Buxa Fort
A fortress with two histories, above the clouds
About Buxa Fort
Buxa Fort crowns a ridge at about 867 m, originally built by the Bhutanese to guard the Silk Route into Tibet and later captured by the British in 1865. In the twentieth century it became a high-security detention camp for Indian independence activists, which is why many Bengalis call it the Andaman of the North.
Only ruins and restored walls remain today, but the walk up through Buxa Tiger Reserve — past ferns, orchids and drifting cloud — is one of the finest short treks in the Dooars.
Why visit
- A rare Himalayan fort with both Bhutanese and colonial history
- Short, accessible trek through pristine reserve forest
- Sweeping views over the Dooars plains and Bhutan hills
- Gateway to Lepchakha and Rovers Point
Things to do & experiences
How to reach
Bagdogra Airport (IXB) is the nearest airport, 2–4 hours by road depending on the destination.
Rajabhatkhawa station, then road to Santalabari.
Drive to Santalabari, then a 4 km uphill walk.
Best time to visit
October to April, when skies are clear, forests are open and wildlife sightings peak.
