As the temperture rises in Kolkata, it becomes the perfect time to escape the heat and head for the cool, misty hill stations Near Kolkata nestled in the Eastern Himalayas and surrounding regions. Whether you’re craving majestic mountain views, quiet forest trails, or tea-scented breezes, these hill retreats offer it all.
This blog explores 10 hill stations near Kolkata, each described in-depth to help you plan a memorable summer escape. From the iconic Darjeeling to hidden gems like Rishop and Pedong, we’ve covered every traveler’s dream — complete with travel tips, key attractions, weather, and local culture.
1. Darjeeling – The Queen of the Hills
Distance from Kolkata: Approx. 615 km
How to Reach: Overnight train or flight to NJP/Bagdogra, then a 3-hour scenic drive
Best Time to Visit: April to June
Darjeeling sits at an elevation of around 6,700 feet and is celebrated for its panoramic views of the Himalayas, colonial architecture, and world-famous tea estates. A legacy of the British era, it continues to charm travelers with its cool climate, heritage hotels, and bustling markets. Read also: How to Reach Darjeeling from Kolkata
Things to Do:
- Tiger Hill: Watch the sun rise over the snow-clad peak of Kanchenjunga.
- Batasia Loop: A unique spiral railway track with mountain views and a war memorial.
- Darjeeling Himalayan Railway: A UNESCO World Heritage toy train ride that winds through the hills.
- Tea Estates: Visit Happy Valley Tea Garden or Glenburn for guided tours and tastings.
- Peace Pagoda: A Japanese-built pagoda offering both spiritual ambiance and fantastic views.
Food & Culture:
Don’t leave without tasting momos, thukpa, and Darjeeling tea at roadside stalls or cozy cafés like Glenary’s or Keventers. The town reflects a blend of Gorkha, Tibetan, and Bengali cultures, which is evident in its food, festivals, and people. Read also: 10 Must-Visit Attractions in Darjeeling
2. Kalimpong – A Misty Retreat in the Eastern Himalayas
Distance from Kolkata: Approx. 625 km
How to Reach: Train/flight to NJP or Bagdogra + 2.5-hour drive
Best Time to Visit: March to June
Perched at 4,000 feet, Kalimpong is a quieter and more laid-back hill station compared to Darjeeling. Once a part of the Sikkimese kingdom, it boasts a fascinating blend of colonial heritage and Buddhist culture.
Must-See Attractions:
- Deolo Hill: The highest point in Kalimpong with paragliding opportunities and sweeping valley views.
- Durpin Monastery: Peaceful monastery with panoramic views of the Teesta River.
- Cactus Nursery: Asia’s largest commercial nursery with rare and exotic plant species.
- Morgan House: A colonial mansion-turned-hotel surrounded by pine forests.
Experience:
Kalimpong is ideal for relaxed vacations. You can explore quaint bazaars, enjoy garden walks, or meditate at quiet monasteries. The air is fresh, and the pace of life is unhurried — exactly what you need during the hot, chaotic summer in the city. Read also: Best Things to Do in Kalimpong
3. Kurseong – The Land of White Orchids
Distance from Kolkata: Approx. 595 km
How to Reach: NJP + 1.5-hour drive
Best Time to Visit: April to June
Nestled at 4,864 feet, Kurseong is a peaceful hill town located between Siliguri and Darjeeling. Known for its white orchids, foggy landscapes, and vintage charm, it’s perfect for travelers who want to avoid crowds.
Top Places to Visit:
- Dow Hill: Home to a historic school and spooky legends, it’s also a great place for forest hikes.
- Eagle’s Crag: Offers stunning sunset views and has a watchtower for photography.
- Tea Estates: Visit Makaibari or Ambootia for scenic walks and fresh brews.
- Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Museum: Learn about his time spent here under house arrest.
Insider Tip:
Kurseong’s toy train station is quieter than Darjeeling’s, making it a great spot to experience the heritage railway. The town’s misty climate and cozy cafés make it an ideal summer escape. Read also: The Best Time to Visit West Bengal
4. Lava – Offbeat and Forest-Fresh
Distance from Kolkata: Approx. 680 km
How to Reach: NJP + 4.5-hour drive
Best Time to Visit: April to June
At around 7,000 feet above sea level, Lava is a tiny village surrounded by forests and silence. It serves as the entry point to Neora Valley National Park, one of India’s least disturbed biological zones.
Key Attractions:
- Neora Valley National Park: Spot red pandas, Himalayan black bears, and a variety of birds and orchids.
- Lava Monastery: A serene Buddhist center with a striking backdrop of hills.
- Tiffin Dara: A popular sunrise viewpoint with views of the Kanchenjunga.
Experience:
Lava is a true offbeat destination, ideal for trekking, birdwatching, and nature photography. Unlike tourist-heavy towns, Lava retains its rustic charm and offers wooden homestays nestled in pine forests. This is most Popular hill stations near Kolkata.
Check out: 2 Nights 3 Days Kalimpong Tour Package
5. Loleygaon – Canopy Walks and Cloudy Views
Distance from Kolkata: Approx. 685 km
How to Reach: NJP → Lava → Loleygaon (5 hours total)
Best Time to Visit: March to May
Loleygaon is a small, serene village located at 5,500 feet and surrounded by fir, cypress, and pine forests. Known for its Canopy Walk, it offers a quieter alternative to Kalimpong and Darjeeling.
What to Explore:
- Canopy Walk: A hanging bridge walk above tall trees — thrilling and scenic.
- Jhandi Dara Viewpoint: Offers sunrise views of the snow peaks on clear days.
- Eco-Park: Great for light walks, local snacks, and nature appreciation.
Ideal For:
Families and couples looking for peace, or solo travelers wanting to journal or write amid serene natural settings. With fewer tourists and plenty of homestays, it’s perfect for unplugging.
Check Out: Kolkata Gothkhali Sunderbans 6 Days Tour Package
6. Mirik – Lakeside Serenity
Distance from Kolkata: Approx. 595 km
How to Reach: NJP + 2.5-hour drive
Best Time to Visit: March to June
Mirik, located at 900 feet, is built around the calm Sumendu Lake and surrounded by forests and gardens. It’s cooler than the plains, but warmer than Darjeeling — ideal for a mild summer escape.
Don’t Miss:
- Boating in Sumendu Lake: Surrounded by a garden on one side and a forest on the other.
- Bokar Monastery: A tranquil Tibetan Buddhist monastery with spiritual vibes.
- Mirik Tea Gardens: Vast green landscapes perfect for photos and peaceful walks.
Tip:
Mirik is often used as a one-night stop on the way to Darjeeling but deserves more time. Local markets, horse riding near the lake, and excellent hotels make it an ideal weekend retreat. This is most Popular hill stations near Kolkata
Read also: How to Plan a Trip to North East India in 2025
7. Rishop – High Altitude Solitude
Distance from Kolkata: Approx. 680 km
How to Reach: NJP → Lava → Rishop (45 min drive or 3 km hike)
Best Time to Visit: March to June
At over 8,500 feet, Rishop is a quiet, traffic-free hamlet where the Himalayas seem almost touchable. With few hotels and limited connectivity, it’s a place where time slows down.
Attractions:
- Tiffin Dara: Spectacular sunrise point with 360-degree views.
- Hiking Trails: Walk through pine and rhododendron forests with no crowds.
- Homestays: Wooden cottages with fireplaces, local food, and sweeping vistas.
Ideal For:
Writers, thinkers, photographers, or anyone looking for true solitude. Rishop is best explored on foot and is more about experience than checklist attractions. 10 Best Tourist Places to Visit in North East India
8. Pedong – History, Heritage, and Hills
Distance from Kolkata: Approx. 660 km
How to Reach: NJP + 4-hour drive via Kalimpong
Best Time to Visit: April to June
Pedong is a small hill town rich in history, located between Kalimpong and Lava. With ancient monasteries, fort ruins, and spectacular valley views, it’s ideal for culturally curious travelers.
Attractions:
- Damsang Fort: An ancient ruin with views of the Indo-Tibetan border.
- Sangchen Dorjee Monastery: A 300-year-old monastery still active and spiritual.
- Cross Hill: Sunset point with historical significance from the missionary era.
Highlights:
Pedong is a peaceful place to explore on foot. You’ll find prayer flags fluttering, kids playing cricket, and local life unfolding slowly. Great for history buffs and peace seekers alike. Read aslo: 10 Best Hill Stations to Visit Near Kathgodam
9. Samsing – Nature Meets Simplicity
Distance from Kolkata: Approx. 650 km
How to Reach: NJP + 3.5-hour drive
Best Time to Visit: March to May
Not a typical hill station, Samsing is nestled in the Dooars region at the foothills of the Himalayas. With rolling tea gardens, riverside picnics, and forest treks, it’s great for nature lovers.
What to Do:
- Suntalekhola & Rocky Island: Beautiful picnic and camping spots near river streams.
- Tea Estate Visits: Walk through lush green plantations with birdsong for company.
- Forest Trails: Explore the periphery of Gorumara National Park.
Vibe:
Samsing is about natural simplicity — no flashy resorts, just the hum of cicadas and chirping birds. It’s perfect for eco-tourism, and homestays offer warm hospitality and local flavors. This is most Popular hill stations near Kolkata
10. Tawang (via Guwahati or Siliguri)
Distance from Kolkata: Over 1,300 km
How to Reach: Fly/train to Guwahati → 2-day drive or tour package
Best Time to Visit: April to June
Though far, Tawang is an unforgettable destination in Arunachal Pradesh. It combines Tibetan culture, Himalayan mystique, and dramatic landscapes at 10,000 feet elevation.
Must-Visit Sites:
- Tawang Monastery: The second-largest monastery in the world.
- Sela Pass: Snow-covered mountain pass at 13,700 feet.
- Madhuri Lake (Sangetsar Lake): A glacial lake surrounded by mountains.
Travel Tip:
Tawang is best explored as part of a 7–10 day North East India itinerary. It’s adventurous, remote, and spiritual — an experience, not just a trip.
Also Check: Best Places to visit for 7 Days North East India Tour
Final Thoughts
From misty pine forests to snowy Himalayan backdrops, these hill stations near Kolkata offer an ideal summer escape. Whether you’re seeking tranquility, adventure, culture, or romance, there’s a perfect destination waiting just a few hours away.
Planning Tip: Book transport and accommodation early during peak months (April–June), and check weather conditions for high-altitude areas like Tawang.
FAQs
What are the best hill stations near Kolkata to visit during summer, and how far are they?
Kolkata is surrounded by several picturesque hill stations that offer a cool respite from the summer heat. Here are some top picks:
- Darjeeling: Known as the “Queen of the Hills,” it’s approximately 615 km from Kolkata.
- Kalimpong: A serene town around 625 km away, famous for its monasteries and panoramic views.
- Kurseong: Located about 595 km from Kolkata, it’s known for its tea gardens and pleasant climate.
- Ajodhya Hills: The closest hill station, approximately 340 km away, ideal for trekking and nature walks.
- Mirik: A tranquil spot around 590 km from Kolkata, featuring a beautiful lake and orange orchards.
What is the best way to reach these hill stations from Kolkata?
The most convenient way to reach these hill stations is by taking a train or flight to New Jalpaiguri (NJP) or Bagdogra, followed by a road journey:
- Darjeeling: From NJP or Bagdogra, it’s a 3-hour scenic drive.
- Kalimpong: Approximately a 2.5-hour drive from NJP or Bagdogra.
- Kurseong: About a 1.5-hour drive from NJP.
- Ajodhya Hills: Accessible via road from Kolkata, taking around 7-8 hours by car or bus.
What are the accommodation options available in these hill stations?
Each hill station offers a range of accommodations to suit different budgets:
- Darjeeling: From heritage hotels like Windamere to budget-friendly guesthouses.
- Kalimpong: Options include colonial-era hotels, homestays, and resorts.
- Kurseong: Features cozy lodges and tea estate bungalows.
- Ajodhya Hills: Eco-resorts and forest rest houses are available for nature enthusiasts.
What activities can I enjoy during my visit?
These hill stations offer a variety of activities:
- Darjeeling: Ride the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, visit tea estates, and witness sunrise at Tiger Hill.
- Kalimpong: Explore monasteries, visit the cactus nursery, and enjoy paragliding at Deolo Hill.
- Kurseong: Tour tea gardens, visit the Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Museum, and enjoy nature walks.
- Ajodhya Hills: Ideal for trekking, rock climbing, and exploring waterfalls like Bamni Falls.
What should I pack for a summer trip to these hill stations?
Even in summer, hill stations can be cool, especially in the evenings. It’s advisable to pack:
- Light woolens or jackets
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Rain gear (umbrella or raincoat)
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- Essential medications
Always check the specific weather forecast for your destination before packing.
Continue Your Journey Here:
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