Introduction to Siliguri
Location and Geography
I arrived in Siliguri, a busy city in North Bengal. It lies at the northern tip of West Bengal, near the base of the Himalayas. It is only about 100 meters above sea level and is surrounded by tea gardens and rivers. The Mahananda, Teesta, and Balason rivers meet near here, which makes the land lush. Because of its spot on the map, Siliguri is the main stopover for travelers going to Darjeeling, Kalimpong or the Dooars. Many travelers pass through here on their way to Bhutan or Nepal too.
Climate and Cultural Vibe
The weather in Siliguri is pleasant most of the year. Winters (November–February) are cool and dry, and summers are warm but not as hot as the plains. The monsoon (June–September) brings heavy rain and green hills. Because of all the rain, the tea gardens around Siliguri stay bright green and full of life. People here come from many cultures and speak many languages. The mix includes Bengali, Nepali, Hindi and tribal languages. You will hear Bengali songs, Nepali tunes, and even Tibetan chants. This mix is also seen in food: Bengali, Nepali, and Tibetan dishes are all popular here. Siliguri feels like a friendly melting pot of cultures.
Why Siliguri Matters
A Gateway to the Northeast
I soon learned why Siliguri is famous. It is often called the “Gateway to the North East”. All the roads, trains, and flights that go to Northeast India or to Bhutan or Nepal pass through Siliguri. For example, the main train station in this area is New Jalpaiguri (NJP) in Siliguri, which connects to Kolkata, Delhi, Guwahati and more. Likewise Bagdogra Airport, only about 12 km away, has flights to Delhi, Kolkata, and other big cities. I realized that without Siliguri as a hub, traveling by land to the hills or the North East would be much harder. All this travel and trade means Siliguri is always bustling with people and business.
A Standalone Destination
But Siliguri is more than just a transit point. The city itself has things to see and do. It has big markets, temples, and parks that are worth visiting. Even as I waited between trains, I found that the city has a charm of its own. Siliguri lies surrounded by hills and forests, so you get nice views even in town. Tea gardens stretch out near the suburbs, and rivers flow on the edges of the city. The weather is comfy in winter and spring, which makes exploring the town easy. There are beautiful places, from monasteries to wildlife parks, right here. Locals told me to spend a day or two in Siliguri itself, not just pass through. I also noticed Siliguri’s role as a trading center for tea and timber. The city felt lively and diverse, making it a great standalone stop in my travel plans.
Top Tourist Attractions
City and Nearby Attractions
Near Siliguri on the Hill Cart Road, Salugara Monastery stands with a huge white stupa (100 feet tall) against a green hillside. It felt very peaceful. This Buddhist shrine, built by Lama Kalu Rinpoche, has quiet gardens where people pray or sit in meditation. It was a calm break from the busy city. In the city itself, one can also visit the ISKCON Temple (the Radha-Madhav Temple). I went there at sunrise when the chants were going, and it was a tranquil start to the day. Another city temple is the Kali Bari Temple (or Shakti Temple) on Hill Cart Road. It’s an old Hindu temple with bright decorations and a friendly crowd at prayer time. Also in town is the North Bengal Science Centre, a large planetarium and museum. Kids and adults alike enjoy the science shows and interactive exhibits (I saw a laser show under the dome). For a quick photo op, check out the Lion’s Clock Tower at Burdwan Road Chowk – a local landmark. All these places are just a short drive or walk within Siliguri.
- Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (Toy Train) – The historic narrow-gauge train starts from New Jalpaiguri (near Siliguri). It is a UNESCO World Heritage ride from NJP up to Darjeeling. You can see the old steam engine at Siliguri Junction or NJP station. Riding this train through tea gardens is a magical experience and a must-do when in the area.
- City Centre Mall and Tower – For shopping and views, the City Centre Mall is popular. It has shops and a cinema, plus you can go up the Tower of Joy for a 360° view of Siliguri on a clear day.
Nature, Wildlife, and Tea Gardens
About 25 km north of Siliguri, the Coronation (Sevoke) Bridge spans the Teesta River. Built in 1930 during the British era, this arch bridge has a grand look over the emerald river. I walked halfway across it and saw the forested hills on both sides. On the way to the bridge are hills and waterfalls that are great for photos.
- Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary – Just 15 km from Siliguri, this green forest park is home to tigers, elephants, and deer. I took an early morning jeep safari here. We spotted deer, monkeys, and many birds. The sanctuary sits between the Mahananda and Teesta rivers, giving nice forest scenery. If you like trekking, there are trails leading into the hills (e.g. Latpancher Trek).
- Bengal Safari Park (North Bengal Wild Animals Park) – This large park offers a safe way to see wildlife. You ride in a caged jeep and slowly go through areas with Indian tigers, leopards, Himalayan black bears, and a variety of deer. There is also a large crocodile (gharial) enclosure. It felt like a mini safari. The jeep feels safe even with big cats near, and it’s child-friendly.
- Sepoy Dhura Tea Garden – Not far from Mahananda Sanctuary is this beautiful tea estate. Driving through lush tea fields and misty hills was refreshing. I walked part of the garden – you can smell the fresh tea leaves and meet friendly tea pluckers. The scenery is very green and peaceful.
- Dudhia – A small village on the Balason River, about 30 km from Siliguri. It’s a rustic picnic spot by tea gardens. The river runs gently here, and on weekends families come to relax. I visited in the winter; the crowd was smaller and the clear sky made the hills look sharp. Dudhia is great for a short outing.
- Gajoldoba Teesta Barrage – Near Siliguri is the big Teesta Barrage dam. It creates a lake that attracts migratory birds. The backdrop of the river and dam is beautiful, and locals enjoy boating here. Though not as popular, it’s a nice quiet spot in the early evening.
By visiting these attractions, I saw that Siliguri has a rich mix of temples, bazaars, green parks, and mountain views. Each place was just a short drive apart, making it easy to fit many stops in a day.
Food and Dining
Local Dishes and Street Food
Siliguri’s food scene is as mixed as its culture. On the streets you will find momos (steamed dumplings with spicy sauce) and thukpa (noodle soup) everywhere. These Tibetan/Nepali dishes are cheap and filling – I often had them at dhabas or small stalls. Chaats like phuchka (pani puri) and jhal momo (fried dumplings in spicy gravy) are popular snacks. Being in Bengal, Bengali specialties are around too: I tried Hilsa fish curry and Potol er Dorma (stuffed pointed gourd) at a local eatery. Sweet shops sell mishti doi (sweet yogurt) and rosogolla if you have a sweet tooth. Also try kathi rolls (chicken or egg rolls) from street vendors – they’re a common quick bite here. In short, Siliguri has Nepali/Tibetan, North Indian (Parathas, chaats), Chinese, and Bengali food available.
Recommended Restaurants and Cafes
For restaurants, the city has several well-regarded spots. WanderOn lists The Yellow Chilli, Dhaba By Amber, and Bhojohori Manna among the top picks. Here are a few worth trying:
- Bhojohori Manna – A famous Bengali chain (branch in Khalpara). It serves classic Bengali thalis with fish, lentils, rice and vegetables. I loved their macher jhol (fish curry) and aloo posto (potato in poppy seed paste). The food felt like home-made Bengali cooking.
- The Yellow Chilli (Bankim Nagar) – Serves North Indian and Mughlai dishes. Good for biryani and kebabs. The menu has a wide range of curries.
- Dhaba By Amber – A Punjabi dhaba-style restaurant. The butter chicken, dal makhani, and stuffed kulchas here are popular among travelers.
- Indian Pagoda Chinese (Janta Nagar) – A unique restaurant blending Indian and Chinese flavors. They serve spicy Indo-Chinese stir-fry dishes and noodles with an Indian twist. It’s fun and different.
- Hashtag Cafe & Lounge – A modern cafe in town. Good coffee, pasta, pizzas, and desserts if you want a break from Indian food.
- Saffron Restaurant – Known for its biryani and tandoori dishes in an upscale setting.
Many local dhaba joints and street carts also give tasty meals at low cost (around ₹100–200). For sweets or snacks, I visited places like Keventer’s for pastries and local “ghugni” stalls. Overall, I found plenty of options for all tastes and budgets.
Travel Guide
Reaching Siliguri (Air, Train, Road)
- By Air: Fly into Bagdogra Airport (IXB), about 12 km south of Siliguri. It has daily flights to major cities like Kolkata, Delhi, Guwahati, Mumbai, and Bangalore. A taxi or ride-share (≈₹300–500) takes 20–30 minutes to reach Siliguri. Flights are around ₹3,000–7,000 one-way.
- By Train: The main station is New Jalpaiguri (NJP), only 10 km from Siliguri. This is a large junction with trains from all over India. Siliguri has another small station called Siliguri Junction. Most long-distance trains stop at NJP. From NJP you can take a rickshaw or auto (≈₹100) or share a taxi to Siliguri city.
- By Road: National Highway 27 connects Siliguri to Kolkata, Guwahati, Patna and other cities. The drive from Kolkata takes about 10 hours (≈550 km). State-run and private Volvo buses run to Siliguri from Kolkata, Darjeeling, Patna, and Guwahati. Within North Bengal, minibuses and shared jeeps connect Siliguri to Darjeeling, Gangtok, Kalimpong, etc (see below).
- Within Siliguri: The city has buses (WBUdaans and private) for local routes (₹10–15). Cycle rickshaws or Tongas run in some areas (₹20–30). Auto-rickshaws charge around ₹10 per km. App-cabs (Ola/Uber) are available too. For tourists, hiring a private taxi or Uber can be convenient for day trips.
Best Time to Visit and Local Transport
The best season is October to March. The weather is cool and sunny, perfect for sightseeing. Daytime temperatures are pleasant (around 20–25°C in winter). Avoid the monsoon season (June–September), as heavy rains can cause landslides on mountain roads and heavy traffic.
Local transport within Siliguri is easy. Buses and autos run frequently. The city is not very big, so auto-rickshaws (metered) are cheap. For a local feel, try a cycle-rickshaw ride in older neighborhoods. You can also rent a bike or car for flexibility. If traveling around evening, use app-cabs or taxis for safety, especially in less crowded areas.
Shopping Guide
Popular Markets and Shopping Areas
- Hong Kong Market: A famous bustling market near Dwarflton for bargain shopping. You can find cheap clothes, bags, electronics, and trinkets imported from Nepal and China. It gets very crowded, so go early morning to avoid the rush.
- Bidhan Market: In Siliguri’s old town, this market has stalls selling woollens (shawls, carpets) and handicrafts. It’s a good place to buy traditional Nepali woollens and warm gifts for winter.
- Mahabirsthan (Siliguri Haat): A weekly market for fruits, vegetables, and local crafts. Vendors from hills bring seasonal produce, like jams, pickles, and spices.
- Seth Srilal Market (New Market): Very large marketplace for everything from clothes to electronics. You can bargain for clothes and household items.
- City Centre Mall & Mall of Splendor: If you prefer malls, these have branded stores, food courts, and movie theaters.
- Hill Cart Road (Sevoke Road) shops: Many small shops along this main road have warm clothing, pashminas, and local souvenirs.
What to Buy in Siliguri
Siliguri is a good place to pick up regional specialties:
- Tea: Darjeeling or Assam tea from local shops. Vacuum-packed black tea, green tea, and teas with local herbs.
- Woollen items: Pashmina shawls, yak wool scarves, sweaters, gloves – these come from hill tribes.
- Handicrafts: Hand-knotted Nepali carpets, bamboo crafts, rhododendron jellies and honey from the hills.
- Spices and Pickles: Himalayan wild berries jam, pickled ginger, and local spices.
- Sweet treats: Jaggery (gur) and chikki made with local peanuts or sesame seeds.
- Tibetan jewelry: Necklaces and bracelets from the Tibetan market (Hong Kong Market).
As a traveler, I enjoyed bargaining in these markets. Small purchases like ₹50 snacks or chai were common. Always keep your wallet secure (see safety below), as markets can be crowded.
Where to Stay
Budget Hotels and Guesthouses
Siliguri has many budget options for ₹800–₹2,000 per night. For example, Hotel Manila starts around ₹956 per night. Hotel Vinayak Inn starts around ₹1,502. Other good budget choices include the Tourist Inn, Central Plaza, and Conclave (all around ₹1,500–2,000). These usually offer clean rooms with basic amenities and free Wi-Fi. Many budget hotels have in-house restaurants or are near street food areas. Dorms and homestays are also available for budget travelers, often sharing common areas. I found that booking a couple of days in advance, especially during winter, secures the best rates.
Luxury Hotels
If you want comfort, Siliguri has upscale hotels at about ₹5,000–₹7,000 per night. Lemon Tree Hotel (Crescent Road) is a top 4-star choice, with rates from around ₹5,139. Mount Milestone is another luxury option (banquet facilities) from about ₹5,900. These hotels have swimming pools, gyms, and fine dining. Other luxury names include Sinclairs and Barsana, with modern amenities and good service. Overall, luxury hotels double the price of budget ones, but offer a calmer experience and extra facilities. Keep in mind that popular ones can fill up, so book early in peak season (Oct–Mar).
Safety and Etiquette
Staying Safe in Siliguri
Siliguri is generally safe and I felt comfortable walking around in daytime. As in any city, basic precautions help. Use a money belt or keep wallets in front pockets – pickpocketing can occur in crowded markets. Always watch your bags on buses or trains. I carried photocopies of my ID and had travel insurance, just in case. Traffic can be busy; I always used marked crosswalks or waited for a break in traffic. At night, I chose rickshaws or app-cabs rather than walking alone. In monsoon (June–Sept), I avoided trips to distant hills because heavy rains can cause landslides.
Cultural Etiquette and Local Customs
People in Siliguri are warm and welcoming. It’s polite to greet with “Namaste” or “Hello”. When visiting temples or monasteries, remove your shoes at the entrance. In homes and shrines, never touch someone’s head and avoid pointing your feet at people or religious icons. Dress modestly in religious places (shoulders and knees covered). Public displays of affection are not common and can attract attention. Also, always ask before taking photos of people. In restaurants, it’s customary to eat with your right hand for Indian dishes. I found everyone to be kind and helpful; being respectful in return made my trip smooth.
Practical Travel Tips
For Families and Senior Citizens
Traveling in Siliguri with older people or children is quite manageable. The city is fairly flat, so walking is not too strenuous on streets with shade. Tuk-tuks and autos are plentiful for short hops. I brought along a first-aid kit and checked we had any necessary medications on hand. We avoided packing too many bags since car rides over winding mountain roads can jostle luggage. For families, hotels and restaurants are generally kid-friendly; many hotels have travel cots available. Seniors should be mindful of the altitude changes when heading to hill stations: take it slow, stay hydrated, and plan extra rest time.
If you’re traveling with children or parents, plan your itinerary with plenty of breaks. For example, we visited the Science Centre and Mahananda Sanctuary on different days. We also tried to travel between cities (e.g. Siliguri to Darjeeling) during daytime to avoid nighttime driving. Carry snacks, bottled water, and local health essentials (like ORS powder) just in case. Siliguri has good hospitals and clinics for any minor emergencies. Overall, being prepared and patient is key.
For Solo Travelers
As a solo traveler in Siliguri, I found it easy to get around. The locals are friendly and I never felt in danger. Men or women traveling alone should do the same precautions: avoid dark empty streets at night, and always let someone know your travel plans (many hotels ask for a photocopy of ID on check-in). I used mobile maps and asked for directions when needed – people usually pointed me in the right way. Joining a shared taxi to hill stations is a great way to save money and make friends. If you prefer group tours (for Darjeeling or Sikkim), there are many agencies in Siliguri that I could find at low cost. Most importantly, trust your intuition; if a situation feels unsafe, move to a busy area.
Packing tip: Siliguri itself is warm until October, so light cotton clothes are fine. If your itinerary includes hills, pack a light jacket and raincoat (monsoon showers can start anytime outside winter). Comfortable walking shoes are useful. A small travel umbrella came in handy during light rains even outside monsoon.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Do I need special permits for Bhutan or Sikkim from Siliguri?
A: No visa or permit is needed for Indians to enter Bhutan. At the India-Bhutan border (Jaigaon/Phuentsholing), Indians can get a free permit (just show your ID). For Sikkim, Indian citizens do not require an Inner Line Permit for normal tourism. (Only foreign nationals need permits to enter Sikkim’s protected areas.) So for Bhutans or Sikkim day trips, you just need valid ID and a good attitude.
Q: What is the weather like in Siliguri year-round?
A: Siliguri has a pleasant climate most of the year. Winters (November–February) are mild and cool (10–25°C). Summer (March–May) can get warm (up to 35°C) but usually not extreme. The heavy rains come with the monsoon (June–September). During monsoon, rivers rise and some roads, especially into the hills, can be slippery. Best time to visit is late October to early March for clear skies and comfortable weather.
Q: How can I travel to nearby hill stations like Darjeeling or Gangtok from Siliguri?
A: From Siliguri you can hire a private taxi or take shared taxis (Tempo travellers) to Darjeeling, Gangtok, Kalimpong, etc. Darjeeling is about 63 km away, taking roughly 2½–3 hours by car. We went by taxi early morning to avoid traffic. Shared taxis from Siliguri to Darjeeling usually leave when they fill up (₹250–350 per person). For Gangtok (Sikkim), it’s about 115 km and 4–5 hours by road via NH10. Shared taxis to Gangtok often go via Kalimpong. There are also buses: West Bengal SRTC runs deluxe buses to Darjeeling and Gangtok from Siliguri Bus Terminus.
Q: Is Siliguri safe for solo travelers and women travelers?
A: Generally yes. The city is busy and policing is decent. I found locals to be helpful. However, like any city, follow normal precautions. Dress modestly at religious sites. Don’t walk alone on dark isolated streets late at night. Use registered taxis or app-cabs after dark. Keep valuables secured, especially in crowded markets. If in doubt, ask your hotel staff for advice on safe areas.
Q: Do I need tickets for any attractions in Siliguri?
A: Many places are free or ask a small fee. The Coronation Bridge is public (no ticket). Temples and the monastery are free but accept donations. Mahananda Sanctuary and Bengal Safari have nominal entry charges (usually a few dozen rupees)holidaylandmark.com. The Science Centre/Planetarium charges a small fee for shows. Check current ticket prices at each site’s office.
Q: Are ATMs and internet available in Siliguri?
A: Yes. Siliguri has many banks and ATMs, including ICICI, SBI, HDFC, etc. You’ll find 24-hour ATMs downtown. Internet is easy – most hotels and restaurants have free Wi-Fi. Mobile data from major providers (Jio, Airtel) works well.
I hope this guide helps you plan your Siliguri trip. It was an enjoyable stop for me – full of nature, culture, and tasty food. Safe travels and enjoy your Siliguri adventure!tripcrafters.comholidaylandmark.com
