Top Kurseong Tourist Spots to Explore This Travel Season

Travelling is an old but successful method to gain life experiences and meet new people. Similarly, hill stations hold a special place in our hearts with lush greenery, elevation and nostalgic old-school vibes that cities miss out on. So, we recommend you to visit Kurseong.

Kurseong, a hill station in the Darjeeling district presents landscapes filled with aromatic tea fragrance flowing in the air, wildlife never seen before and deep serenity of the mountain slopes. Known as the ‘Land of White Orchids,’ it offers a delightful experience for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. Here’s a guide to the best places to visit in Kurseong, Darjeeling things to do along with helpful tips for planning your trip.

Why is Kurseong Famous Among Tourists?

What makes Kurseong special is the vast majority of aromatic tea plantations available in the vicinity with a touch of soothing weather. The area is world famous for Castleton, Ambotia and Makaibari tea gardens renowned for producing large qualities of black tea popular among international buyers. Other than this, lucky travellers can get mesmerising views of Mt. Kanchenjunga, Kabrue and Jannu, a sight to be seen once in your life. Nonetheless, booking a Sikkim Darjeeling tour package is a blessing to witness pictorial sites, temples, blooming white orchards and historic schools built in the British era.

Which are the Top Kurseong Tourist Spots?

Kurseong is filled with picturesque places that are worth visiting. Here are some of the top tourist spots that you shouldn’t miss: -

Eagle’s Crag

Want the colossal view of the Kanchenjunga? Then visit Eagles Crag for an experience filled with adventure. Walking up the short and narrow terrain crisscrossing up the steep terrain feels like a mini trek. Once you reach the spiral staircase to the steel cashew observatory, you are welcomed by the unparalleled view of the mighty mountains with lush green slopes. What’s Amazing! Look upon the beautiful Teesta River making its way through the valley. Pay a visit to these Kurseong tourist places late afternoon sitting near the mini garden next to the statue of the Gorkha warrior. Vivify your life by breathing in the fresh air that rejuvenates your soul.

Dowhill

Visitors to this place marvel at the unending natural beauty and paranormal activities. Book a local guide and hear famous haunted tales associated with the sites abounding here. This Kurseong tourist spot is best for horror movie lovers going down the road between Downhill Road and Forest Office. Individuals have recounted encounters with a headless ghost of a young boy, who they saw walking and then vanished. Some people have heard about a horrific ‘red eye’ staring right into your eyes before disappearing in a flash. If this doesn't spook you then what will? Not only that, it is said that a ghost of a woman dressed in grey wanders around the trees and her presence is still felt. Tourists from all over the country make a trip to the Downhill just to experience the most haunted hill station in India.

Kurseong Railway Station

The Toy Train, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers scenic views from a colonial-era train station. The toy train displays a historic evolution of the British colonial era railway engineering which is still in operation. It covers a few kilometres up the track with zigzag crossings. While taking the train ride around the slopes see the beautiful tea gardens, the three museums of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway and the glorious tapestry of nature. To choose the best places to visit in Kurseong the railway station is near famous spots like the Eagles Crag, St. John’s Church and the trekking routes to the nearby villages.

What are some hidden places of interest in Kurseong that tourists tend to overlook?

• Ambrosia: A small offbeat place near Kurseong showcasing the tea plantations. Also, visit the Ambotia Shiva temple committed to Lord Shiva. It is ideal to visit the temple during Maha Shivratri.
• Chimney: A forest village, a name coming from the Dak bungalow made for the British to live in. Catch the hidden places of interest in Kurseong by holding a binocular and watching the rare birds that flock the area.
• Sittong: The place is a combination of villages famous for tea gardens, dense forests and sightseeing. Famous attractions in Sittong include - Jogikhola Rock Climbing Spot, Lepcha Falls, Riyang River and the famous Jogighat Bridge.
• Ahal Dara: Situated on Shelpu Hill, the place is popularly known for its orange orchards. Trekking to Ahal Dara will allow you to release tension by inhaling the fragrant aroma of tea.

Which are the Best Places to Visit in Kurseong?

While there are numerous Kurseong tourist places to visit, these are considered the best:

Makaibari Tea Estate

Take a stroll through this lush tea garden and learn about the tea-making process. Operational since 1859, Makaibari Tea Estate is one of the oldest tea factories set up ever in the world. Standing at an elevation of 1500 metres above sea level covering 280 acres of tea plantations. The gardens follow unique 7-tiered mixed farming practises earning them the first organic certificate by the Government of India. Aroma tea connoisseurs around the Kurseong sightseeing places can witness the plucking of tea leaves and buy the season's fresh produce.

St. Mary’s Hill

This peaceful area is known for its churches and beautiful landscape. Tucked away from the hustle and bustle of society. St. Mary’s Hill sits cosily around 4 km away from the Kurseong railway station. The popular St John Berchman’s Church sits in the middle of the main public sphere of the village. Built in the 1880s, this Kurseong tourist spot serves as an important landmark for locals to worship and gather. Tourists love the old-school vibe with clean roads, and lush greenery surrounding the area, a place where the Bishop of the diocese of Darjeeling–Sikkim, bless the devotees.

Kurseong Monastery

The town’s tranquil monastery is a great place for reflection and spiritual peace. The Kurseong Monastery is a respected place among the locals, which doubles up as a nunnery (a place where nuns live as a religious community) and also holds a Lama training school. When entering the main facade of the building, get mesmerised by the giant Buddha Statue, flanked on the sides by the smaller statues. One of the best places to visit in Kurseong, tourists are welcomed by the brightly painted walls depicting legends of the Lepcha folk culture.

What’s the best time of year to visit Kurseong?

March- June: Peak Season

What to expect?

• The weather is pleasant, with temperatures between 10 and 20 degrees Celsius.
• At the peak of tourism, expect larger crowds and at popular attractions.
• Seeing blooming flowers and clear skies makes it the best time to visit Kurseong tourist spot

October-February: Moderate Season

What to expect?

• Visit during the winter season with temperatures dropping to 2 degrees Celsius.
• Snow-capped mountains are mesmerising for Kurseong sightseeing places.
• Fewer tourists explore and stroll around the area.
• Get accommodations at lower prices.

July-September: Off-Season

What to expect?

• Check the beauty of the tea gardens, during the rainy season.
• Inconveniences caused by rain with water flowing through the streets.
• Ideal temperatures range from 15-25 degrees Celsius.

How to Spot Top Kurseong Sightseeing and Local Experiences?

Kurseong sightseeing places are famous in India, with spots that allow you to connect with nature and local culture:

Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary

Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary is a serene haven for diverse wildlife, lush forests and scenic trails making it a paradise for nature lovers and trekkers. Wildlife lovers get acquainted by tracking Indian elephants, the Royal Bengal Tiger, barking deer, Indian bison, many species of lesser cat, spotted deer, and Himalayan black bear to name a few. For bird lovers, Mahananda brings in several feathery friends like the Thrush, babbler, and the Himalayan Pied hornbill of whom you can take Instagram-worthy pictures. Lastly, enter the watch tower next to the Gulma River to view the surrounding area. One of the best Kurseong places to visit spread over 159 kilometres, Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary should be on your bucket list.

Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Museum

The museum is positioned at Netajis elder brother's house with a display of photos, files, and articles related to the duration Netaji spent his time imprisoned here by the British. Amazingly, the residence was renovated and inaugurated to the public as a museum in 2000. These Kurseong visiting places are high in historical value, a place where Netaji wrote letters to Gandhi Ji and Jawaharlal Nehru. One can feel the true valuables used by Netaji with some being the cot, dressing desk, armchair, and observation table all preserved for the public. Locals visit the place during Durga Puja festivities when the relatives from the Bose family celebrate the festival at this Museum.

Giddapahar

A peaceful Kurseong visiting place with a view of both the plains and hills. The place is an ideal spot for quiet contemplation and to witness the resounding sunrise and sunset from atop the world. Set at an elevation of 4864 feet, the point takes us through the panoramic views of the mountain, tea estates and valleys. The Giddapahar Seti Mata Temple nearby provides a spiritual essence in the air. Also, see the small portions of Chinary tea bushes with some clonal varieties grown at an elevation of 4500 feet. What’s Great! If you plan to visit this Kurseong tourist spot during the spring season, the local vendors will serve you tea from the current harvest. The tea has a light yellow tone of colour, slightly astringent and mellow to taste, a characteristic of excellent Darjeeling tea.

What are some must-try local foods in Kurseong?

• Momos (Veg/ Non-veg) - Himalayan dumplings stuffed with vegetarian or non-vegetarian fillings served with spicy tomato chutney.
• Thukpa (Veg/ Non-veg) - A noodle soup with seasoned vegetables or meat that comforts guests with warmth during winter.
• Aloo Dum (Veg) - A spicy tangy dish made with potatoes eaten by the locals.
• Sel roti (Veg) - A traditional homemade ring-shaped bread enjoyed with tea or during local festive seasons.
• Gundruk (Veg) - Prepared with fermentation of leafy vegetables, known for its health benefits.
• Vegetable Churpee (Veg) - A local cuisine made of local cheese and vegetables, a unique flavour of the region.
• Sael Roti (Veg) - Created from fermented rice batter, a deep-fried bread eaten during breakfast.
• Niguru with churpi (Veg) - Made out of fiddlehead ferns and churpee, a local cheese with a distinct taste.
• Samay Baji (Veg) - A traditional Newar platter, typically served with beaten rice alongside assortments of vegetarian delicacies, pickles, and boiled vegetables.
• Kalimpong cheese (Veg) - A famous dairy product of the region used in local vegetarian dishes.

What are the Things to Do in Darjeeling and Kurseong?

Darjeeling and Kurseong together provide a variety of activities that cater to every type of traveller. From adventurous treks to toy train rides, there’s something for everyone.

Trekking

Explore the many trekking trails that connect Darjeeling, Kurseong, and nearby areas like Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary. Kurseong located on the foothills of the mighty Himalayas has a mesmerising hilly terrain densely populated by conical trees and several tea gardens. Trekking through the forest to the highest point of view is something to experience once in your lifetime.

Toy Train Ride

Hop aboard the famous Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (Toy Train) for a nostalgic journey through hills and valleys. Accorded with the status of a UNESCO World Heritage site, the toy train started operation in the 1880s as part of the North-East Frontier zone of Indian railways. The ride in the toy train is wonderful for families to soak in the beautiful Himalayan landscape passing through lush green trees on the side. Here’s a quick tip! Book a ticket in advance before visiting this place.

What are some of the best treks to experience near the Kurseong region?

• Trek to Tonglu - A 2-day trek through the Singalila National Park to reach the highest peak in the world, Mount Everest. If it's a clear view, then spot the two landscapes of India and Nepal.
• Trek to Purbikhola - A tough 3-day trek to view the North East of India. Find yourself surrounded by tea plantations and scenic views of the Teesta Valley from upper Ponbu.
• Trek to Chatakpur - For beginners this is an easy trek up the hill to a small Eco village, called Rumb. Sitting tall above on the hills you surround yourself with cloudy skies, misty air and heavenly places above all.
• Trek to Sandakphu - The longest trek on our list, you’ll walk through the Singalila Ridge which is positioned between Nepal and India. A startling experience to see the magnificent Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, Makalu and the mighty Mount Everest. Nonetheless, if you are lucky, spot native animals like the Red Panda, Himalayan Black Bear, and Barking Deer passing through the path.

Kurseong offers everything from stunning views and tea gardens to an array of Kurseong sightseeing places and cultural experiences. Book Darjeeling tour packages to get awe-inspired by what Kurseong promises for an unforgettable experience. So, the next time you're planning a trip to Kurseong tourist spots, make sure to include these hidden gems on your itinerary!