adminHollong Bungalow in Jaldapara National Park
Nestled deep within the heart of Jaldapara National Park in North Bengal, Hollong Tourist Lodge—also known as Hollong Bungalow—was a beloved forest retreat that offered guests an unparalleled immersion into the wild. Operated by the West Bengal Tourism Development Corporation (WBTDC), this iconic lodge was situated approximately 7–8 kilometers inside the forest, accessible via a scenic drive through dense woodlands .([dooars.info][1])
The lodge featured five spacious double bedrooms, providing rustic comfort amidst the wilderness. Its unique location allowed guests to witness wildlife up close; a salt pit maintained just outside the lodge attracted animals like elephants, gaurs, deer, and the famed one-horned rhinoceros. Moreover, staying at Hollong granted guests priority access to the renowned Jaldapara elephant safari, enhancing the overall jungle experience .([North Bengal Guide][2], [northbengaltourism.com][3])
Tragically, in June 2024, a devastating fire—suspected to have been caused by a short circuit, possibly due to rodents damaging electrical wiring—completely gutted the 57-year-old wooden structure . Despite this loss, Hollong’s legacy endures in the memories of nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts who cherished its serene ambiance and close encounters with the wild.([Telegraph India][4])
While Hollong Tourist Lodge remains closed, visitors can still explore the rich biodiversity of Jaldapara National Park and find accommodation in nearby lodges, such as the Jaldapara Tourist Lodge (now Aranya Tourism Property), ensuring continued access to this remarkable natural haven.([northbengaltourism.com][5])
[1]: https://dooars.info/hollong-tourist-lodge/?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Hollong Tourist Lodge – Dooars Info – Dooars Info”
[2]: https://northbengalguide.com/hollong?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Hollong Tourist Lodge- Complete Booking Guide”
[3]: https://northbengaltourism.com/government-resorts/hollong-tourist-lodge/?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Hollong Tourist Lodge – North Bengal Tourism”
[4]: https://www.telegraphindia.com/west-bengal/holong-bungalow-fire-probe-smells-a-rat-suspicion-rodents-cut-wire-and-caused-short-circuit/cid/2029579?utm_source=chatgpt.com “‘Rodents cut wire and caused short circuit’: Holong Bungalow fire …”
[5]: https://northbengaltourism.com/government-resorts/jaldapara-tourist-lodge/?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Book Jaldapara Tourist Lodge (Now Aranya Tourism Property)”
