Siliguri: Holiday in Green Himalayan Heights
How many colours of West Bengal have you experienced? This state is full of diverse cultures, landscapes, and moods. If one side offers solitude with calm seas kissing the shores, the other side is adorned with Himalayan gems. Let us introduce you to one such Himalayan treasure of West Bengal that is sure to touch your heart.
Siliguri is one of the most striking tourist destinations under the Darjeeling district of Bengal. It serves as a major gateway to enchanting hill stations like Kalimpong, Kurseong, and Darjeeling. Travellers opting for Gangtok Tourism often halt at Siliguri to enjoy a warm cup of tea.
Siliguri Tourism includes visits to a wildlife sanctuary, a temple, a historic bridge, and an amusement park. It is an ideal destination for short picnics, nature sightseeing, and wildlife exploration. Your trip is incomplete without witnessing the enchanting River Mahananda flowing through the city.
The history of Siliguri reveals that it was once a small agricultural village. It later became a major centre for refugee settlement after the creation of Bangladesh in 1971.
While visiting, you can also indulge in authentic Bengali delicacies such as maacher-jhol aar bhaat (fish curry with rice) and kosha mangsho.
Following are the main travel attractions of Siliguri
Coronation Bridge: Also known as Sevoke Bridge, this magnificent structure spans the serene River Teesta. It connects the Jalpaiguri and Darjeeling districts. Built in 1937 to commemorate the coronation of King George VI and Queen Elizabeth, the bridge took nearly eight years to complete.
Two lion statues mark the end of the bridge, earning it the local name Bagh Pool (Bagh meaning tiger). It stands as an excellent example of British architecture and engineering. The foundation stone was laid by John Anderson, the then Governor of Bengal. There have been appeals to declare this bridge a heritage site.
Kali Mandir: Located close to the Coronation Bridge, this beautiful temple dedicated to Goddess Kali is also known as the Samaleswari Temple. It is crowded with devotees during Navaratri and Durga Puja. Newlyweds often visit to seek blessings for a prosperous life.
Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary: Wildlife lovers and nature enthusiasts can enjoy a rewarding experience here. The forest types vary from riverine to mixed varieties and the sanctuary is named after the nearby River Mahananda.
Sal, teak, and jarul are some commonly found trees. The sanctuary was declared protected in 1958 with the aim of conserving Royal Bengal Tigers and Indian bison. Other inhabitants include chital, barking deer, rhesus monkeys, Himalayan black bears, and clouded leopards. Rare mountain goats can also be spotted here.
The birdlife includes colourful species such as the Himalayan pied hornbill, swallow, minivet, and sunbird. During monsoon and winter, migratory elephants also take shelter here.
Visitors can admire the vast wilderness from several watchtowers spread across the sanctuary. Interestingly, an unused railway cabin at Gulma station has been converted into a watchtower named ‘Gulma.’ Other popular watchtowers include Laltong and Golaghat.
Savin Kingdom: Welcome to Savin Kingdom, an exciting amusement park designed like a castle. It is divided into three sections—Dry Park, Food Court, and Water Park.
The Dry Park features an artificial kingdom for kids with fun rides like Merry-Go-Round, Kiddy-Columbus, Jumping Jack, and Kiddy Express. Adults can enjoy thrilling rides such as Sky Train, Break Dance, Savin Formula One, Tame the Bull, and Paratrooper. The Water Park’s wave pool and slides are major highlights.
Bonfire and tandoor experiences are available with prior permission. Creative activities such as pottery making, magic shows, and fortune-telling are also organized.
Excursions from Siliguri: Mallaguri Mahananda Bridge (5km), Baikunthapur Forest (13.4km), and Darjeeling (65km) are some wonderful nearby escapes.
Shopping in Siliguri: Cane-made products are widely available in the markets of Siliguri. You can shop for beautifully crafted sofas, racks, chairs, and table lamps. Major markets include Hong Kong Market, Hill Cart Road, Seth Srilal Market, and Bidhan Market.
Milkshakes, patties, cakes, and pastries are popular local treats. Food lovers will also enjoy the authentic Chinese cuisine served in the town’s restaurants.
When to Reach: October–December is the best time to visit due to pleasant weather. The grand Durga Puja Festival (September–November) also attracts many travellers.
How to Reach
Air: Bagdogra Airport connects Siliguri with major Indian cities like Guwahati, Delhi, Kolkata, and Chennai.
Rail: The New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP) is just 8 km from the city centre and is connected to Mumbai, Delhi, and several cities of Bengal.
Road: Regular buses operate from Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Biratnagar, and Mirik. Private taxis and cab services are widely available.
So, travel to Siliguri and discover why one visit is never enough—and why travellers return again and again.
