Siliguri

Siliguri also known as Gateway of North East India is a city in the Indian state of West Bengal. Siliguri is located on the banks of the Mahananda River and the foothills of the Himalayas, it is a principal commercial, tourism, transportation, and educational center of North Bengal. As of 2011, the city had 5 Lakh residents; the urban agglomeration, which comprises the city and its suburbs, was home to approximately 19 Lakhs making it the second most populous city in West Bengal & the most populous city in entire North East. The city has become an important trade center of West Bengal. The city hosts over 20,000 domestic and 15,000 foreign visitors annually. Siliguri being a commercial hub for the North Bengal, it draws migrants from other states who come in search of livelihood.

HOW TO REACH

By Air:-
The nearest Domestic Airport from Siliguri is Bagdogra Airport, Siliguri, roughly 15 min. drive from Siliguri. Scheduled flights are available from cities such as New Delhi, Guwahati, Mumbai, Chennai and Kolkata. There is an availability of the flights from International destinations such as Paro and Bangkok.

By Road:-
Siliguri is 7 Kms from Matigara, 12 Kms from Bharat Basti, 16 Kms from Kamal Pur, 26 Kms from Pankhabari, 36 Kms from Kurseong, 45 Kms from Mirik, 66 Kms from Kalimpong, 67 Kms from Darjeeling, 170 Kms from Biratnagar, 206 Kms from Pratapganj and 377 Kms from Naogaon and is well connected through West Bengal State Road Transport Corporation (WBSRTC) and some private travel services.

By Train:-
The nearest Railway Station is New Jalpaiguri Railway Station which is located at a distance of 8 Kms from Siliguri. It is well connected to Mumbai and Delhi and many cities of the state like Dhupguri, Kishanganj, Katihar, Malda, Bhagalpur and Kolkata etc.

WHAT TO SEE

Jaldapara Wildlife Sanctuary:-

A variety of other animals and birds make their home within its 100 sq km area. Plans are afoot to merge the sanctuary with Buxa Tiger Reserve under the title of National Park to ensure a better conservation effort. The best way to explore Jaldapara is by taking the one-hour elephant safari. A maximum of four people are allowed on each elephant. The safari from the Tourist Lodge at Madarihat is subject to the availability of elephants. The park authorities donâ€™t provide vehicles for safaris, so youâ€™ll have to rent one from the Madarihat Lodge or a tourist agency. A forest guard must accompany the jeep.

Leopard Rehabilitation Centre :-

Located near the forest office, this gives you the opportunity to see how abandoned leopard cubs are reared to live in their natural habitat as adults.

Iskon Temple:-

Iskon Temple Full of beautiful idols including those of Advaita Acharya, Lord Chaitanya, and Lord Narasimha, the temple draws devotees in hordes.

SHOPPING:-

Siliguri is not a tourist destination, but being a modern city and an important trade center, it offers excellent opportunity for shopping in Siliguri.Â

FOOD:-
There are plenty ofÂ restaurants in SiliguriÂ that serve good and hygienic food at reasonable price. Bakeries in Siliguri are especially known for milkshakes, patties and pastries. For those who wish to lift their spirits a glass of the localÂ chhangÂ (an intoxicant drink made of barley) is a must try.

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