Cycling to Dooars (from Siliguri or thereabouts)

nekobus

Does anyone have an opinion on whether this is a sensible (or not too crazy) thing to be doing?

I'm planning to spend a few months cycling in Sikkim next Spring and was contemplating a side trip to Dooars - I'm really keen to see Jaldapara Wildlife Sanctuary.

I suppose I'm more worried by excess traffic than any other considerations (after Sikkim, the hills shouldn't be much of a concern). I'm always willing to take longer, quieter roads if possible.

Thanks

lavina

hey... had been to dooars from darjeeling in january of this year. the roads are scenic for sure...Teesta river looks beatiful.

i have heard jaldapara is very good, though not been there. i had instead been to gourumara national park.

i was enroute to bhutan, didnt have time then so missed jaldapara but definately will plan sometime.

well cycling looks a good idea..

nekobus

Thank you for replying. How heavy was the traffic on the way there? What is the condition of the roads like? Is this area reasonably safe (being close to Asssam)?

lavina

the roads do not have heavy traffic.... and the condition is good. However safety is a bit of a concern. you will have to keep juggling.

As when i had been even i was stuck in siliguri for one night because of some violence in darjelling.

nekobus

So danger of violence in this area would be primarily from those campaigning for a separate Gorkhaland? Would I (white & British & travelling by bicycle) be more or less at risk?
(Sorry if I'm getting confused - I've tried to read up on it, but it's pretty bewildering - and of course my worries seem very trivial compared to what's happened in Mumbai, but I'd just like to be aware of the situation).

lavina

i believe you should go ahead with your plans. Afterall its all about destiny.