Located on NH 31 close to Gorumara National Park in the Jalpaiguri district of North Bengal is the small yet prominent town of Lataguri. Food and accommodation are readily available here and tourists often make Lataguri their trip center from where they set out to explore the attractions like Chapmari Wildlife Sanctuary and Gorumara National Forest. Previously people visiting Gorumara had to depend on Lataguri for accommodation. Now however a host of lodges have come up inside the forest reserves. Jeep safaris, elephant safaris, birding, and trekking are some of the interesting tourism activities that tourists can indulge in during their stay in Lataguri. Here is a snippet of travel guide to see in Lataguri.

By Air:

Lataguri does not have an airport of its own and has to depend upon Bagdogra Airport that is located in Siliguri about 45 km away from Lataguri. Bagdogra is the only second airport in Bengal and a major aerodrome in the northern part of the state. Bagdogra provides air connectivity to the far-flung areas of the north. The airport is well connected with the major parts of the country like Mumbai, New Delhi, Chennai etc. there are private and public airlines providing regular services to and from Bagdogra. From the airport, people can take cab or a bus to reach Lataguri.

By Rail:

Lataguri does not have a railway station and the nearest and most important railhead is New Jalpaiguri Railway Station. Located a mere 50 km from Lataguri, New Jalpaiguri helps provide rail connectivity between different parts of the Northeast and North Bengal with the rest of the country. Large number of express and superfast trains pass through New Jalpaiguri. From the station, tourists can get a cab or a bus to reach Lataguri.

By Road:

Devoid of a railway station and an airport, Lataguri is primarily accessible by road. Located on NH 31, it provides great road connectivity. Private bus companies and state buses operated by the North Bengal State Transport Corporation help provide seamless commute between Lataguri and neighboring areas like Cooch Behar, Alipurduar, Chalsa, Malbazar and Kolkata. Driving down to Lataguri can be a real treat for the tourists.

Getting Around:

Lataguri is a small town and traveling around the place is not difficult. Cars and jeeps are easily available and can also be arranged by the hotels or lodges. Exploring by foot is an intimate way of familiarizing yourself with the place.

Summer (March to June):

Lataguri experiences hot and sultry summers. Temperatures rise steadily as the months progress and April, May and June are the hottest months of the season. Humidity is also high like most of the places in the plain. The unbearable heat creates discomfort and makes it difficult for tourists to step out and explore the area. It is exhausting and unpleasant and is recommended to avoid visiting Latguri during summer.

Monsoon (June to October):

Lataguri has a long monsoon period and after the terrible heat, the showers bring a much-needed respite. There are heavy downpours between August and September, which jeopardises sightseeing. The main attraction in Lataguri is Gorumara and Chapmari but during monsoon, all safaris are stalled. The weather continues to remain uncomfortable with a high amount of humidity. In the early monsoon period, tourists can plan a visit when showers are not too heavy.

Winter (December to February): 

Following the heavy monsoons, the weather starts changing for the better. The skies clear up and clouds disappear. Durga Puja is celebrated in October with much pomp and show. After the puja celebrations, a light chill starts setting in. The weather becomes pleasant and comfortable. Mornings remain clear while the evenings become quite cold. It is a good time to visit Gorumara and Chapmari as safaris resume and is a good time to go animal sighting. 

Safari:

Lying close to the forest areas of Chapmari and Gorumara is the biggest advantage of Lataguri. For tourists, the major attraction is the jeep and elephant safaris that are conducted inside the forests. They take the tourists deep into the jungle for animal and bird spotting. Elephant safaris are very popular too as tourists get a good view of the surrounding forest and they can venture into areas where jeeps cannot.

Birding:

Chapmari and Gorumara are well known not only for the wild animals but also for the different species of birds who have made these forests their home. It is a great opportunity for bird lovers to spot some rare and common birds. Indian hornbill, spangled drongo, Asian paradise flycatchers and sunbirds are found here as also some species of migratory birds like brahminy duck. Oriental Pied Hornbill, Asian Barred Owlet, Dollarbird, black stork are some of the winged beauties one comes across in Chapmari.

Trekking: 

From Lataguri tourists can visit the Buxa Tiger Reserve and the Jayanti Mahakal caves that are located on the banks of River Jayanti. Jayanti Mahakal Cave is a beautiful place with Sinchula hills at the backdrop and the lush greenery all around. There is a popular trekking trail from Jayanti Mahakal Cave to Buxaduar which is a 15 km journey. It takes trekkers through the dense forests of the tiger reserve and quite a fascinating journey and a thrilling experience. Trekking enthusiasts often set out for this trek to enjoy the flora, fauna and scenic beauty.

Trip to Murti Jaldhaka, Jalbong and Bindu:

There are a number of scenic places to visit on a day’s trip from Lataguri. Apart from the exciting forests, there are some other places like the valley town of Jaldhaka and neighboring villages of Bindu and Jalbong and the gorgeous Murti River. Jaldhaka is located on the banks of River Jaldhaka and is known for its raw natural beauty. There are some beautiful villages which tourists can visit and learn about local traditions and culture. Murti is a popular spot for picnickers surrounded by forests on the banks of River Murti. Solitary moments in the wilderness can be extremely therapeutic.

Lataguri boasts of decent accommodation facilities and places to eat. While there are of course no fine dining options there are a number of good restaurants that serve delicious meals. At the end of a thrilling safari or trekking or after a long tiring day of birding, tourists can treat themselves to some mouthwatering spreads in Aranya Jungle Resort, Tripti restaurant and Rose Valley Lataguri Forest Retreat. Vegetarian and non-vegetarian meals are available here to cater to all.