Perched on the River Mahananda, Siliguri blends with Mahananda City, creating a lively West Bengali metropolis. Parks, holy temples, local eateries and old-world markets rest in the shadow of the mighty Himalayas.

Things to do

Curious travellers and Hindu devotees alike flock to ISKCON Temple for meditation and activities related to Lord Krishna. You’ll find flowers and dancing and can tour the temple to see elaborate murals, wall paintings and narrative tableaus. Visit Salugara Monastery to view a Tibetan-style stupa and Buddhist relics.

Families can spend an entire day at Savin Kingdom, an amusement park with a castle theme and rides galore. It features a sky train, flying chair, pottery making and magic shows. Another major attraction in Siliguri is the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, an 18th-century UNESCO-listed Toy Train that takes travellers on a sightseeing journey as far as Darjeeling.

For a treasure-filled old-world market experience, head over to Seth Srilal Market in the heart of the city. You’ll find everything from antiques to handmade jewellery, embroidered textiles, spices, trinkets and personalised tailor shops. Hong Kong Market is a good bet for imported goods at low prices.

Eating out in Siliguri can be as simple as grazing at market cafes and eating dumplings and dim sums at street-food stalls, such as Momo Gali in Seth Stilal. For traditional Indian cuisine, dine on curries and pistachio kulfi ice cream in the garden at Khana Khazana.

Getting around

Bagdogra Airport offers rental cars about 14 kilometres from Siliguri, but you can get around by taxis, buses and private or shared auto rickshaws. Cycle rickshaws provide a viable option for short distances.