Buxa Fort is a historic fort in the Alipurduar district of West Bengal. It is situated in the northern part of West Bengal, near the border of Assam and Bhutan. The defence is located atop Buxa Hill and is surrounded by dense forests and the Sinchula Hills. Raja Bhairab Singh of Cooch Behar built the fort in the early 19th century.
The fort is known for its picturesque surroundings and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The fort is also known for its rich history, as it was once used as a prison by the British during the Indian Rebellion of 1857. The freedom fighters also used the fort as a refuge during the struggle for independence.
The fort is now a popular tourist destination, and visitors can explore the ruins of the fort, including the remains of a temple, two palace buildings and a large pond. The area also has several other attractions, such as the Buxa Tiger Reserve, the Buxa National Park and the Eco Park.
There are several other places to visit near Buxa. These include the Jaldapara Wildlife Sanctuary, the Gorumara National Park, the Neora Valley National Park, the Buxa Duar Tea Estate and the Jaldapara Wildlife Sanctuary. Visitors can also visit the nearby Bhutanese town of Jaigaon, across the border from Buxa.
Places To Visit Near Buxa Fort:
Buxa Tiger Reserve:
Located near the fort, the Buxa Tiger Reserve is a dense forest area known for its rich biodiversity. It is home to various species, including the Royal Bengal Tiger, elephants, leopards, and numerous bird species.
Jayanti:
Situated around 20 kilometers from Buxa Fort, Jayanti is a picturesque village on the banks of the Jayanti River. It offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and forests. The nearby Mahakal Cave and Pukhri Hill are popular attractions.
Rajabhatkhawa:
Located approximately 25 kilometres from Buxa Fort, Rajabhatkhawa is a small town that serves as the entry point to the Buxa Tiger Reserve. It has a nature interpretation centre, offering wildlife spotting and nature walk opportunities.
Raimatang:
Situated around 30 kilometers from Buxa Fort, Raimatang is a scenic village known for its orange orchards and beautiful landscapes. It is an offbeat destination offering tranquillity and a chance to experience rural life.
Cooch Behar:
Located around 80 kilometers from Buxa Fort, Cooch Behar is a historic city known for its royal palace, the Cooch Behar Palace. It is an architectural gem and offers insights into the region's royal heritage. The nearby Madan Mohan Temple is also worth visiting.
Situated approximately 100 kilometers from Buxa Fort, Jaldapara National Park is known for its population of Indian one-horned rhinoceros. It offers jeep safaris and elephant rides for wildlife enthusiasts.
Though a bit farther from Buxa Fort (around 200 kilometers), Darjeeling is a popular hill station known for its tea gardens, panoramic views of the Himalayas, and the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway.
These are some notable places to visit near Buxa Fort in West Bengal. Each destination offers its own unique attractions, whether it's wildlife, natural beauty, or cultural heritage. Make sure to plan your visit accordingly and check the current travel conditions before exploring these places.