Tucked away in the hills of West Bengal, a mere 30 km from the bustling town of Darjeeling, lies Kurseong at 4,864 ft, a serene escape often overlooked by travelers. Known as the “Land of White Orchids” from its original Lepcha name, Kurseong is where you’ll find a different kind of Himalayan magic. It offers tranquil tea gardens, colonial-era charm, and panoramic views without the crowds.
If you’re planning a trip to this peaceful hill station, this Kurseong visit guide will walk you through the top attractions and provide a perfect 2-night, 3-day itinerary.
Why Plan a Kurseong Visit?
Unlike tourist-heavy destinations, Kurseong gives you a slow-paced holiday. It’s a place where you can sip authentic Darjeeling tea straight from the gardens, walk through pine forests, explore heritage schools, and soak in panoramic views of Mt. Kanchenjunga. A Kurseong visit is perfect for couples, families, and even solo travelers who love tranquility.
Top Places to See During Your Kurseong Visit
Kurseong may be small, but its beauty lies in its simplicity and the richness of its history and nature.
Eagle's Crag
This is arguably the most famous viewpoint in Kurseong. From here, you can get a stunning, panoramic view of the surrounding hills, the plains of Siliguri, and the mighty Mount Kanchenjunga on a clear day.
Dow Hill
Known for its dense forests, a short trek, a deer park, and the infamous “haunted” reputation, Dow Hill is an intriguing place to explore. The Forest Museum here offers insights into the region’s flora and fauna.
Victoria Boys’ School
Surrounded by dense pine forests, this area is famous for its colonial architecture and intriguing stories of being haunted.
Tea Gardens
Kurseong is home to some of the finest tea estates in the world, including Makaibari and Ambotia. A stroll through these gardens, with their perfectly manicured rows of tea bushes, is a must-do. You can even take a tour to learn about the tea-making process and also enjoy a homestay.
Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Museum
For history buffs, this museum is a significant stop. It’s the house where Netaji was placed under house arrest in 1936, and it preserves a collection of artifacts, documents, and photos related to his life.
Toy Train Ride - Darjeeling Himalayan Railway
The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage site, passes through Kurseong. A short ride on this iconic toy train offers a charming and nostalgic way to see the picturesque landscape.
Giddapahar Viewpoint & Shiva Mandir
Hidden gem of kurseong visit, A short hike rewards you with stunning views and a peaceful cave temple.
Bagora View Point
Highest point in Kurseong, offering stunning Himalayan views.
Stay Options in Kurseong
Tea Estate Stays – Experience Makaibari or Castleton for heritage charm.
Budget Homestays – Affordable and cozy, offering authentic hospitality.
Boutique Resorts – For comfort with mountain views.
Kurseong Tourist Lodge – Best for hills views and government (WBTDCL) run reliability.
How to Reach Kurseong
By Air: Nearest airport is Bagdogra (approx. 40 km) connected by flights from major cities like Kolkata, Delhi and Guwahati. Taxis are available for a 1.5-hour drive.
By Train: New Jalpaiguri (NJP) is the closest railway station (45 km). Siliguri and New Jalpaiguri railway stations have direct railway connections with Kolkata, Delhi, Guwahati, and other major cities of India.
By Road: Well-connected by road, Kurseong lies on the way from Siliguri to Darjeeling. Shared jeeps and private cars are available.The major route to Darjeeling by road is via Siliguri, 77 km (via NH 55), which is connected to all major cities in India. Bus service is available from Tenzing Norgay Bus Stand, Siliguri. Share taxis and private cars are also available on a seat-sharing and hiring basis from the airport, railway station. Facility of Prepaid taxi stand from NJP Railway station & Bagdogra airport can also be availed. There are four routes available, and one can opt for from Siliguri to reach Kurseong, Darjeeling:
Tindharia – Kurseong route
Dudhiya – Mirik route
Rohini route
Pankhabari
By Toy Train: You can also take the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway toy train from Siliguri or Darjeeling for a scenic journey (88 km).
Best Time for Kurseong Visit
The pleasant climate of Kurseong makes it a year-round destination. However, the best time to visit is from March to May and from September to November. The monsoon season (June to August) brings lush greenery and a misty, ethereal beauty, but can also lead to landslides. The winter months (December to February) can be quite cold but offer stunning, clear views of the mountains.
For the perfect Kurseong visit, autumn and spring are the best seasons.
Local Food in Kurseong
During your Kurseong visit, don’t miss out on local delicacies:
Momos & Thukpa – Tibetan influence in the hills.
Sel Roti & Aloo Dum – Popular Nepali snacks.
Darjeeling Tea – Freshly brewed from the gardens of Kurseong.
Homemade Pickles & Churpi – Local specialties.
A 2-Nights, 3-Days Tour Plan for Kurseong
Here’s a short but well-planned itinerary for your Kurseong visit, This itinerary is designed to give you a perfect blend of sightseeing, relaxation, and local experiences.
Day 1: Arrival and Local Exploration
Arrive at NJP/Bagdogra and drive to Kurseong (1.5–2 hours).
Check into a hotel or homestay.
Visit Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Museum and St. Andrew’s Church.
Evening stroll at Dow Hill and enjoy the forest charm.
Overnight stay in Kurseong.
Day 2: Tea Gardens and Viewpoints
Early morning walk in Makaibari Tea Estate with tea tasting. Visit Ambootia Tea Estate or Castleton Tea Estate. Head to Eagle’s Crag Viewpoint for panoramic views.
Afternoon trip to Deer Park and Forest Museum.
Evening shopping in the local market and enjoy momos.
Overnight stay in Kurseong.
Day 3: Sunrise, A Nostalgic Ride and Departure
Early morning visit to Bagora View Point for a breathtaking sunrise view of Kanchenjunga.
Return to hotel for breakfast. Take a ride on the famous Toy Train from Kurseong station. You can take a joy ride or a short journey to a nearby station to experience this piece of history.
After your final local meal, check out from the hotel. Drive back to Bagdogra or NJP with a camera full of memories and a heart full of peace.
Where to Find Kurseong's Offbeat Places
If you’re an explorer at heart, Kurseong has many secrets waiting to be discovered.
Chimney Village
A short drive from Kurseong, this tiny hamlet is named after a 24-foot tall chimney from a British-era dak bungalow. The village offers spectacular views of the Himalayas and a chance to experience local village life.
Sittong
Known as the “Orange Valley,” Sittong is a hidden jewel. Located about an hour away, it’s famous for its abundant orange orchards and a serene environment perfect for birdwatching and gentle treks.
Namthing Pokhari
A small, secluded lake surrounded by dense forests, this spot is a treat for nature lovers. It’s a key habitat for the Himalayan Salamander, an endangered species, and a tranquil place to spend a quiet afternoon.
A Kurseong visit is a refreshing alternative to the crowded hills of Darjeeling. With its lush tea gardens, colonial charm, misty forests, and spectacular viewpoints, this hidden gem of the Himalayas is perfect for a short getaway. The 2 nights 3 days Kurseong tour plan ensures you cover all major attractions while enjoying the slow pace of mountain life.
Whether you are a nature lover, history enthusiast, or tea connoisseur, Kurseong has something to offer for every traveler.