Things To Do
in Shiliguri
Siliguri is a bustling city located in the state of West Bengal, India. It serves as a gateway to the northeastern states of India and neighboring countries like Nepal, Bhutan, and Bangladesh. The city is known for its diverse culture, vibrant markets, and delicious local cuisine.
Siliguri is also a major hub for transportation and trade, making it an important economic center in the region.
- "kiddan" - How are you?
- "shukriya" - Thank you
- "tuhada naa ki hai" - What is your name?
- "ki haal chaal" - How are things?
- "chalo" - Let's go
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $40
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $10
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.30 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $15 - $30
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $25
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Kali Mandir, where you can experience the peaceful atmosphere and the morning prayers. Enjoy a local breakfast at a nearby eatery to fuel your day.
Head to the Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary for a nature walk and see the diverse flora and fauna. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy amidst the scenic beauty.
Explore the bustling local markets, where you can shop for handicrafts and souvenirs. Wind down with a dinner at one of the local restaurants, savoring authentic Bengali cuisine.
Visit the Jorpokhri Wildlife Sanctuary, known for its serene lakes and rich wildlife. Spend your morning birdwatching and enjoying the tranquility of nature.
Engage in a thrilling adventure at the Dreamland Amusement Park. Enjoy various rides and games, and grab a quick lunch at one of the park's food stalls.
Return to the city and unwind at Kali Mandir, absorbing the evening prayers and spiritual vibes. Enjoy a hearty dinner at a local eatery, ending the day on a delightful note.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strategic location as a gateway to Northeast India and neighboring countries like Bhutan, Nepal, and Bangladesh
- Rich cultural diversity with a blend of various ethnicities and traditions
- Access to beautiful natural landscapes, including the foothills of the Himalayas
- Growing educational and healthcare infrastructure
- Developing tourism potential with attractions like tea gardens and national parks
- Traffic congestion and chaotic urban planning in certain areas
- Pollution and environmental degradation due to rapid urbanization
- Limited job opportunities in specialized sectors
- Vulnerable to the effects of climate change, including flooding during monsoon season
- Inadequate public transport facilities can pose challenges for commuters
Best Activities in Shiliguri
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy exploring the diverse flora and fauna of the sanctuary on a jungle safari.
Embark on adventurous treks to scenic spots like Loleygaon, Darjeeling, and Kalimpong for breathtaking views.
Experience the thrill of navigating the rapids of Teesta River on a river rafting expedition.
Immerse yourself in nature by camping at the picturesque Gorumara National Park and spotting wildlife.
Tours
Uncover the best of Shiliguri with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Shiliguri
Visit one of these nice places.
A historic bridge with beautiful views of the Teesta River and surrounding landscape.
Offers rooftop views of the city and surrounding mountains and is perfect for capturing cityscapes and natural landscapes.
Scenic forested area with opportunities to capture wildlife and natural landscapes.
Numerous tea gardens in the area offering picturesque views of the rolling hills and tea plantations.
Food in Shiliguri
Shiliguri Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
These dumplings are a must-try, with various fillings such as meat or vegetables. Visit local street vendors or popular eateries like Makai Patal and Cozy Restaurant.
Must-Try!
A Tibetan noodle soup with clear flavorful broth, vegetables, and meat. Check out Tibetan stalls in Hong Kong Market for authentic taste.
A classic Bengali sweet made from fresh paneer and sugar. Try Balaram Mullick and Radharaman Mullick for an authentic experience.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Shiliguri better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market is famous for its Tibetan and Nepali street food, offering delights like Laphing and Shapale.
Explore the vibrant food stalls here for local favorites like Phuchka, Chowmein, and Jhal Muri.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Siliguri, it is respectful to greet people with a 'Namaste' gesture, with hands together and a slight bow. This is a common form of greeting in India and is considered polite and respectful.
Respecting elders is an important cultural norm in Siliguri. It is customary to address elders with respect and use formal titles such as 'uncle' or 'auntie' when speaking to them.
In Siliguri, it is important to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or participating in traditional events. Wearing clothing that covers the shoulders and knees is considered respectful.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Shiliguri with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Shiliguri
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in Siliguri, India is not mandatory, but it is appreciated for good service. In restaurants, a 5-10% tip is customary if a service charge is not already included in the bill. Tipping for other services such as hotel staff, tour guides, and drivers is also appreciated but not always expected.
Payment in Siliguri, India is commonly done using cash, especially for smaller transactions and in local markets. However, larger establishments and businesses may accept credit and debit cards. It's advisable to carry sufficient cash when visiting smaller shops or markets. Mobile payment options such as digital wallets and UPI are also becoming increasingly popular.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Shiliguri.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Shillong, as the weather is pleasant with blooming flowers and comfortable temperatures.
The monsoon season, with heavy rainfall and lush greenery, but travel may be affected by the weather.
Another good time to visit, with clear skies, cool temperatures, and the festive season of Durga Puja.
Cold temperatures, but ideal for enjoying the snow-clad mountains and clear views of the Himalayas.
Shiliguri at Night
Hiking in Shiliguri
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful sanctuary offering various hiking trails through rich biodiversity and scenic views, located near Siliguri.
Located a short drive from Siliguri, Kalimpong offers stunning views and several trekking routes suitable for all levels.
Famous for its tea gardens, Darjeeling is around 70 km from Siliguri and offers numerous trails with breathtaking mountain views.
Known as the 'Land of White Orchids', Kurseong is near Siliguri and provides beautiful hiking paths through lush greenery.
The highest peak in West Bengal, Sandakphu offers a challenging trekking experience with panoramic views of the Himalayas.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Shiliguri through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Shiliguri by plane.
Located about 11 km northeast of Shiliguri, Bagdogra Airport is the nearest international airport.
Approximately 560 km from Shiliguri, this is one of the largest and busiest airports in India.
Located about 600 km from Shiliguri, this airport serves as a major gateway to the Northeastern states of India.
Roughly 700 km from Shiliguri, this is the busiest airport in Bangladesh and serves international flights.
Located around 700 km from Shiliguri in Bhutan, Paro Airport is the country's only international airport, known for its stunning scenery.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Siliguri, primarily speaking Bengali and contributing to the cultural and educational landscape.
A significant community in Siliguri, particularly in the surrounding areas, known for their distinct culture and language.
Includes various groups who speak Hindi as their first language, often involved in trade and business.
A business-oriented community primarily engaged in trade and commerce.
Includes various smaller communities such as Biharis, Sikkimese, and others who also contribute to the city's diversity.
The Soul of Shiliguri
Discover the essence of Shiliguri through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Siliguri, with numerous local clubs and a strong community following for both national leagues and international tournaments.
Cricket enjoys immense popularity in Siliguri, with many local tournaments and a passionate fan base supporting both local and national teams.
Badminton is a favorite sport among the youth in Siliguri, with various clubs and tournaments being organized regularly.
Basketball has gained popularity in Siliguri, especially among school and college students, with many courts available for play.
Hockey has a historical significance in Siliguri, with various clubs promoting the sport and local teams participating in regional championships.
Athletics is promoted in schools and colleges in Siliguri, contributing to the development of sports talents in the region.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Shiliguri.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Siliguri caters well to vegetarians and vegans, with many eateries offering a variety of plant-based dishes. Places like Naveen's Kitchen and Veg Gulley are popular choices.
While gluten-free options may be limited, health-conscious eateries like Cozy Restaurant and Flavours - The Vegmania provide some gluten-free variations.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Shiliguri with these cultural adventures.
