Siliguri, West Bengal City Guide: Where To Go, Stay, Eat, And shop in India’s best city. [Updated-2025]

Siliguri, West Bengal City Guide: Where To Go, Stay, Eat, And shop in India’s best city. 

Siliguri is a major city in the Indian state of West Bengal, located in the foothills of the Himalayas. It is an important commercial, transportation, and tourism hub, often called the “Gateway to the Northeast” due to its strategic location near Nepal, Bhutan, and Bangladesh.

Key Features of Siliguri:

• Location: Situated in the Darjeeling district, close to the borders of Assam, Sikkim, and Bihar.
• Geographical Importance: Lies on the banks of the Mahananda River and serves as a corridor between mainland India and the northeastern states.
• Transportation Hub:
  • Railway: New Jalpaiguri (NJP) is the largest railway station, connecting Siliguri to all major Indian cities.
  • Airport: Bagdogra International Airport (IXB) is the primary air gateway to North Bengal and Sikkim.
  • Road: National Highway NH-27 and NH-10 pass through the city, connecting it to Bhutan, Sikkim, and Assam.

Tourist Attractions:

1. Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary – A forest reserve with elephants, leopards, and diverse bird species.
2. ISKCON Temple – A beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Krishna.
3. Salugara Monastery – A Tibetan Buddhist monastery established by the followers of the Dalai Lama.
4. Hong Kong Market – Famous for affordable imported goods from China, Thailand, and Nepal.
5. North Bengal Science Centre – A science museum with interactive exhibits.
6. Sevok Coronation Bridge – A scenic bridge over the Teesta River, connecting Siliguri to Kalimpong and Sikkim.

Climate:

• Summer (March–June): Warm and humid (Max 35°C)
• Monsoon (July–September): Heavy rainfall
• Winter (November–February): Cool and pleasant (Min 5°C)

Economy & Industry:

• Tea Industry: Surrounded by tea estates, with Darjeeling Tea and Dooars Tea being globally famous.
• Trading Hub: Major commercial center for North Bengal, Nepal, Bhutan, and Northeast India.
• Education: Home to North Bengal University, medical colleges, and reputed schools.

Nearby Destinations:

• Darjeeling (68 km) – The famous hill station known for tea gardens and the toy train.
• Gangtok, Sikkim (114 km) – The capital of Sikkim with monasteries and stunning landscapes.
• Dooars Region (70–100 km) – Known for wildlife sanctuaries and lush greenery.