Boost to heritage tourism: State plans to restore Nal Raja's fort in Chilapata

OPEN-AIR MUSEUM PROPOSED

- OUR CORRESPONDENT

ALIPURDUAR: In a significant step to boost heritage tourism in Dooars, the state government has proposed the restoration of Nal Raja's fort and the establishment of an open-air archaeological museum in Chilapata.

The initiatives aim to preserve the region's ancient legacy while enhancing its tourism appeal.

Located deep within the Chilapata forest in the core area of Jaldapara National Park, the ruins of Nal Raja's fort are believed to date back nearly 1,500 years, possibly to the Gupta era.

Some believe the structure may have served as a large bunker for Chila Roy, commander to King Naranarayan Bhup Bahadur of the Cooch Behar dynasty.