Siliguri, a small but vibrant town in West Bengal, is often overlooked by travelers heading to popular hill stations like Darjeeling and Gangtok. However, it is much more than just a transit point—it’s a gateway to the eastern Himalayas and a place with its own charm. Whether you’re passing through or planning a longer stay, Siliguri offers plenty of attractions and activities that make it a great stop. Nestled between the plains and the hills, Siliguri is an ideal base for exploring the nearby destinations, making it a must-visit for those wanting to experience both the cultural and natural beauty of this region.
It is about 563 km from the capital city of Bengal, Kolkata. Siliguri is known for its close proximity to Darjeeling, and travelers often love to stay in Siliguri while visiting nearby hill stations like Darjeeling, Gangtok, Mirik, and others. But Siliguri itself has some amazing places and parks to visit that travelers often overlook while heading straight to the hills. So this year, if you’re planning to visit Darjeeling or Gangtok, don’t forget to spend some time in Siliguri and explore its lesser-known gems.
Siliguri is also known as the Shopping Hub of the region. Everyone loves shopping here. We’ll also include a list of the best malls and shops where you can enjoy a great shopping experience.
The Best Places to Visit in Siliguri
1. North Bengal Science Center
If you love science museums, this is the place for you. A beautiful science museum in Siliguri where you can explore cool scientific exhibits. One of the highlights of the museum is the 3D Cinema Experience, offering a short, 10-minute knowledge-packed video on wildlife, the planet, and more.
2. Surya Sen Park
A perfect small park to enjoy if you’re visiting Siliguri for the first time with family or friends. It’s a calm, green space for relaxation and leisure.
3. ISKCON Siliguri
This ISKCON temple in Siliguri is a significant religious site. Many travelers visit to witness the peaceful atmosphere and get a glimpse of Bengali Hindu culture. It’s one of the calmest and most beautiful spots to reflect, walk around, and explore.
The Best Things to Do in Siliguri
Shopping
This is one of the top things to enjoy in Siliguri. You can visit The City Centre Mall or Big Bazaar Mall, both popular destinations for locals and tourists alike. However, our team recommends City Centre Mall as the best option for shopping, food, and entertainment. Inside the mall, you’ll also find Inox Cinema, a great place to catch the latest films.
Dining
Inside the malls and around Siliguri, you’ll find plenty of options to enjoy Bengali cuisine and other Indian delicacies. Although this article doesn’t focus on halal-certified eateries, many restaurants in the area serve vegetarian and seafood options suitable for Muslim travelers.
Swimming at Savin Kingdom
Savin Kingdom is a water park and amusement park near Siliguri. It features a swimming pool and fun water rides, making it a good place to chill and have fun with friends or family during a hot day.
Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (Toy Train)
The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, also known as the Toy Train, is a narrow-gauge railway that runs between New Jalpaiguri and Darjeeling. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a charming way to travel through the hills. While the main terminal isn’t right in Siliguri anymore, you can still inquire locally to see if parts of the route or experience can be accessed nearby. Otherwise, you can enjoy the full ride from Darjeeling.
Tea Gardens near Sevoke and Hill Cart Road
Visiting the tea gardens near Sevoke Road and Hill Cart Road is a must-do in Siliguri. These scenic stretches of lush tea plantations offer a refreshing view and make for a perfect walk, photo opportunity, or even a quiet afternoon surrounded by nature. Many travelers love this part of the Siliguri experience – it’s both peaceful and photogenic.
Siliguri as a Gateway
What truly makes Siliguri unique is its strategic location. It’s not just a destination in itself, but a gateway to the Eastern Himalayas. From here, you can easily plan onward journeys to:
- Darjeeling (63 km) – The Queen of the Hills
- Gangtok (115 km) – Capital of Sikkim with breathtaking monasteries and viewpoints
- Kalimpong (66 km) – A quiet hill town known for Buddhist culture and colonial-era architecture
- Mirik (49 km) – A picturesque lake town surrounded by forests and tea gardens
- Dooars (starting from 40 km) – A lush region filled with forests, wildlife sanctuaries, and rivers
If you’re flying into the region, Bagdogra Airport (IXB) is the nearest airport, located about 15 km from Siliguri. It serves as the primary air link to the rest of India and some international destinations. New Jalpaiguri (NJP) Railway Station is also a major railhead, well-connected with cities across India.
Conclusion
So, while many travelers rush through Siliguri on their way to Darjeeling or Gangtok, it’s worth taking a moment to explore what this charming town has to offer. From shopping and science museums to tea gardens and spiritual sites, there’s more to Siliguri than meets the eye.
Whether you’re a budget backpacker or a family traveler, Siliguri can offer you a warm welcome, a comfortable stay, and a window into the gateway of the Himalayas.
For Muslim travelers, the town is generally halal-friendly, with many vegetarian and seafood-based dining options available. As always, check for halal certification or ask staff when in doubt.
Plan your stay, spend a day or two here, and you might discover that Siliguri is not just a stopover — it’s a destination in itself.
