Nestled in the heart of the Darjeeling district of West Bengal is the picturesque hill station of Kurseong, known as the "Land of White Orchids." This charming town is a true feast for the senses, and visitors are immediately captivated by its serene beauty and rich cultural heritage. The town's lush tea gardens, mist-kissed landscapes, and panoramic views of the towering Himalayas are breathtaking. Kurseong's colonial history is evident in its captivating architecture, including the iconic Dow Hill School and the ornate Giddapahar Railway Station. The pleasant climate makes it an ideal destination for a relaxing getaway.
Known as kurson-rip (meaning land of the white orchid) in the Lepcha language, Kurseong is spread along a forested ridge and surrounded by tea gardens. The small hill station was ceded to the British Empire by the king of Sikkim in 1835. Later, in 1880, the British used the hamlet as a sanatorium. More than a century later, the town continues to rejuvenate all those who knock on its door. Whether you're a nature lover, a history buff, or a tea aficionado, Kurseong has something to offer everyone. Here is a two-day itinerary for a well-spent weekend.
The vibrant Makaibari Tea Estate, about 14km from Kurseong, is a must-see attraction. As one of the oldest and most famous tea estates in the region, Makaibari offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the rich tea heritage of Darjeeling district.
Go for a walk exploring the town dotted with quaint bungalows. Located along the Hill Cart Road, Giddhapahar Hill holds the Seti Mata Temple, where crowds descend for a big fair around Ram Navami. Also located here is the Netaji Museum, where Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose was interned by the British, and where he wrote the famous presidential speech for the Haripura Congress during the freedom movement. His belongings have been carefully preserved.
The Deer Park in Dow Hill, 4km from the town, was named for the large number of deer found in the area, though there are fewer now. If you are lucky, you might catch a glimpse of the animal. Venturing outside the park and into the forest is prohibited. The Forest Museum is also located in Dow Hill. It will tell you about the other animals that inhabit the forest here.
Follow the Hill Cart Road towards Siliguri to reach the Selim Hill Tea Estate. The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway runs parallel to this route, and to make the most of the views here, try to leave Kurseong town by 3pm. One of Darjeeling's oldest tea gardens, Selim Hill Tea Estate was founded in 1870. The tea plantation spreads 700 ft down the hillside, bounded by looming peaks. Visitors who come here to enjoy this glorious tapestry of nature are also treated to some of the world's finest Darjeeling teas. More about it here.
Discover the charms of the enchanting Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take a scenic journey from Siliguri Junction to Darjeeling via Kurseong and witness breathtaking views of the Himalayas. Make sure not to miss the chance to explore the rich history of the railway by visiting the museum here, one of the three museums of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, which displays the history and evolution of the famous railway designed by the British during the colonial era.
The Darjeeling 'toy train' has a fascinating history that dates back to the colonial era. It was constructed between 1879 and 1881 and made its maiden trip in 1880. This unique train climbs approximately 100 meters above sea level at New Jalpaiguri and reaches a height of about 2,200 meters at Darjeeling. The train covers a distance of 88 kilometers on a zig-zag track.
Walking trails make the explorations here quite delightful. Come here at sunrise to soak in the superb vistas of Kurseong and the Himalayan peaks. After an early morning cuppa, set off for the 20th Mile Loop, locally known as Smritiban. Another trail takes you to the boundaries of Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary. Several trekking routes lead out from the estate to the nearby villages.
Eagle's Craig is a popular tourist destination located atop the Kurseong Hills, just a short walk away from the Kurseong railway station. This breathtaking viewpoint offers an incredible panoramic view of the sunset, surrounding tea gardens, hamlets, and Kurseong town. On a clear day, visitors can also enjoy magnificent views of the Kanchenjunga mountain and the Teesta River. The place is equipped with a small cafeteria and a watchtower, making it one of Kurseong's most-visited spots by both tourists and locals. A 4-km walk through the woods leads you to St John's Church on the forested St Mary's Hill. The grotto houses a statue of the Virgin Mary, and has beautiful environs that serve as a viewpoint.
Chill out at a local cafe or pub. Cafe Kurseong Diaries is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy a meal. The menu features a delectable mix of local and international dishes.
Address: Hill Cart Rd, near Locomotive Shed, Kurseong, West Bengal 734203
To reach Kurseong, start by flying into Bagdogra Airport, the nearest airport. Hire a taxi or take a shared cab to cover the approximately 50- kilometre journey. Alternatively, you can take a train to New Jalpaiguri Railway Station and proceed by road. The scenic drive to Kurseong takes about 2-3 hours, offering breathtaking views of the Eastern Himalayas.
