I was here in Siliguri for 7 days after returning from Darjeeling, and it was a good stay. I was on my motorcycle. Siliguri is the gateway to northeast India no doubt. If you are coming from other states, By road then you need to come here. From here you can head to Assam and Sikkim and Darjeeling, or northeast India.
Here in Siliguri, there are lots of things to do, I was here for seven days. I was staying in a hostel that was perfect if you prefer hostels. I prefer hostels. The hostel I was staying in was Bunkbread Siliguri. The host were absolutely perfect, they treat guests as friends. But here in this article, I am going to talk about 15 places you should visit if you have stay in Siliguri. There are lots of things to do here.
We will start with Siliguri’s history and culture.
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History & Culture
The history of Siliguri dates back to the 19th century when it was a small village with a few houses. However, with the construction of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway in 1880, the town grew significantly and became a major transportation hub connecting the cities of Kolkata, Siliguri, and Darjeeling.
Siliguri’s culture is a blend of different traditions and ethnicities. The town is home to a diverse range of communities, including Bengalis, Nepalis, Marwaris, Biharis, and Assamese, which has resulted in a vibrant mix of cultures. The town’s traditional festivals, such as Durga Puja, Diwali, and Holi, are celebrated with great fervor and enthusiasm by the residents.
Siliguri’s food scene is also a reflection of its diverse cultural mix. The town is known for its mouth-watering street food, including momos, thukpa, chaat, and jhal muri, which are popular among locals and tourists alike.
One of the town’s significant landmarks is the Kali Mandir, a Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Kali. The temple is an essential pilgrimage site for devotees who flock here during the Navratri festival.
In addition to its religious and cultural significance, Siliguri is also known for its natural beauty. The town is located at the foothills of the Eastern Himalayas, making it an ideal destination for adventure enthusiasts. The Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary, located nearby, is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including tigers, elephants, leopards, and several bird species.
Siliguri’s strategic location as a transportation hub has also made it an important center for trade and commerce. It is connected to major cities in India and neighboring countries by road, rail, and air. The city’s proximity to international borders also makes it an important hub for cross-border trade.
In terms of education, Siliguri has several well-known schools and colleges, including the North Bengal University and the Siliguri Institute of Technology. The city also has several medical facilities, including hospitals and clinics, which serve the healthcare needs of the local population and surrounding regions.
Siliguri is a city with a rich history and cultural heritage, as well as a rapidly developing economy and infrastructure. Its unique blend of diverse ethnic groups, cultural traditions, and natural attractions make it an exciting and dynamic destination for tourists and residents alike.
Places to Visit in Siliguri
There are several places to visit in Siliguri. Some of them are given below. My host took me to several other places which are not on the list even on the internet. I remember just one place but I don’t remember the name of the place, that was inside a tea garden.
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Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary
Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary is a popular destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts situated in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal in Northeast India. This sanctuary covers an area of 159 square kilometers and is surrounded by the lush green Mahananda River on one side and the snow-capped Himalayas on the other. The sanctuary is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, making it an ideal destination for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.
History and Location Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary was established in the year 1976 as a reserve forest and later declared a sanctuary in 1979. The sanctuary is located on the eastern bank of the river Mahananda and is surrounded by the Singalila Range in the north and the Kurseong hills in the south. The sanctuary shares its border with the Jaldapara National Park in the south and the Kanchenjunga Biosphere Reserve in the north. The nearest town to the sanctuary is Siliguri, which is well-connected by air, road, and rail.
Flora and Fauna Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary is blessed with a diverse range of flora and fauna. The sanctuary is home to over 150 species of trees, including sal, teak, oak, and bamboo, and over 250 species of flowering plants. The sanctuary is also home to a wide range of wildlife, including elephants, tigers, leopards, Himalayan black bears, barking deer, sambar, and wild boars. The sanctuary is also home to a variety of bird species, including the Asian paradise flycatcher, red junglefowl, Himalayan pied kingfisher, and several species of woodpeckers.
Attractions and Activities The sanctuary offers visitors a range of activities to explore and enjoy the beauty of the sanctuary. One of the main attractions of the sanctuary is the Mahananda River, which provides visitors with an opportunity to indulge in fishing and boating activities. The sanctuary also has several trekking trails that take visitors through the lush green forests, providing a unique opportunity to witness the wildlife up close. Another popular activity in the sanctuary is bird watching, as the sanctuary is home to a variety of bird species.
Visitors can also visit the Kali Mandir, which is located inside the sanctuary. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Kali and is surrounded by lush green forests. Visitors can also explore the surrounding areas of the sanctuary, including the nearby tea gardens, which offer a unique insight into the local culture and way of life.
The sanctuary is actively involved in various conservation efforts to protect the flora and fauna of the sanctuary. The sanctuary has several anti-poaching units to prevent poaching activities, and several programs have been initiated to create awareness among the local community about the importance of wildlife conservation.
Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary is a haven for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. The sanctuary offers visitors a unique opportunity to witness the beauty of the sanctuary and the diverse range of flora and fauna it houses. The sanctuary is a perfect destination for those looking for an escape from the chaos of the city and want to immerse themselves in the tranquility of nature.
Ewam India Buddhist Monastery
1st picture is of this place.
Ewam India Monastery is a beautiful and serene Buddhist monastery. It was established in 2006 and is a branch of the Ewam International organization, which has several other centers around the world.
The monastery has located a distance of 11 km from the heart of Siliguri with stunning views of the surrounding landscape(Mountains). The architecture of the monastery is inspired by traditional Tibetan design, with intricate murals and carvings adorning the walls and ceilings.
The monastery is dedicated to the study and practice of Buddhism and offers a range of programs and classes for visitors interested in learning about the teachings of the Buddha. The programs include meditation classes, dharma talks, and retreats, among others.
Visitors can also participate in various cultural and social activities organized by the monastery, such as traditional Tibetan dance and music performances, and workshops on Tibetan art and craft.
The monastery also has a beautiful garden with colorful flowers and plants.
The best time to visit the Ewam India Monastery is from October to May, when the weather is pleasant and the monastery is more active. Visitors can reach the monastery by taking a taxi or hiring a car from Siliguri, which is the nearest major city. It is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a spiritual and cultural experience in the Himalayan foothills.
ISKCON Temple
ISKCON Temple in Siliguri is a magnificent temple dedicated to Lord Krishna and is located in the heart of the city. The temple is managed by the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), which is a worldwide spiritual organization that aims to spread the teachings of Lord Krishna as explained in the Bhagavad Gita.
The temple’s architecture is inspired by traditional Indian temple design and is adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures. The temple complex also includes a spacious courtyard, a beautiful garden, and a large community hall.
The temple offers a range of programs and services for visitors, including daily worship ceremonies, bhajan and kirtan sessions, and spiritual discourses. The temple also hosts various festivals throughout the year, such as Janmashtami, Radha Ashtami, and Gaura Purnima, which attract a large number of devotees and visitors.
The temple also has a vegetarian restaurant that serves delicious prasadam, which is food that is first offered to Lord Krishna before being served to visitors. The restaurant also has a gift shop where visitors can buy devotional items such as books, CDs, and deity idols.
ISKCON Temple in Siliguri is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in spirituality, Indian culture, and vegetarian cuisine. It is easily accessible by taxi or public transportation from various parts of Siliguri.
Hongkong Market
Hong Kong Market in Siliguri is a popular shopping destination for locals and tourists alike. It is a bustling market located in the heart of the city, and is known for its wide range of goods, including clothing, electronics, household items, and accessories.
The market is spread over several floors and is home to numerous shops and stalls selling a variety of products. Visitors can find everything from traditional Indian clothing to western wear, as well as electronic gadgets, mobile phones, and accessories.
The market is also a great place to buy things and gifts for friends and family. Visitors can find a range of items such as handicrafts, decorative items, and jewelry, among others.
The market is known for its bargaining culture, and visitors are encouraged to negotiate with the vendors to get the best deals. The market is also home to a number of food stalls and restaurants, where visitors can sample local delicacies and street food.
Hong Kong Market is easily accessible by public transportation and is located in close proximity to other popular tourist destinations in Siliguri, such as the Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary and the Kali Mandir. It is a great place to spend a day shopping and exploring the local culture.
Coronation Bridge
The Coronation Bridge is a historic landmark located in the town of Sevoke, near Siliguri. It is a beautiful bridge that spans across the Teesta River and connects the towns of Darjeeling and Kalimpong.
The bridge was built in 1930 to commemorate the coronation of King George V and Queen Mary. It was designed by the British architect, Frederick William Stevens, and is a magnificent example of colonial architecture.
The bridge is made of steel and is painted in a vibrant red color, which makes it a popular spot for photography. It is also a major landmark for road travel in the region and is an important connection between the cities of Siliguri and Darjeeling.
The Coronation Bridge offers stunning views of the Teesta River and the surrounding hills, and is a popular spot for tourists to stop and take in the scenic beauty of the region. Visitors can walk across the bridge, take a boat ride on the Teesta River, or simply relax and enjoy the view from one of the many vantage points along the bridge.
The Coronation Bridge is easily accessible by road and is located in close proximity to other popular tourist destinations in Siliguri, such as the Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary and the Kali Mandir. It is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, architecture, and natural beauty.
These are some places to visit in Siliguri. There are several other hill stations near Siliguri that you can visit if you plan.
Hill station near Siliguri
Darjeeling
Darjeeling is a hill station located in West Bengal. It is situated at an altitude of 2,050 meters and is famous for its tea plantations, stunning views of the Himalayas, and colonial-era architecture.
Some of the popular tourist attractions in Darjeeling include the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site; the Tiger Hill, which offers stunning views of Mount Everest and the Kanchenjunga peak; and the Japanese Peace Pagoda, a symbol of peace and tranquility.
Other popular attractions include the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, which houses rare species of Himalayan animals such as the red panda and the snow leopard; the Happy Valley Tea Estate, which offers a glimpse into the process of tea-making; and the Ghoom Monastery, one of the oldest Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in the region.
Darjeeling is also famous for its delicious food, which includes momos, thukpa, and chowmein, among others. The town has a vibrant nightlife, with several bars and pubs that offer a range of drinks and entertainment.
Darjeeling can be easily accessed by road or rail from nearby cities such as Siliguri, Kolkata, and Guwahati. It is a great destination for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation and offers a unique blend of natural beauty, culture, and history.
Kalimpong
Kalimpong is a beautiful hill station near Siliguri. It is situated at an altitude of 1,247 meters and is known for its stunning views of the Himalayas, Buddhist monasteries, and flower nurseries.
Some of the popular tourist attractions in Kalimpong include the Zang Dhok Palri Phodang Monastery, which houses rare scriptures and artifacts of the Buddhist religion; the Durpin Monastery, which offers stunning views of the town and the surrounding mountains; and the Morgan House, a colonial-era mansion that has been converted into a hotel.
Other popular attractions include the flower nurseries, which are known for their orchids and gladioli; the Deolo Hill, which offers panoramic views of the town and the surrounding valleys; and the Kalimpong Arts and Crafts Centre, which showcases traditional crafts such as weaving and embroidery.
Kalimpong is also famous for its delicious food, which includes traditional Tibetan and Nepali dishes such as momos, thukpa, and chowmein, among others.
Kalimpong can be easily accessed by road from nearby cities such as Siliguri and Darjeeling. It is a great destination for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation and offers a unique blend of natural beauty, culture, and history.
Mirik
Mirik is a beautiful hill town near Siliguri. It is situated at an altitude of 1,492 meters and is known for its natural beauty, serene lakes, and tea gardens.
Some of the popular tourist attractions in Mirik include the Sumendu Lake, which is surrounded by lush forests and offers boating and fishing activities; the Bokar Ngedon Chokhor Ling Monastery, which is a beautiful Tibetan Buddhist monastery that offers meditation and teachings; and the tea gardens, which offer a glimpse into the process of tea-making.
Other popular attractions include the Mirik Bazaar, which is known for its local handicrafts and souvenirs; the Tingling Viewpoint, which offers stunning views of the Kanchenjunga peak and the surrounding valleys; and the Rai Dhap, which is a beautiful forest area that is home to a variety of flora and fauna.
Mirik is also famous for its delicious food, which includes traditional Nepali dishes such as momos, thukpa, and chowmein, among others.
Mirik can be easily accessed by road from nearby cities such as Siliguri and Darjeeling. It is a great destination for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation and offers a unique blend of natural beauty, culture, and history.
Kurseong
It is situated at an altitude of 1,458 meters and is known for its picturesque views, tea gardens, and colonial-era architecture.
Some of the popular tourist attractions in Kurseong include the Eagle’s Crag, which offers stunning views of the town and the surrounding mountains; the Giddapahar Viewpoint, which offers panoramic views of the tea gardens and the mountains; and the Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Museum, which showcases the life and legacy of the Indian freedom fighter.
Other popular attractions include the Ambotia Shiva Temple, which is a beautiful Hindu temple that is known for its unique architecture; the Dow Hill, which is a forest area that is home to a variety of flora and fauna; and the Makaibari Tea Estate, which is one of the oldest tea estates in the region and offers a glimpse into the process of tea-making.
Kurseong is also famous for its delicious food, which includes traditional Nepali and Bengali dishes such as momos, thukpa, and fish curry, among others.
Kurseong can be easily accessed by road from nearby cities such as Siliguri and Darjeeling. It is a great destination for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation, and offers a unique blend of natural beauty, culture, and history.
Lava
It is situated at an altitude of 2,360 meters and is known for its natural beauty, forests, and wildlife.
Some of the popular tourist attractions in Lava include the Neora Valley National Park, which is a beautiful forest area that is home to a variety of flora and fauna; the Lava Monastery, which is a beautiful Buddhist monastery that offers meditation and teachings; and the Changey Waterfalls, which are a series of waterfalls that offer stunning views and a refreshing dip.
Other popular attractions include the Tiffin Dara, which is a viewpoint that offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys; the Chhangey Falls, which are a beautiful waterfall that can be reached after a short hike; and the Rishop, which is another beautiful hill town located nearby.
Lava is also famous for its delicious food, which includes traditional Nepali and Bengali dishes such as momos, thukpa, and fish curry, among others.
Lava can be accessed by road from nearby cities such as Siliguri and Darjeeling. It is a great destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts and offers a unique blend of natural beauty, culture, and history.
So, these are some hill stations near Siliguri that you can reach easily from Siliguri. If you prefer a hostel, then I would suggest Bunkbread.