Siliguri

Crucial link of India with North East

Siliguri is located ideally in Siliguri Corridor (Chicken’s neck), which is a thin strip of land connecting the Mainland of India with the north east of India. Siliguri is a prominent town in the Darjeeling district of the state of West Bengal in India. It is known as the commercial centre of North Bengal. It is also the transit location to neighboring countries like Bangaladesh, Nepal, Bhutan and Mynamar.

Siliguri, located in the Himalayan plains, is gateway to the main hill stations in the Himalayan ranges. Gangtok, Mirik, Kalimpong, Darjeeling and Kurseong are the hills stations which can be approached only through Siliguri. Hence Siliguri is a significant halting place for the tourists and pilgrims.

Siliguri, one of the fastest growing cities in the north east, is famous for tea plantations. The cooler climate is ideal for the proper growth of tea plants. Many tea brands with export quality are cultivated in Siliguri. The Mahananda River and Balasan River flow through the plains in Siliguri to make the land fertile.

Siliguri is famed for military bases of Indian forces. The Indian armies, the Sashastra Seema Bal, the Assam Rifles, the Central Reserve Police Force and the Border Security Force have their bases at this place.

The population of Siliguri consists of local people of Indian origin and many foreign nationals from neighboring countries. Football is a great part of the life of the local people. Kanchenjunga Stadium is an attractive sports complex and outdoor stadium in Siliguri.

Tea, Tourism, Transport and Timber are four main commercial activities in Siliguri. It is renowned as an ideal place to shop for cheap Chinese goods. Here one can get low cost imported items, handicrafts and local artifacts.

A huge inflow of tourists is found in this scenic town. A spectacular view of the majestic Kanchenjunga peak is visible from this place. Many imposing attractions like Madhuban Nature Park, Shorea-forest recreation center and Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary make it a favorite tourist destination in the North East of India.

Attractions

Coronation Bridge: Coronation Bridge, also known as Sevoke Coronation Bridge, was built in 1930 over the renowned Teesta River at the confluence of Rangeet River and Teesta River in West Bengal to mark the Coronation of the King George V. This bridge, located close to Sevokeswari Kali Mandir in Siliguri, is a very important bridge in the north east region of India and connects Darjeeling with Jaipalguri.

Science City: Science City in Siliguri, also known as The North Bengal Science Centre, is a knowledge base of science and it is a highly accomplished institution in north Bengal. This is located at the Northern suburbs of Siliguri town known as Matigara.

Madhuban Park: A spectacular park located in the outskirts of Siliguri was founded by Indian Army. It is well maintained and serves as an exquisite picnic spot in West Bengal. This is a significant place as many tourist land here en-route to Sikkim and north eastern regions.

Surya Sen Park: The Surya Sen Park, a favorite picnic spot among the local people, is located at Mahakal Pally near Siliguri. This is an eco-friendly place for fun, entertainment and increasing awareness about alternative energy sources. An exhibition in the park offers fundamental knowledge about the alternative energy sources.

Umrao Singh Boat Club: Umrao Singh Boat Club is located at Sukna in Siliguri. It is developed and maintained by Indian Army. This boat club offers many facilities for fun boating and enjoyment. Boats with different sizes and shapes are available for tourists to hire. Pedaled and engine fitted boats are available in plenty in this boating locality. Some official guides can accompany you while boating.

Mahananda Weir Wildlife Sanctuary: Mahananda Weir Wildlife Sanctuary, situated between Mahananda and Teesta Rivers, is a vast expanse of forest land enriched with lusting green undulating hilly regions in the foothills of Himalayan ranges.

Mahananda Weir Wildlife Sanctuary is a natural habitat of many varieties of wildlife fauna and flora. The foliage includes thick woody trees and dense bushes. The animals include rare mountain goat, Chetal, barking dear, fishing cat, sambar, tiger, elephant and Indian bison. This is a halting destination for many migratory birds during the winter season.

ISKCON Temple: An august reflection of serenity and sublime beauty, ISCKON temple in Siliguri attracts thousands of people. International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), also known as Hare Krishna Movement, manages the temple with dedication and reverence.

Salugara Monastery: Salugara Monastery, a sacred Buddhist destination near Siliguri, was established by Tibetal Buddhist Monks, the followers of the Tibetan religious leader Dalai Lama. The attractive feature of this monastery is the 100 feet stupa founded by the Tibetan Lama, Kalu Rinpoche. The stupa brings out five kinds of relics.

Savin Kingdom: Savin Kingdom near Siliguri is a scenic location. The place nestles among spacious and serene tea farms. An amusement park within it offers many facilities for the enjoyment of the visitors.

Best season to visit: October to March.

How to reach

By Train: New Jalpaiguri railhead is the nearest railway station to Siliguri, which is 8 km away. Jalpaiguri station is connected to all major stations in India including Delhi and Mumbai.

By Air: Siliguri domestic airport is located at Bagdogra, 12 km from the heart of the city. Siliguri is air linked to Delhi.

By Bus: Public road transport buses offer services from many cities in West Bengal to Siliguri. There are regular daily bus services to Kolkata. Private tourist buses also connect many cities in North East to Siliguri.