About Siliguri

Siliguri, originally called “Shilchaguri,” was once a small agricultural village in Sikkim. It gained prominence after becoming a crucial trade route junction following the Treaty of Sugauli in 1816. Under British rule, Siliguri expanded rapidly with tea plantations and the introduction of the Toy Train to Darjeeling in 1880, marking its transformation into a bustling town.

Siliguri boasts a rich cultural tapestry with a diverse population including Bengalis, Biharis, Marwaris, and others. The city celebrates a variety of festivals reflecting Hindu, Muslim, Christian, and Buddhist traditions. Its vibrant markets offer local crafts, spices, and a fusion of regional cuisines, showcasing its cultural vibrancy.

Located at the foothills of the eastern Himalayas within the Siliguri Corridor, Siliguri is surrounded by dense forests and bisected by the Mahananda River, with the Teesta River nearby. The city experiences a humid subtropical climate characterized by warm summers, cooler winters, and a significant monsoon season, along with a susceptibility to earthquakes due to nearby fault lines.

Places to visit

In Siliguri, you can visit Kanchenjunga Stadium for exciting cricket and football matches, explore the wildlife at Bengal Safari, and enjoy the serene beauty of Suryasen Park with its flower beds and fountains. Don’t miss the stunning Coronation Bridge, the peaceful Sed-Gyued Monastery, and the beautiful Lokenath Temple with its intricate idols.

Kanchenjunga Stadium

Kanchenjunga Stadium, built in 1969, is a versatile stadium mainly used for cricket and football matches. It can seat 45,000 people and hosts both day and night games. The stadium frequently holds Ranji Trophy matches and federation cup events.

Bengal Safari

Bengal Safari, part of the Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary in Salugara, is a lush, green park teeming with wildlife. Covering 297 hectares, it is home to Sal trees and various animals, including cats, leopards, and tigers. Visitors can explore the natural habitats and enjoy the rich flora and fauna.

Suryasen Park

Suryasen Park, located in Mahakal Pally in Siliguri, is a beautiful green space and a popular tourist destination. The park features a large statue of freedom fighter Surya Sen, along with colorful flower beds, sparkling fountains, and well-maintained paths. It’s a favorite spot for morning and evening walks and has a children’s park that kids love. The park also hosts an exhibition on alternative energy and offers paddle boating for visitors. Scenic spots along the River Mahanadi make it perfect for photography and pre-wedding photoshoots.

Coronation Bridge

Coronation Bridge, located about 20 kilometers from Siliguri, is an architectural marvel inspired by Roman design. It connects Darjeeling and Jalpaiguri and offers breathtaking views of lush greenery and the blue waters of the Teesta River. Locals visit to escape city life, and adventure enthusiasts enjoy rafting in the river. Known as “Tiger Bridge” due to the lion statues at one entrance, it’s a popular stop for travelers heading to Sikkim or Darjeeling.

Sed-Gyued Monastery

Sed-Gyued Monastery in Siliguri is a stunning site rebuilt after being destroyed by the Chinese Army. It houses over 90 monks from the Gelukpa division and serves as a research center. Visitors come to meditate and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

Lokenath Temple

Lokenath Temple is a beautiful architectural site featuring intricate idols of various deities, including a unique split idol of Lokenath Baba and Lord Shiva. The temple also has a large idol of Lord Ganesha and an exhibit of Goddess Lakshmi, along with a dedicated space for performing pujas. Devotees visit to admire the artwork and participate in religious activities.

Hotels in Siliguri

Discover a range of accommodations in Siliguri, from budget-friendly options near local shops and eateries to upscale hotels along main roads. Whether you prefer a relaxed stay close to cultural attractions or a polished hotel with easy access to transportation hubs and wildlife sanctuaries, Siliguri offers choices to suit every traveler’s needs.

Hotel Saluja - Budget Friendly Hospitality

Set in an area with shops and casual eateries, this informal hotel is 1 km from Siliguri Town train station.

₹897

3 Star Hotel

Yashshree Milestone

This relaxed hotel in a commercial area is 2 km from Salugara Monastery, and 5 km from the Savin Kingdom amusement park.

₹2,589

3 Star Hotel

Royal Sarovar Portico

Set along a commercial stretch of the SH10 road, this polished hotel is 2 km from Salugara Monastery and 13 km from Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary.

₹3,851

4 Star Hotel

Udaan Hotels | Hotel Clover & Banquet

This upscale hotel along a main road is 3 km from Salugara Monastery, 4 km from the lively Hong Kong Market.

₹3,694

3 Star Hotel

Hotels at Siliguri near railway station

Find convenient budget and mid-range hotels in Siliguri close to the railway station, ideal for travelers. These hotels offer easy access to local attractions, eateries, and shops, ensuring a comfortable stay with essential amenities. Whether you seek proximity to amusement parks or cultural sites, there’s a suitable option for everyone.

Tirupati Lodge

In a leafy area with casual eateries, this low-key budget hotel is 3 minutes’ walk from New Jalpaiguri railway station, 6 km from riverside Surya Sen Park.

₹1,024

3 Star Hotel

Mount Embassy Hotel, Siliguri

Set amid shops and businesses in the city centre, this unpretentious hotel is 2 km from Siliguri Junction railway station.

₹1,882

3 Star Hotel

Apple's Balaji Inn

This casual budget hotel in a narrow alley is a 6-minute walk from Siliguri Junction train station, 3 km from Savin Kingdom amusement park and 5 km from Science City.

₹1,656

3 Star Hotel

Phoenix Lodge

Phoenix Lodge is a great choice for travellers looking for a star hotel in Siliguri. This Hotel stands out as one of the highly recommended hotel in Siliguri.

₹921

2 Star Hotel

Restaurants in Siliguri

Siliguri offers a variety of dining options, from cozy spots serving authentic Indian dishes to places with live grill concepts and international cuisine. Enjoy delicious North Indian, Mughlai, Chinese, Thai, and Western dishes in warm, inviting atmospheres with friendly service. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly meal or a place for celebrations, there’s something for everyone.

Sagar Family Restaurant

Sagar Family Restaurant is a F&B-Casual Dining outlet that offers a wide variety of delicious and authentic Indian cuisine. The restaurant has a warm and inviting atmosphere, with comfortable seating and a friendly staff. The menu features a variety of dishes from North and South India, as well as a selection of international dishes.

 ₹200–400

Barbeque Nation, Siliguri

Pioneers of Live Grill Concept in India. A place known for any celebrations. Best Barbecues/kebabs & Starters. Unlimited Food including Starters, Main Course, Desserts, Kulfi’s.

₹800–1,000

Haveli

Haveli is a F&B-Casual Dining outlet that offers a unique dining experience. It serves a variety of delicious North Indian and Mughlai cuisines. The ambience is warm and inviting with traditional decor and comfortable seating.

₹400–600

Taiwah Restaurant

Tai Wah is a F&B-Casual Dining outlet that offers a wide variety of delicious and affordable dishes. The menu features a variety of Chinese, Thai, and Western dishes, as well as a selection of drinks and desserts. The restaurant has a cozy and inviting atmosphere, with comfortable seating and friendly staff.

₹200–400

How to Reach Siliguri

Siliguri is easily accessible by air via Bagdogra International Airport, located just 12 km away. This airport connects the city to major Indian destinations like New Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata, as well as international cities such as Paro and Bangkok. By rail, Siliguri has two main stations: Siliguri Junction and New Jalpaiguri Junction (NJP), situated 3 km and 11 km away, respectively, with connections to important cities across the country. Travelers can also reach Siliguri by road using national highways like NH 34 and NH 31, which link it to metropolitan cities like Kolkata, Delhi, Agra, and Allahabad.

how to reach

By Train

Siliguri Junction and New Jalpaiguri Junction (NJP), situated 3 km and 11 km away, respectively.

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By Flight

Siliguri is easily accessible by air, with Bagdogra International Airport located just 12 km away.

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By Road

By road, Siliguri is linked to metropolitan cities via national highways. Travelers can reach from Kolkata using NH 34 and NH 31.

Local Transport in Siliguri

By Bus

Local buses run frequently across the city, carrying many passengers every day. You can find both state-run and private buses for your travel needs.

Starting at Only 20₹/KM

local transport

By Cab

Navigating the vibrant city of Siliguri has never been easier. Whether you’re a resident, a student, or a tourist, TransRentals cab services provide the perfect solution for all your local transportation needs.

Starting at only 9₹/KM

local transport

By Auto-rikshaw

In Siliguri, local transport by rickshaw is a common and convenient way to get around the city. Rickshaws are easily available and can be hailed from almost anywhere. They are an affordable mode of transport, ideal for short distances, and provide a comfortable ride through the bustling streets of Siliguri.

Auto-rikshaw is starting From 10.Rs

local transport

Renting Vehicle

If you prefer to avoid public transport, you can rent a car in Siliguri. There are several services offering both self-driven and chauffeur-driven options.

Starting at only ₹1499.

Best Time to Visit Siliguri

Siliguri, nestled at the foothills of the Himalayas, is renowned for its tea gardens and is a must-visit hill station in West Bengal. The best time to visit Siliguri is during the winter season, from October to March, when the weather is cool and pleasant. Some people also find the monsoon season, from July to September, appealing as the lush green valleys look stunning with fresh rain.

During the summer months from March to June, temperatures can reach up to 38°C, but the Himalayan foothills make the heat more tolerable. The monsoon season brings moderate temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30°C, enhancing the beauty of the tea gardens. Winter months, from October to February, are the most favorable, with temperatures between 8°C and 25°C, providing the perfect climate to enjoy the scenic beauty and the true essence of a hill station.

Distance of other cities from Siliguri

a large building next to a body of water

Mumbai

The Distance of Siliguri to Mumbai is (2,181.5 km) via Maharashtra Samruddhi Mahamarg.

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Delhi

The Distance of Siliguri to Delhi is (1,497.8 km) via Purvanchal Expy.

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Bengalore

The Distance of Siliguri To Bangalore is (2,443.4 km) via NH16.

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Chennai

The Distance of Siliguri to Chennai is (2,234.7 km) via NH16.

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Tips and Advice for Siliguri

First, make sure to book your tickets and hotel in advance, especially if you’re visiting during peak season. This will save you from last-minute hassles and ensure you have a place to stay. Maintaining the city’s decorum is important, so avoid any unethical actions like disturbing heritage buildings or monuments. Such actions are punishable offenses. Take care of your health by choosing clean, reputable places to eat. Avoid raw or uncooked food to keep your stomach safe and your trip enjoyable.

When exploring Siliguri, it’s best to walk in groups for safety. The city has several historical monuments and tourist spots that require an entry ticket. Always buy a ticket to avoid any trouble with the authorities. The winter season, from October to March, is the best time to visit, with cool and pleasant weather. If you prefer lush green scenery, the monsoon season from July to September is also appealing.

Siliguri is known for its rich cultural diversity and vibrant markets. Take time to explore the local crafts, spices, and regional cuisines. The city celebrates various festivals, so check if any coincide with your visit for a unique cultural experience. Siliguri’s location at the foothills of the Himalayas and its beautiful tea gardens make it a charming destination year-round.

FAQs About Siliguri

Siliguri, known as the "Gateway of Northeast India," is famous for its tea, timber, and tourism. It is located at the foothills of the Himalayas, on the banks of the Mahananda and Teesta Rivers.

Siliguri is a city in the northern part of West Bengal state, northeastern India, situated just west of the Mahananda River.

Siliguri’s cuisine reflects its diverse cultural heritage, offering a mix of Indian, Nepalese, and Bengali dishes. Local specialties like sel roti, thukpa, and phaley are must-tries for food lovers.

Siliguri is called the "Chicken Neck" because its narrow strip of land resembles a chicken’s neck. This area connects India with its northeastern states and is crucial due to several important installations.

As of 2024, Siliguri’s metro area population is approximately 1,159,000, which is a 2.93% increase from the previous year.

The Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary, located about 11 km from Siliguri in the town of Sukna, is a beautiful forest reserve nestled between the Teesta and Mahananda Rivers.

Siliguri celebrates many major festivals, including Durga Puja, Ganesh Puja, Chhath Puja, Laxmi Puja, Diwali, and Saraswati Puja. The Baishakhi Mela, an old fair, is also celebrated with the Bengali New Year.

The main river in Siliguri is the Mahananda. It starts in the Himalayas at the Paglajhora Falls on Mahaldiram Hill near Chimli, which is east of Kurseong in the Darjeeling district, at a height of 2,100 meters (6,900 feet). The river flows through the Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary and then comes down to the plains near Siliguri.

Bengali is the official language in Siliguri, with 60.88% of the population speaking it. Other languages include Hindi, Nepali, Bhojpuri, Marwari, and Urdu.

The Siliguri Corridor, or Chicken Neck, is crucial for connecting India's eight northeastern states with the rest of the country. It plays a significant role in trade, commerce, and tourism for West Bengal, Sikkim, Assam, Nepal, Bhutan, and Bangladesh.

Cities Around Siliguri

Kolkata

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Asansol

Asansol is a city in the Indian state of West Bengal.

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