Image Credits : Dibyendu Ash
Image Credits : Rikki's Refuge
Image Credits : Subham Dey
Image Credits : Sourik8
Image Credits : Sourik8
Image Credits : Sourik8
Sitting in the foothill of the mountain ranges of Himalayas, Siliguri is a quaint little town covered by captivating tea gardens. It is the main stop-over for travelers and tourists who head to Sikkim, Darjeeling, and Bhutan. This place promises a memorable vacation to one and all if you are a keen traveler. You will get to experience different aspects of the city with the sanctuaries, parks, tea gardens, and temples located here.
Siliguri is one of the best and most beautiful places to visit in West Bengal. This city is the gateway to the North East area of this country and sits in Jalpaiguri. It is covered with a few impeccable and natural marvels like stunning natural parks and verdant trees and that makes it the most refreshing holiday destination in West Bengal. Situated on the bank of Mahananda River, Siliguri is famous for 3 T’s namely tea, tourists, and timber.
As per Sailen Debnath, the name of the city, “Siliguri” refers to a stack of stones and pebbles. Until the 19th century, the area was known as “Shilchaguri,” as there were dense Dolka forests that covered this area. Due to its attraction as a great village for agriculture, the Sikkim Kingdom captured this place making it a part of their own Southernmost kingdom until the Nepal Kingdom interfered. It was due to this that Nepalis and Kirati came and settled in this area. During that period, a river port located on the South of Siliguri played a vital role in getting a trade bond with Bihar, Bengal, and Malda. Thus, the riverine trade line was utilized by the Sikkimese and Bhutanese to get good to the mainland.
Initially, Siliguri established itself as a very small region which is now known as Saktigarh located on the banks of River Mahananda. In 1815, a treaty of Sugauli was signed between Britain and Nepal. This treaty changed Siliguri’s prospect and it became a transit point with Nepal mainland and Darjeeling hills. The city began to grow quickly in 1815 and beyond because of its strategic trade convenience. The British in 1865 annexed Darjeeling and the whole Doars area to create tea plantation and export the production to England. The Siliguri Railway Station was introduced by them for ease of transportation which is still present in the city. In 1880, they also constructed a Toy Train route from this station to Darjeeling. After this, Siliguri gained the status of a sub-division in 1907.
The famous “Siliguri Corridor” was established after Bengal was divided into two places namely East Pakistan and West Bengal in 1947 and 1975, Sikkim merged with India. Many immigrants came and settled here at this time for getting good facilities and that resulted in a rise in population here. Siliguri attained the municipal status in 1950. Because of great growth, Siliguri became the fastest growing and largest city after Guwahati in Eastern India. In 1994, the city also constructed a Municipal Corporation that is accountable for the administration and civil infrastructure of the city. Now, Siliguri has attained the status of being the second largest metropolitan city after Kolkata in West Bengal.
If you’re looking for the best places to visit in Siliguri, below is the list of places that you cannot miss out when on a trip to Siliguri:
Jungle Safari: The wildlife of the jungle is a key crowd-puller in Siliguri. Moreover, the jeep safari is among the best things you can do in Siliguri. You will get a chance to witness the Indian bison, elephant, rhino, and more.
Nature Walk: The adventure enthusiasts who wish to go on an exciting nature walk in the wildlife forest should visit the Mahananda Weir Wildlife Sanctuary. This place also offers quaint vistas of the mountains and streams.
Shopping: Siliguri has a very famous bazaar known as the Hong Kong Market. It’s one of the best markets that offer many domestic and international brands of accessories and apparels. It’s a paradise for the shopaholics. Another great destination for shopping in Siliguri is the Seth Srilal Market.
Temple Visit: Siliguri has some of the best temples where you can go for seeking spiritual blessings, peace of mind, or exploring the astonishing architecture.
Visiting Tea Estate: Another great activity to do in Siliguri is visiting the different tea gardens present here. The city houses many spacious and serene tea farms that definitely call for a visit. Adventure Parks: If you are on a vacation to Siliguri with your family and kids, then you should definitely visit the amusement parks like Dreamland Amusement Park. This entertainment and leisure spot has many thrilling rides for both adults and kids.
Siliguri is situated conveniently and connects 4 international borders including China, Nepal, Bhutan, and Bangladesh. It is well-connected by road to all the nearby places in West Bengal as well. Since Siliguri is a transportation hub, it’s nicely connected via railway to almost all parts of India. Siliguri has 7 railway stations to serve this city. They include the Siliguri Junction, New Jalpaiguri Junction railway station, Siliguri town Railway Station, Bagdogra railway station, Matigara Railway Station, Gulma Railway Station, and Rangapani Railway Station. The city has its airport which is called the Bagdogra Airport.
So, get ready to visit this full-fledged holiday destination and have lots of fun!