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 that runs across the district are the 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 of interest
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.
