Kolkata is the capital city of West Bengal and one of the metropolitans of the country. People in the city live a hectic life and they tend to find cool and less chaotic places nearby to rest their minds and souls. Where Kolkata itself is a tourist destination, where would people from the capital city of Bengal go?
There are multiple hill stations around Kolkata where people love to visit and not just the locals but even other tourists too. These hill stations near Kolkata not only display the natural beauty at their best but also cater to the needs of all the visitors in the best way possible.
Here’s a list of top-notch hill stations around Kolkata in 2023
1. Darjeeling
How can someone else take the top seat when we are talking about the hill stations near Kolkata. There are a lot of amazing hill towns around the metropolitan but Darjeeling is the first place that comes to our mind. Enchanting beauty, tea gardens, delicious food, and the UNESCO World Heritage Site- Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (Darjeeling Toy Train) together make it a wonderful place to be at.
See Also: Best Time to Visit Darjeeling
So, if you are planning on visiting here, go through the important information that’s given below.
| Distance from Kolkata | 640 km (approximately) |
| Travel Time | 18 hours (approximately) |
| Ideal For | Nature Lovers, Vacationers, Adventure Enthusiasts, Honeymooners |
| Things to do in Darjeeling |
See More: Things to do in Darjeeling |
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See Also: Places to visit in Darjeeling | Honeymoon Places In Darjeeling
2. Siliguri
One name that you can’t overlook or miss out on if you are planning to visit a hill station around Kolkata is Siliguri. It is one of the closest, most enchanting, beautiful, and amazing places to be at. From family movers to honeymooners, everyone can enjoy their time at this place. The entire town is tucked away beautifully at the foothills of the Eastern Himalayas.
It covers a part of the mesmerizing Dooars which is again a lush green terrain in Northern Bengal. Siliguri is a perfect melange of hidden gems and popular spots that will undoubtedly leave you astonished at every corner.
| Distance from Kolkata | 582 km |
| Travel Time | 13 hours |
| Ideal For | All kinds of travellers |
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3. Shillong
What do you think about Shillong as a hill station? Undoubtedly, it is one of the best places to visit in North East India, but how about being called a place near Kolkata? Shillong in the past decade has seen a significant surge in visitors from Kolkata and other parts of the country. People from all walks of life have been visiting here and enjoying their time.
Shillong is not just the capital of Meghalaya but a revitalising or resting destination too. So, next time you look for a hill destination near Kolkata for your vacation or an extended weekend trip, then do not overlook Shillong.
| Distance from Kolkata | 1128 km |
| Travel Time | 30 hours |
| Ideal For | Nature Lovers, Adventure Enthusiasts, Explorers |
| Things to do in Shillong |
See More: Things to do in Shillong |
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See Also: Places to visit in Shillong | Best Time to Visit Shillong
4. Gangtok
Many travellers overlook the likings of Gangtok due to the distance or its location towards the North-Eastern side. But for those who are willing to enjoy actual nature’s beauty at its best then you must visit Gangtok. From delicious local cuisines to amazing attractions spread across the city (hill city) you will love each of what’s on offer.
What is not to forget here is to go for a bike ride (if you are an avid rider) to the Nathula Pass. It is one of the highest and most challenging passes in India and the world.
| Distance from Kolkata | 694 km |
| Travel Time | 18 hours |
| Ideal For | Nature Lovers, Explorers |
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See Also: Places to visit in Gangtok | Best time to visit Gangtok
5. Kalimpong
What would you say, if someone asks you to visit Kalimpong as your next hill station near Kolkata? Would you do that or simply shrug off the thought? But before you make any decisions let us tell you that Kalimpong is one of the best and most serene places to visit. Many couples plan their honeymoons at this destination.
Over the past few years, people have loved visiting this destination for a lot of good reasons. One good thing about this place is that you can visit here anytime in the year. Enjoy your relaxing vacation or an adventure escapade, Kalimpong is good enough to offer all of it.
| Distance from Kolkata | 650 km |
| Travel Time | 16 hours |
| Ideal For | Nature Lovers, Adventure Seekers, Honeymooners |
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See Also: Places to visit in Kalimpong
6. Kurseong
There are a lot of places where Kurseong is often referred to as the “Land of White Orchids.” Even though this hill station is closely located to Darjeeling, people still visit here for some time away from the chaos. This place also welcomes people with the enchanting view, gurgling waterfall, beautiful monasteries, and a colorful palate of other offerings.
| Distance from Kolkata | 610 km (approximately) |
| Travel Time | 14 hours (approximately) |
| Ideal For | Nature Lovers and Explorers |
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See Also: Places to visit in Kurseong
7. Mirik
If you are planning on visiting a hill station near Kolkata that is quite serene and enchanting then you can try Mirik. Often called the valley of the sun, Mirik has a charm of its own. It has a balance of multiple key characteristics. From mountains to rivers to gompas; a lot of things about Mirik fancy people.
It is adorned with verdant tea gardens, serene pine forests, and a picturesque lake with floating gardens. The place offers stunning views of the Kanchenjunga range, pleasant weather, and the perfect ambiance for a relaxing holiday amidst nature. The town is also famous for its orange orchards and Tibetan handicrafts. It is one of the most popular tourist places near Kolkata within 1000 km.
| Distance from Kolkata | 618 km (approximately) |
| Travel Time | 15 hours (approximately) |
| Ideal For | Peace lovers and families |
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See Also: Places to Visit In Mirik
8. Ajodhya Hills
If you want a petite yet amazing destination then Ajodhya Hills is going to be a great place for you. It is a stunning mountain range located in the eastern state of West Bengal. The beauty of Ajodhya Hills lies in its breathtaking natural scenery and picturesque landscapes. The hills are covered with dense forests, lush greenery, and beautiful waterfalls, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers. If you are looking for tourist places within 500 km from Kolkata, then this can be an ideal destination.
One of the most beautiful spots in Ajodhya Hills is the Mayuri Pahar, which offers a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The place is also home to a variety of flora and fauna, including rare species like the red panda and the Indian Pangolin.
| Distance from Kolkata | 305 km (approximately) |
| Travel Time | 6 hours (approximately) |
| Ideal For | Family Movers and Nature Lovers |
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9. Lava, West Bengal
Another serene and pristine beauty in West Bengal, Lava is a must-visit hill station. The place is known for its natural beauty, peaceful environment, and panoramic views of the Himalayan range. Lava is situated at an altitude of 7,016 feet above sea level and is surrounded by lush green forests and stunning landscapes.
One of the most beautiful attractions in Lava is the Neora Valley National Park, which is a haven for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. The park is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including several rare and endangered species like the Red Panda, Clouded Leopard, and Himalayan Black Bear.
| Distance from Kolkata | 676 km (approximately) |
| Travel Time | 13 hours (approximately) |
| Ideal For | Everyone |
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10. Pedong
Pedong is a small town in the Kalimpong district of West Bengal. The town is known for its rich flora and fauna and diverse landscape, which includes hills, valleys, and forests.
The flora of Pedong is diverse and includes a wide range of trees, plants, and flowers. The town is surrounded by lush green forests, home to several species of trees like Oak, Pine, Rhododendron, and Bamboo. These forests are also home to several medicinal plants and herbs.
| Distance from Kolkata | 687 km (approximately) |
| Travel Time | 17 hours (approximately) |
| Ideal For | Adventure Seekers |
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Conclusion
This is a list of hill stations that are located around Kolkata. All the above-mentioned destinations have a lot of things to offer and places to visit. If you are looking for a great vacation or amusing time to spend around the capital of West Bengal, you can choose any of these places. Many locals and outsiders visit any of these hill stations whenever they feel like taking a break. Apart from the natural beauty and adventurous activities, these destinations also offer a serene relaxing environment.
And last but not least, if we forget to mention an offbeat or popular destination around Kolkata that can be on this list- please do mention it for us in the comment section. This blog contains important information about the hill stations near Kolkata with distance.
See Also: Hill stations in India | Hill station near Delhi
