Siliguri, noted as the Gateway to North East India, is one of those places that masterfully strikes a balance between the allure of nature and urban life. In the Eastern Himalayan foothills, Siliguri is a hub for connections to Darjeeling, Sikkim, Kalimpong, Bhutan, and Dooars.
However, Siliguri and its surroundings provide a great opportunity for family-friendly attractions, picturesque locations, and distinctive experiences that will amaze you. With the convenience of car rental in Siliguri from a reliable agency, explore the best of holiday experiences.
This blog will assist you in organizing your travel itinerary if you're planning a family sightseeing trip near Siliguri. It covers the top attractions, travel advice, lodging options, and ways to maximize your time with your loved ones.
Siliguri for Family Trips – What’s So Special?
Though Siliguri isn't the first place that comes to mind when you think of a holiday spot, it's one of the most practical and cozy places for families. This is the reason; let’s explore:
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Simple Accessibility: Siliguri has excellent air, train, and road connections with major Indian cities. And, the city core is within a short distance from the Bagdogra Airport and the New Jalpaiguri (NJP) Railway Station.
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Mild Weather: Both young children and senior family members can enjoy sightseeing thanks to the good weather for the majority of the year.
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Gateway to Top-notch Places: You can easily arrange quick day tours from Siliguri to neighbouring hill stations, tea gardens, forests, temples, and the Northeast state of Sikkim.
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Cost-effective: In contrast to other hill locations, Siliguri has reasonably priced lodging, homestays, and transportation choices.
Best Time to Enjoy Your Family Trip
October through March are the ideal months to organize your family sightseeing trip to Siliguri and around. The weather is still dry and pleasant, making it ideal for visiting outdoor sites.
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Winter (November–February): Perfect for visiting neighbouring hill stations and touring.
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Summer (April–June): Warm days, but pleasant mornings and evenings.
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Monsoon (July–September): Travel plans may be impacted by sporadic heavy rain, but the surrounding flora comes to life.
Planning Your Itinerary: Sharing an Overview
A well-defined itinerary guarantees that everyone, especially kids and elderly people, enjoys the vacation and helps families avoid fatigue. This is a recommended three-day schedule for seeing Siliguri and the surrounding areas.
Exploring Siliguri City on Day 1
To familiarize yourself with the city of Siliguri, start with its attractions.
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Tibetan monks constructed the serene Salugara Monastery, which is well-known for its 100-foot stupa.
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One of Eastern India's biggest ISKCON temples is this one. Families looking for some spiritual tranquility will love the peaceful setting.
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Children will love Savin Kingdom Amusement Park. All ages can enjoy its rides, water park, and entertaining events.
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Hong Kong Market, a shopping haven with affordable pricing for imported items, clothing, toys, and electronics.
Exploring Nature and Wildlife on Day 2
Lush foliage, animals, and picturesque riverbank scenery are just a short drive from Siliguri.
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Elephants, leopards, deer, and a variety of bird species can be found at the Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary, which is only 13 kilometers away. Jungle safaris in the early morning or late afternoon are best.
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Sevoke Bridge, also known as the Coronation Bridge, is a magnificent architectural wonder that spans the iconic Teesta River and is dotted with lush hills covered with forests. A must-see location for family pictures.
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Bengal Safari Park is another well-liked family vacation spot featuring kids' play areas, a miniature zoo, and vehicle safaris. For children, it is both informative and enjoyable.
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Enjoy a leisurely picnic or a quick nature walk close to Sevoke to cap off your day.
Visiting Adjacent Hill Stations on Day 3
Because of Siliguri's advantageous position, you can take short day trips to the neighboring hills.
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Darjeeling (68 km): Be on an incredible, picturesque route starting from Siliguri to Darjeeling. Before returning by dark, visit the Darjeeling Zoo, Tiger Hill, and Batasia Loop.
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Kalimpong (70 km): Renowned for its vistas, flower nurseries, and monasteries, Kalimpong is more serene, blessed with incredible sightseeing.
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Dooars Region (75 km): Dooars has tea gardens, forests, and riverbanks that are ideal for leisurely outings for families that enjoy the outdoors.
Family-Friendly Activities in and Around Siliguri
Here are some other activities that families frequently take pleasure in:
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Toy Train Ride (Darjeeling Himalayan Railway): From Kurseong or Darjeeling, you can board the world-famous vintage toy train; children adore this beautiful journey.
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Tea Garden Visit: See how tea is made and take part in tastings at neighboring tea plantations like Makaibari or Gopaldhara.
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River Rafting on Teesta: Mild rafting excursions with certified operators are thrilling and safe if your children are older (above 14).
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Local Food Tour: Sample Bengali sweets, momos, thukpa, sel roti, and Nepali thalis from nearby restaurants.
Shopping Around Siliguri
A little shopping is essential for a full trip!
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Hong Kong Market for low-cost imports, clothing, and electronics.
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City Centre Mall and Vega Circle Mall for family meals and branded shopping.
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Bidhan Market for souvenirs, woolens, and handicrafts made locally.
Types of Accommodations You Can Choose
There are lodging options for every budget, ranging from budget homestays to luxury resorts. Here are a few choices:
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For luxury: Royal Sarovar Portico, Lemon Tree Hotel, or Courtyard by Marriott.
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For Mid-Range: Hotel Mount Embassy, Saluja Residence, or Sinclairs Siliguri.
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Budget Stays: For those on a tight budget, there are several homestays close to Sevoke Road and Hill Cart Road, as well as the Jagjeet Hotel and Orbit Hotel.
Look for hotels in Siliguri and around that provide family suites, free breakfast, and convenient access to transportation hubs when you are traveling with your family. Hotels also provide reliable car rental in Siliguri for comfortable transfers and sightseeing nearby.
Despite its reputation as a transit spot, Siliguri may become a fantastic family sightseeing destination with plenty of natural beauty, culture, and leisure if you properly plan a trip.
This place has fascinating options to offer everyone, whether it's enjoying tea in the midst of undulating gardens, taking children to entertaining parks, or taking day trips to the neighbouring hills. So, start planning your upcoming family trip in and around Siliguri.