Fascinating Destinations near Siliguri to Hop on Weekends
By Tushar 13/Dec/23 Siliguri, often viewed as a transit point for travellers en route to Darjeeling, Sikkim, and Bhutan, holds the potential for a remarkable vacation for those willing to venture further. The city boasts parks, sanctuaries, temples, tea gardens, and the iconic Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, providing diverse opportunities to immerse yourself in its various facets. For an unforgettable weekend getaway from Siliguri, your quest concludes here. Nestled in West Bengal, Siliguri is a bustling hub that unveils numerous captivating destinations awaiting exploration. The surrounding areas offer a blend of natural beauty and cultural richness, ensuring a fulfilling and cherished experience for visitors.
For a thrill-filled weekend gear up to the following attractive spots to mesmerise yourself.
1. Darjeeling - 63 km Certainly, Darjeeling consistently claims the top spot in West Bengal tourism, whether the visit is brief or extensive. This hill station is celebrated for its breathtaking panoramas of the Himalayan Peaks, particularly the majestic Mt. Kanchenjunga, the highest peak globally. Darjeeling is also home to renowned tea estates and stands out as a family-friendly attraction near Siliguri. Immortalized in Indian movies, novels, and Hollywood productions, the charming locale boasts the world-famous Darjeeling Himalayan Railway—a miniature railway service that guides passengers through hills and ranges, showcasing nature's beauty at its finest.
2. Jalpaiguri - 51.8 km Jalpaiguri, a town nestled between Bhutan and Bangladesh, derives its name from the abundance of olive plantations that grace its landscape. Jalpaiguri beckons visitors with its scenic beauty and panoramic vistas. Accessible through Jalpaiguri Station, the town serves as a gateway to captivating destinations like Jaldapara National Park and Gorumara National Park. Jaldapara is notable for harboring the Indian one-horned rhinoceros, making them crucial conservation areas. Beyond the rhinoceros, the region boasts a rich diversity of flora and fauna, creating an enticing environment for exploration. Nestled at the foothills of the Eastern Himalayas, Jaldapara Wildlife Sanctuary features extensive riverine forests, with the Torsa River flowing freely through its expanse. The Best time to visit Jaldapara is from October to February when the weather remains cool and pleasant.
3. Kalimpong - 68 km An enchanting hill station, Kalimpong is distinguished for its profound cultural legacy, hosting ancient monasteries such as Zang Dhok Palri Phodang and Tharpa Choling Monastery, rendering it a pivotal historical enclave near Siliguri. Beyond its cultural significance, Kalimpong is a haven for avid shoppers exposed to traditional handicrafts and exquisite artifacts. The colonial-era structures perched on a ridge overlooking the lively Teesta River present a splendid sight, tempting one to contemplate a prolonged stay.
4. Coochbehar - 144 km Once the headquarters of the princely state of Bihar, Coochbehar has evolved into a globally renowned tourist destination, boasting colonial-style architecture juxtaposed against the majestic backdrop of the Himalayas. Nestled at the foothills of the Eastern Himalayas, Cooch Behar unfolds amidst a natural setting featuring snow-capped hills and expansive alpine forests. The town's cultural tapestry is woven with influences from diverse backgrounds, encompassing Bengali, Buddhist, and Tibetan elements, a splendid reflection of India's cultural diversity. Cooch Behar Tourism beckons with noteworthy attractions, including the Baneshwar Shiva Temple, Baradebi Bari Temple, and the Gosanimari Rajpat, a significant excavation site, collectively contributing to the town's allure.
5. Gangtok - 112 km Positioned as a paradise-laden destination, Gangtok attracts a multitude of visitors and is a compelling choice for those seeking a tranquil escape. The city offers exhilarating high-altitude treks, making it an ideal haven for adrenaline enthusiasts. Serving as a gateway to the Sikkim Himalayan mountain ranges, Gangtok, nestled at the lofty heights of the Himalayas, emerges as a premier weekend getaway from Siliguri. The city plays a pivotal role in bolstering Sikkim's tourism, renowned for its diverse range of accommodations. Additionally, Gangtok serves as the base camp for activities such as trekking, mountaineering, river rafting, and other adventurous pursuits.
6. Malda - 233 km Malda, a significant city in North Bengal, is in close proximity to well-known tourist destinations such as Darjeeling and Siliguri. Locally known as English Bazar or Ingraz Bazar, and sometimes referred to as the Mango City, Malda holds a prominent place in the region. As the second-largest city in northern West Bengal, Malda boasts the distinction of being the first city to establish a court exclusively dedicated to women. Nestled along the banks of the Mahananda River, Malda owes much of its tourism appeal to this scenic watercourse. The Malda Museum stands as a popular attraction, adding to the city's cultural richness. Moreover, Malda's strategic location makes it easily accessible to neighbouring cities like Uttar Dinajpur, Dakshin Dinajpur, Murshidabad, and Tarapith.