15 Places to visit in Siliguri. Siliguri tourist places, can’t miss!

Here I am going to share how can you plan Siliguri trip. You are reading this means you are definitely thinking about this. This post is all about “Siliguri Tour Plan“. Here I will also try to answer some questions like the Tourist spot near Siliguri, and why Siliguri is famous. What are some famous food of Siliguri? 2023 is the best time to visit anywhere you want.

This is a city in the Indian state of West Bengal. I know I don’t need to talk about this. It is located in the northeastern part of the state and serves as a major transportation hub for the region. The city is known for its tea gardens and is also a popular tourist destination due to its proximity to the Himalayan foothills and the popular hill station of Darjeeling. Additionally, It is also an important commercial center for the region, with a thriving economy based on agriculture, tourism, and trade.

The city is situated on the banks of the Mahananda River and is surrounded by tea gardens. It serves as a major transportation hub for the region, connecting the northeastern states of India to the rest of the country. This place is strategically important for India.

Siliguri has a diverse population, with people from different ethnic and religious backgrounds living together in harmony. The city has a mix of modern and traditional culture, with a number of temples, mosques, and churches located here.

The city is known for its tea gardens, which are major tourist attractions. Additionally, the city’s proximity to the Himalayas makes it a popular destination for trekkers and hikers. The nearby hill stations of Darjeeling, Kalimpong, and Kurseong are also popular tourist destinations. The city is home to a number of small and medium-sized industries, including handicrafts, textiles, and food processing.

In addition, the city has a number of educational institutions and is also known for its healthcare facilities. With rapid urbanization, the city is also expanding in terms of infrastructure and real estate.

Culture

It has a diverse culture due to the presence of people from different ethnic and religious backgrounds. The city has a mix of modern and traditional culture, with a number of temples, mosques, and churches located here.

The culture of Siliguri is heavily influenced by the neighboring states of Sikkim, Bhutan, Nepal, and Bangladesh. The people of this place are known for their warm hospitality and their love for music and dance. The traditional music of Siliguri is known as “Baul” and “Bhawa” which is a form of folk music, which is quite popular in the region.

The traditional dance is known as “Raibenshe” which is performed by the men and women of the community. The people also celebrate a number of festivals throughout the year, including Durga Puja, Diwali, and Eid. This is obvious.

This place also has a vibrant food culture. Some Siliguri famous food, includes traditional dishes like momos, dumplings, and tandoori chicken. The city also has a number of restaurants and cafes that serve a variety of cuisines, including Indian, Chinese, and continental food.

This also has a rich history and culture that is reflected in its art and architecture. The city has several museums and art galleries that showcase the traditional art, culture, and history of the region.

In short, Siliguri has a rich and diverse culture that reflects the influence of the neighboring states and the various ethnic and religious groups that make up the city’s population. It’s culture induces so many tourist places near Siliguri.

History

This place has a rich history dating back to ancient times. The region was originally inhabited by the Lepcha and Bhutia tribes, who have lived in the area for centuries. The name “Siliguri” is believed to have originated from the Lepcha word “shil” meaning “rock” and “gur” meaning “hill”, referring to the rocky terrain of the area.

During the British colonial period, it served as an important transportation hub for the tea trade, connecting the tea gardens of Darjeeling and the Dooars to the rest of India. The city grew rapidly as a result of the tea trade and became an important center of commerce and trade in the region.

Siliguri also played an important role in the Indian independence movement. The city was a major center of political activity during the 1930s and 1940s, with many prominent leaders of the movement visiting and addressing rallies in the city.

After India gained independence in 1947, Siliguri continued to grow as a major transportation hub and commercial center. The city is home to a number of small and medium-sized industries, including handicrafts, textiles, and food processing.

In recent years, Siliguri has undergone rapid development, with the construction of new infrastructure, such as highways, airports, and railway lines. The city has also become an important center for education and health care, with a number of institutions and hospitals located in the area.

Overall, Siliguri’s history reflects its important role as a transportation hub and commercial center, as well as its diverse cultural heritage.

Places to visit in Siliguri.

Literally, there are lots of places to visit here, but as usual, there are some places that cannot be missed if you are traveling to any particular destination. If you have limited time you cannot visit all the places, so here is a list of places to visit in Siliguri, if you are planning a trip to Siliguri.

Coronation Bridge

The Coronation Bridge, also known as the Sevoke Bridge, is a steel truss arch bridge that spans over the Teesta River in the Indian state of West Bengal. It is located in the city of Siliguri and connects the districts of Darjeeling and Jalpaiguri. The bridge was built in the 1930s and was officially opened to the public in 1941 by the British authorities, to mark the coronation of King George VI.

The bridge is an important transportation link for the region and is used by both vehicles and pedestrians. It is around 900 meters in length and has a width of around 12 meters. It is an engineering marvel and is considered one of the most picturesque bridges in India, offers a beautiful view of the river and the surrounding hills.

The bridge is a major attraction for tourists visiting Siliguri, as it offers spectacular views of the Teesta River and the surrounding hills. Visitors can also enjoy boating and fishing in the river. The Coronation Bridge is also popular among photographers, as it provides an excellent opportunity to capture the natural beauty of the region.

Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary

The Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area. It is situated along the Mahananda River, which is a tributary of the Ganges River. The sanctuary was established in 1959 and covers an area of around 26.82 square kilometers.

The Mahananda Weir Wildlife Sanctuary is known for its diverse range of flora and fauna. The sanctuary is home to a wide variety of animals, including the Indian leopard, Indian civet, Indian mongoose, and the Indian elephant. Visitors can also spot a variety of bird species, including the Indian roller, the Asian paradise flycatcher, and the white-bellied woodpecker.

The sanctuary is also home to a wide variety of tree species, including Sal, Sissoo, and Mahua. Visitors can also find a variety of medicinal plants and herbs. The Mahananda Weir Wildlife Sanctuary is a popular destination for nature lovers, bird watchers, and wildlife enthusiasts.

The best time to visit the Mahananda Weir Wildlife Sanctuary is between the months of October to May, when the weather is pleasant and the monsoon season is over. Visitors can take a jeep safari or an elephant ride to explore the sanctuary and spot the wildlife. Visitors can also take a walk through the sanctuary and enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings.

Salugara Monastery

This is a Buddhist Monastery, in the Salugara area of Siliguri. It is also known as the “Dharm Chakra Centre”.

The monastery was established in the year 1966 by the late Venerable Geshe Rabten Rinpoche and is a branch of the Ganden Shartse Monastery in South India.

The Salugara Monastery is home to a large number of Tibetan refugees who have settled in the area. The monastery is known for its peaceful atmosphere and serene surroundings. Visitors can find a large statue of Lord Buddha in the main prayer hall, as well as many other statues, paintings, and Thangkas.

The Salugara Monastery is a popular destination for tourists and visitors interested in Buddhism and Tibetan culture. Visitors can take a tour of the monastery and learn about the history and teachings of Buddhism. The monastery also offers classes on Buddhism and meditation for those interested in learning more about the religion. Visitors can also shop for traditional Tibetan handicrafts and souvenirs at the monastery’s gift shop.

The best time to visit the Salugara Monastery is between October to May, when the weather is pleasant and the monsoon season is over. Visitors should dress modestly and respect the monastery’s rules and customs.

Hong Kong Market

Hong Kong Market, also known as Hong Kong Market Complex, is a popular shopping destination located in the city. The market is known for its variety of goods and low prices and is a popular spot for both locals and tourists.

The Hong Kong Market offers a wide range of products, including clothing, electronics, jewelry, shoes, bags, and accessories. The market is known for its wide range of fashion and lifestyle products. Visitors can also find a variety of traditional items such as handloom fabrics, handicrafts, and local products like tea, spices, and sweets.

The market is also known for its large collection of imported goods, particularly from Hong Kong and China. Visitors can find a variety of products at low prices, making it a popular destination for those looking for a good bargain.

The Hong Kong Market is open seven days a week and is a great place to explore and shop for unique items. It’s best to visit the market in the morning as it gets crowded as the day passes. Negotiate as much as you can.

ISKCON Temple, Siliguri

The temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna and is a part of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) movement.

The temple was built in the year 2002 and is considered one of the most beautiful and well-maintained ISKCON temples in the region. The temple features grand architecture, with a large central dome and several smaller domes, and beautiful carvings and paintings depicting scenes from Hindu mythology.

The temple complex also includes a guesthouse for visitors, a library, and a prasadam hall (where devotees are offered food after worship).

The ISKCON Temple is a popular destination for tourists and visitors interested in Hinduism and the ISKCON movement. Visitors can take a tour of the temple and learn about the history and teachings of the ISKCON movement, as well as participate in daily prayers and rituals. The temple also regularly hosts cultural programs and spiritual events.

If you are going to any Hindu Temple, please wear decent clothes. The temple is open to visitors daily, and the best time to visit is during the morning or evening aarti (prayer) when the temple is at its most vibrant and active.

There are several places to visit in Siliguri, these are must-visit places of this destination. But again if you have time then you can visit these places- Bengal Safari Park, Sepoy Dhura Tea Garden, Chilapata Forest, North Bengal Science Centre, Savin Kingdom, Dreamland Amusement Park, Sevoke Kali Mandir, Dudhia.

Hill stations near Siliguri.

There are several hill stations near Siliguri, some of which are listed below, which you can explore if you have time.

Darjeeling

This hill station is known for its tea production and picturesque views of the Himalayas. It is located in the Lesser Himalayas at an elevation of 6,700 ft (2,042 m) and is a popular tourist destination, known for its colonial architecture, including the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and its proximity to the Kanchenjunga, the third highest mountain in the world.

The town of Darjeeling is also known for its vibrant Tibetan culture, and many visitors come to see the Buddhist monasteries and temples, such as the Ghoom Monastery and the Peace Pagoda. Other popular tourist attractions in the area include the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, and the Darjeeling Rangeet Valley Passenger Ropeway. The town is also a popular base for trekking and mountaineering in the surrounding area. This is a well-known hill station near Siliguri.

Kalimpong

It is situated at an altitude of 1,250 meters (4,100 feet) above sea level and is known for its stunning views of the Himalayan mountain ranges, including Mount Kangchenjunga, which is the third-highest peak in the world.

Kalimpong is situated in the foothills of the Himalayas and is known for its cool, temperate climate, making it a popular tourist destination, especially during the hot summer months. The town is famous for its beautiful temples, monasteries, and churches, many of which date back to the 18th century.

The city is known for its rich culture, which is a blend of Tibetan, Bhutanese, Nepalese, and Indian influences. The local people are known for their traditional handicrafts, including textiles, bamboo and cane work, and traditional masks.

Kalimpong is also known for its beautiful gardens, such as the Durpin Dara Hill, which offers a panoramic view of the city and the surrounding mountains. The city is also home to a number of trekking routes, including the famous Damsang Fort Trek, which offers beautiful views of the city and the surrounding mountains.

The city is well-connected by road, rail, and air to other major cities in the region. It is situated about 70 km from Siliguri, which is the nearest major city.

Overall, Kalimpong is a picturesque hill station with a rich cultural heritage, beautiful natural surroundings, and a cool, temperate climate, making it a popular destination for tourists and nature lovers.

Rimbik

It is situated in the Singalila Range of the Himalayas, near the border with Nepal. The town is located at an altitude of around 2,200 meters (7,200 feet) above sea level and is known for its stunning views of the surrounding mountains, including Mount Kangchenjunga.

Rimbik is a popular destination for trekkers and hikers, as it is the starting point for several trekking routes in the Singalila Range, including the popular Sandakphu-Phalut trek, which offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains, including Mount Everest.

Rimbik is also known for its beautiful natural surroundings, including dense forests, rhododendron gardens, and a variety of wildlife. The town is home to a number of wildlife sanctuaries and national parks, including the Singalila National Park, which is known for its beautiful views and variety of birds and animals.

The town is quite remote and is not well-connected by road, but it can be reached by jeep from nearby towns like Darjeeling and Kalimpong. There are also regular buses from Siliguri to Rimbik.

Rimbik is known for its serene and tranquil environment, it’s a perfect destination for nature lovers, trekkers, and those who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Tinchuley

It is situated in the Darjeeling district, in the foothills of the Himalayas, at an altitude of around 1,500 meters (4,900 feet) above sea level. The village is known for its beautiful views of the surrounding mountains, including the Kanchenjunga range.

Tinchuley is a popular destination for tourists and nature lovers, as it offers a peaceful and tranquil environment away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The village is surrounded by lush green tea gardens, forests, and beautiful terraced fields, which offer a picturesque landscape.

The village is also known for its traditional culture and customs, as it is home to a number of ethnic groups, including the Gurung, Lepcha, and Bhutia communities. The local people are known for their traditional handicrafts, including textiles, bamboo and cane work, and traditional masks.

Tinchuley is well connected by road to other major towns in the region, such as Darjeeling, Kalimpong, and Siliguri. The nearest major city is Siliguri, which is located about 70 km away.

The best time to visit Tinchuley is between the months of September to June. The temperature during this time is pleasant and the monsoon season is over. During this time, the tea gardens are lush green and the terraced fields are filled with a variety of crops, making it a perfect time to visit for those who want to experience the natural beauty of the region.

Mirmik

This place is less known by outsiders, but it getting traction. It is like Darjeeling not exactly. Here you can experience, lush green tea gardens and blue sky. There are some places you can visit if you are here, like- Sumendu Lake, Golpahar viewpoint, and Chamong Tea Estate.

Namchi

Namchi is a town located in the Indian state of Sikkim. It is the district headquarters of South Sikkim district and is situated at an altitude of around 1,500 meters (4,900 feet) above sea level. The town is known for its beautiful views.

Namchi is a popular destination for tourists and pilgrimage, as it is home to several important religious sites and monasteries. Some of the famous religious sites in Namchi include the Samdruptse Hill, the Solophok Chardham, and the Siddheswar Dham. The Samdruptse Hill is a major pilgrimage site and is known for a 135 feet statue of Guru Padmasambhava, which is said to be the tallest statue of Guru Padmasambhava in the world.

Namchi is also known for its rich culture and traditional customs, as it is home to a number of ethnic groups, including the Bhutia, Nepali, and Lepcha communities. The local people are known for their traditional handicrafts, such as weaving, woodcarving, and metalwork.

The town is well connected by road to other major towns in the region, such as Gangtok, Siliguri, and Kalimpong. The nearest major city is Siliguri, which is located about 78 km away.

The best time to visit Namchi is between the months of March to June and September to December, when the weather is pleasant and the monsoon season is over. During this time, the town is surrounded by lush green forests and fields, making it a perfect time to visit for those who want to experience the natural beauty of the region.

Pelling

This is also situated in Sikkim. Pelling is a popular destination for tourists and trekkers, as it offers a wide range of outdoor activities such as hiking, rock climbing, and paragliding. The town is also known for its many waterfalls, such as the Kanchenjunga Falls and the Rimbi Falls.

The town is also home to several important religious sites, such as the Pemayangtse Monastery, which is one of the oldest and most important monasteries in the state of Sikkim. The monastery is known for its beautiful frescoes and intricate carvings and is a major pilgrimage site for the local people.

Pelling is also known for its rich culture and traditional customs, as it is home to a number of ethnic groups, including the Bhutia, Nepali, and Lepcha communities. The local people are known for their traditional handicrafts, such as weaving, woodcarving, and metalworks.

The best time to visit Pelling is between the months of March to June and September to December, when the weather is pleasant and the monsoon season is over. During this time, the town is surrounded by lush green forests and fields, making it a perfect time to visit for those who want to experience the natural beauty of the region.

Gangtok

I don’t need to tell you about Gangtok, this is the capital city of Sikkim and the largest city as well. Gangtok is a popular tourist destination and is known for its many temples, monasteries, and other religious sites. Some of the most famous religious sites in Gangtok include the Enchey Monastery, the Tsuklakhang Royal Palace, and the Do-Drul Chorten Stupa.

The city is also known for its rich culture and traditional customs, as it is home to a number of ethnic groups, including the Bhutia, Nepali, and Lepcha communities. The local people are known for their traditional handicrafts, such as weaving, woodcarving, and metalwork.

Gangtok is well-connected by road and air to other major cities in the region, such as Siliguri, Kalimpong, and Kolkata. The nearest major airport is Bagdogra Airport, which is located about 124 km away.

The best time to visit Gangtok is between the months of March to June and September to December, when the weather is pleasant and the monsoon season is over. During this time, the city is surrounded by lush green forests and fields, making it a perfect time to visit for those who want to experience the natural beauty of the region.

Lataguri

It is a small town, situated in Jalpaiguri, district of West Bengal India. Lataguri is a popular destination for tourists and nature lovers, as it offers a wide range of outdoor activities such as bird watching, wildlife safari, and trekking. The Gorumara National Park is home to a wide variety of animals, including the Indian rhinoceros, elephant, and Indian bison. Visitors can also spot a variety of bird species, including the Indian roller, the Asian paradise flycatcher, and the white-bellied woodpecker.

Lataguri is also known for its rich culture and traditional customs, as it is home to a number of ethnic groups, including the Bengali, Lepcha, and Rajbanshi communities. The local people are known for their traditional handicrafts, such as weaving, and woodcarving.

The best time to visit Lataguri is between the months of October to May when the weather is pleasant and the monsoon season is over. During this time, the town is surrounded by lush green forests and fields, making it a perfect time to visit for those who want to experience the natural beauty of the region.

How to reach Siliguri?

Reaching here is not very tiring, because this city is well connected by all means of transport. But if you are coming from far away you check below.

Siliguri can be reached by several means of transportation:

• By Air: The nearest airport to Siliguri is Bagdogra Airport, which is located about 16 kilometers from the city. Bagdogra Airport is well-connected to major Indian cities like Kolkata, Delhi, and Mumbai.
• By Train: Siliguri Junction is the main railway station in the city and is well-connected to major Indian cities like Kolkata, Delhi, Mumbai, and Guwahati.
• By Bus: Siliguri has a well-connected network of state and private buses that connect it to major cities and towns in the region. There are several bus stands in the city, including the Siliguri Bus Stand and the Tenzing Norgay Bus Stand.
• By Car: Siliguri is well connected by road and is located on National Highway 12 and National Highway 27. It is well-connected to major cities like Kolkata, Gangtok, Guwahati, and Darjeeling.
• By Taxi: There are many taxi services available from Bagdogra Airport and other major cities to Siliguri and other nearby destinations.

But as you know I am a biker, so I will prefer a bike to reach here. But it totally depends on you, how comfortable you are with using any mode of transit, and it also depends on how much time you have. I am decision on you.

Best time to visit Siliguri.

The best time to visit Siliguri depends on what you want to do during your visit.

If you’re interested in visiting the nearby hill stations of Darjeeling, Kalimpong, and Kurseong, the best time to visit is from October to June. During this time, the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The monsoon season starts from June to September and it’s not the best time to visit due to heavy rainfall and landslides.

If you’re interested in visiting the tea gardens, the best time to visit is during the peak tea-picking season, which is from March to May. During this time, the tea gardens are lush and green, and you can see the process of tea picking and production in action.

If you’re interested in seeing the traditional festivals, the best time to visit is during the major festivals such as Durga Puja in October and Diwali in November.

In general, the winter season from October to February is considered the best time to visit Siliguri as the weather is cool and pleasant, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Overall, the best time to visit will depend on your personal preferences and interests, but it’s good to keep in mind that the city experiences a tropical climate and the monsoon season can make travel difficult in certain areas.

Things to know about Siliguri.