Neora Valley National Park, located in the Kalimpong subdivision of Darjeeling, is a pristine and untouched forest, covering an area of 89 sq.km. It is one of the most biodiverse regions in North East India, and its unique combination of lush green forests, bamboo groves, rhododendron fields, and mountain streams make it a haven for both adventure and nature enthusiasts. This park is not only famous for its vibrant flora but also home to endangered species like the Red Panda, and has earned recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The highest point in the park reaches 10,500 ft, offering a stunning vantage point of the surrounding natural beauty.
The park’s rich flora includes bamboo, sal, oak, various rhododendrons, ferns, and orchids, while the fauna is equally diverse with species such as musk deer, Himalayan black bear, clouded leopard, barking deer, and wild boar. Additionally, a variety of snakes, butterflies, bees, beetles, and moths can also be found. Neora Valley is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with the rainforests between 1500 m and 2570 m being home to rarities like the Satyr Tragopan, Rufous-throated Partridge, Golden-throated Barbet, and Crimson-breasted Woodpecker. These rich ecosystems make Neora Valley National Park a must-visit for wildlife and nature lovers alike.