21 Best Hill Stations Near Kolkata: 300 Kms, 600 Kms, 700 Kms
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ToggleKolkata is a youthful city you can never get bored of it. The city is full of energy. You can take a ride around the city and discover its assets. You can easily take a cab and roam around and have a look at its beauty. It has both sides, being one of the busiest and crowded cities in the country it is full of joyous young people all throughout the day, also you can enjoy the serene views of Hooghly river, in many of the Ganga Ghats in and around Kolkata like infamous Princep Ghat, which is a famous lovers spot. You can always enjoy the city in its own rhythm with a cup of ‘chai’ (tea).
Kolkata is regarded as the “Cultural Capital” of India, and as the name suggests is very rich in its culture. Kolkata is known for its rich culture. Kolkata is blessed with the best geographical location; it has both beaches and hill stations in its pocket. Amidst all the business and crowds, the city has some soothing and calm escapes for you to offer this weekend.
So, let’s just hope into this weekend break waiting for us. Get some good playlist, a good company (the best company is always yourself), get some snacks and get ready for this exciting journey.
Best Hill Stations Near Kolkata Within 300 kms
1. Bankura (212 kms via NH19)
Bankura is known for its terracotta temples, architecture, hills, scenic beauty. Bankura is situated about 200kms south of Kolkata. This place is almost as if we are in the lap of mother nature, with hills, murmuring rivers and greenery. The view is soothing to your eyes and is a perfect place to relax, keeping aside all the chaos.
Weather: The general weather is quite warm and dry with occasional winds. The temperature shoots up during the summers.
Summers: 30-40°C
Winters: 13-25°C
Best time to visit Bankura: October to March is the most comfortable time to visit Bankura. In summers, the place is quite hot and can be uncomfortable, so try to avoid summer time. Monsoon is not a major problem here.
Places to visit near Bankura: Bishnupur, Jhilimili, Biharinath Hill, Muktmonipur
Best hill stations near Kolkata within 500kms
2. Ajodhya Hills ( Cool Hill Stations near Kolkata)(330 kms via NH16 or NH19)
Ajodhya is known as the birth place is Ram in Ramayana. Ajodhya is situated in purulia district of West Bengal. The place is 855m above sea level. The place attracts many tourists all over the year for its hills, waterfalls, dams. The pleasant weather makes it a perfect trip for the weekend.
Weather: Cool, pleasant weather throughout the year. Although in summers the mercury level can shoot up to 41°C. Decent amount of rainfall over the year.
Summers: 23-40°C
Winters: 3-20°C
Best time to visit Ajodhya hills: December to March is the best time to visit this part of Purulia. February month can be pretty pleased with the temperature not too high not too cold, just perfect.
Places to visit near Ajodhya hills: Tata Steel Zoological Park, Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary, Barehipani Falls and Joranda Falls, Dimna Lake
3. Simultala (360 kms via NH19)
Simultala is located in the heart of Bihar, in the district Jamui. If you want a time to escape from city life then this place is ideal for you. Simultala is not as developed as cities but has great things to offer. Hello night sky lovers, if you are looking for a relaxing weekend away from hectic schedules and stare at the stars and night sky, visit this hidden gem. Decorated with greeneries and waterfalls this give an overall soothing climate full of natural beauty to cherish.
Do not miss out on the famous sweet ‘Chhanna Murki’. Enjoy the night sky and nature’s beauty.
Weather: All around the year the weather is very pleasant. With rains in months July September
Summers: 25-35°C
Winters: 5-20°C
Best time to visit Simultala: October to March is the ideal time to visit this gem. This s ideal for night sky observation and nature studies.
Places to visit near Simultala: Haldi Jharna, Lattu Pahar, Leelabaran Falls, Dharhara Falls, Siketia Ashram, Raja Bari
Best Hill Stations Near Kolkata Within 600 kms
4. Siliguri ( Cool Hill Stations near Kolkata) (560 kms via NH12 and NH27)
Siliguri is one the best picturesque tourist spots in the country. The city is located 560km away from Kolkata, you can go there by train or go on a road trip which would take about 12h of drive. It is situated in the bank of Mahananda river and in the lap of Himalayan range making it a beautiful hill station.
You can get a view of Himalayan peaks covered with snow. With its ideal climate and amazing environment and breathtaking view, this can be one of your most memorable weekend trips.
Weather: Very pleasant climate throughout the year, with abundant rainfall. Misty cold weather overall.
Summers: 28-35°C
Winters: 5-20°C
Best time to visit Siliguri: October to March is the best time to visit Siliguri. If you want to visit the tea gardens as the main attraction then monsoon or post-monsoon is your time to visit Siliguri.
Places to visit near Siliguri: Jaldapara Wildlife Sanctuary, ISKCON temple (Sri Sri Radha Madhav Sundar Mandir), Salugara Monastery, Hong Kong Market
5. Netarhat (565 kms via NH19)
Netarhat is situated about 565kms away from Kolkata, in Jharkhand and is known as ‘Queen of Chota Nagpur’. Netarhat is a beautiful place to forget about all the deadlines, worries and every stress. Give up all your worries as you move towards this beauty.
Netarhat is not much popular, hence comparatively less popular, and is perfect for a much-needed me-time. Away from all the chaos let your soul rest, set your soul free. This is an offbeat hill station away from the crowd. Probably the best place to visit this spring.
Weather: Cool and windy. A very pleasant climate with waterfalls in the background.
Summers: 15-30°C
Winters: 10-20°C
Best time to visit Netarhat: This place is too good all throughout the year, you can visit it at any time of the year. But springs in here are best. As April arrives, the place is covered with wildflowers.
Places to visit near Netarhat: Magnolia Point, Koel View Point, Sadni Falls, Lodh Falls, Betla National Park
6. Bungkulung (581 kms via NH12)
Bungkulung is a small place surrounded by mountains and lush green forests on mountain. With plenty of sunlight and rainfall, mother nature has gifted it with ideal climate. This place is not very far from Mirik, it’s about 15-20kms. This village is situated on banks of River Balasun.
Weather: Cool and windy. A very pleasant climate with foggy appearance, and heavenly view.
Summers: 5-20°C
Winters: 1 to 10°C
Best time to visit Bungkulung: The sky in the winter and summer is very clear. This time is ideal for night-sky lovers and stargazers. Spring is great for those who love to see the leaves sprouting again after winter. Try to avoid monsoon, for chances of landslides.
Places to visit near Bungkulung: Tea factory and tea gardens (murmah and gayabari), Eco huts, Bokar Monastery, Orange orchards
7. Sittong (584 kms via NH12 and NH27)
Sittong is an offbeat hill-station, known as orange growing countryside. It is situated in the Kurseong Division. Gradually, Sittong is gaining popularity among tourists. This place is hidden and is very close to Mungpoo. You can see the orange plantation here; they look absolutely beautiful.
Weather: The weather is misty and blessed with abundant sunshine. Cool and very pleasant, breezy at times.
Summers: 5-20°C
Winters: 1 to 10°C
Best time to visit Sittong: Winters, specifically late January is the best time to visit this place to witness oranges being harvested.
Places to visit near Sittong: Orange Cultivation, Sittong Church, Latpanchar, Mungpoo, Monastery
8. Kurseong ( Cool Hill Stations near Kolkata) (590 kms via NH12)
Kurseong is a hill station located in Darjeeling district of West Bengal. The name of this town comes from the word ‘kharsang’, meaning ‘the land of white orchids’. This place feels like our childhood dream of a kingdom made of clouds only, remember? That is how beautifully located this place is. This is an offbeat hill station not very far from Darjeeling town, only 32kms.
Read more: Best Hill Stations Near Delhi
This place is famous for the picturesque tea gardens, lively waterfalls, beautiful sky with mountain range and museums. And, do not forget the toy train that runs across the town. Kurseong also has many adventure sports to offer like hot air balloons, rock climbing, trekking and also white water rafting in river Teesta.
Weather: Overall, the weather is cool and dry, and very comfortable. In winters the temperature reaches the freezing point.
Summers: 13-25°C
Winters: 0-15°C
Best time to visit Kurseong: Try to avoid monsoon because there are chances of landslides during this time. Otherwise, the weather is very pretty all-round the year, you can visit it any time of the year.
Places to visit near Kurseong: Ambotia Shiva Mandir, Catholic Church in St Mary Hill, Buddhist Gompa, Eagle Craig, Deer Park, Rock garden, Forest Museum, Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Museum, Netaji Subhash Chandra Museum
9. Mirik ( Cool Hill Stations near Kolkata) (599 kms via NH12)
Mirik is situated within Darjeeling and is a very famous hill station in Darjeeling. You can visit this place in the weekend or you can visit this place as a part of your Darjeeling trip. Mirik is embedded deep in Darjeeling, protected by pine trees and mountain ranges.
The picturesque Sumendu lake is the main source of attraction. This serene view is not to be missed at any cost. With the mild smell of pines all around and the view right in front of your eyes is a blissful experience. Spend some time and cherish beauty.
Weather: Temperate cold weather almost the whole year, with mild summers.
Summers: 13-25°C
Winters: 0-15°C
Best time to visit Mirik: Although the place is blessed with comfortable weather throughout the year, March to September is best time to visit this place with the onset of spring.
Places to visit near Mirik: The Mirik lake, Orange Orchards, Tingling View Point, Lepchajagat, Sukhiapokhri, Manjushree Park
Best Hill Stations Near Kolkata Within 700 kms
10. Darjeeling ( Cool Hill Stations near Kolkata) (612 kms via NH12)
Darjeeling is the most famous hill station of West Bengal and is known as ‘Queen of the hills’. Darjeeling is famous for various things like a picturesque view of Kanchenjunga, worlds 3rd highest peak, dense green tea gardens, and toy train that is world famous.
Darjeeling attracts tourist from all over the country for its uniqueness. It is a dreamy place to look at, absolutely stunning how mother nature has created this place, justifying its name as ‘Queen of the hills’. Grab a cup of hot coffee and sit back to let the nature relax you.
Weather: The weather is almost always pleasant with mild summers, maximum temp reaching 25°C.
Summers: 13-25°C
Winters: 0-15°C
Best time to visit Darjeeling: October to March is the best time to visit this hill station to get complete essence of this place.
Places to visit near Darjeeling: Great Himalayan Railway, Tiger Hill, Nightingale Park, Rock Garden, Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological National Park, Japanese Peace Pagoda
11. Mongpu or Mungpoo (613 kms via NH12)
Mongpu is a small village and offbeat location near Kolkata. This place ideal to spend your time summer or rather any time of the year. Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore spent some time of his life in this part of West Bengal during his last stages of life.
This place is blissful and filled with various kinds of orchids and tea plantations. This village is at 1hr distance from Darjeeling (32kms). This is a hidden gem, people might miss this but one should not miss this amazingly picturesque, natural beauty. Take out some time and visit this place, you won’t regret it for sure.
Weather: Very soothing and calm weather. Due to its remote location, you see more of nature than just buildings and roads and pollution, this place will take you away from the noise. Cool and pleasant weather throughout the year.
Summers: 5-20°C
Winters: -20 to 10°C
Best time to visit Mungpoo: The weather is pleasant throughout the year so you can basically visit there anytime. But this place is ideal for a summertime trip, you would fall in love with the weather.
Places to visit near Mungpoo: Cinchona plantations, Rabindra Bhavan (Mongpu), Govt. Quinine Factory, Dinchhen Sherap Chhoeling Gumba
12. Kalimpong (620 kms via NH12)
Kalimpong resembles a rich Tibetan culture. Buddhist monastery, Tibetan handicrafts and flower markets are the main attractions of Kalimpong. Horticulture is very well established in this part due to the suitable climate. Ample amount of rainfall each year brings out the greeneries and the flowers. The hill station is situated at 1247m above the sea level.
Weather: No extreme temperatures; comfortable throughout the year. All the five seasons are very distinct here.
Summers: 15-25°C
Winters: 1-10°C
Best time to visit Kalimpong: Summer and monsoon time the best time to visit this hill station. The weather is very comfortable throughout the year so if you are looking for a relaxation trip then this place is amazing. Although it is good to avoid a severe monsoon due to chances of landslides.
Places to visit near Kalimpong: Deolo Hill, Thongsa Gompa, Durpin Dara Hill, Cactus Nursery, Galingka, Morgan House, Jang Dog Palriffo Brang Gompa, Lepcha Museum, Kalimpong science center
13. Tinchuley (621 kms via NH12)
Tinchuley is a pretty, small village, a hamlet in Darjeeling. Tinchuley got its name (teen Chulhey) from 3 hilltops that it is surrounded by, which from a far distance somewhat resembles an oven or ‘chulha’ hence the name which basically means three ovens.
Horticulture is famous and major occupation here. The WWF (worldwide federation) initiative, to assist 17 families to establish an organic village, with modern floriculture methods.
Weather: Ample sunlight which makes it beautiful and comfortable. The weather is cool and windy so sun doesn’t hurt.
Summers: 5-15°C
Winters: 1-10°C
Best time to visit Tinchuley: October to April is a brilliant time visit this place and have a look at this small village, but if you want to avoid cold winters then avoid November and December.
Places to visit near Tinchuley: Tinchuley Monastery, Rungli Rungliot, Peshok Tea Estate, Tinchuley viewpoint, Gumbadara viewpoint, Organic Farming
14. Charkhole (622 kms via NH12)
Charkhole, also known as Charkhole Lolegaon, is situated in Darjeeling district. It is an offbeat tourist location for its scenic beauty and snow-covered mountains in the view, directly from your resort. It is a village with just enough commodities to stay and have a lifelong memory.
It has everything you need to stay calm and relax for the weekend. This place is also famous for bird watching. And if you are lucky you can also get to see Mt. Everest, when the sky is distinctly clear.
Weather: Cool and comfortable weather all throughout the year. Misty when there is fog.
Summers: 5-15°C
Winters: 1-10°C
Best time to visit Charkhole: October to November and April to May are the best time to visit this place. Basically, you can visit this place all the time, just try to avoid the severe winter months.
Places to visit near Charkhole: Neora Valley National Park, Motor car rally, Lava, Lolegaon
15. Takdah (627 kms via NH12)
Takdah is situated in Darjeeling district of West Bengal. The place is also known as ‘The land of Mist’. The village is small and very sweet, makes up for a perfect outing when you are burdened with stress. Book your hotel and hope in at this place. You will have a perfect weekend.
Weather: Weather is misty when there is fog, cool and windy at times. Over all very pleasant weather.
Summers: 5-15°C
Winters: 1-10°C
Best time to visit Takdah: October to march is the best time visit this cute little place when the sky is clear and you can spend endless amount of time gazing at the stars.
Places to visit near Takdah: Orchid Center, Tea Estates, Takdah Monastery
16. Sandakphu (630 kms via NH12)
Sandakphu is a very famous hill station known for trekking mainly for beginners. It is the highest peak in West Bengal and is situated at 3,636m above sea level. If you want to go on trekking for the weekend this is the best spot near Kolkata. Enjoy every sunrise and every sunset like never before. This is going to be a lifetime memory. You can see the Himalayan range covered in snow.
The scenic beauty in Sandakphu is unmatchable. People say the best view of Kanchenjunga is viewed from here. Sandakphu is also known as the “mountain of poisonous plants” due to a high abundance of Himalayan Cobra lilies. You can witness around 600 types of orchids here. Every moment here is a picture-perfect moment here. Don’t forget to add this beauty to your bucket list right now!
And do not forget your camera. You can’t afford to miss such captures.
Weather: Weather is very cold here. The temperature can drop as low as –20 here. So, get yourself ready for the chill and wind and some snow.
Summers: 5-15°C
Winters: -20 – 0°C
Best time to visit Sandakphu: October to May is the busiest time in Sandakphu. During the winters you can experience snowfall. Depending on which time of the year you are going to visit, you have to take according precautions in matters of clothing and other preparations.
Places to visit near Sandakphu: Manebhanjan, Varsey Rhododendron Sanctuary, Chitrey, Tonglu, Tumling
17. The Dooars Valley (637 kms via NH12)
Dooars is a very well-known tourist spot in West Bengal. The place is famous for its lush green forests and plantations protected by the surrounding mountains and waterfalls. The biodiversity here is huge. The photogenic place is quite rare in itself. There are very few places that can provide you with such greenery and relaxation.
Dooars can be a very short road trip for the weekend, or you can also take a train to New Jalpaiguri. Teesta festival is one major attraction here, that attracts many people during the months November December.
Jungle safaris are quite famous here. Along with other things to do like trekking and White-water rafting.
Weather:The weather is very fresh with abundant rainfall throughout the year hence promoting variety of vegetation and great biodiversity. Needless to say, the place is known for its pleasant weather.
Summers: 20-27°C
Winters: 3- 20°C
Best time to visit Dooars: You can visit dooars anytime of the year, it will never disappoint you. But if you want to experience the Teesta tea and tourism festival then you must visit during November and December.
Places to visit near Dooars: Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary, Samsing, Suntalekhola, Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary
18. Pedong (645 kms via NH12)
Pedong is very near to silk route, if you want to explore the famous historic route then this is the place you want to hangout. Pedong has its name from a pine tree, which when translated into Bhutanese language, it is Pe-Dong.
Pedong provides you adventure sports like hiking, trekking as well, besides its eye-soothing beauty. It turns colorful as spring arrives and the whole place blooms. You will love the place. Bird-watchers make note, this is a must visit for bird-watchers.
Weather: General weather of Pedong is very soothing, temperature doesn’t reach extremities. Very comfortable weather.
Summers: 5-15°C
Winters: -20 – 10°C
Best time to visit Pedong: October to March is the best weather to visit Pedong.
Places to visit near Pedong: Rikisum, Sillery Gaon, Rishi, Damsang Fort, TinChuley View Point, Sangchhen Gompa
19. Lava Lolegaon (658 kms via NH12)
Lava lolegaon are actually two different places but often paired up together. Lava lolegaon is quite famous as a weekend trip among friends’ group because it is cheaper than any other hill station but no less in beauty. Road trip to this place will give you a lifetime memory.
Times spent together are the best time. Rediscover yourself here. Leave behind all the worries and everything. There is nothing as good as traveling. This place is blessed with plenty of vegetation and abundant rainfall. You can feel the clouds kissing the mountains caressed by the trees and plants.
Weather: This place known for its weather so needless to say you will find it comfortable always.
Summers:5-15°C
Winters: 0-10°C
Best time to visit Lava Lolegaon: You can visit there at virtually any time of the year. Winters are chill and to walk around. And summers are very comforting.
Places to visit near Lava Lolegaon: Rishyap, Lolegaon view point, Canopy walk, Changey falls, Neaora valley National park, Lava Monastery, Eco park, Lolegaon, Jhandidara lo
20. Ravangla (674 kms via NH12)
Ravangla is a very small village gradually gaining attention from tourists due to the magnificent landscape it offers. The place experiences occasional snow falls during winters. The environment is very pleasing. The village is untouched by the hush rush of commercial tourist spots. This place is famous for bird watching and trekking. The place is also known for Pang Lhabsol festival during the month of August and September.
Weather: Weather generally is very pleasing although it might get severe during harsh winters.
Summers: 5-15°C
Winters: -20 – 10°C
Best time to visit Ravangla: Try to avoid severe winters. August and September are the ideal months to visit this place. March to May is also a very pleasant time to be here.
Places to visit near Ravangla: Borong Hot Springs, Ralang Monasteries, Rayong Sunrise View Point, Pang Lhabsol festival, Tathagata Tsa Buddha Park
21. Gangtok (676 kms via NH12)
Gangtok is a very pretty town, well organized and very friendly. You can’t help but fall in love with the city ad it’s vibes. The whole town is on the mountain so you can see roads going up and down the hill. It is joyous to spend time there.
The view from almost everywhere is great and mind-blowing. Although this is not exactly a weekend trip as this might be about a 7-8 days trip but this is all worth it. There is so much to see. Gangtok is a very famous hill station and is located in Sikkim and is situated at 1650 m above the sea level.
Weather: The weather is always so pleasing. The nights feel cooler. Occasional rainfall although not so heavy all the time.
Summers:17-27°C
Winters: 0-13°C
Best time to visit Gangtok: September to November and March to June is the best time to visit Sikkim. Although the weather is very pleasant throughout the year. You will always have something to or the other to be amazed at. So, every time is a good time for Gangtok.
Places to visit near Gangtok: Nathu La Pass, Tsomgo Lake, Ganesh Tok, Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple, Do Drul Chorten, Rumtek Monastery, Singhik Viewpoint, Kabi Lonstok, Ranka Monastery, Banjhakri Falls, Seven Sisters Waterfall
Final Thoughts For Hill Stations Near Kolkata
Above listed are the best hill stations near Kolkata. Choose any of them and thank me later. From the list you can get anything from adventure sports like white water rafting to trekking, and also scenic beauties that cannot forget in one lifetime.
Places where from sunrise to sunset, everything is a blissful memory with your family, friends or life partner. Choose any one of the above 21 best hill stations near Kolkata for you next trip and let us know.
FAQ
Which are the nearest hill stations to Kolkata?
The nearest hill stations to Kolkata are Darjeeling, Kalimpong, and Kurseong in the state of West Bengal.
How far are these hill stations from Kolkata?
Darjeeling is approximately 610 kilometers away from Kolkata, Kalimpong is around 624 kilometers away, and Kurseong is about 609 kilometers away.
What is the best time to visit these hill stations?
The best time to visit these hill stations is during the summer months, from March to June, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing.
How can I reach these hill stations from Kolkata?
You can reach these hill stations from Kolkata by road, train, or air. Regular bus services, trains, and flights are available to these destinations.
What are the main attractions in Darjeeling?
The main attractions in Darjeeling include the Tiger Hill, Batasia Loop, Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, and the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (Toy Train).
What are the must-visit places in Kalimpong?
The must-visit places in Kalimpong include Deolo Hill, Durpin Monastery, Pine View Nursery, Mangal Dham, and the Army Golf Course.
What are the popular activities to do in Kurseong?
Popular activities in Kurseong include visiting Eagle’s Crag, hiking to Deer Park, exploring the Ambootia Tea Garden, and enjoying a ride on the Toy Train.
Are there any trekking opportunities in these hill stations?
Yes, there are trekking opportunities available in Darjeeling, Kalimpong, and Kurseong. Trekking trails range from easy to moderate difficulty levels and offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.
What kind of accommodations are available in these hill stations?
These hill stations offer a variety of accommodations ranging from budget guesthouses and homestays to luxury resorts and hotels. Visitors can choose according to their preferences and budget.
Is it safe to travel to these hill stations?
Yes, these hill stations are generally safe for tourists. However, it’s always advisable to take necessary precautions and follow safety guidelines while traveling, especially in hilly terrains.
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