Amkhoi Wood Fossil Park: A Journey Millions of Years Back in Time near Santiniketan

Just a short drive from Santiniketan and Bolpur lies the fascinating Amkhoi Wood Fossil Park, a unique geological treasure and the only Wood Fossil Park in West Bengal. This relatively new attraction offers visitors a chance to connect with the ancient past, showcasing fossilized wood specimens that are millions of years old and providing insights into the region’s prehistoric flora. Recently declared a Biodiversity Heritage Site, the park is a significant effort in preserving natural heritage and promoting ecotourism.

Unveiling the Ancient Forest:

The park’s origins trace back to 2006 when villagers in Amkhoi, near Illambazar, discovered large, bone-like structures while digging a pond. These were later identified as fossilized wood, remnants of a forest that thrived in the area approximately 15 to 20 million years ago during the Late Miocene period.

What are Wood Fossils?

Wood fossils, or petrified wood, are created through a process called petrifaction. Over millions of years, when wood is buried under sediment layers and protected from decay, groundwater rich in dissolved minerals (like silica) seeps into the wood’s cellular structure. These minerals gradually replace the original organic material, effectively turning the wood into stone while often preserving intricate details of its original structure, including tree rings and cellular patterns. The fossils found at Amkhoi are primarily from angiosperms (flowering plants), some related to species now found in places like the Western Ghats, Myanmar, and Malaysia.

Exploring the Park:

Developed by the West Bengal Forest Department, the Amkhoi Wood Fossil Park is designed to educate and intrigue visitors.

• Fossil Displays: Large fossilized wood specimens, including impressive trunk sections, are displayed throughout the park on landscaped grounds. Some are under protective shelters.
• Informational Boards: Bilingual boards (in English and Bengali) provide details about the fossils on display, the process of fossilization, and the geological history of the area.
• Excavation Site: The original pond where the fossils were first discovered is often a point of interest, sometimes featuring a large fossilized trunk at its center.
• Natural Setting: The park is located near the Chowpahari Sal Forest, offering a peaceful environment for a stroll amidst nature. A botanical garden is also being developed.

The park serves as an open-air museum, making the fascinating world of paleobotany accessible to the public and researchers alike.

Visitor Information:

Amkhoi Wood Fossil Park is a worthwhile detour for anyone visiting Santiniketan or Bolpur.

• Location: Situated near Illambazar, on the Illambazar-Bolpur-Santiniketan road.
• Distance from Bolpur/Santiniketan: It is located approximately 10 to 12 kilometers from Bolpur town.
• Easiest Way to Visit: The most convenient way to reach the park is by hiring a car or auto-rickshaw (Toto) from Bolpur or Santiniketan. It can be visited as a standalone trip or combined with visits to nearby areas like Illambazar or the Sonajhuri Forest.
• Open Timings: The park is generally open from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
• Closed On: The park is closed on Wednesdays.
• Entry Fees: There is a nominal entry fee: ₹10 per person for adults and ₹5 per person for students and children. Paid parking is available for vehicles.
• Facilities: Basic facilities like washrooms and a tea shop run by local women are usually available near the entrance.

A visit to Amkhoi Wood Fossil Park offers a unique blend of natural history, education, and a peaceful retreat, providing a different perspective on the ancient landscape of West Bengal.