for elephant safari is Rs 600 per person but total cost can go over Rs 800 per person which includes vehicle entry, parking and pick-up and drop charges.

Jeep Safari:

Jeep safaris are very easily booked. Every resort and hotel makes the booking for jeep safari.

You can also book your jeep safari from vehicle owners in Madarihat market. Jeep safaris are allowed in 3 shifts – 2 in the morning and 1 in the evening.

Morning timings are:  05:30 AM to 07:00 AM & 07:00 AM to 08:30 AM

Evening timings: 03:30 PM to 05:00 PM.

Total cost of hiring a jeep will be around Rs 2000 and can accommodate 6 person. This is cheaper than elephant safari.

Jungle Safari #2

01:30 PM – 03:30 PM

Chilapata Forest

Chilapata Forest safaris happen in 4 shifts – 2 in the morning and 2 in the evening.

Morning Timings: 05:30 AM – 07:00 AM & 07:30 AM – 09:00 AM

Evening Timings: 02:00 PM – 03:30 PM & 04:00 PM – 05:30 PM

The forest is 20 km away from Madarihat and takes 45 min to reach. Booking your jeep at your hotel which will cost around Rs. 1500. Bookings can also be made online at https://wbsfda.org/.

Also read: Jayanti Itinerary

Sunset at Phuentsholing

04:00 PM – 06:00 PM

After being occupied with jungle safaris in the day, head towards India-Bhutan border at Phuentsholing.

Phuentsholing is the entry point of Bhutan. Bhutan Gate is an important landmark and tourist attraction. The hills of Phuentsholing are perfect vantage point to capture the captivating views of sunset. Although in Bhutan, tourist are allowed to roam and explore the town and its market with limited restriction and beyond a point tourist are not allowed without proper documents. This is probably the only place for you to buy something that is traditional and can be kept as a souvenirs.

Head back to your rooms and that will be it for the day!