As soon as he holds his grip on Kolkata in summer, many passengers breathe fresh air in the nearby hills. Fortunately, Eastern India is blessed with a series of amazing Best 5 Hill Stations Near Kolkata that are not only visible, but also culturally rich and easy to use. Every destination offers an ideal migration from the legendary tea gardens of Darjeeling to the spiritual peace of Gangtok, and from the blurred peace of Kalimpong to the beauty of the forest of the Dures Valley – the beauty of the forest of the Dures Valley.
Whether you are craving for a single traveler, a family, who is looking for a luxurious retreat, or looking for a romantic shelter to a couple, these hill stations provide a fresh summer migration to suit all kinds of wanders. These places are not just about beautiful ideas; They offer lively local cultures, colonial attractions, Buddhist monasteries, wildlife safari, tea tasting experiences, and more.
Cool Mountain Breeze, Mist-Laden Morning, and Starry Nights make for a magical experience that lasts long after the journey ends. This guide examines five best hill stations near Kolkata – how to reach, top attraction, best time to travel, things to travel, and required trips to help you avoid the right mountain. You can read Why Choose Jim Corbett for Your Next Corporate Group Tour?
1. Darjeeling 🌄
Overview
Nestled at ~2,050 m in the Lesser Himalayas, Darjeeling is famed for its tea estates, colonial heritage, panoramic views of Kanchenjunga, and the UNESCO-listed Toy Train.
How to Reach
- By air/rail: Fly to Bagdogra or take the train to NJP.
- By road: A 3-hour scenic drive (~90 km) along winding hills brings you to Darjeeling.
Best Places to Visit
- Tiger Hill: Spectacular sunrise views of Kanchenjunga, Everest & Makalu .
- Batasia Loop & War Memorial.
- DAR Himalayan Railway ride.
- Tea estates like Happy Valley.
- Peace Pagoda, colonial Chowrasta, and local markets.
Best Time to Visit
Mid-March to June offers crisp, clear skies ideal for sightseeing. October–November is also pleasant post-monsoon.
Things to Do
- Sunrise at Tiger Hill.
- Ride the Toy Train.
- Tea plantation tours & tastings.
- Stroll Mall Road, enjoy local momos & Darjeeling tea.
Travel Tips
- Book early during peak summer and clear days.
- Mornings for mountain views; afternoons often misty.
- Layers are essential—even summers can be chilly at dawn.
2. Kalimpong 🍀
Overview
Sitting at ~1,247 m, Kalimpong is a serene Himalayan ridge-top town overlooking the Teesta Valley. Known for its slower pace, monasteries, and flower nurseries.
How to Reach
- Via NJP/Bagdogra + ~2.5-hour ride (about 100 km).
Best Places to Visit
- Deolo Hill for valley views & paragliding.
- Durpin Monastery.
- Cactus Nursery—Asia’s biggest commercial collection.
- Morgan House, a historic colonial mansion.
Best Time to Visit
March to June when flowers bloom and skies are clear.
Things to Do
- Paragliding off Deolo.
- Quiet monastery meditation.
- Exploring local bazaars; savor Tibetan-Bengali snacks.
- Nurseries full of exotic plants.
Travel Tips
- Avoid heavy monsoons—landslides can occur .
- Evenings can be cool—pack a light jacket.
- Stay centrally to avoid long climbs.
3. Mirik
Overview
A peaceful lakeside town in the Darjeeling district, known for its serene atmosphere and tea gardens
How to Reach
- From NJP/Siliguri: approx. 2.5-hour drive (~130 km).
Best Places to Visit
- Mirik Lake (Sumendu Lake) with boating and lakeside walks.
- Nearby tea gardens and lush orange orchards.
- Walk the quaint Fishery Market for fresh trout & local flavors.
Best Time to Visit
April to June: pleasant weather and blooming gardens
Things to Do
- Paddle on the lake.
- Trek through tea plantations.
- Sample fresh fish and local cabbage curry.
Travel Tips
- Ideal for a peaceful 2‑day escape.
- Best when journeying between Darjeeling and Kolkata or blending with Kalimpong.
4. Gangtok
Overview
The vibrant capital of Sikkim at ~1,650 m, Gangtok is a blend of monasteries, mountain views, and cultural charm.
How to Reach
- Via NJP/Bagdogra, then ~4‑hour mountain drive (~140 km).
Best Places to Visit
- MG Road: clean, pedestrian-friendly hub.
- Enchey Monastery, Rumtek Monastery.
- Day-trips to Tsomgo Lake and Nathula Pass.
- Hanuman Tok for sunset panoramas.
Best Time to Visit
March–June and post-monsoon Sept–Dec
Things to Do
- Explore monasteries.
- Take cable car rides.
- Shop Sikkimese handicrafts.
- Visit wildlife sanctuaries just outside town.
Travel Tips
- Carry permits for border areas.
- Bring warm gear—it can get cold at altitude and in evenings.
- Plan buffer time for day-trips due to traffic and altitude.
5. Dooars Valley
Overview
A lush, sub-Himalayan forest expanse at the foot of the eastern Himalayas, teeming with wildlife, rivers, and grasslands
How to Reach
- Road or rail from Siliguri (approx. 2 hours, 80 km).
Best Places to Visit
- Samsing, Suntalekhola: riverside charm and forest treks.
- Mahananda & Chapramari Sanctuaries for wildlife and safari.
- Latpanchore Tea Gardens: rich bergamot landscapes.
Best Time to Visit
November–March, with dry, wildlife-friendly conditions
Things to Do
- Jeep safaris and elephant rides in jungles.
- Bamboo rafting / mild river rafting on Teesta or Jaldhaka.
- Birding in wet grasslands.
- Walks through tea estates.
Travel Tips
- Reserve forest lodges early in peak season.
- Mosquito repellent is essential early spring and monsoon.
- Hiring a local guide boosts wildlife spotting chances.
🌟 Overall Travel Tips
- Advance booking is key in peak summer (Apr–Jun).
- Layered clothing—prepare for cold mornings/evenings even in summer.
- Check the road/landslide conditions during monsoon (Jun–Sep).
- For Sikkim (Gangtok) and border excursions, secure permits well ahead.
- Combine trips efficiently: e.g., Darjeeling → Kalimpong → Mirik, or Siliguri → Dooars.
- Stay properly hydrated and rest-acclimatize, especially climbing to higher altitudes.
FAQs: for Best 5 Hill Stations Near Kolkata
Q1: What are the best hill stations near Kolkata for summer?
A: Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Mirik, Gangtok, and Dooars Valley are the most popular options.
Q2: How far is Darjeeling from Kolkata?
A: Around 615 km. You can reach via train to NJP or by flight to Bagdogra followed by a 3-hour drive.
Q3: Is a permit required to visit Gangtok?
A: No permit is needed for Gangtok city, but inner-line permits are required for places like Nathula Pass and Tsomgo Lake.
Q4: What is the best time to visit these hill stations?
A: March to June and September to November offer the best weather.
Q5: Can these places be covered in a single trip?
A: Yes! Many travelers do a loop covering Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Mirik, and Dooars in 5–7 days.
