West Bengal has been the tourist hub since the beginning of time due to the abundance of geographical wonders like beaches, hill stations, thick forests, mangroves, and uncountable more attractions. However, one of the main reasons for visiting west Bengal has been the mesmerizing backdrop of the Himalayan foothills. Even being a metropolitan city, when you visit the hill stations of West Bengal you will find serenity and peace among the thinly populated villages. These cities are far less polluted and you will be able to catch a glimpse of stary nights, foggy roads and beautiful nature. Here are some of the best hill stations in West Bengal that you must not miss.
1. Darjeeling
Starting with gorgeous sunrises to the ethereal beauty of nature, you will find it all in Darjeeling; it is named “Queen of Hills” because it is one of the best hill stations in India. Darjeeling stands tall at a height of around 2050 meters above sea level and has a moderately cool climate all around the year. However, the best time to visit the hilly areas of Darjeeling is between April to June, if you want to experience snowfall you should visit around December to January. A trip of 4-5 days is quite sufficient for traversing the entire of this West Bengal hill station. The dense tea plantations add quite a view in the Darjeeling hill station, do not miss out on the famous Darjeeling tea, bring home some for enjoying later.
2. Kalimpong
Kalimpong is a hill station near Darjeeling, often visited by tourists on their way back from Darjeeling. Although this hill station seems to be similar to Darjeeling, it is one of the best West Bengal takes pride in. During the British era Kalimpong used to be the trading gateway between Britain and India, it has its own cultural legacy. Pleasant weather prevails all around the year, however, the best time to visit Kalimpong is March to May to escape from the heat or September to November if you love winters. The backdrop of Kalimpong is stunning with Shivalik hills, Buddhist monasteries and immense natural excellence.
3. Rimbik
Rimbik is a famous hill station in West Bengal famous for the trekking activities it allows. Tourists generally visit Rimbik for trekking up the mountains. In terms of exploration, Rimbik does not offer much to the tourists but it gives rugged geography for adventurous trekking. It is located in Singalila National Park giving a chance for the trekkers to see the red panda. The best time to visit Rimbik for a trekking adventure is in the springs, around March- April, or around the winters, November-December. If you visit during the winters, you might experience rain. A few of the other attractions Rimbik houses are Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, and Dhirdham temple, which is a must visit in this hilly area.
4. Sandakphu
Sandakphu is a hill station near Darjeeling, close to the West Bengal-Nepal border. This city serves as a heaven for trek lovers as it has the highest peak in the state. The view of nature and foothills from the top of the peak is bewildering. The best time to visit Sandakphu is from April to June and from October to December. From Sandakphu you will be able to witness Everest, Lhotse, Kanchenjunga, Makalu, all at the same hill station. The trekking in Sandakphu is moderately difficult and it lasts for about 2 days.
5. Mirik
The beautiful picturesque town, Mirik, better known as the Valley of the Sun, is located near Siliguri. The Mirik Lake also known as Sumendu Lake, is 1.25km long and radiates serene vibes of nature. Orange Orchards, Don Bosco Church, and Bokar Monastery are some of the other attractions to visit in Mirik hill station. The best months to explore Mirik are March, April, October, and November. However, if you want to experience the snowfall and extreme chilliness of Mirik you should visit between November to February. This beautiful hill station in India is very easy to access and is just a flight away.
6. Siliguri
Siliguri resides at the foothills of the Himalayas and is the gateway to the other hills stations. Siliguri also provides a great view of the Mahananda River and provides several water sports. If we keep aside the jostling township, it is a great place to explore, shop for tea, and go to attractions like Bengal Safari and Hong Kong market. Tourists generally stay for a day or two in Siliguri which is enough for exploring this hill station in West Bengal.
7. Kurseong
The Land of White Orchids, Kurseong is a hill station near Darjeeling famous for its orchid plantations alongside the wonderful views. You will be able to see waterfalls, temples, Buddhist monasteries, besides the plantations. The best time to visit Kurseong is March to June and September to December. Avoid monsoons at all costs because rains are not good in Kurseong. You must take the toy train ride to get an overview of the entire place.
8. Takdah
Lastly, Takdah is such a hill station of West Bengal that is unexplored by most of the masses. If you are looking for peace and quiet in your vacation, close your eyes and go to Takdah for breathtaking scenery. It is located at an altitude of 4000m above sea level with quaint tea gardens namely Poomong and Rungli Rungliot and many more. This hill station near Darjeeling is only 28km away from it and more than often several tourists miss it.
9. Dooars
Dooars is another of the famous hill stations in West Bengal, housing some of the greatest wonders of nature and opens doors to the mesmerizing beauty of mother Nature. You will be able to beautiful connect to nature and forget all your stress and worries.
10. Lava
Lava is a small hill station near Kalimpong, lesser-known to most of the masses. you can enjoy the beauty of Lava in the winter, with snow all around to enjoy. it gives a picturesque view of the place with fir, prunes, and birch trees.
All of the hill stations listed here are very easily accessible via train, road, and airways, new Jalpaiguri being the junction for most of them. Your vacation will liven up even more if you include all of these famous alongside the lesser-known parts of the hill stations of India. Check out the 15 Best Tourist Places to Visit in West Bengal in 2021 while you are in West Bengal.
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