Jalpaiguri
derives its name from the olive fruit, which is locally known as ‘jalpai’
– it literally means a place where olives are found abundantly.
Its name is also associated with Lord Shiva who is also known as Jalpesh,
the presiding deity of the region. Jalpaiguri shares the northern part
of West Bengal and is close to international borders with Bhutan in the
north and Bangladesh in the south. It is bounded by the state of Assam
and Darjeeling district in the East and West. Jalpaiguri comprises chiefly
of a rural population, which is more than 80 per cent of its total population.
The topography of the land is cut across by rivers, rivulets and hills,
and covered with tea gardens and forests. It is a virtual cauldron of
different ethnic races and tribes like the Rajbanshi, Rabha, Toto, Metch,
Santhals, Madasia and Oraons.
Major Rivers: Teesta, Torsa, Jaldhaka, Raidak and Sankosh.
Jalpaiguri
has great tourism potential which still lies untapped; the wild currents
of Teesta, Torsa and Sankosh asserting its way through the gorges; vast
stretches of wilderness with the backdrop of the Himalayas; rolling acres
of tea estates and colorful tribal peoples makes it an ideal place for
holiday makers and adventure lovers.
The little town of Jalpaiguri has more or less survived
being bitten by the commercialization bug unlike some cities and towns
of North Bengal. Its beauty lies in its serenity, green parks and the
relaxed way in which people go about their day-to-day life. The look and
feel of the town belies the fact that it is a great seat of learning and
education in North Bengal. It boasts of a reputed Law College establishment
and Pharmacy Institute; large numbers of people are well educated. Recently,
Jalpaiguri Court won the prestigious privilege of hosting the High Court
Circuit Bench beating Siliguri Court in the run for the same.
If Siliguri is known for its commercialization and economic
development, Jalpaiguri has a unique identity of its own in the cultural,
educational and social map of North Bengal.
Places must be visited:
Jalpesh Siva Temple – Located 3 km from Mainaguri
and 15 km from Jalpaiguri. A famous shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, the
presiding deity of North Bengal. Every year in the Hindu calendar month
of sawan (15 July-15 August) thousands of devotees throng the Jalpesh
Temple and a large fair is organised for a month. Devotees collect water
in vessels from the river Teesta after offering puja and walk barefoot
towards the temple, which is 15 km from the river.
