North Bengal’s tourism sector has received a boost ahead of Durga Puja, with the forest department reintroducing online booking for elephant safaris in Jaldapara and Gorumara National Parks. The move comes after several seasons of suspension, which had caused inconvenience to tourists.

For years, visitors from Kolkata and other parts of the country were forced to queue up at dawn to secure limited tickets, with many leaving disappointed when safaris sold out. With the return of online booking, travelers can now plan their trips in advance and secure tickets from home.

Parthasarathy Roy, President of the Dooars Tourism Development Welfare Society, welcomed the initiative, saying, “The rush of tourists will increase further as online booking is re-launched. If you have your safari tickets in hand in advance, many will be able to plan their trip with peace of mind.”

According to the forest department, seven elephant safaris have been arranged in Jaldapara and four in Gorumara each day. However, officials clarified that the facility is currently limited to elephant safaris, while car safaris will continue to be booked offline.

Chief Conservator of Forest (North Bengal) Bhaskar JV said, “Online booking for elephant safaris is being resumed before the Puja. Car safaris will have to be booked offline as before.”

Tourism industry and local economy to benefit

The announcement has been met with enthusiasm from hoteliers and travel agents, who expect the decision to provide fresh momentum to Dooars’ tourism industry, which peaks during the puja holidays. Hotel owners noted that many tourists had long expressed frustration at the lack of advance booking facilities.

Local residents and business owners also see opportunities. Increased tourist footfall is expected to benefit homestays, resorts, restaurants, and travel services, creating more employment in the area.

A forest department official said, “The return of online booking for elephant safaris has rekindled excitement among tourists. While car safaris remain offline for now, the new system is a crucial step toward smoother travel planning and boosting Dooars’ tourism economy.”

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