The hill stations of the Northeast are abundantly blessed with Nature’s beauty and have flora and fauna that can amaze anyone. Siliguri nestled in the mighty Himalayas, they are yet away from urbanization and thereby showcases explicit beauty. Siliguri is a haven for adventure lovers and has multiple parks, sanctuaries, temples, tea gardens, and the iconic Darjeeling Himalayan Railways.
Here is the list of the Top 10 Tourist Places in Siliguri, West Bengal:
As a tourist what you can explore here is as follows:
1. Salugara Monastery – A Sacred Place
The monastery is six kilometers away from the city. It is a sacred place for Buddhists and attracts visitors from all parts of the world.
The monastery is serene and the best place to meditate or connect with yourself. There is a 100-foot Stupa by Kalu Rinpoche a lama and a teacher.
Location: Salugara, Siliguri
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Things to Do:
- Meditation: Experience peace and tranquility by meditating in a serene environment.
- Explore the Stupa: Admire the towering stupa and learn about its significance.
- Cultural Insight: Gain insights into Tibetan Buddhist culture and practices.
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport (15 km).
- By Train: The nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri (11 km).
- By Road: Accessible by local taxis and auto-rickshaws from Siliguri.
2. Bengal Safari Park – Witness the Wildlife
Siliguri’s wildlife and incredible beauty are vividly visible at the Siliguri Wildlife Park. There are a wide variety of birds here that attract visitors. Apart from the birds, the park is inhabited by gharials, black leopards, Himalayan black bears, tigers, clouded leopards, and more.
To enjoy the visit here opt for a jeep safari rather than an elephant safari as it is more safe and more comfortable when traveling with kids and the aged. There is an amazing cafeteria in the park thus it makes it the best place to enjoy piping hot food.
Location: Salugara, Siliguri
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Things to Do:
- Safari Ride: Take a safari ride to see the animals in their natural habitat.
- Bird Watching: Spot various species of birds within the park.
- Picnic: Enjoy a family picnic in the designated areas.
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport (20 km).
- By Train: The nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri (15 km).
- By Road: Accessible by local taxis and buses from Siliguri.
3. Darjeeling Himalayan Railway – A Fun Train Ride
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Darjeeling Himalayan Train is as old as 200 years and is a famous tourist spot attracting people from all age groups.
It runs from Darjeeling to New Jalpaiguri and the best aspect is that it appears more to be a toy rather than a train. The train offers the most romantic escape for couples.
Location: Siliguri to Darjeeling
Best Time to Visit: October to May
Things to Do:
- Scenic Ride: Enjoy the picturesque views of the mountains and tea gardens.
- Photography: Capture the beauty of the landscape and the charming train.
- Heritage Experience: Experience a ride on a historic narrow-gauge railway.
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport (15 km).
- By Train: Board the train from New Jalpaiguri or Siliguri Junction.
- By Road: Accessible by local transport to the railway station.
4. ISKCON Temple – Mandir to Seek Blessings
One of the largest Krishna temples this temple is very popular in Siliguri. If you are not a Krishna devotee or even a Hindu then also the temple has so much to offer you.
The place welcomes people from all walks of life. There is a guest house if one stays on the premises and a Govind Restaurant that offers the best Satvic food at the most reasonable rates.
Location: Siliguri, West Bengal
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Things to Do:
- Seek Blessings: Offer prayers and seek blessings from Lord Krishna.
- Attend Aarti: Participate in the daily aarti and bhajan sessions.
- Prasadam: Enjoy the delicious prasadam served to visitors.
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport (16 km).
- By Train: The nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri (8 km).
- By Road: Accessible by local taxis and auto-rickshaws from Siliguri.
5. Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary – An Encounter With the Wild
The wildlife sanctuary is situated at a distance of 9 km from the city and is the most promising wildlife sanctuary in West Bengal. It is a reserve forest that is home to a variety of flora and fauna including orchids jaraul, elephants, serow, and even the mighty Bengal Tiger.
It is heaven for bird watchers and people can spot several birds like flycatchers, Himalayan pied hornbills, and some migratory species from Central Asia. There is a government-run lodge in the forest that makes it an ideal place to spend the night.
Location: Sukna, Siliguri
Best Time to Visit: October to April
Things to Do:
- Wildlife Safari: Take a jeep safari to spot wildlife in their natural habitat.
- Bird Watching: Observe a variety of bird species.
- Nature Walks: Enjoy guided nature walks and trekking.
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport (20 km).
- By Train: The nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri (15 km).
- By Road: Accessible by local taxis and buses from Siliguri.
6. Sepoy Dhura Tea Garden – The Lush Green Spot
If you are in Siliguri visiting and smelling the intoxicating air of the lush green tea garden. The Sepoy Dhura Tea Garden is the best tourist spot in the city and visitors flock there to see the complete tea-making process. The clean air of the tea garden will cast a spell on the visitors.
Location: Sukna, Siliguri
Best Time to Visit: March to June and September to November
Things to Do:
- Tea Tour: Take a guided tour of the tea garden and learn about tea processing.
- Tea Tasting: Enjoy tasting freshly brewed tea.
- Photography: Capture the scenic beauty of the tea garden.
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport (25 km).
- By Train: The nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri (18 km).
- By Road: Accessible by local taxis and auto-rickshaws from Siliguri.
7. Surya Sen Park – For Unlimited Fun
Surya Sen Park is a delight for picnic goers and is loved by the locals and the tourists who desire to spend a day full of fun. Pack lunch and enjoy the greenery at the best Siliguri tourist spot.
It is the best place for fun rides, swings, and play areas. The colored lights illuminate the evenings of the park and are a sight to behold.
Location: Mahakal Pally, Siliguri
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Things to Do:
- Boating: Enjoy boating in the artificial lake.
- Children’s Play Area: Let kids have fun in the play area.
- Evening Stroll: Take a leisurely walk in the park.
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport (15 km).
- By Train: The nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri (8 km).
- By Road: Accessible by local taxis and auto-rickshaws from Siliguri.
8. Dudhia – A Charming Hamlet
Dudhia is a charming little hamlet and is best-suitable for a weekend getaway. Situated between Siliguri and Mirik it is located on the banks of the Balason River and there are several tea gardens in the area.
It is a popular picnic spot at the river’s bank and provides much-needed relief from the chaos of the city. During the winters the water levels in the river are low and thus people flock there.
Location: Siliguri-Mirik Road
Best Time to Visit: October to April
Things to Do:
- Picnicking: Enjoy a picnic by the river.
- Nature Walks: Explore the natural surroundings and take leisurely walks.
- Photography: Capture the serene landscape and river views.
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport (27 km).
- By Train: The nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri (25 km).
- By Road: Accessible by local taxis and buses from Siliguri.
9. Coronation Bridge – A Stunning Man-made Marvel
The Coronation Bridge of Siliguri is a very famous tourist place and is at a distance of 25 km from the city of Siliguri in a small town in Sevoke. It was constructed to commemorate the coronation of Queen Elizabeth and King George VI, it was designed by the British executive engineer, John Chambers, who was attached to the Darjeeling division of the PWD. The bridge is an architectural marvel and it has stunning design and engineering, as it was constructed after overcoming the hurdles imposed by the Teesta River.
Location: Sevoke, near Siliguri
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Things to Do:
- Sightseeing: Admire the architectural beauty of the bridge.
- Photography: Capture the picturesque views of the Teesta River and hills.
- Nearby Attractions: Visit nearby attractions like Sevoke Kali Mandir.
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport (34 km).
- By Train: The nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri (23 km).
- By Road: Accessible by local taxis and buses from Siliguri.
The above list is just a small glimpse of what Siliguri has to offer the visitors. There are so many other places plus the ages-old culture of Siliguri that makes it the best tourist destination for visitors.
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Frequently Asked Questions:
1. What are the best places to visit in Siliguri?
The best places to visit in Siliguri include Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary, Kali Mandir, Salugara Monastery, and ISKCON Temple.
2. Is Siliguri a hill station?
No, Siliguri is not a hill station, but it serves as a gateway to nearby hill stations like Darjeeling and Kalimpong.
3. What is the best time to visit Siliguri?
The best time to visit Siliguri is from October to February when the weather is cool and pleasant.
4. Are there any picnic spots in Siliguri?
Yes, Dudhia Picnic Spot is a popular picnic destination in Siliguri, known for its scenic beauty by the Balason River.
5. What are some fun things to do in Siliguri?
Fun activities in Siliguri include visiting the Surya Sen Park, shopping at Hong Kong Market, and enjoying wildlife at the Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary.
6. Are there tourist places near Siliguri for a one-day trip?
Yes, places like Mirik, Kalimpong, and Kurseong are ideal for a one-day trip from Siliguri.
7. What are the best places to visit in Siliguri for couples?
Couples can visit places like Dreamland Amusement Park, ISKCON Temple, and Savin Kingdom for a pleasant time together.
8. Is Siliguri safe to visit at night?
Generally, Siliguri is considered safe at night, but it is advisable to take standard precautions and avoid secluded areas.
9. What is Siliguri famous for?
Siliguri is famous for its tea gardens, vibrant markets, and as a base for visiting nearby hill stations and national parks.
10. Are there any hill stations near Siliguri?
Yes, popular hill stations like Darjeeling, Kalimpong, and Kurseong are located near Siliguri and are easily accessible for a visit.