Siliguri, a buzzing hub of trade and tourism, is located right in the ‘chicken’s neck’ of India. It's the gateway to North East India, but it's not just a transit point but the beginning of a charming journey into the hill stations of the Eastern Himalayas. While Darjeeling, Gangtok, and Kalimpong are household names, there are many offbeat hill stations near Siliguri that remain peaceful and less crowded. A road trip to these hidden gems feels even better when you have a reliable car rental service to take care of your journey.
Let’s look at five beautiful, lesser-known hill destinations you can visit from Siliguri — and what makes renting a cab for these trips the best choice.
Latpanchar
Just about 45 km from Siliguri, Latpanchar is a small village tucked in the untouched forests of the Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary. This is a famous spot for birdwatching, it's popular for spotting the famous ‘Rufous-necked Hornbill’. It's greatly refreshing to take a walk through the lanes of this place. The dense greenery and sweet mountain air breathe new life into anyone who visits.
Lepchajagat
This is a small hill station in the Darjeeling district, about 70 km away from Siliguri, surrounded by pine forests and hills. It's a perfect place for people who don't like crowds and wish to stay away from the busy streets of Darjeeling. Here, you can relax, go for nature walks, enjoy the silence and watch the Kanchenjunga peaks on clear mornings, especially during sunrise when they look bathed in golden light. The route of this area is steep and a little risky; therefore, get an experienced driver if you visit Lepchajagat.
Chatakpur
Located about 80 km away, Chatakpur is a village near Darjeeling, known for being eco-friendly. It is a hidden spot in the Senchal Wildlife Sanctuary where you can see organic farms, forests, and small homestays run by local families. The route to reach Chatakpur passes through places full of charming tea estates and pine forests. A private cab booking lets you stop at scenic spots without any rush.
Tinchuley
Tinchuley is a small mountain village about 75 km from Siliguri, known for its peaceful atmosphere and orange orchards. There are very few tourists here, so you can enjoy sunrise views, visit local tea gardens, and take village walks in peaceful silence. The road through Takdah can be tricky in some stretches, so book a reliable cab with a local driver so you can travel stress-free and soak in every bit of the route.
Mirik
Though Mirik is more well-known than the rest, it is still a great offbeat choice compared to Darjeeling’s crowd. About 50 km away, Mirik’s Sumendu Lake, pine forests, and monasteries make it worth a day or overnight trip. You can also stop by the orange orchards and tea gardens along the way. A rented cab helps you explore hidden corners and spend more time where you want, without the hurry of local buses.
Why Choose a Car Rental Service for These Trips?
Travelling to offbeat places means the roads may be narrow, hilly, or confusing for first-time visitors. A good car rental service in Siliguri provides well-maintained vehicles and local drivers who know the routes and hidden stops. You can:
● Plan flexible halts for photography or short walks
● Enjoy a smooth ride without the worry of driving on steep hills
● Have local guidance for eateries or viewpoints
● Keep your luggage safe in the cab while you explore
Whether you travel solo, with family, or with friends, a private cab booking in Siliguri lets you enjoy these beautiful hill stations near Siliguri at your own pace and comfort.