2 Days in Siliguri for Budget Trip

Siliguri is the perfect gateway to the Northeast, but it's also a great place to explore on its own if you're on a tight budget. I've spent many weekends here, and it's amazing how much you can do without spending much. From sipping chai at local stalls to wandering through bustling markets, Siliguri has a charm that grows on you.

West Bengal, west-bengal
2 Days
Budget
Custom Trip

Trip Highlights

Watching the sunrise over the Mahananda River
Bargain hunting at Hong Kong Market
Trying momos at the tiny stalls near Sevoke Road
Taking a short shared jeep ride to nearby tea gardens

Best Time to Visit

OctoberMarch

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Day 1

Day 1 in Siliguri

Kick off your Siliguri trip with its top attractions, from lush tea gardens to bustling markets, and savor local flavors along the way.

Activities

Explore Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary
Explore Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary

Start your day with a refreshing walk through Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary, just a short drive from Siliguri. This green haven is home to elephants, leopards, and exotic birds. The early morning mist adds a magical touch, and the trails are easy to navigate. Don't miss the view from the watchtower overlooking the Teesta River.

Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary, Sukna6:30 AM - 9:30 AM (best for wildlife spotting)INR 50-100 per person
Tips:
  • Carry binoculars for birdwatching.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for the trails.
Visit Hong Kong Market

Dive into Siliguri's vibrant shopping scene at Hong Kong Market, a chaotic but fun spot for everything from clothes to electronics. Bargaining is expected, and the energy here is infectious. Look out for local handicrafts and Tibetan souvenirs—great for taking a piece of Siliguri home.

Hong Kong Market, Sevoke Road10:30 AM - 12:30 PM (before the afternoon crowd)Varies (budget INR 500-2000 for shopping)
Tips:
  • Keep small change handy for street vendors.
  • Try the momos from nearby stalls.
Relax at ISKCON Temple

Wind down with a visit to the serene ISKCON Temple, known for its peaceful ambiance and beautiful architecture. The evening aarti (prayer ceremony) is a highlight, with devotional songs filling the air. The temple's café serves simple, delicious vegetarian meals if you need a snack.

ISKCON Temple, Pradhan Nagar4:30 PM - 5:30 PM (catch the sunset aarti)Free (donations welcome)
Tips:
  • Dress modestly (covered shoulders and knees).
  • Check the aarti timings in advance.

Must Try Foods

Thukpa (Tibetan noodle soup)
Churpee (local cheese snack)
Siliguri-style momos

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (8 km, 20-30 mins by cab)
Nearest Bus Stop
Tenzing Norgay Bus Terminus (frequent buses to city centers)
Metro Station
Not available
Cab Availability
Cabs and auto-rickshaws are easily available; use apps like Ola or Uber for convenience

No destinations found for this itinerary

Day 2

Day 2 in Siliguri

A mix of nature, culture, and local flavors to round off your Siliguri visit, covering the remaining must-see spots and authentic experiences.

Activities

Stroll through Surya Sen Park

Start your day with a peaceful walk in this well-maintained park, a favorite among locals for morning exercises and leisurely walks. The lush greenery and small lake make it a refreshing spot. Don’t miss the statue of Surya Sen, the revolutionary leader, which gives the park its name.

Surya Sen Park, near Bidhan Road6:30 AM - 8:00 AM (best in the early morning)Free
Tips:
  • Carry water as it can get warm later in the day.
  • Visit the small tea stall near the entrance for a quick cup of local chai.
Explore Kali Mandir and Local Markets

Head to the Kali Mandir, a vibrant temple dedicated to Goddess Kali, where you can witness local devotees offering prayers. The surrounding area is bustling with small markets selling everything from religious items to street food. It’s a great place to soak in the local vibe.

Kali Mandir, Sevoke Road9:00 AM - 11:00 AMFree (donations optional)
Tips:
  • Dress modestly as it’s a religious site.
  • Try the nearby stalls for piping hot kachoris and jalebis.
Visit the Science City

A fun and educational stop, the Science City offers interactive exhibits and a planetarium. It’s a hit with families and anyone curious about science. The outdoor exhibits and green spaces make it a relaxed way to spend the afternoon.

North Bengal Science Centre, Matigara1:00 PM - 3:30 PM₹50-100 per person
Tips:
  • Check the planetarium show timings in advance.
  • Wear comfortable shoes as there’s a lot of walking involved.

Must Try Foods

Thukpa (Tibetan noodle soup)
Momo (steamed or fried dumplings)
Aloo Dum (spicy potato curry with bread)

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (8 km, 20-25 mins by cab)
Nearest Bus Stop
Tenzing Norgay Bus Terminus (frequent buses to city areas)
Metro Station
Not available
Cab Availability
Cabs and auto-rickshaws are easily available; negotiate fares before boarding.

Travel Tips

Shared autos are the cheapest way to get around - just hop on and pay around ₹10-20 per ride
Eat at small local joints for authentic Bengali and Nepali food at half the price of restaurants
If you're heading to Darjeeling or Sikkim later, buy woolens here - they're much cheaper than in hill stations
Carry cash - many small shops and stalls don't accept digital payments

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