Siliguri is one among such places of India which offers the gentle mixture of nature and society. Disgusting traffic during the day and chilly calm climate during the night, views from mountains overlooking the dazzling stars, and sounds of far streams and city side rivers make the dull dusty life, a little liveable and enthusiastic. The 3rd largest city of the state West Bengal is renowned as "The Gateway of Northeast India '' and together with Jalpaiguri, often regarded as "The Twin Cities''. Geographically located at the foothills of the Himalayas, sandwiched between the River Teesta and Mahananda, Siliguri is the home to numerous flora and fauna. The Terai region is the moist land in which the city is situated and is the single reason for such dense forests among heavy clouds. The location of Siliguri is somehow impressive as it is at the point which links 4 international borders China, Nepal, Bangladesh, and Bhutan. 

The History! 

Siliguri was previously called "Shilchaguri" till the 19th century. In 1788, it was captured by the Kingdom of Nepal and trading became an important part of the region. The Bhutanese and Sikkimese used the part in bringing and supplying goods. Siliguri came into a proper existence after the Treaty of Sugauli signed in 1815. The Siliguri Town Railway Station was established by the British to trade tea to England from Darjeeling. When Bengal was divided into West Bengal and East Pakistan during the independence, Siliguri Corridor was formed. 

The Tea Gardens

People often visit Siliguri to experience the quiet and peaceful nature which includes hills and forests, streams and rivers, wildlife and tea gardens. When in Siliguri, the trip to a walk down among the tea gardens is mandatory. The tea gardens are the major source of income in the district and you can see the workers sowing, reaping, harvesting or plucking the leaves. People are allowed to spend some funny blissful quality time inside the fresh chest high tea leaves. The place offers beautiful insta worthy sites and is a paradise for photographers, artists and nature admirers. At the estates, travellers can taste different kinds and brands of teas. They are advised to purchase tea dusts for themselves and gifting their loved ones. 

Shopping in Siliguri

Siliguri has some of the best shopping places to offer where you can shop from India to China. It is no doubt the heaven for shopaholics whose world revolves around street shopping of arts and crafts, accessories and local goods. Hong Kong Market is the busiest market of Siliguri and a number of items can be purchased from here. Clothes and funky accessories are a must buy for which it is also called as "The Chandni Chowk of Northeast India". For buying fabrics, bags, shawls and unique carpets, Bidhan Market is widely claimed. Seth Srilal Market is famous for silver jewelry standing in the heart of the city. 

How to reach the city

Siliguri is one among the must visit places in the country and hence is connected well with the important neighbouring cities. 

1. Airways: 

Bagdogra International Airport is the major transport hub in the city linking flights to Kolkata, Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, etc. 

2. Roadways: 

Government and Private bus services are available to reach the city. Tenzing Norgay Bus Terminus is the major bus terminus connecting Sikkim, Assam, Bihar etc. 

3. Railways: 

Daily hundreds of trains connect the city with other cities of the country. There are a total of 7 stations in Siliguri. New Jalpaiguri Junction, Siliguri Junction are the major ones. 

Places to visit 

1. Salugara Monastery:

Salugara Monastery is one of the most popular tourist places of Siliguri, situated 6 km away from the city center. The 100 feet high "The Great International Tashi Gomang Stupa" is the major attraction. 

2. Mahananda Weir Wildlife Sanctuary:

The wildlife sanctuary is the abode to various flora and fauna. Located between Mahananda and Teesta River, the place is also referred to as a trekking point. 

3. Dudhia:

Dudhia comes one among the offbeat places that can be enjoyed in a tranquil and serene mood. Located 26 km from the town, Dudhia offers amplifying nature and river side camping facilities which is a trendy topic for the youth. 

4. Sevoke Kali Mandir:

The Sevoke Kali Temple is situated on the banks of River Teesta and Kali is the presiding deity. The temple offers amazing sites to stay and stare at along with a magnificent view of Mt. Kanchenjunga. 

5. Coronation Bridge:

Constructed in Roman Architecture, the bridge is very famous among travelers for its lush greenery and spectacular views. Being presented 20 km from the city it is the heaven for photographers and artists with the marvelous view of Teesta River underneath it. 

6. Chilapata Forest:

Chilapata Forest is known among the locals and very dense with tall and thick trees. The rare Indian Rhinos can be sighted inside the forest and people experience the fort ruins "Nalraja Garh" in their visit to the jungle. 

7. Bengal Safari: 

Bengal Safari is the wild park which is a part of the Salugara's Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary. The 300 hectares habitat full of flora and fauna is known as "North Bengal Wild Animals Park". 

8. Suryasen Park: 

Suryasen Park situated in Mahakal Pally is one of the most sought-after places in the city. The green lawns with children's park, boating and the view of River Mahanadi is a sight to behold. 

Best time to visit 

Siliguri falls under a humid subtropical climate. The summer is warm, winter is cool, and in monsoon it rains heavily. 

1. Summer- March to June- 30°C to 40°C (not so hot)

2. Rainy- June to September- 25°C to 35°C (heavy rainfall)

3. Winter- November to February- 20°C to 5°C (slightly chilly)