Top 7 Hill Stations Near Kolkata That You Must Visit

Hill Stations Near Kolkata: Kolkata is surrounded by some of the most renowned hill stations, including Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Kurseong, Mirik, Ajodhya Hills, Simultala, Netarhat, Dooars Valley, Pedong, and Sandakphu. Each of these destinations provides a wealth of activities and attractions that are sure to captivate visitors. Hiking, trekking, camping, bird watching, and exploring and picturing tea gardens are just a few of the exciting experiences that await. the lush green hills beckon travelers to a serene escape that feels worlds away. Nestled in the lap of the Eastern Himalayas, Darjeeling stands as a crown jewel among the hill stations near Kolkata, luring adventurers and peace-seekers alike with its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

Often referred to as the “Queen of the Hills,” Darjeeling is renowned for its panoramic views of the majestic Kanchenjunga, India’s third-highest peak. The journey begins with a scenic train ride on the famed Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The toy train meanders through charming villages and sprawling tea gardens, offering glimpses of the region’s colonial architecture.

Upon arrival, visitors are greeted by the cool, crisp air and the delightful aroma of Darjeeling tea. A visit to the lush tea estates is a must; here, you can witness the meticulous process of tea picking and sample some of the finest brews in the world. Be sure to stop by the iconic Glenburn Tea Estate, where the vistas stretch as far as the eye can see, and the tranquillity is palpable.

1. Darjeeling

Darjeeling is a popular hill station near Kolkata, famous for its stunning Himalayan views, colonial architecture and tea plantations. There are many things to see in Darjeeling, including:-

• Darjeeling Himalayan Railway: You can visit the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Chowrasta Market: Chowrasta Market is the main market in Darjeeling. It is a great place to buy souvenirs including tea, spices, and handicrafts. The market is also a great place to sample local cuisine.
• Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park: Don’t miss the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, which is home to a variety of animals from the Himalayas. Animals like snow leopards, Tibetan wolves, red pandas, and other endangered species of the Eastern Himalayan Mountains are found here.
• Tiger Hill: If you want to go trekking, you can head to Tiger Hill and enjoy the stunning views of Mount Kanchenjunga, the third-highest mountain in the world. Darjeeling is one of the closest hill stations to Kolkata where you can indulge in mountaineering. If you want to try mountaineering, you can visit the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, a mountaineering training school in Darjeeling.
• Enjoy the local cuisine: Do try the local cuisines like Tibetan, Nepalese and Indian, you will surely enjoy trying them.
• Ropeway Ride: Do add the Darjeeling Ropeway ride to your itinerary. It is a ropeway that offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains.

How to Reach Darjeeling:

• Air:  The nearest Airport is Bagdogra International Airport, which is about 67 KM and it will take about 2.5 – 3 hrs to reach.
• Train: The nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri, which is about 73 KM and it will take around 2.5 hrs – 3 hrs to reach.
• Car Distance: Darjeeling is 614 KM away from Kolkata. You can take a long drive to Malda for one night halt. Then on the second day, you can reach Darjeeling.

Best time to Visit Darjeeling:

• March-May
• September- November, is a lovely time.
• Do avoid the Monsoons

General Weather in Darjeeling:

General weather is cool, comfortable, windy at times, with ample sunshine, and misty when the fog comes in. It was chosen as a sanatorium after all!

• Summer: 5-15 degree centigrade
• Winter : 1-10 degree centigrade

2. Sandakphu

This hilly area near Kolkata is known as the highest peak in the state of West Bengal. If you are planning to drive to a hill resort near Kolkata, you can consider this as an option. It is located on the border of India and Nepal and is known for its stunning views of the Himalayas, including Mount Kangchenjunga. Here are some of the things to see in Sandakphu:

• Discover the Sandakphu Tea Garden: Nestled at the base of Sandakphu, this tea garden provides stunning vistas of the Himalayas and offers a fascinating insight into the art of tea production.
• Trek to Sandakphu: Embarking on this trek is not only challenging but also incredibly rewarding. Spanning approximately 5 days, it reveals breathtaking views of the majestic Himalayas at every turn.
• Explore the Sandakphu Wildlife Sanctuary: This sanctuary boasts a diverse array of wildlife, including elusive snow leopards, playful red pandas, and the impressive Himalayan tahr. It’s also a birdwatcher’s paradise, featuring remarkable species such as the blood pheasant and the satyr Tragopan.
• Savor the local cuisine: The culinary offerings in Sandakphu are a delightful fusion of Tibetan, Nepali, and Indian flavors. Indulge in beloved local dishes such as momos, thukpa, and chowmein, and experience the rich culinary heritage of the region.
• Visit the Sandakphu View Point: Standing as the highest point in Sandakphu, this viewpoint offers unmatched panoramic vistas of the Himalayas. Here, you’ll witness the awe-inspiring sights of Mount Kanchenjunga, Mount Everest, and other iconic peaks.

3. Kalimpong

Nestled in the Indian state of West Bengal, this charming hill station boasts a rich history as a key trade gateway between Tibet and India prior to China’s annexation of Tibet and the ensuing Sino-Indian War. The arrival of the British, drawn by the region’s temperate climate, transformed this small settlement into an appealing alternative to Darjeeling, providing a welcome retreat from the oppressive summer heat of the plains. As trade flourished, the population of this hamlet grew, further enriched by the influence of Scottish missionaries who prioritized education. A notable example of their impact is Dr. Graham’s Home, a testament to the area’s commitment to learning and community development.

Situated at an impressive elevation of 1,250 meters (4,101 feet), Kalimpong boasts Nepali as its official language. The town center is strategically positioned on a ridge that links the prominent Deolo Hill and Durpin Hill. Below, the Teesta River winds through the valley, effectively marking the boundary between Kalimpong and the state of Sikkim. Dominating the skyline, the majestic Mt. Kanchenjunga, standing at 8,586 meters (28,169 feet), is the third tallest mountain in the world and offers a stunning view from Kalimpong.

How to Reach Kalimpong:

• Air: The nearest Airport is Bagdogra International Airport, which is about 77 KM and it will take about 2.5 – 3 hrs to reach.
• Train: The nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri, which is about 71 KM and it will take around 2.5 hrs – 3 hrs to reach.
• Car Distance:  Kalimpong is 623 KM away from Kolkata. You can take a long drive to Malda for one night halt. Then on the second day, you can reach Kalimpong.

Best time to Visit Kalimpong:

• March-May
• October – February.
• Avoid the monsoons, brings in heavy rain and landslides are common.

General Weather Kalimpong:

General weather is cool, comfortable, windy at times, with ample sunshine, and misty when the fog comes in.

• Summer: 5-15 degree centigrade
• Winter : 1-10 degree centigrade

4. Simultala

Simultala is one of the best hill towns near Kolkata in the state of Bihar. The town is known for its scenic beauty of rolling hills, lush forests, caves and waterfalls. There are a number of places to visit and things to do in Simultala including:-

• Hiking and Trekking: There are several hiking and trekking trails in Simultala. The most popular is the Ratu Pahar Trek, which takes you to the top of Ratu Pahar, the highest hill in Simultala near Kolkata. The view from the top of the hill is spectacular.
• Visit Ratu Pahar: Ratu Pahar is a hill that offers a panoramic view of the surrounding area. It is the highest hill in Simultala and is a popular spot for hikers and trekkers.
• Swim in the Waterfalls: There are many waterfalls in Simultala. The most popular one is Dewoda Falls, a beautiful waterfall with a pool at the bottom. The waterfall is a popular spot for swimming and family picnics.
• Go Boating in the Nearby River: There is a river running through Simultala. You can take a boat ride on the river and enjoy the view.
• Get Blessed at Baidyanath Temple: Baidyanath Temple is a Hindu pilgrimage site located about 10 km from Simultala. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas, the most sacred shrines of Lord Shiva.

5. Mirik

Mirik is a small town in Darjeeling district, West Bengal, India. Located 600 km from Kolkata, the town is one of the most beautiful hill towns near Kolkata. It is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful scenery with rolling hills, lush forests and lakes. Autumn is the best time to visit the numerous scenic spots including temples, monasteries, orange orchards and tea plantations. There are many things to see and do in Mirik, including:

• Visit Mirik Lake: Mirik Lake is a clear blue lake. The lake is surrounded by mountains and forests. You can take a boat trip around the lake or just enjoy the scenery.
• Visit Pokar Monastery: This is a Buddhist monastery located on a hill overlooking Mirik. The monastery was built in the 17th century and is one of the oldest monasteries in the area.
• Visit Dinglin View Point: This is a popular spot to see the surrounding area. It is located on a hilltop and offers a panoramic view of Mirik Lake, hills, and plains. You can visit the view point in the morning or evening to enjoy the view.
• Visit Pashupatin Market: This is a local market where you can buy souvenirs, local handicrafts, and food. The market is a great place to experience the local culture.
• Hiking and Trekking: There are many hiking and trekking trails in Mirik. You can hike to the top of the hill or through the forest. Hiking and trekking let you enjoy the natural beauty of Mirik.
• If you want to go further, you can also visit some places near Kolkata. Here is some brief information about hill stations near Kolkata.

6. Kuresong

Kurseong is a hill station close to Kolkata, in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal, India. The Lepchas were the first people here. They called it Kurseong because, each spring, the place bloomed with Kurseong-Rip orchids. Once, this town belonged to the Kingdom of Sikkim before the British arrived in India.

Kurseong was home to several temples: the Ambootia Shiva Temple, a Buddhist Gompa, the Grotto, and a Catholic Church on St. Mary Hill. The tea gardens, like Castleton, Makaibari, and Ambootia, invited visitors to explore. Natural wonders awaited as well—Eagle Craig, the Rock Garden, Deer Park, and the Kholas, which came alive in the monsoon rains.

How to Reach Kuresong:

• Air: The nearest Airport is Bagdogra International Airport, which is about 41 KM and it will take about 1 hr– 1.5 hrs to reach.
• Train: The nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri, which is about 44 KM and it will take around 1 hr – 1.5 hrs to reach.
• Car Distance: Kurseong is 586 KM away from Kolkata. You can take a long drive to Malda for one night halt. Then on the second day, you can reach Kurseong.

Best Time to Visit Kuresong:

Kurseong had a lovely climate all through the year.

• March – May
• October – December
• Avoid the monsoons, chances of landslides.

General Weather Kuresong:

General weather is cool, comfortable, windy at times, with ample sunshine, and misty when the fog comes in.

• Summer: 5-15 degree centigrade
• Winter : 1-10 degree centigrade

7. Takdah

In the hills of Darjeeling, there is a small settlement called Takdah. The name means “always covered in fog.” The Lepcha call it Tukdah, which means mist or fog. Once a British military outpost during the Raj, the old buildings still stand, witnesses to a time long past. Takdah sits at 4,000 feet, not far from the bustling town of Darjeeling. The hamlet is known for its orchids. The Orchid Center attracts visitors, and efforts are underway to restore it to its former glory, hoping to bring new attention to Takdah.

Visit the tea estates—Rangli Rangliot, Giele, Teesta Valley. They are worth seeing. At Dara dokan, the market on Thursdays is lively. Just a kilometer from town stands the old, abandoned Club House, a relic of the past. The Takdah Monastery offers peace. Tinchuley lies three kilometers from Takdah. Lamahatta village is twelve kilometers from there.

You can drive to Triveni, where the Teesta and Rangeet rivers meet. Darjeeling lies thirty kilometers off. If you wish to feel the British presence in the hills near Kolkata, Takdah is a place to consider.

How to Reach Takdah:

• Air: The nearest Airport is Bagdogra International Airport, which is about 80 KM and it will take about 3 hr– 3.5 hrs to reach.
• Train: The nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri, which is about 76 KM and it will take around 3 hr – 3.5 hrs to reach.
• Car Distance:  Takdah is 627 KM away from Kolkata. You can take a long drive to Malda for one night halt. Then on the second day, you can reach Takdah.

Best time to Visit Takdah:

• Best time is October- March when the sky is clear and feel the chill of winter.

General Weather Takdah:

General weather is cool, comfortable, windy at times, with ample sunshine, and misty when the fog comes in.

• Summer: 5-15 degree centigrade
• Winter : 1-10 degree centigrade

Ranchi: Ranchi is home to some of the most unexplored hilly terrains near Kolkata, featuring stunning waterfalls, historic temples, and scenic viewpoints. Ranchi Lake is perfect for a leisurely evening, offering ample space for family picnics and boat rides. Situated at the base of Ranchi Hill, it’s one of the top picnic spots in the area. Don’t miss the Rock Garden, perched on a small hill by Kanke Dam, which provides breathtaking views of the undulating hills and cityscape. Additionally, Ranchi offers an array of attractions including Dassam Falls, Jonha Falls, Patratu Valley, Hundru Falls, Birsa Zoological Park, and Panch Gagh Falls. Ajodhya Hills: Ajodhya Hills, a hidden gem located just south of Kolkata, offers a captivating escape with its lush forests, picturesque waterfalls, and tranquil temples.

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