12 Top-Rated Weekend Destinations from Alipurduar (2024)

The headquarter of the newer district in West Bengal, Alipurduar, is a beautiful town located by the Kaljani river bank. With Bhutan and Assam bordering the city of Alipurduar, it is quite obvious that several spots can be visited from it. Alipurduar itself is immensely beautiful. As it is located by the Himalayas’ foothills, the scenic views witnessed over there are unparalleled. With a population of around 100,000 people, Alipurduar is a moderately crowded town. Its proximity to Buxa Tiger Reserve makes it popular with tourists from across the world.

The most notable feature of Alipurduar is its natural beauty. With the lush greenery of dense forests, Alipurduar is a paradise for people who love forests and wildlife. Witnessing a herd of an elephant while exploring the district is one of the most common things in Alipurduar. Despite having an operative urban municipality, Alipurduar has a rustic ambiance that cannot be overlooked. If you go a few km from the heart of the city, you will find the mesmerizingly beautiful Kaljani river on the backdrop of the majestic mountains. There are several hotels located in Alipurduar that make it easy for tourists to explore the surrounding areas.

In this blog, we will provide you with important information regarding the best weekend destinations from Alipurduar. The town is situated at such a fantastic geographical location that many tourist sites can be visited from there. Moreover, the adjoining districts of Alipurduar also some of the most popular tourist spots in India. Some of the sites mentioned in this blog are from West Bengal, while others are from Assam or other North-Eastern states.

Reaching Alipurduar is not a difficult task. Suppose you want to visit there by train. In that case, you can either avail of the New Alipurduar Railway Station located in the city or avail of the Falakata station located a few kilometers from the town. In case you are visiting there by flight, Bagdogra airport will be the nearest one from the town.

12 Top-Rated Weekend Destinations from Alipurduar

The destinations mentioned in the following part of this blog are quite popular among wanderlust travelers. You can easily visit these sites from Alipurduar over a weekend.

1. Rajabhatkawa

Located pretty close to Alipurduar, Rajabhatkhawa is one of the most offbeat yet beautiful tourist destinations in West Bengal. As this site is located by the Himalayas’ foothills, the scenic view offered throughout the town is exceptionally beautiful. Most of the Timber in West Bengal is obtained from this tiny town. Throughout the area, you will notice the lush greenery of thick forests. Due to the tremendous forest cover, wildlife is also pretty rich in Rajabhatkawa. Even though there are wildlife safaris available over there, you might even encounter wild animals even when you are not on a Safari jeep.

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Chilapata and Mendabari forests are adjacent to this town. One of the main sites to see in this region is the famous Buxa Tiger Reserve. Most tourists stay in Rajabhatkawa to explore the wildlife sanctuary. Apart from wild animals, this area is a paradise for bird-watchers. Over there, you will get to witness a wide variety of beautiful birds that you have never seen before.

Distance from Alipurduar: 26 km.

Time to reach: It would take you only half an hour to reach Rajabhatkawa from Alipurduar.

Places to see: Maa Kali Temple, Buxa Fort, Buxa Tiger Reserve, Shiv Temple, Chilapata forest, and others.

Best time to visit: October to March.

2. Jaldhaka

Located right beside Chapramari Wildlife sanctuary lies the mesmerizingly beautiful tourist spot, Jaldhaka. This region is one of the best weekend destinations from Alipurduar because of its ethereal beauty and tranquility. Named after the river it is situated by, Jaldhaka is quite popular among tourists who love nature. As this river is located by the Chapramari wildlife sanctuary, the entire area is surrounded by immense greenery. The surrounding forests will make you fall in love with the area. To fully explore the site’s beauty, it would be best for you if you participate in the trekking trails available over there.

By participating in trekking, you will enjoy the exceptional beauty of the area and get to encounter a large number of gorgeous birds. The entire area of Jaldhaka is so picturesque that you will not be able to stop yourself from clicking a large number of photos.

Distance from Alipurduar: 93 km.

Time to reach: It would take you only two hours to reach Jaldhaka from Alipurduar.
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Places to see: Jaldhaka River Valley project, Coronation Bridge, Chapramari national park, and others.

Best time to visit: October to March.

3. Lolegaon

Located at the height of 5500 feet approximately, Lolegaon is a wonderful hamlet located in the Kalimpong district of West Bengal. As this site is situated only a few-hour drive from Alipurduar, we have included it in this list. With mesmerizingly beautiful valleys, rich greenery, and relaxing serenity, Lolegaon is the perfect place to spend a weekend. As this area is situated pretty close to Kalimpong, most people prefer to visit the city. We would suggest you stay a day or two at Lolegaon because its beauty is genuinely underrated.

Lolegaon offers some of the best scenic views in India. Not only during the day but also the night, the view witnessed from Lolegaon is unparalleled. Moreover, the view of the breathtakingly beautiful Singalila ranges from Jhandidara in Lolegaon is a major reason why you should visit there. With awesome trekking trails, rich floras, and faunas, Lolegaon offers tourists the opportunity to connect to nature.

Distance from Alipurduar: 200 km.

Time to reach: By car, it would take you around six hours to reach Lolegaon from Alipurduar.

Places to see: Jhandidara, Canopy walk, Lolegaon viewpoint, Eco-park, and others.

Best time to visit: October to May.

4. Bongaigaon

Bongaigaon is an offbeat weekend tourist destination in Assam that can be accessed pretty easily from Alipurduar. Surrounded by heavy forests, Bongaigaon is a beautiful location in Assam. This region’s history is so rich that some traces of evidence have been excavated that proves its existence in the Vedic age. There have been so many dynasty changes in the region that many monuments and temples can be seen in the town from those eras. Its proximity to Manas National Park is also a great reason for you to explore it. There are many sightseeing spots in the town that are pretty popular among tourists.

As Bongaigaon was the last headquarter of the Kamtapuri dynasty, you will see shreds of evidence of the past glory days scattered around the town. If you are interested in archaeology, many sites located in this town will genuinely please you. Even if you are not interested in archaeology’s history, the surrounding natural beauty of Bongaigaon will make you happy.

Distance from Alipurduar: 142 km.

Time to reach: It would take you only three hours to reach Bongaigaon from Alipurduar.
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Places to see: Surya Pahar, Birjhora Tea Estate, Pancharatna, Bagheswari temple, and others.

Best time to visit: October to May.

5. Aritar

Located in the Eastern part of Sikkim, Aritar is a paradise on earth. With breathtakingly gorgeous mountains and lush forests, Aritar is a great offbeat location that can be visited over the weekend from Alipurduar. From Aritar, you will get to witness the majestic Himalayan peaks that will help you understand the grandiose of nature. When you explore the rustic pathways of Aritar, you will understand how insignificant we are in front of the umpteen natural vastness. Apart from natural beauty, some monasteries are located in Aritar that will help you calm your nerves.

On a clearer day, you will get to see the vivid view of Mount Kanchenjungha. That view will stay in your life the entire time you live. If you are an adventure-enthusiasts, it would be a great idea for you to go on the trekking expeditions available in the town. All the trekking trails available in Aritar offer impeccable natural views.

Distance from Alipurduar: 188 km.

Time to reach: By car, it would take you around five and a half hours to reach Aritar from Alipurduar.

Places to see: AritarGumpa, Dak Bungalow, Lampokhari, Mankhim, and others.

Best time to visit: March to May, October to November.

6. Barpeta

Located approximately 90 km from Guwahati, Barpeta is a beautiful place in Assam and ideal weekend destination from Alipurduar. Barpeta is Assamese, and in English, it translates to “land of big ponds.” When you reach the region, you will understand the significance of the vocabulary. Throughout the town, you will see different water bodies. Most of them are tributaries of the Brahmaputra river. These water bodies constitute the primary reason behind the greenery of the area. Apart from natural beauty, Barpeta holds strong religious importance to the people of the Vaishnav sect. Srimati Sankardeva and Shri ShriMadhabdeva were responsible for the Vaishnav uprising in Assam. They started their journey in the 16th century from Barpeta.

Apart from the Brahmaputra river, the Beki river is also situated in Barpeta. Both of these rivers and their surroundings are extremely beautiful. By only sitting by their banks, you will feel a sense of serenity engulfing you.

Distance from Alipurduar: 200 km.

Time to reach: It would take you only four and a half hours to reach Barpeta from Alipurduar.
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Places to see: Beki river, Brahmaputra river, Manas national park, and others.

Best time to visit: October to March.

7. Manas National Park

One of the best weekend destinations from Alipurduar is the Manas National Park. Apart from being one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Manas National Park is one of the most beautiful places in Assam. Alipurduar is lucky to be situated in a location where you could easily visit the wildlife sanctuary and spend your weekend. Mostly famous for being the home to the Royal Bengal tiger, Rhinoceros, Black Panthers, Asian Golden Cats, and other animals, Manas National Park is a paradise for wildlife lovers. With more than 380 species of birds, this national park is also home to rare bird species.

Surrounded by dry deciduous forests, this park is full of natural beauty. By taking a wildlife safari or an elephant safari, you will get to explore the park quite easily. Being inside the heart of the forest is itself a rare experience that any nature lover will love. There are many watchtowers located amid the forest where you could witness birds and wild animals pretty easily.

Distance from Alipurduar: 220 km.

Time to reach: It would take you only five hours to reach Manas National Park from Alipurduar.
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Places to see: Bongaigaon, Bomdila, and others.

Best time to visit: October to May.

8. Mawsynram

Mawsynram is one of the most famous places in the world. It receives the maximum amount of rainfall across the globe. Even though this village is pretty small, many tourists visit there to see its beauty by themselves. Located at the height of 4590 feet, this village is surrounded by beautiful hills. The astonishing aspect about this site is its dense forests. You will be mesmerized by the lush greenery of the surrounding forests. The high amount of rainfall received by Mawsynram is the reason behind its spectacular greenery. As this site is located pretty close to Cherapunjee, many people go there from the Mawsynram.

Many sites in the region offer you a glimpse into the life of the tribal people living there. Moreover, the fifth highest waterfall in India, Nohkalikhai, is also located in the splendid village. There are some hotels located over there that will offer you comfortable accommodations for the weekend quite easily.

Distance from Alipurduar: 473 km.

Time to reach: By car, it would take you around twelve hours to reach Mawsynram from Alipurduar.
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Places to see: Cherrapunjee, Mawsmai falls, Nohkalikhai falls, Mawsmai caves, and others.

Best time to visit: October to May.

9. Bomdila

Located in Arunachal Pradesh, Bomdila is one of the most beautiful places in North-East India and can also an ideal weekend destination from Alipurduar, though time take to reach Bomdila from Alipurduar is more. Mostly famous for its picturesque views, Bombila offers tourists pristine views of the Eastern Himalayas. There are many Buddhist monasteries located throughout the region where tourists visit quite frequently. With an altitude of approximately 8500 feet, Bomdila encounters harsh winters. There are many hiking trails located throughout Bomdila that makes it the perfect spot for adventure seekers. Another noticeable feature of Bomdila is its apple orchards. You will genuinely be in awe of the gardens that almost every household of the hamlet has.

Apart from natural views and spiritual importance, Bomdila is a great place for shopping Tibetan artifacts. Most people love to buy the Tibetan carpets found in the shops over there. If you visit, there do not forget to buy the Tibetan thangkas and masks for which Arunachal Pradesh is so famous.

Distance from Alipurduar: 480 km.

Time to reach: It would take you only twelve hours to reach Bomdila from Alipurduar.
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Places to see: Bomdila monastery, Tipi Orchid reserve, Lowel Gompa, R R Hill, Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary, and others.

Best time to visit: April to June, October to November.

10. Lataguri

Located quite close to Alipurduar, Lataguri is one of the best weekend destinations from Alipurduar. This town is mostly known for the Gorumara National Park, located pretty close to the town. Most tourists who intend to explore the wildlife sanctuary prefer to stay in hotels in Lataguri. Apart from Gorumara National park, the Murti river is also a good reason for visiting the town. Due to the forest’s immense greenery and the glistening blue water of the Murti river, Lataguri offers impeccable natural beauty. By exploring this town, you will get to know about the wildlife sanctuary and get a glimpse into the life of the tribal community of Northern Bengal.

If you love adventures, Lataguri will not disappoint you. While staying there, you will get to participate in trekking and elephant safaris. You will remember these experiences for your entire life. Before planning a trip to Lataguri, invest in a good pair of binoculars. There are so many wild animals and birds that you can see in Lataguri that you will regret not bringing good binoculars with you.

Distance from Alipurduar: 117 km.

Time to reach: By car, it would take you around two and a half to reach Lataguri from Alipurduar.
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Places to see: Gorumara National Park, Chapramari Wildlife sanctuary, Murti river, and others.

Best time to visit: October to May.

11. Marigaon

Mostly known for being home to the largest dry fish market in Asia, Marigaon is a beautiful and quaint place located in Assam. Surrounded by majestic Himalayan ranges, this site is one of the best beautiful places in Assam. River Brahmaputra surrounds the entire region. There are many temples located in Marigaon that makes this site quite sacred to the Hindu people. Pabitora wildlife sanctuary is another reason why tourists across the globe visit Marigaon.

While exploring Marigaon, do not forget to try its cuisine. The dishes available in the region are so delectable and unique that you will be surprised that it is not popular in the world. By visiting Marigaon, you will get a lot of knowledge regarding north-east India.

Distance from Alipurduar: 390 km.

Time to reach: It would take you nine hours to reach Marigaon from Alipurduar.

Places to see: Pabitora wildlife sanctuary, Mayong, Sivakunda, Sitajakhala, and others.

Best time to visit: October to April.

12. Bhalukpong

Bhalukpong in Arunachal Pradesh is soon becoming one of the most popular tourist destinations in India and is a great choice for a weekend destination from Alipurduar. Located in the lower part of the Himalayas, the town has no shortage of breathtakingly beautiful views. Throughout the town, you will notice spectacular greenery. As this region is located by the Kameng river, you will see that its natural beauty is even more by the river bank. The forest cover of Bhalukpong is so rich that strolling amid the wilderness will not be a surprising fact over there. Adventure enthusiasts explore this region in different ways. Some prefer trekking through its multiple trails, while others love camping by the bank of the river Kameng.

Even a few years ago, not many people had much knowledge regarding this town’s beauty. But now, it is visited by travelers across the globe. There are different sightseeing spots located in the town that you must visit while exploring it.

Distance from Alipurduar: 450 km.

Time to reach: It would take you ten hours to reach Bhalukpong from Alipurduar.

Places to see: Pakhui wildlife sanctuary, Tezpur, Hajo, and others.

Best time to visit: October to February.

All the destinations mentioned in this blog are immensely beautiful. Within one to ten hours, you will be able to reach any one of them from Alipurduar. If you start your journey on a Friday, you will reach there the same day. In that way, exploring any one of these sites over the weekend will not be a problem for you. We hope you liked this article enough to start planning a weekend trip for your family.