Things To Do
in Shiliguri
Siliguri, often spelled Shiliguri, sits at the crossroads of Northeast India, serving as a gateway to the Dooars and the tea country of Darjeeling. It is a melting pot of Bengali, Nepali, Hindi, Tibetan, and other communities, reflected in its markets, food, and festivals. The city is set near the Teesta and Mahananda rivers, adding a lush backdrop to its urban pace.
It functions as a practical base for exploring wildlife reserves, hill stations, and vibrant market scenes while offering a distinctly regional flavor.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing visit to the lush tea gardens surrounding Shiliguri. Enjoy a guided tour where you can learn about the tea-making process and the history of tea cultivation in the region. Breathe in the fresh, fragrant air while sipping on a freshly brewed cup of local tea amidst the picturesque landscape.
After the tea garden tour, visit a nearby tea factory to see the production process up close. You can participate in a tea tasting session, sampling various types of tea produced in the area. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local eatery, savoring traditional Nepali cuisine that includes momos and thukpa.
As the sun sets, take a stroll along the banks of the Mahananda River, where you can enjoy the tranquil views and the sounds of nature. Find a cozy spot to sit and reflect on your day, perhaps indulging in some local snacks from street vendors. End your evening with a visit to a local market, where you can shop for handicrafts and souvenirs.
Begin your day with a visit to the revered Kali Mandir, an important Hindu temple in Shiliguri. Participate in the morning rituals, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere filled with chants and prayers. Take some time to appreciate the intricate architecture and the serene surroundings of the temple.
After your spiritual experience, wander through the local markets nearby, where you can find colorful textiles and handicrafts. Stop for lunch at a traditional Bengali restaurant, enjoying dishes like shorshe ilish and mishti doi. Continue your cultural exploration by visiting the nearby ISKCON temple for a deeper understanding of the local religious practices.
In the evening, attend a cultural performance showcasing traditional dance and music at a local community center. Engage with the performers and learn about the significance of these art forms in the region. Conclude your day with a peaceful dinner at a rooftop restaurant, enjoying views of the city skyline.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-10 |
| ☕️Coffee/tea | $1-3 |
| 🚕Local transportation (short rides) | $2-5 |
| 🛏️Mid-range hotel (per night) | $25-60 |
| 🍛Dinner at mid-range restaurant | $6-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Gateway to Dooars and Darjeeling with easy access to nature
- Value-for-money accommodations and food
- Friendly, multilingual locals and easy transport links
- Heavy traffic at peak hours and crowded markets
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Monsoon floods and damp conditions can affect travel plans
- "Namaskar" - Hello
- "Apni ki English bolte parben?" - Can you speak English?
- "Ami Siliguri te thaki." - I am staying in Siliguri.
- "Doya kore ektu dheere bolben." - Please speak a little slower.
- "Eta kothay ache?" - Where is this place?
Places to Visit in Shiliguri
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic Teesta River bridge offering wide river views and riverbank landscapes; best at sunrise or sunset.
Wide riverfront with trees and reflections; ideal for golden-hour shots and long exposure river scenes.
Scenic curves and greenery along Sevoke with peering viewpoints toward the hills and river.
Food in Shiliguri
Shiliguri Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Steamed dumplings often served with spicy chutney; widely available in street stalls and casual eateries.
Must-Try!
Indian-Chinese style noodles popular for a quick meal and roadside stalls.
Light fish curry prepared with local freshwater fish; pairs well with steamed rice.
Comforting lentil curry with rice; common at casual eateries.
Traditional Bengali desserts like mishti doi and peda for a sweet finish.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Colorful stalls offering textiles, accessories, snacks, and bargain buys; great for sampling street bites.
Buzzing marketplace with fresh produce, spices, and quick bites—perfect for a local lunch.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with Namaskar/Hello; remove shoes before entering homes and certain temples; be respectful in religious sites.
Modest clothing when visiting religious sites or rural areas; shoulders and knees covered as a courtesy.
Ask for permission before photographing people, especially in markets or homes.
Safety
Tipping in Shiliguri
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a small tip of 5-10% is appreciated if service is good. Porters and hotel staff may expect 20-50 INR per bag or per service.
Cash is widely accepted; many places now take cards and UPI/ wallets (PhonePe, Paytm) in towns and hotels.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid days (March–May); carry water, sunscreen, and light clothing; mornings and late evenings are most comfortable.
Heavy rainfall (June–September); expect slippery trails and potential flooding; pack a rain jacket and water-resistant backpack.
Cool to mild temperatures (October–February); nights can be chilly; bring a light jacket and reusable winter gear.
Shiliguri at Night
Hiking in Shiliguri
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible nature walks and birdwatching around the sanctuary near Siliguri.
Short, scenic hikes along the Teesta river and Sevoke area with viewpoints.
Airports
How to reach Shiliguri by plane.
Approximately 15-25 km from Siliguri, with domestic flights to major Indian cities and occasional international services; taxis and app-based cabs are available.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant in the city, with strong cultural influence in festivals and cuisine.
A significant presence contributing to multilingual street signs and markets.
Widespread in markets, shops, and services.
Visible in markets and cultural pockets around Siliguri.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport, with local clubs and informal games across parks and stadiums.
A common weekend pastime in schools and communities, with local pickup matches.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Shiliguri.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many eateries offer dal, paneer, aloo-tikki, and bhaji; ask for plain rice or roti if avoiding ghee or butter.