When everyday life gets exhausting, a getaway, especially in the lap of verdant nature, can help. And the scenic city of Siliguri promises exactly that! With the majestic Himalayas as its backdrop, the green city is a visual treat. From forests and tea gardens to parks, monasteries and bustling markets, Siliguri has it all. So, whether you are a nature lover looking for quiet time or an adventure seeker, there are plenty of things to do in Siliguri on your next vacation. And if you plan your trip sometime from November to February, you can enjoy great weather too.
To reach Siliguri, you can either fly to Bagdogra Airport or take a train to NJP Railway Station from Kolkata, Guwahati or Delhi. Road trip enthusiasts often drive down to Siliguri from Kolkata as well. Now, let’s dive into the best things to do in Siliguri so that you can plan your itinerary soon!
1. Enjoy budget shopping and street food at Hong Kong Market
Hong Kong Market
While it may be known for its beautiful mountains and many sightseeing spots, Siliguri is also home to one of the liveliest street markets for imported goods. Hong Kong Market, with countless streets and lanes, is essentially the retail hub of this city.
Whether you are looking for fashionable clothes, latest electronics, or even just a simple suitcase, you’ll get whatever you want here and that too at jaw-dropping prices. Hong Kong Market is where you can bargain to your heart’s content and even end up paying just half the price quoted. But do remember that some sellers might try to sell you counterfeit goods, so keep your eyes peeled.
This market is also dotted with numerous food joints, arcades, and is an overall fun place to explore. Since the market is well-known, getting here is quite simple via cab, auto, or even a rickshaw.
- Location: Satyajit Roy Colony Rd, Ward 41, Don Bosco Colony
- Timings: 9:30 am – 9:30 pm
2. Connect with nature at Bengal Safari
Bengal Safri Park
Located just outside the city, Bengal Safari attracts wildlife enthusiasts in droves. Going for a safari here is in fact one of the best things to do in Siliguri. Sprawled across an area of around 297 hectares, Bengal Safari is home to hundreds of wild animals. From crocodiles, leopards and elephants to rhinos, deer, sloths, and a variety of birds, you can spot your wild friends in their natural habitats. Don’t worry about your safety though, as you will be in a covered vehicle.
- Location: 5th Mile, Sevoke Rd, Salugara
- Timings: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Time Needed: 3 hours
3. Take a tour of Science City
North Bengal Science Centre
If you are a science fanatic looking for something right up your alley in Siliguri, this is the place you need to visit. Inaugurated in 1971, Siliguri Science City is one of the largest science museums in India. Here, the beautiful natural surroundings will take your breath away even before you step onto the main grounds.
The grounds are dotted with various halls where you can watch amazing sci-fi films and 3D movies about various scientific concepts such as the solar system. Apart from this, Science City is the perfect place for a family trip as it has something for everyone. Some of the most popular halls here are the Earth Exploration Hall, Live Butterfly Enclave and Space Odyssey. And there are 40 others to satisfy every scientific curiosity you might harbour.
So, no matter how old you are, visiting Science City is surely among the best things to do in Siliguri, especially if you want to combine fun with something educational!
- Location: NH 31, Matigarahat
- Timings: 10:30 am – 6:00 pm
- Entry Fee:
- Normal – Rs 25
- Digital Planetarium – Rs 25
- 3D Film Show – Rs 20
- Science Show – Rs 20
- Taramandal – Rs 10
4. Watch a Match at Kanchenjunga Stadium
Kanchenjunga Stadium
For all sports fans travelling to Siliguri, Kanchenjunga Stadium is a must-visit. Built in 1969, this stadium has witnessed hundreds of matches in various sports, making it a place replete with history. It also has a seating capacity of 40,000, which can cater to massive crowds at events like Celebrity Cricket League, which is held here.
Apart from that, Kanchenjunga Stadium sees numerous cricket and football tournaments from time to time, which means you, might get lucky.
- Location: Bidhan Rd, Ward 11, Hakim Para
5. Admire the surroundings at Coronation Bridge
Coronation Bridge
Visiting the Coronation Bridge is something that must be on your Siliguri things to do list. This bridge is about 25 km from the city centre and connects the districts of Darjeeling and Kalimpong. Inaugurated in 1941, the bridge is surrounded by the Eastern Himalayan mountains and is an amazing spot for taking pictures.
The architectural design of the bridge also catches the eye, as it is built on rocky terrain and high above a gushing river. After all, building a suspension bridge in those times was nearly impossible. However, the bridge was built using a reinforced concrete design and a fixed arch, which was secured to the rock layers of both river walls. This arch design also adds to the beauty of the bridge and makes it Insta-worthy.
While views from this bridge are truly memorable, do watch out for cheeky monkeys who try to steal food from unsuspecting travellers.
- Location: Sevoke
- Timings: 24/7
6. Have a picnic at Madhuban Park
Madhuban Park
If you want to enjoy a relaxed evening with your loved ones, Madhuban Park is one of the best places in the city. Located on the outskirts of Siliguri, this park will transport you from the hustle-bustle of urban life.
Nestled within Sukna Forest, this park lets you have a good time spotting various birds and animal species. Also, if the weather seems a bit too cold for your liking, there is a recreation centre perfect for a small get-together.
If you are on a romantic trip, remember that spending an evening at Madhuban Park is among the best things to do in Siliguri for couples. You can easily enjoy a picnic with your significant other here.
- Location: Sukna Forest
- Timings: 6:00 am – 7:00 pm
7. Seek spiritual bliss at ISCKON Temple
ISKCON TEMPLE SILIGURI
Travelling can be a spiritual journey for many people. If you are one of them, a visit to ISCKON Temple in Siliguri should be on your list. It is the largest Krishna centre in Northeast India and has a beautiful blend of modern architecture and cultural values.
The building itself is a massive structure with eye-catching murals and vibrant idols adding life and appeal to the ambience. Apart from the temple, ISCKON also manages a manmade lake in the area. Here, you can enjoy boating with your loved ones or take memorable pictures.
The enclosure also has a guest house wherein tourists can stay the night. Staying overnight is also a great way to be at the temple at 4:30 in the morning when it opens.
- Location: ISKCON Rd, Ward 41, Gitalpara
- Timings: 4:30 am–1 pm, 4–8:30 pm
8. Admire Tibetan influence at
A place of great religious importance, Salugara Monastery is a must-visit spot in Siliguri. About 7 km from the city centre, the monastery is in a small town known as Salugara. It is a well-known Buddhist site believed to have been constructed by Halu Rinpoche, who is a revered Tibetan Lama.
The monastery is especially known for its unique and beautiful design. The surrounding walls feature vibrant depictions of Lord Buddha’s life and journey and the overall vibe is one of purity and tranquillity. Offering views of the mighty Himalayas, this monastery attracts avid photographers too.
One of the most important aspects of this monastery is the 100-feet stupa built on its top. This stupa is said to house five important relics of Buddhism, and thus, is held in high regard.
- Location: Ward 42, Salugara
- Time Needed: 1-2 hours
- Timings: 5:00 – 11:00 am, 1:00 – 5:00 pm
9. Make the most of thrilling rides at Dreamland Amusement Park
Dreamland Amusement Park
Spending a day at Dreamland Amusement Park is one of the best things to do in Siliguri for families with kids or if you are visiting with friends. This park brings you a whole host of exciting rides and attractions spread across 25 acres of land. Here, whether you like splashing in the pool or screaming on those superfast rides, there won’t be a single dull moment in your day.
Getting around the park is easy as it has well-maintained walkways. Also, thanks to all the decorations and beautiful plants spread across the park, even those short walks between rides will be fun.
Once you are tired from all the rides, enjoy a hearty meal at one of the fast-food restaurants within the park. Also, if your trip aligns with any major festival, you will be able to enjoy various themed festivities here. Just keep in mind that though the entry fee is quite nominal, you might be charged separately for some rides.
- Location: Fulbari Ghoshpukur Canal Road, Rahamu
- Timings: 10:00 am – 6:30 pm
- Entry Fee: Rs 130
10. Have fun at Savin Kingdom Amusement Park
Savin Kingdom
Packed with fun and wow moments, Savin Kingdom has many exciting things to do in Siliguri. This park has all kinds of rides you can dream of, whether you want to get wet or stay dry! Also, as it is located just outside the city, you can spend a little time away from the urban din.
If you are a movie fan, you must visit Carnival Cinemas here, which is the park’s own multiplex. Here, you can enjoy the latest movie while munching on treats from the large snack counter inside.
Apart from this, Savin Kingdom is home to one of the area’s few go-karting courses. This course is perfect for racing enthusiasts and those seeking an adrenaline rush.
- Location: Darjeeling More, Dagapur
- Entry Fee: Prices range between Rs 40 – Rs 460 depending on ride and time
- Timings: 11:00 am – 5:00 pm
11. Go for a relaxing walk at Surya Sen Park
Surya Sen Park
A famous landmark in the city, Surya Sen Park is one of the best places to visit on your trip. The park not only shares its name with a famous Bengali freedom fighter, it is an ideal spot for recreational and relaxing activities too.
Lush green grass, playgrounds, beautiful flowers and musical fountains make for an amazing atmosphere here. When the sun goes down, the park comes to life with well-known Bengali songs emanating from the fountains, adding an essence of culture to the air.
While it is a great family spot, this park also has a lot of things to do in Siliguri for couples. For example, you can take a lovely, romantic boat ride on the large pool here.
- Location: Near Airview More Bus Stop, Ward 10, Purulia, Janta Nagar
- Timings: 3:00 pm – 7:00 pm
12. Enjoy a scenic trip on Toy Train
toy train
If you live for scenic views, a toy train trip is one of the best things to do in Siliguri. From the city, you can hop onto Toy Train Jungle Safari, which takes you on one of the many routes of Darjeeling Himalayan Railway.
This toy train journey is a three-hour affair and will start from Siliguri Junction, take you to Rangtong, and then back. It makes its way through Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary, which is home to many animal species. Also, when you are about to reach Rangtong, you can soak in lovely sights from altitudes as high as 1404 feet above sea level.
To make this trip, you need to reach Siliguri Junction quite early in the morning as the train leaves at 10:30 am. Following this, the journey to Rangtong takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes, after which the train takes a 20-minute halt before returning to Siliguri.
- Location: Near Airview More Bus Stop, Ward 10, Purulia, Janta Nagar
- Time Needed: 3 hours
- Cost: 970
13. Enjoy a boat ride on Sumendu Lake
Sumendu Lake
Surrounded by lively greenery, Sumendu Lake is a beautiful tourist destination if you are seeking peace and quiet. This is the spot where you can breathe in fresh air and add years to your life. This lovely tourist spot is not only perfect for taking pictures, but also offers many enjoyable activities.
You can go for a relaxing boat ride on the lake for instance. The 360-degree view from the middle of the lake will leave you speechless. You can also enjoy a quick horse ride nearby with local guides who will make it easy and fun.
Travelling to Sumendu Lake from Siliguri will take more than an hour and you will need to travel by bus or cab. However, the trip is worth it.
- Location: Near Airview More Bus Stop, Ward 10, Purulia, Janta Nagar
- Time Needed: 7-8 hours
So, these are some of the best things to do in Siliguri if you are planning a trip soon. From connecting with nature, clicking awesome pictures and shopping for pretty things at throwaway prices to riding the toy train and getting your heart racing at adventure parks, you will have tons of activities on your plate. So, plan your itinerary well, and book your flights and stay in advance so that you can stick to your budget.
This post was last modified on 21-Dec-2023