Manalee Aranyak Park

Manalee Aranyak (Manalee Forest Resort), located 15 km from Durgapur railway station, is an ideal destination for nature lovers. First, it is not busy, at least not yet, since few people are aware of it and even fewer visit. Second, it is readily accessed from Kolkata. One must catch one of the many trains from Howrah or Sealdah that stop in Durgapur and then take a taxi. Manalee Aranyak is spread across 22 acres and offers a taste of pure nature. The red laterite soil is unsuitable for greenery, yet the tireless efforts of certain environment lovers have transformed the area into a beautiful green oasis. Manalee Aranyak is home to a wide variety of trees, including mango and jackfruit, cashew, and tissue-culture Burma teak. There are also sal, akashmoni, and mohua trees on and near the resort. Despite being a planted forest, the area has the appearance and feel of a pristine forest. Watching the moon rise over Manalee Aranyak is breathtaking; the entire resort is bathed in peaceful silver light. If you travel during the monsoon season, you can see the wonderful sight of rain falling over a lush green forest from the observatory. It’s the perfect location to relax after a long week. The living arrangements are straightforward: there are three bedrooms with adjoining bathrooms (water is supplied from a well via a mechanical pump). A temporary dining table under a neem tree makes eating out an unforgettable experience. Manalee Aranyak’s virgin beauty may not last long. Plans are underway to transform the picturesque resort into a commercial tourism hotspot, with horse racing and camel racing on the agenda, subject to government approval. An additional 19 acres have been set aside for the construction of artificial lakes and hillocks. Because nature enthusiasts are unsure whether such initiatives would increase the attraction of the area, it may be prudent to visit Manalee Aranyak as soon as feasible.

Attraction

Manalee Aranyak Park has a number of tourist attractions. The park, which is surrounded by lush vegetation and well-kept gardens, is well-known for its tranquil environment, making it a great place to rest and have picnics. There are spaces set aside for picnics where parties can enjoy the great outdoors. The park’s picturesque attractiveness is enhanced by the presence of tiny lakes and other water features. Walking pathways provide visitors the opportunity to explore the park’s various locations and get up close and personal with nature. It’s a family-friendly place because there are play areas with swings and slides for the kids.

History

The park’s objective was to offer families and groups a natural sanctuary away from the bustle of Kolkata and nearby Barasat. Its primary objective has been to create a green, peaceful environment with plenty of space for picnics and relaxation in order to satisfy the community’s expectations for leisure and outdoor activities. The park is essential to the neighborhood and enhances the quality of life by providing a secure, well-maintained green space for recreational activities, even though it is not historically significant. The park has become more and more well-liked as a day trip destination over time, especially on weekends and holidays.

Inside/Outside Views

You can witness well-kept gardens and abundant greenery inside the park. The park boasts a small lake that enhances its natural attractiveness, spacious pathways for strolling, and shaded seating spaces. With swings and slides, the kids’ play area is a great place for families to hang out. The vista opens up into a serene rural area beyond the park. Trees and a few far-off dwellings dot the terrain, appearing to be a part of the surrounding natural environment. Families are having picnics and kids are playing, making for a pleasant and peaceful mood overall.

How to Reach

By Air: Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (Kolkata Airport), located about 20 km from Manalee Aranyak Park. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a pre-paid cab to the park.

By Rail: Barasat Junction Railway Station is located about 8-10 km from the park. From Barasat Junction, you can hire an auto-rickshaw, cycle rickshaw, or a cab to reach the park.

By Road: Manalee Aranyak Park is about 30-35 km from the center of Kolkata. You can take the NH12 (Jessore Road) or the Barasat-Barrackpore Road. Then you can take local transportation to reach the park.

FAQ

Que-01: Is this place safe to visit?

Ans: Yes, this place is safe.

Que-02: Is photography allowed?

Ans: Yes, photography is allowed.

Que-03: Is parking available at the park?

Ans: Yes, there is parking available near the park for visitors who travel by private vehicles.

Que-04: Are picnic spots available?

Ans: Yes, the park is popular for picnics, with designated picnic spots for families and groups.

Que-05: Are there any food stalls or restaurants inside the park?

Ans: There may be small vendors selling snacks or refreshments inside or near the park, but it is advisable to carry your own food, especially for picnics.