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Latpanchar - Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary
Latpanchar - a scenic, offbeat forest village in West Bengal, India, known as a prime birdwatching paradise and the highest point of the Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary at about 4,200 feet. It is located roughly 40 km from Siliguri and is famous for its Cinchona plantations and rare wildlife.
Latpanchar is very rich in flora and fauna and is home to the most elegant, colourful, endangered species of Rufous Necked Hornbill. Thick sturdy beak, brown head, darkish blue plumes bordered by white plumes at the edges – the bird comes here to nest.
Gurung family runs a homestay here and I was guided by Rabi and Parag during my stay. I was interested in 3 most beautiful birds, Green Magpie, Large Tailed Broadbill and Rufous Necked Hornbill. Apart from photographing these, I also got few more lifers like Mountain Owl, Himalayan Cutia, some excellent shots of Pygmy Cupwing and Chestnut Headed Tesia, and Grey-bellied Tesia.
Travel notes
Every season has its own charm to relish in this hamlet but to make most of the trip the best time to visit Latpanchar is between October and April. Between these times the weather in Latpanchar is pleasant and the sky remains clear. It is also an ideal time for bird watching and trekking in Latpanchar.
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