West Bengal is a dynamic state with many tourist attractions, marketplaces, historic sites, and eateries. Besides exploring cities like Kolkata and Howrah, you can relish the beauty of its hill stations. That’s right. Unbeknownst to many, there are several hill stations in West Bengal where you can spend quality time with your loved ones. The geographical landscape of these hill stations in and near West Bengal is distinctive as well. But don’t take our word for it! You should book a holiday package with a trusted travel company and discover the magic of these hill stations.
Top Hill Stations in West Bengal
Our recommendation would be to have the best places to visit in West Bengal on your itinerary along with a couple of hill stations mentioned below: -
- Ajodhya Hills
- Darjeeling
- Samsing
- Takdah
- Siliguri
- Rimbik
- Sandakphu
- Kalimpong
- Lava
- Rishop
- Mirik
- Dooars
- Fagu
- Kurseong
1. Ajodhya Hills
When it comes to discovering the hill stations in West Bengal, Ajodhya Hills is one place to make you fall in love with the Eastern Ghats. Nestled in the Purulia district of West Bengal, this hill station is part of the Chhotanagpur plateau. According to Hindu mythology, this place was the refuge of Lord Ram and Sita during their exile. So, you will see a lot of devotees touring Ajodhya Hills on their way to other hill stations in West Bengal.
2. Darjeeling
As the most famous hill station of West Bengal, Darjeeling should be on every traveller’s bucket list. Why, you ask? If tea gardens, toy trains, and trekking is your thing, then this town in the foothills of the Himalayas should be visited at least once. Have you ever been to a place that felt like a piece of paradise? That’s Darjeeling for you! Reputed to be among the best hill stations in West Bengal, it is a sight for sore eyes!
3. Samsing
Strategically situated between Darjeeling and Jalpaiguri, Samsing is a perfect amalgamation of scintillating mountain views, serene riverbanks, mystical forests, and charming tea estates. Folks looking for offbeat hill stations in West Bengal should include Samsing in their itinerary. Trust us, this hamlet is nothing short of a dream come true for nature lovers!
4. Takdah
A former British cantonment that has recently been discovered by avid travellers exploring hill stations in West Bengal is Takdah. Also known as Tukdah by the locals, the literal meaning of this village is “mist” in the Lepcha language, which also best describes its weather conditions all year round. Since it falls in the Darjeeling district, tea gardens are in abundance. Besides this, it is popular for its Orchid Center, Dara Dokan (weekly market), and Takdah Monastery.
5. Siliguri
Calling Siliguri the “Gateway of North India” is quite apt due to its location. Set on the banks of the Mahananda River, this hill station connects West Bengal and Assam with Bihar and other states in the north. Spending a few days in Siliguri would be a delight for people who love nature at its finest. Be it exploring the Mahananda Weir National Park, taking a jungle safari in the Chilapata Forest or haggling at the Honk Kong Market, every experience is unique in its own right.
6. Rimbik
A hidden treasure in the Singalila National Park region of Darjeeling is Rimbik, a small town that is beloved by hardcore trekkers. This hill station in West Bengal acts as an overture to many a trekking trail like the Sandakphu Trek, Gorkhey Trek, and the like. Besides this, you can homage to Dhirdam Temple which has a blend of Hindu and Tibetan architecture.
7. Sandakphu
Standing tall at the highest point of the Singalila Ridge, Sandakphu is a hill station in West Bengal that will awaken your spiritual side quite literally. The Sandakphu-Phalut Trek to the Sleeping Buddha is a journey that will stay with you for a long time. Along with this, you can marvel at the scenic views of Mt. Everest and Mt. Kanchenjunga from various viewpoints in this village.
8. Kalimpong
For the unversed, Kalimpong is one of the most popular hill stations near Kolkata, West Bengal and for good reason. Blessed with natural beauty, bustling markets, Buddhist monasteries, and churches, it has an old-world charm about it. Hiking up the Deolo Hills, taking a stroll in the Cactus Nursery, and spending some time at the Durpin Monastery are just some of the things you can do in Kalimpong. What’s more? This hill station is known for producing premium quality cheese that you can take back.
Pro Tip: Visit Lark's on D.B. Giri Road to buy Kalimpong Cheese in the morning and you would be in for some delicious treats!
9. Lava
Only 34 Km from Kalimpong is another tiny village that makes for a perfect weekend getaway. You may not find it on a lot of itineraries of West Bengal tourism packages. So, make sure you find a customisable vacation package to include this hill station in your itinerary. Hiking, bird watching, and basking in the beauty of the Himalayas are some of the best activities to partake in Lava.
10. Rishop
Next up is yet another hill station in the district of Kalimpong that will make your trip a memorable experience. Rishop has been gaining popularity in recent years for its simplistic appeal that highlights the community of Lepcha in the best possible way. Observing villagers in their daily activities makes you appreciate this hill station even more. If you love viewing majestic peaks, then Rishop will make all your dreams come true! Mt Kharg, Mt Kokthang, Mt Rathung, Mt Kabru, Mt Talung, Mt Pandim, Mt Kanchenjunga, Mt Simvo, Mt Narsing and Mt Siniolchu are visible from many places in this hill station.
11. Mirik
By now, it is evident that discovering hill stations in West Bengal is not a challenging task because there are just so many! Mirik is a small village in the Darjeeling district stealing hearts with its peaceful atmosphere. Away from the hustle and bustle, it is settled near the Sumendu Lake where boating is a favourite activity among the locals and tourists alike. That’s not all, you can visit Rameetay Dara viewpoint, Bokar Monastery, Rai Dhap, and several tea gardens spread across this hill station.
12. Dooars
Dooars are the foothills of the eastern Himalayas surrounded by breathtaking streams, wild jungles, and exotic flora and fauna. Literally meaning “doors” this hill station is an entryway to North Bengal and Bhutan. Buxa Tiger Reserve, Gorumara National Park, and Neora Valley National Park are must-visit places to witness the wildlife in their natural habitat.
13. Fagu
Imagine Sal and Pine trees, tea gardens, and stars in the night sky. Dooars Valley’s gift to the world is a small hill station that has made travellers scream with glee. Our recommendation would be to spend a day or two in the tea estate of Fagu and experience the colonial magic of its bungalows. For people looking for things to see, Changey Waterfall, Salem Fort, and Chapramari forests are excellent options.
14. Kurseong
A hill station near Kolkata that is known for its adventure sports is Kurseong. Travellers can enjoy a ride on a hot air balloon, try out rock climbing, and white water rafting here. Moreover, it is a popular pilgrimage spot with Ambootia Shiva Temple, Buddhist Gompa, and the Catholic Church in St. Mary’s Hill open to visitors all year round.
With so many hill stations in West Bengal awaiting your arrival, there is absolutely no reason for delaying your vacation! Book your travel package and fall in love with Eastern Himalayas right away.
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