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Unbelievably, the city of eminent literature and culture has these wonderful getaway options nearby. As a result, whenever you feel the need for some fresh air, think about visiting one of the best hill stations near Kolkata at a time. Take no shortcuts on your upcoming trip to Kolkata.
1. Ajodhya Hills – Surreal Beauty
The Ajodhya hills are in southern West Bengal and are well known for serving as a rest stop for Lord Rama during his exile from Ayodhya. This hill town, which is located 855 metres above sea level, is Kolkata's closest hill station. These hills, which are the highest point in Southern West Bengal, are known for their adventure activities like rock climbing and trekking, which draw many visitors from all over the country.
Distance From Kolkata To Ajodhya Hills:
304 kilometres.
Ajodhya Hills Directions:
By air – There are three airports to choose from: Bokaro, Dhanbad and Sonari.
By Rail – Purulia Railway Station is the closest rail station.
Best Months To Visit Ajodhya Hills:
September to March are considered the best months to visit the magnificent Ajodhya hills.
Ajodhya Hills Attractions:
Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary, Jhilimili, Tata Steel Zoological Park, Dimna Lake, and waterfalls near Kolkata, namely Barehipani Falls and Joranda Falls, are some of the popular tourist attractions near Ajodhya Hills.
Places To Stay For Trekking And Rock Climbing:
Ajodhya Hill Arcade, The Loodus Ajodhya, Hotel Hill Queen, Kushal Palli Resorts, Matha Forest Resort and many more.
2. Simultala – Refreshing Break
Another name in the group of hill stations in the vicinity of Kolkata is Simultala, which is located in the state of Bihar. Simultala lacks technical amenities and is less developed than other weekend getaways from Kolkata due to its remote location. This is the rationale behind why visitors favour making the long journey from Kolkata to this hill station's picturesque surroundings in order to escape the clamour of their typical daily routines. It is among the best hill towns nearby Kolkata.
Distance From Kolkata To Simultala:
408 kilometres approximately
How To Reach Simultala:
By Rail – Sealdah and Howrah Railway Stations
By Road – Cab, self-drive, bus
Best Time To Visit Simultala:
Simultala is best visited between October and March.
Nearby attractions include Lattu Pahar, Patna Lodge, Haldi Falls, Leelabaran Falls, Siketia Ashram, and Dharhara Falls. Nature studies and night sky observations are two things to do in Simultala.
Accommodations include the Hotel Hill View, Palm Tree Inn, Hotel Lord Shiva, Happy Villa Homestays, and Hotel Rankini.
3. Siliguri – Amidst Lush Greenery
If you're sick of the daily grind, a trip to Siliguri is unavoidable. It is the closest hill station to Kolkata and draws visitors from all over the country. In the southern part of the state, the Siliguri hills are located near Darjeeling. Allow yourself to come out of your shell and explore the unknown areas. From the Siliguri hills, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the snow-covered Great Himalayas. Are you prepared to discover one of the most captivating small hill stations near Kolkata?
Distance From Kolkata To Siliguri:
560 kilometres approximately
How To Reach Siliguri:
Siliguri hill station is well-resourced with a convenient transportation network of air, rail, and road.
By Air – Bagdogra Airport
By Bus – Self Drive, Bus
By Train – New Jalpaiguri Junction
When To Go To Siliguri:
October to March
Visit Kali Mandir, Coronation Bridge, and Jaldapara Wildlife Sanctuary near Siliguri.
Activities In Siliguri:
Shopping at the renowned Bidhan Market, Hill Cart Market, and Hong Kong Market
Accommodations include the Hotel Mount View, The Maple, Lemon Tree Hotel, and Tirupati Lodge at the Courtyard by Marriott in Siliguri.
Ideal Timeframe:
One Day
4. Netarhat – See The Floating Clouds
You might only require a vacation in this serene setting to put an end to all your worries. It is known as the Queen of Chota Nagpur and is famous for its views of the sunset and sunrise. It is one of the less popular hill stations close to Kolkata, Netarhat sees fewer visitors than any of the other eastern hill stations. It is among the best undiscovered hill towns close to Kolkata.
Distance from Kolkata to
575 kilometres separate Kolkata and Netarhat.
Getting To Netarhat:
Because the nearest airport and train station is far away, the quickest way to get to Netarhat is by car.
By Air – Birsa Munda Airport and the Ranchi Airport
By Road – Capital buses, private buses, cars or taxis
By Train – Ranchi Railway Station
Year-round is the best time to visit Netarhat.
Places To Visit Near Netarhat:
Visit Betla National Park, Upper Ghaghri Waterfall, Lower Ghaghri Waterfall, Pune Forest, and Magnolia Point when in the vicinity of Netarhat.
Activities In Netarhat:
Spend some quality time with your family while taking in the breathtaking sunset views and the silence of the mountains.
Ideal Time:
One day
5. Kurseong – Ride Amidst The Nature
Kurseong, on the way to Darjeeling, is a fantastic weekend getaway from the bustling townships. Kurseong will introduce you to its tea plantations and lush estates, magnificent mountain slopes, temples, churches, and a rich historical background over the course of two to three days. Kurseong is one of the most prominent hill stations near Kolkata and one of the best hill stations in India, with a plethora of attractions on offer.
Distance From Kolkata To Kurseong:
The distance between Kolkata and Kurseong is approximately 584 kilometres.
How to Get to Kurseong:
Travelling from Kolkata to Kurseong is difficult but not impossible.
By Air – Bagdogra Airport, Siliguri
By Bus – Cab, Private/Capital buses, Self-drive
By Train – New Jalpaiguri Railway Station
Best Time To Visit Kurseong:
Except for the monsoon months of June and July, every month of the year is a wonderful time to visit Kurseong.
Places To Visit Near Kurseong:
Tea Gardens, Eagle’s Craig, Deer Park, Ambotia Shiva Mandir, Forest Museum, Netaji Subhash Chandra Museum, and Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Museum are some attractions close to Kurseong.
Activities in Kurseong:
Visit various churches, temples, and museums to learn about the location’s historical significance. Additionally, indulge in some city shopping to bring home some truly unique keepsakes from Kurseong.
Accommodations include Bashera, Allita Hotels and Resorts, Dreamhome Stay, Sunnyside Eco Homestay, and SaffronStays Summer House.
Ideal Timeframe:
1-2 days
6. Mirik – Just Like A Painted Picture
Enjoy the breathtaking serenity of Mirik, a twin of Darjeeling town, and give yourself permission to unwind completely. One of the most stunning hill towns close to Kolkata is this one. A trip to Mirik is a feast for the weary spirit. One of the best hill towns to visit near Kolkata and renowned for its connections to Buddhism, Mirik is the perfect getaway for those seeking peace.
Distance From Kolkata To Mirik:
596 kilometres approximately
How To Reach Mirik:
Similar to other hill towns close to Kolkata, the main town of Mirik lacks a railroad station and an airport. Bus travel is the most practical way to get from Kolkata to Mirik.
Best Time to Visit Mirik:
The months of March to September are the busiest for Mirik tourism.
Places To Visit Near Mirik:
Nearby attractions include Kurseong, Jorpokhri, Lepchajagat, and Sukhiapokhri.
Activities in Mirik:
Trek in the surrounding areas or sit by the lake and listen to the water flow.
Places To Stay: Lake View Villa, Golden Sunview Homestay, Titung Orange Grove Homestay, Lingden’s Farm, and Vamoose Sunakhari are some places to stay.
1 day is the ideal duration.
7. Darjeeling – That Authentic Train Ride
Darjeeling, one of the closest hill stations to Kolkata, is world-famous for the Great Himalayan Railways. Darjeeling, a world heritage site, has a pristine atmosphere and some stunning tea gardens. Because of its elevation, it has winter weather all year. Make a note of Darjeeling for your next trip to the hills.
Distance From Kolkata To Darjeeling:
612 kilometres
How To Reach Darjeeling:
By Rail – New Jalpaiguri Railway Station
By Air – Bagdogra Airport
Best Time To Visit Darjeeling:
Darjeeling is best visited between October and March.
Places To Visit Near Darjeeling:
Nearby attractions include the Batasia Loop, the Japanese Peace Pagoda, the Great Himalayan Railway, Tiger Hill, Nightingale Park, the Rock Garden, and the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological National Park.
Things to Do in Darjeeling:
Go shopping at Nathmull’s tea shop for some Darjeeling souvenirs. Darjeeling also has some of the best trekking routes in the country.
Accommodations include FabExpress Tibet Homes, Sanderling Residency & Spa, Green Tara Residency, and Ramada by Wyndham. Darjeeling
Ideal Time frame: 2-3 days
8. Kalimpong – Tranquil Beauty Of Town
Kalimpong, the best hill station near Kolkata, is known for its Buddhist culture, monasteries, flower markets, and Tibetan handicrafts. Kalimpong is known for its breathtaking mountain views and provides an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Distance From Kolkata To Kalimpong:
621 kilometres approximately
How to Get There:
For the best mountain views, we recommend driving to Kalimpong from Kolkata, Darjeeling, or Kurseong.
Kalimpong is best visited between March and June and between September and December.
Durpin Dara Hill, Cactus Nursery, Deolo Hill, Galingka, Morgan House, Thongsa Gompa, and Jang Dog Palriffo Brang Gompa are all nearby attractions.
Activities in Kalimpong include rafting on the Teesta River, bird watching, and trekking.
Accommodations include the Hotel Aashiyana, Hotel Paradiso, Holumba Haven, PaliGhar Farmstay, and Wheelers Hostel Ideal.
Time frame:
2-3 days
9. Pedong – To The Hiking Adventure
Pedong, tucked away in a corner under the Kalimpong hills, is a one-stop destination for the Silk Route. Pedong, the best hill station near Kolkata, is best known for the small hiking adventures that it offers. It provides travellers with the necessary time to self-introspect and get to know themselves better.
Distance From Kolkata To Pedong: 641 kilometres
Pedong is located 85 kilometres from Siliguri, with the nearest railway station at Bagdogra.
The best time to visit Pedong is from October to March.
Nearby Places to Visit: Rikisum, Sillery Gaon, Rishi, Damsang Fort, TinChuley View Point, and Sangchhen Gompa are all nearby attractions.
Bird watching, rock climbing, nature walks, fishing, trekking, and other activities are available in Pedong.
Binayak Homestay, Vamoosetrail Pedong, Yonzon Homestay, Vamoose Ashis Homestay, Kynance Homestay are some places to stay.
10. Mongpu – For The Love Of Literature
Mongpu, a small mountain village located at an elevation of 3,700 feet above sea level, is another offbeat hill station near Kolkata. Nature lovers in Mongpu will enjoy Cinchona gardens, lush green tea plantations, flowering orchids, and other such sights. Mongpu is a stunningly beautiful place that is also known for being the birthplace of Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore, making it a haven for book lovers. This is also one of the best places in West Bengal to visit.
Distance From Kolkata To MongPu: 647 kilometres
How To Reach MongPu:
By Air – Bagdogra Airport
By Bus – Self Drive, Bus
By Train – New Jalpaiguri Junction
Places to Visit Near MongPu: The most important attraction in MongPu is Tagore’s summer residence.
Things to Do in MongPu: Get inspired at the summer residence, and admire the fragrant orchids in bloom.
11. Sandakphu – Go For Some Adventure
Sandakphu, West Bengal's highest point, is another well-known hill station near Kolkata. Sandakphu, a popular tourist destination known for trekking and skiing, provides breathtaking views of the world's five highest peaks. A vacation in Sandakphu will not let you down.
652 kilometres separate Kolkata and Sandakphu.
How to Get to Sandakphu:
You can get to Sandakphu by trekking through a horrifying mountain pass or by road.
Sandakphu is best visited between October and May.
Visit the Varsey Rhododendron Sanctuary, Manebhanjan, Chitrey, Tonglu, and Tumling.
Activities in Sandakphu: Trekking and skiing
Accommodations include Ethnotel, Hotel Jagannath International, Couples Service Apartment, and Ramco Inn Guest House.
Ideal Timeframe: 3-5 days
12. Gangtok – Ride Down The Cable
An ideal vacation destination for those looking for mountain passes, rivers, cottage industries, and waterfalls near Kolkata. Gangtok is the cultural capital of Sikkim and, without a doubt, the best hill station near Kolkata for those who enjoy nature and a surreal Tibetan atmosphere. Trekking is one of the best things to do in Sikkim for everyone, aside from relaxing and sightseeing.
The distance between Kolkata and Gangtok is approximately 670 kilometres.
How to Get to Gangtok:
Bagdogra Airport is the closest airport.
By Bus – Self-Driving, Bus
New Jalpaiguri Junction by Train
When is the best time to visit Gangtok? The months of October to June are ideal for planning a vacation in Sikkim because the weather is at its best. The nights are pleasant, and the sun isn’t too bad.
Do Drul Chorten, Tsomgo Lake, Rumtek Monastery, Nathu La Pass, Singhik Viewpoint, Tashi Viewpoint, Seven Sisters Waterfall, and Kabi Lonstok are all nearby attractions.
Things to do in Gangtok include rafting on the Teesta-Rangeet, attending the famous flower show, trekking, and mountain biking.
The Golden Crest, Tsechu Homestay, Gangtok View Villa, Martam Village Resort, and Hotel Green Park are among the places to stay.
Ideal Timeframe: 2-4 days
13. Lava – Away From The Hustle Bustle
Lava, one of the best hill stations near Kolkata, has an incredibly beautiful and picturesque landscape. Lava is so beautiful that words cannot do it justice. Lava is a trekker’s paradise and one of the best inexpensive hill stations near Kolkata.
The distance between Kolkata and Lava is approximately 675 kilometres.
How to Get to Lava:
Bagdogra Airport is the closest airport.
By Bus – Self-Driving, Bus
New Jalpaiguri Junction by Train
The best time to visit Lava is between October and April. During these months, the weather is especially pleasant.
Nearby attractions include Kalimpong, Lolegaon, Ghoom, and Darjeeling.
Activities in Lava: Trekking to Jelepla and Rachela Pass, visiting Tiffin Dara and Ghanti Dara, Bhutanese Monastery, and Neora Valley National Park
14. Dooars Valley – Lush Greenery And Silence
Dooars Valley, as the name suggests, is a gateway to Bhutan. Dooars Valley, an excellent hill station among the stunning hill stations near Kolkata, is blessed with an incredible variety of flora and fauna, lush green thick forests, mountain ranges, and serpentine streams cutting the landscapes here and there. It’s a getaway you won’t want to miss out on during your Kolkata vacation.
The distance between Kolkata and Dooars Valley is approximately 680 kilometres.
To Get to Dooars Valley:
By Air – Bagdogra Airport; By Bus – Self-Drive; By Train – Dhupguri Junction;
Best Time to Visit Dooars Valley: Dooars Valley has something to offer all year. The Teesta Tea and Tourism Feast, which is held in Dooars Valley in November and December, attracts the greatest number of visitors.
Nearby Attractions: Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary, Samsing and Suntalekhola, Latpanchore and Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary
Activities in Dooars Valley include whitewater rafting, jungle safaris, and trekking.
Hotel Green Leaf Lodge And Restaurant, Resort Trimurti, Resort Vinayak Murti, Ayush Jungle Resort, The Riverwood Forest Retreats are some places to stay.
15. Ravangla – Can’t-Miss The Mountain Views
Ravangla is a small village that has been transformed into a magical tourist attraction due to its breathtaking mountain views and snowy landscapes. Ravangla’s beauty and tranquillity are breathtaking, making it the ideal rejuvenating weekend retreat from Kolkata among all the other hill stations nearby.
The distance between Kolkata and Ravangla is 671 kilometres.
How to Get There: Ravangla is a one-night drive from Kolkata and is easily accessible via well-maintained roads.
The best time to visit Ravangla is between February and March, and between October and November.
Borong Hot Springs, Rayong Sunrise View Point, and Ralang Monasteries are all nearby attractions.
Things to do in Ravangla include bird watching and trekking.
Hilltop Rabong Resort, Hotel Cloud’s End, Seven Mirrorlake Homestay, Sleeping Buddha, View Point Homestay are some places to stay.
16. Shillong – Gem Of East India
Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya, is another beautiful hill station near Kolkata. Despite being quite far from Kolkata, it is the most captivating part of Eastern India. Shillong is the place to be if you are a true nature lover looking for a wonderful getaway from the city!
The distance between Kolkata and Shillong is approximately 1080 kilometres.
How to Get to Shillong:
By Air – Guwahati Airport By Bus – Self Drive, Bus
Best Time to Visit Shillong: The months of September to May are generally the best for visiting this beautiful paradise.
Visit Mawlynnong, Mawsynram, Shillong Peak, Don Bosco Museum, David Scott Trail, Mawphlang, and other places near Shillong.
Things to do in Shillong include visiting Nokrek National Park, taking a leisure walk around Wards Lake, rock climbing, golfing, exploring caves, camping, waterfall hopping, and kayaking on the Kynshi River, among other activities.
Woodland Hill Stay, Shillong Mantra Guest House, Windermere Inn, Hotel Indiana, and Rockski Boutique Bed & Breakfast are among the places to stay.
Ideal Timeframe: 2-4 days
17. Lolegaon – Take That Offbeat Route
This is a well-known hill station near Kolkata that is a small Lepcha village. With a population of around 5000 people, this place is an ideal getaway from the hustle and bustle. This village is located 24 kilometres from Lava at a height of 1675 metres at the end of the Himalayan range. Standing at this elevation, one has a 360-degree view of the Kanchenjunga range.
652 kilometres separate Kolkata and Lolegaon.
How to Get to Lolegaon:
Air: The nearest airport to Lolegaon is Bagdogra International Airport, which is approximately 103 kilometres away and takes approximately 4.5 hours to reach.
The nearest railway station to Lolegaon is New Jalpaiguri, which is 99 kilometres away.
Car: Lolegaon is 652 kilometres from Kolkata, and one can drive to Malta, stay for one day, and then continue on to the second day.
March-May and September-February are the best months to visit.
Jhandi Dara and Kaffer are two places to visit near Lolegaon.
Activities in Lolegaon include trekking, canopy walks, and bird watching.
1 day is the ideal duration.
18. Upper And Lower Fagu – Magnificent Views
Fagu is an out-of-the-way location in the Dooars region, about 9 kilometres from Lava. At a height of 6,200 feet, this magnificent location is surrounded by lush greenery and stunning views, giving it a surreal appearance. This location is a visual treat, surrounded by panoramic views of the Mahananda River Valley and the majestic Mt. Kanchenjunga.
The distance between Kolkata and Fagu is 744 kilometres.
How to Get to Lolegaon:
Air: The nearest airport is Bagdogra, which is 96 kilometres away and takes 3.5 hours to reach.
Train: The nearest railway station is New Mal Junction, 35 kilometres away and 30 minutes away.
Car: Fagu is located 744 kilometres from Kolkata and takes two days to reach by car after a stop in Malda.
The best months to visit are October-February and March-May.
Nearby Attractions: Samabeong Brew, Jhandi Dara, and Changey Waterfalls
Things to do in Lolegaon include watching the sunset and trekking.
19. Sittong – Amidst Silent Roads And Tall Trees
This is a lovely village in the Darjeeling district’s Kurseong division, separated by the Khola stream. Sittong is well-known for being the Lepcha tribes’ home. This picturesque village, located at a height of 4000 feet, is actually a cluster of villages that are included in one large area known locally as the Sittong Khasmahal. This village is also known for being the centre of orange harvesting and exportation. This is also one of the best places in West Bengal to visit.
580 kilometres separate Kolkata and Sittong.
How to Get to Sittong:
Air: The nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport, which is 35 kilometres away.
Train: The nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri, which is 32 kilometres away.
Car: Sittong is 580 kilometres from Kolkata and takes two days to reach with a one-night stop in Malda.
The best time to visit is from late December to early January.
Nearby attractions include the Sittong Church, Jogighat, and the Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary.
Trekking and camping are popular activities in Sittong.
20. Takdah – Peaceful Vibes
This is a small settlement located in West Bengal’s Darjeeling district. This lovely region is always shrouded in fog, hence the name. There was a time when this location was known for being a British military cantonment, and the old buildings still bear witness to that time. This location is close to Darjeeling and is located at 4000 feet. This hamlet is surrounded by lush-green tea plantations and a plethora of orchid plants.
627 kilometres separate Kolkata and Takdah.
How to Get to Takdah:
Bagdogra International Airport is the nearest airport.
New Jalpaiguri Railway Station is the nearest railway station.
Takdah is 627 kilometres away and can be reached in two days by car.
From October to March is the best time to visit.
Nearby attractions include the Orchid Center, Teesta Valley, Takdah Monastery, and Lamahatta Villa.
Takdah Attractions: Sightseeing and trekking
Vamoose Norlha, Takdah Heritage Bungalow, Rose Villa, Vamoose Mingma are some of the places to stay.
21. Tinchuley – Offbeat Beauty
Tinchuley means “Three Ovens” or “Teen Chullah,” and it is a small hamlet in an outlying district of Darjeeling. The hamlet’s name is derived from the three hilltops that surround it. This location is 3 kilometres from Takdah and faces the Kalimpong hills at an elevation of 5,800 feet. This location is now well-known for the WWF (World Wide Federation) initiative, which assists 17 families in the development of a model organic village. Locals here use modern farming techniques and floriculture methods as part of this project. If you’re looking for the closest hill station to Kolkata, this is the place to go.
624 kilometres separate Kolkata and Tinchuley.
Tinchuley’s Contact Information:
Bagdogra International Airport is the nearest airport.
New Jalpaiguri Railway Station is the nearest railway station.
Tinchuley is 624 kilometres away and can be reached in two days by car.
From November to February is the best time to visit.
Nearby Attractions: Teesta Valley, Nirmal’s Orange Orchards, Peshok Tea Estate
Tinchuley Attractions: Sightseeing and trekking
Tinchuley Ratna Vajra Vatika Resort, Darjeeling homestay Mangkhim, Haven farm, FabExpress Tibet Homes are some places to stay.
Ideal Duration: one to two days
