Amazing Places To Visit In Siliguri With Friends
Located in the Verdant Eastern Himalayan foothills, Siliguri is a thriving town. Siliguri, along with its twin city, New Jalpaiguri, is the entry point that links the rest of West Bengal to the lush Dooars and the hilly regions of North Bengal. However, to simply view Siliguri as a transit point would be unjust, as it offers much more. There are enough of tourist attractions in the town to make a visit last longer than a day. November through February has nice weather, which makes exploring the city more enjoyable. Whether discovering local hidden gems or renowned places to visit in Siliguri, Siliguri offers a diverse array of experiences for visitors to enjoy.
List of the Places to Visit in Siliguri
1. Bengal Safari Park
Bengal Safari Park in Siliguri offers an ideal family outing amidst the wilderness. Showcasing the rich flora and fauna of North Bengal, it holds the distinction of being the region’s first park to introduce animal safari expeditions, catalyzing tourism in the area. Spanning across 700 acres, the park is nestled within the verdant expanse of Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary.
Renowned for its diverse collection of medicinal plants and herbs, the park’s main attractions include elephant rides and wildlife safaris. A variety of safari adventures are available for visitors to experience, including the Lesser Cat Enclosure Trail, Aviary Foot Trail, Asiatic Black Bear Safari, Mixed Herbivore Safari, and Royal Bengal Tiger Safari. To make sure that everyone has a great time, the park also has amenities including a food court, a souvenir shop, and a children’s play area.
2. Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary
The Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary sprawls across a vast expanse of 158 square kilometers, nestled between the Teesta and Mahananda rivers. Bengal Safari Park, covering only about 2% of its area, serves as a mere glimpse of the sanctuary’s immense natural richness in flora and fauna. Sukna, situated in the Darjeeling district, acts as the primary entry point to this sanctuary.
The sanctuary’s diverse vegetation and varying elevations support a wide array of faunal species. Notably, it serves as a habitat for Indian bison and Royal Bengal tigers, alongside other wildlife like elephants, gaurs, wild boars, leopards, spotted deer, barking deer, sambar, wild cats, and exotic species such as the Himalayan serow, Himalayan porcupine, Himalayan black bear, as well as rare species like the Binturong and Clouded Leopard. Moreover, the sanctuary is a haven for bird enthusiasts, boasting a rich variety of avian species including swallows, swifts, babblers, sunbirds, and minivets, and hosting endangered species like the Oriental Pied Hornbill, Great Hornbill, and Rufous-necked Hornbill.
3. Sepoy Dhura Tea Garden
Sepoy Dhura Tea Garden is a hidden gem nestled in Siliguri, often overshadowed by its more renowned counterpart, Tindharia Tea Garden. Situated amidst the picturesque Shivkhola Hills, this tea garden offers a glimpse of the region’s untouched natural beauty. Easily accessible via a trek from the nearby village, it serves as an ideal one-day retreat from the hustle and bustle of Siliguri. For accommodation, visitors can opt for any of the homestays available in the vicinity.
Immerse yourself in the tranquility of the surroundings as you leisurely stroll through the garden, taking in the fresh mountain air and breathtaking panoramic views. Witness the tea-picking process firsthand and even participate if you wish. Sepoy Dhura Tea Garden promises a serene escape, inviting visitors to unwind and connect with nature in its purest form.
4. Chilapata Forest
The Chilapata Forest, a heavily forested national forest in the Alipurduar district of Dooars, is a part of the Jaldapara National Park. This rainforest, which is located between the banks of the Torsha and Bania rivers, is home to an astonishingly wide variety of plants and animals. Serving as an elephant corridor linking the Jaldapara National Park and the Buxa Tiger Reserve, the forest teems with wildlife, with new species discoveries occurring periodically. It is a habitat for endangered species such as the one-horned rhinoceros, bison, leopards, and wild pigs, as well as boasting a wide variety of butterflies and over 20 species of snakes.
For wildlife enthusiasts, the watchtower along the River Torsha offers the best vantage point to observe wildlife and revel in the pristine beauty of the area. In addition, guests can investigate the 5th-century AD Nalraja Garh remains, which are encircled by the fabled Ram Guna Trees, popularly referred to as “the bleeding trees.” You can stay overnight at the quaint ecological resort run by the West Bengal State Forest Development Agency and go on an elephant ride or safari to really immerse yourself in the ethereal atmosphere of the forest.
5. Hong Kong Market
The Hong Kong Market stands out as a vibrant shopping hub in Siliguri, centrally located for easy access. Adorned with vibrant lights and colorful banners, the bustling market invites visitors for an immersive exploration.
Catering to both shopaholics and food enthusiasts, this expansive market boasts a wide array of products at budget-friendly prices. From authentic Tibetan crafts to exquisite bone china, cutting-edge gadgets to fashionable attire, and traditional Buddhist artifacts to unique souvenirs, the market offers a diverse range of merchandise to suit every taste and preference.
6. North Bengal Science Centre
Established in 1997, the North Bengal Science Centre stands as Siliguri’s premier destination for scientific exploration. Situated in Matigara, the center is distinguished by its iconic giant T-Rex statue, a notable landmark in the vicinity. Within the complex, visitors can explore a museum featuring a digital planetarium and a Nature Interpretation Centre.
The meticulously maintained grounds are adorned with recreational amenities such as swings, seesaws, pendulums, eco tubes, and periscopes, ensuring entertainment for children. Additionally, visitors can enjoy the opportunity to interact with adorable rabbits and guinea pigs. The center offers diverse exhibits and engaging science shows, providing informative entertainment for all ages. Undoubtedly, the North Bengal Science Centre is among the top attractions to explore in Siliguri.
7. Savin Kingdom
Savin Kingdom is a sprawling 10-acre amusement park in Siliguri, designed with a captivating castle theme. Boasting a wide range of attractions including rides, entertainment zones, a sizable pool, banquet facilities, a hotel, restaurants, and more, it stands as a favored destination for families and tourists alike.
The amusement park offers an array of exhilarating rides, while the expansive water park features a wave pool, water sports, and various activities appealing to individuals of all ages. Adventure enthusiasts, especially youngsters, can indulge in thrilling rides and sports. Additionally, the park hosts engaging activities like henna painting, pottery making, magic shows, and fortune-telling.
Savin Plaza, situated within the premises, houses restaurants and a multiplex, providing ample dining and entertainment options. Furthermore, the banquet section offers event spaces for parties and gatherings, complemented by deluxe accommodations available at the 3-star Savin Retreat resort.
8. Dreamland Amusement Park
Dreamland Amusement Park is a favored spot among tourists seeking thrills in Siliguri. Renowned for its expansive open spaces, secure kids’ zones, and cleanliness, it holds a special place in the hearts of locals. Apart from offering an array of entertaining activities and rides suitable for both adults and children, visitors can opt for a picnic on the lush lawns or explore the food court and banquet areas.
The park features an exciting lineup of rides including the Flying Eagle, Cup & Saucer, Cable Car, Caterpillar, Water Coaster, and a rain dance area, drawing crowds with their exhilarating experiences. Additionally, guests can enjoy a leisurely pedal boat ride across a large pond within the park premises.
9. ISKCON Temple
The ISKCON temple in Siliguri stands as the largest Krishna Consciousness center in northeast India. Revered by pilgrims and devotees alike, it serves as a significant religious site and a prominent hub for Vedic cultural research. Nestled amidst a sprawling, meticulously maintained garden, the temple exudes an atmosphere of tranquility and purity.
Following participation in the transcendental worship sessions, visitors can indulge in a peaceful boat ride on the serene emerald lake situated within the temple grounds. Additionally, a restaurant on-site offers a diverse culinary experience, featuring Indian, Italian, Chinese, and Thai cuisines.
10. Salugara Monastery
Situated on the outskirts of Siliguri, the Salugara Monastery stands as a prominent Buddhist shrine revered by followers of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. This vibrant monastery holds significant reverence among Buddhist pilgrims, offering a sacred sanctuary for spiritual contemplation and worship.
At the heart of the monastery lies the towering 100-foot white stupa adorned with intricate designs, serving as the focal point of admiration for visitors. Additionally, the premises feature a colossal prayer wheel, inviting individuals to partake in the ritual of prayer and reflection. Immerse yourself in the serene ambiance of the monastery, enveloped in the soothing aroma of butter lamps, as you seek solace and rejuvenation before concluding your visit.
Although Siliguri may be small in size, it boasts a wealth of attractions that cater to a diverse range of tourists, from nature enthusiasts and shopaholics to religious devotees and wildlife lovers. With the array of Siliguri tourist spots listed above, visitors are guaranteed a memorable experience that will be cherished for years to come. So, don’t just go via Siliguri the next time you’re in North Bengal. Seize the chance to discover its popular tourist spots and include them in your schedule for a once-in-a-lifetime journey.
Also Read: Top 10 Famous Hindu Temples in India