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Permits: Permits are non-negotiable. All entry permits for Buxa Tiger Reserve, vehicle permits, and safari bookings must be obtained from the Forest Office at Rajabhatkhawa. This is your first stop. You cannot enter Jayanti or start the Buxa Fort trek without this.
Guides: A forest guide is mandatory for all treks (Buxa Fort, Pokhri, Mahakal) and safaris. Your guide can be hired at the entry gates.
Getting There
By Train: The main station is Alipurduar Junction (APDJ), about 30 km (1 hour) from Jayanti. New Alipurduar (NOQ) is also a major hub.
By Air: The nearest airport is Bagdogra (IXB), which is a long 4-5 hour drive away.
Getting Around
You are reliant on private vehicles. It's best to hire a car (like a Sumo or Bolero) from Alipurduar Junction for your entire trip, to get you to Rajabhatkhawa for permits, drop you at Jayanti, and take you to the trek starting points.
Where to stay
This is homestay country. Jayanti is a village of small, family-run homestays and a few simple lodges. Rooms are basic but clean, and the hospitality is warm. The WBFDC (Forest Department) Lodge in Jayanti offers a fantastic location right on the riverbank but must be booked months in advance. Rajabhatkhawa also has a few lodges, including the WBFDC Buxa Jungle Lodge.
Where to eat
Prepare for simple, delicious, and fresh home-cooked Bengali food. Your homestay is your restaurant. The menu is usually set: hot luchi (puffed bread) and alur dum (spicy potatoes) for breakfast, and a thali of rice, dal, fresh vegetables, and either a local river fish curry or a hearty chicken curry for lunch and dinner.
