Siliguri has long been known as a hill station of significant repute in the state of West Bengal and has over the years developed into a self sustained township with loads of tourist value to offer. Siliguri includes various places of interest and importance. Some of these include the ISKON temple, Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary, Coronation Bridge, Salugara Monastery and many more. Travellers coming here can relax and rejuvenate themselves in this quaint little town. Here is a guide to the mystic town of Siliguri.
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Coronation Bridge
The Coronation Bridge built to commemorate King George back in 1930 is built right over the place of union of the rivers Teesta and Rangeet. The views this bridge offers set against the plush green surroundings are worth a visit. Travellers coming here are left mesmerised by the beauty of the place and this place is known to attract nature lovers.
View of the bridge
Photo Courtesy: Native Planet
Kali Mandir
The Kali Mandir at Binnaguri dedicated to the Goddess Kali and is in close proximity to the River Teesta. It is frequented by tourists especially during Kali Puja and Durga Puja. The beauty of the idol at this temple has got the attention of a lot of pilgrims, especially due to the stunning armour and swords that the Goddess adorns. Travellers coming here can visit the temple and pay homage to the goddess and also be amazed by its architecture.
Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary
Nestled between the Rivers Teesta and Mahananda, the Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary is a photographer's dream canvas and offers a brilliant wildlife experience. It's the perfect place to pitch a tent on the foothills of the Himalayas and enjoy the cold, clean breeze over a bonfire. The important mammalian species here include Royal Bengal Tiger, Indian elephants, spotted deer, Himalayan Black Bear, leopard and many more. It is a perfect place to head out on an adventure and to see these wild animals up close.
A Himalayan Black Bear at the sanctuary
Photo Courtesy: flowcomm
Salugara Monastery
Famous for it's 100-foot stupa the Salugara Monastery is run my Buddhist monks who are followers of the Dalai Lama. It's an authentic Tibetan monastery and an afternoon spent here exposes you to ideas and knowledge that could change your outlook. It's a great way to look into the lives of Tibetan Buddhist monks and their ways and methods which are far different from the average city or town dweller. It is also a perfect place to rejuvenate yourself and to connect with your spiritual self.
How to Reach Siliguri
By Air: Siliguri domestic airport is located at Bagdogra at a distance of 12 km from the heart of the city. It is well connected with Delhi, Kolkata and Mumbai.
By Train: The closest railway station to Siliguri is New Jalpaiguri at a distance of 4 km. It is well connected with the rest of the state of West Bengal from here.
By Road: Public road transport buses offer services from many cities in West Bengal to Siliguri. There are regular daily bus services to Kolkata. Private tourist buses also connect many cities in North East to Siliguri.
So when are you heading to Siliguri?
Photo Courtesy: Sayantani