Kurseong

This 18th-century British-era summer retreat is located in the Darjeeling district close to Siliguri. Located at around 4,864 ft., it is an equally charming name translating to ‘Land of White Orchids’ due to the presence of thousands of these flowers in its meadows and valleys. At different points in time, Kurseong has been the home to people like Rabindranath Tagore, Mark Twain, Sister Nivedita, etc.

Kurseong, one of the most beautiful places to visit in West Bengal, has an unimaginable natural beauty that attracts people from all over the country. Colourful houses that seem to tumble downhill slopes, lush tea gardens and coffee plantations, verdant forests, and miles of flowering white orchids, make it an extremely scenic place to be in.

One of the best places to visit here is Eagle’s Craig vantage point that offers beautiful views of a mountainside sunrise and sunset and the expanses of Siliguri. Head over to Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Museum to see rare documents and pictures. The old churches here, with their vintage charm, like St. Mary’s Hill and St Andrews are a must-visit. Dow Hill, the nearby Deer Park, and the museum are also great attractions.

No trip to Kurseong is complete without spending serene time in the fragrant tea gardens, tasting the delicious brews, and meeting the natives. Enjoy the tranquillity at the Amobotia Shiva Temple that is located at the tea estate by the same name amidst lush orange orchards. One of the best things to do here is trying out a variety of authentic Tibetan food and drinks including steamed dumplings, thukpa, chhang, and of course Darjeeling tea. Don’t miss to enjoy the heritage toy train journey from Kurseong to Darjeeling.

The place enjoys a salubrious climate throughout the year. Summers are super pleasant with a cool breeze. Monsoons turn the place lush but also bring the risk of landslides. Winters are harsh but enjoyable and shroud the place in a cosy mist lending it a beautiful appearance.