Gateway to the Hills | Siliguri & North Bengal Guide

Coronation Bridge

The Chicken's Neck Corridor

Siliguri is more than just a transit point; it's a melting pot of cultures, cuisines, and commerce. Strategically located at the foothills of the Eastern Himalayas, it connects the Indian mainland to the North East and neighbors Nepal, Bhutan, and Bangladesh.

Whether you are shopping at the famous Hong Kong Market, seeking spiritual peace at Salugara Monastery, or heading up towards the Queen of Hills, the journey starts here.

Shopping

Famous Hong Kong Market

Tea Gardens

Lush green landscapes

Explore North Bengal

Top Destinations

6,700 ft

Darjeeling

The "Queen of Hills" offers breathtaking views of Kanchenjunga, the world-famous UNESCO Heritage Toy Train, and aromatic tea estates.

3 Hours from Siliguri

Kalimpong

A quiet hill station known for its pleasant weather, Buddhist monasteries, colonial architecture, and flower nurseries. Don't miss Deolo Hill.

2.5 Hours from Siliguri

Wildlife

The Dooars

Home to Gorumara and Jaldapara National Parks. Experience thrilling elephant safaris and spot the One-Horned Rhino in the wild.

1.5 Hours from Siliguri

Mirik

Famous for the Sumendu Lake surrounded by a garden on one side and pine trees on the other. Perfect for boating and picnics.

2 Hours from Siliguri

Kurseong

The "Land of White Orchids". Known for Dow Hill, Eagle's Crag, and some of the most scenic tea gardens like Makaibari.

1.5 Hours from Siliguri

Sikkim

Gangtok

While in Sikkim, it's easily accessible from Siliguri. MG Marg, Monasteries, and cable cars make it a must-visit.

4 Hours from Siliguri

Taste of the Hills

Culinary Delights

"From steaming Momos to the hard Churpee, the flavors here are as diverse as the people."

Momo

Steamed dumplings filled with meat or veggies, served with spicy soup and chutney. The staple street food.

Thukpa

A hot noodle soup, typically mixed with meat and vegetables. Perfect for the chilly hill weather.

Darjeeling Tea

The "Champagne of Teas". Sip a cup while watching the mist roll over the mountains.

Nepali Thali

A wholesome meal with rice, dal, curry, saag (greens), and pickle. Truly authentic.

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Essential Travel Guide

Planning your trip to North Bengal? Here is everything you need to know for a smooth journey.

How to Reach

Air: Bagdogra Airport (IXB) is the main hub.
Rail: New Jalpaiguri (NJP) is the major railway station connecting all of India.
Road: Well connected by NH10.

Best Time to Visit

Mar - Jun: Pleasant summer, ideal for hill stations.
Oct - Dec: Clear skies, great mountain views.
Monsoon: Lush green, but risk of landslides.

Packing Tips

Siliguri is hot in summer, but Darjeeling gets cold.
Pack light woolens for summer in hills and heavy jackets for winter. Umbrella is a must!

Permits

Indian citizens need ID cards.
Foreign nationals need Protected Area Permits (PAP) for parts of Sikkim. Darjeeling is generally open.

Suggested 5-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Arrival & Siliguri

Arrive at NJP/Bagdogra. Check into hotel. Evening visit to Hong Kong Market for shopping and street food. Overnight in Siliguri.

Day 2

Journey to Darjeeling

Drive to Darjeeling via Kurseong. Stop at Makaibari Tea Estate. Evening stroll at the Mall Road (Chowrasta). Overnight in Darjeeling.

Day 3

Tiger Hill & Sightseeing

Early morning (4 AM) drive to Tiger Hill for sunrise. Visit Ghoom Monastery, Batasia Loop, and Zoo. Joyride on Toy Train.

Day 4

Kalimpong or Mirik

Drive to Kalimpong for Deolo Hill views or Mirik for boating. Enjoy the serene atmosphere away from the crowd.

Day 5

Departure

Drive back down to the plains. Buy some tea and souvenirs. Drop at NJP Station or Bagdogra Airport.

Plan Your Trip Today

Have questions about North Bengal? Want a customized itinerary? Reach out to us directly.

For bookings and inquiries, email us at:

contact@northbengalguide.com

Or call us at +91 98765 43210

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