Kurseong Travel Guide: Tourist Places, Things to Do & More

Tucked away on the way to Darjeeling, Kurseong is often overlooked, which makes it so special. With misty forests, sprawling tea estates, and colonial-era charm, this small town in West Bengal is a treasure trove of peace and beauty. Known as the “Land of White Orchids,” Kurseong sits at an altitude of about 1,500 meters and offers a quiet alternative to the hustle of popular hill stations.

Whether you’re a solo traveller looking for calm, a couple searching for romantic views, or a family keen to explore the Darjeeling hills, Kurseong is worth your time.

In this complete guide, you’ll discover the top tourist places in Kurseong, things to do, where to stay (resorts, hotels, homestays), the best viewpoints, and even nearby places worth visiting. Let’s dive in.

1. Tourist Places & Things to Do in Kurseong

Though Kurseong is a small hill town tucked between Darjeeling and Siliguri, it’s packed with scenic charm, colonial history, misty forests, and soulful experiences. Whether you’re passing through or staying for a few days, here’s your complete guide to the most must-visit places and meaningful things to do in Kurseong.

1.1 Eagle’s Crag

Perched on the edge of a hill, Eagle’s Crag is Kurseong’s most iconic viewpoint. It offers a sweeping view of the Terai plains below and the snow-capped Kanchenjunga range on a clear day. There’s a watchtower to climb up for better views, and a martyr’s memorial that adds a historical touch. It’s especially magical at sunrise or sunset.

• Location: Near Kurseong Railway Station (walkable distance).
• A great spot for sunrise and sunset, especially in autumn and winter.

1.2 Dow Hill & Forest Trails

Dow Hill is the heartbeat of Kurseong’s mystery and mist. Famous for its ghost stories and fog-draped pathways, it’s a must-visit for both nature lovers and curious explorers. The area is home to:

• Location: Inside the Dow Hill forest area.
• Why visit? It’s not one single viewpoint but a series of forest clearings with views of pine trees, valleys, and fog-covered hills.
• Dow Hill Park (Deer Park) – A serene spot where you can see deer, birds, and enjoy a relaxed walk beneath towering pines.
• Victoria Boys’ High School – One of the oldest British-era schools, known for its colonial architecture.
• The Haunted Road – A stretch through the woods with eerie stories that locals love to share.
• Forest Museum – Displays natural artefacts and gives insight into the rich biodiversity of the region.
• Walk around the area for different vantage points and enjoy the forest’s silence.

It’s one of the best places in Kurseong to feel nature and myth intertwine.

1.3 Ride the Toy Train

The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, passes right through Kurseong. A toy train ride from Kurseong to Ghum or Darjeeling is like stepping back in time. The pace is slow, the views are dreamy, and the experience is unforgettable. It takes you through forests, tea gardens, and tunnels, offering a window into the past.

1.4 Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Museum (Giddapahar)

History buffs shouldn’t miss this. Once the house arrest residence of Subhash Chandra Bose, this humble home has been turned into a museum showcasing his letters, furniture, and rare photographs. It’s both a peaceful and powerful place — quiet, yet full of stories.

1.5 Giddapahar Viewpoint & Seti Mata Temple

Giddapahar, meaning ‘Eagle Hill,’ lives up to its name with panoramic views of the rolling hills and tea gardens below. Just nearby lies the Seti Mata Temple, a peaceful spiritual site that draws local devotees. The blend of natural beauty and spiritual calm makes this area a serene escape.

1.6 Visit Makaibari & Ambootia Tea Estates

Kurseong is synonymous with tea, and visiting a tea estate here is not optional — it’s essential. Two standouts are:

• Makaibari Tea Estate – One of the oldest in the world, it offers tours of its organic tea production process.
• Ambootia Tea Estate – Known for its sustainability and biodynamic farming.

You can walk through the neatly lined bushes, watch skilled pluckers at work, and enjoy a tea-tasting session while soaking in views of the valley.

1.7 St. Paul’s Church

Located near the heart of town, St. Paul’s Church is a beautiful example of British colonial architecture. With its pointed arches, stained glass, and tranquil surroundings, it’s ideal for quiet reflection or simply admiring a piece of history.

1.8 Photography in the Mist

Kurseong is heaven for photographers. The best frames are often unscripted: a vintage home cloaked in clouds, a quiet forest path, a distant toy train cutting through the fog, or sunlight pouring into the valley.
Pro tip: Early mornings and late afternoons are perfect for golden light and atmospheric shots.

1.9 Hanuman Tok – A Peaceful Hilltop Temple with a View

Hanuman Tok in Kurseong is a small but serene temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, perched atop a quiet hill overlooking the valleys. It’s not just a spiritual stop but also a peaceful viewpoint that offers beautiful panoramas of the surrounding hills and tea gardens. Often overlooked by tourists, it remains a local favorite for meditation and reflection.

• Located just a short drive or uphill walk from Kurseong town.
• Home to a Hanuman temple that radiates peace and devotion.
• The hilltop location provides stunning views of Kurseong, rolling tea gardens, and distant peaks.
• Often enveloped in clouds, adding a mystical feel to the place.
• Ideal for those seeking quiet reflection, spiritual calm, or a break from the usual sightseeing crowd.
• A good spot for morning visits, photography, and soaking in the silence of the hills.

1.10 Just Be in the Moment

What sets Kurseong apart is its pace — slow, soulful, and grounding. Sip on hand-rolled Darjeeling tea in a local café, sit under a pine tree with a journal, or wander aimlessly with no agenda. Let the hills speak to you in whispers.

2. Best Time to Visit Kurseong

Kurseong welcomes travellers all year round, but the experience changes beautifully with each season. Here’s a breakdown to help you plan your trip:

🌸 Spring (March to May)

• Why visit? The weather is pleasant, flowers are in full bloom, and tea gardens start turning lush green.
• Temperature: Ranges between 10°C to 22°C.
• Highlights: Great time for sightseeing, long walks, and photography.

🌧️ Monsoon (June to September)

• Why visit? Kurseong becomes surreal with mist, rain-soaked forests, and waterfalls coming alive.
• Temperature: 12°C to 20°C.
• Keep in mind: Roads can be slippery and landslides are possible. Travel with caution.
• Good for: Peace seekers and offbeat travellers who love the monsoon magic.

🍁 Autumn (October to November)

• Why visit? Clear skies, fresh post-monsoon greenery, and crisp mountain air.
• Temperature: 8°C to 18°C.
• Highlights: Festivals, scenic viewpoints, and vibrant landscapes.

❄️ Winter (December to February)

• Why visit? Cold and cozy with occasional frost. Ideal for those who enjoy a winter chill without extreme snow.
• Temperature: Can dip as low as 2°C at night.
• Highlights: Fewer crowds, misty mornings, and serene sunsets.

3. How to Reach Kurseong

Kurseong is well connected by road, rail, and air. Here’s how you can reach this peaceful town:

• By Road:
  • From Siliguri: Around 35 km (1.5 to 2 hours). Shared taxis, private cabs, and buses are easily available.
  • From Darjeeling: About 30 km (1.5 hours). You can enjoy scenic views on the Hill Cart Road.
  • From Mirik: Approximately 45 km. Slightly less explored but very picturesque.
• By Train:
  • The nearest major railway station is New Jalpaiguri (NJP), which connects to major cities like Kolkata, Delhi, Guwahati, and Mumbai. From NJP, you can hire a taxi or take a shared cab to Kurseong (around 45 km).
• By Air:
  • Bagdogra Airport is the closest airport, just 40 km away. From the airport, you can take a taxi to Kurseong directly (around 1.5 hours, depending on traffic).

4. Where to Stay in Kurseong (Hotels, Resorts, and Homestays)

Kurseong offers a charming mix of heritage hotels, scenic resorts, and cosy homestays to match every traveller’s style and budget. Here are some of the best options:

4.1 Cochrane Place

• Type: Heritage Boutique Hotel
• Location: Near Dow Hill, Kurseong
• Vibe: Colonial charm with scenic tea garden views.
• Budget: ₹4,000 – ₹7,000 per night (approx.)
• Why Stay Here: If you love old-world charm, personalised service, and a peaceful vibe surrounded by nature.

4.2 Allita Hotels and Resorts

• Type: Luxury Resort
• Location: Giddapahar area, Kurseong
• Vibe: High-end comfort with spa, beautiful architecture, and mountain views.
• Budget: ₹6,000 – ₹12,000 per night (approx.)
• Why Stay Here: Ideal for a luxurious getaway, family vacations, or a romantic trip.

4.3 The Amarjeet Hotel

• Type: Mid-Range Hotel
• Location: Kurseong Town, near the railway station
• Vibe: Convenient and comfortable stay in the town centre.
• Budget: ₹2,000 – ₹4,000 per night (approx.)
• Why Stay Here: Perfect for travellers looking for an easy, affordable, and central location.

4.4 Hotel Pine Touch Retreat

• Type: Mid-Range Hotel
• Location: Dow Hill Road, Kurseong
• Vibe: Calm and refreshing, surrounded by pine forests.
• Budget: ₹2,500 – ₹5,000 per night (approx.)
• Why Stay Here: Great for nature lovers wanting peaceful surroundings without being too far from town.

4.5 Hill Crest Homestay

• Type: Homestay
• Location: Near Kurseong town
• Vibe: Family-run, homely atmosphere with local experiences.
• Budget: ₹1,500 – ₹3,000 per night (approx.)
• Why Stay Here: Ideal for travellers who want to experience local hospitality and home-cooked meals.

4.6 Bhanus Homestay

• Type: Homestay
• Location: Near Kurseong
• Vibe: Simple, clean, and friendly environment.
• Budget: ₹1,200 – ₹2,500 per night (approx.)
• Why Stay Here: Great for budget travellers or solo explorers looking for a quiet stay.

4.7 Sourenee Tea Estate Resort

Nearby Stay Option: (Not exactly in Kurseong town, but popular among visitors)

• Type: Luxury Tea Estate Resort
• Location: Sourenee, around 30–40 minutes drive from Kurseong
• Vibe: Stay inside a working tea estate with premium rooms and lush gardens.
• Budget: ₹7,000 – ₹15,000 per night (approx.)
• Why Stay Here: For those seeking a unique tea garden stay experience close to Kurseong.

5. Nearby Tourist Places from Kurseong

5.1 Darjeeling (30 km)

• Why Visit: Known as the “Queen of the Hills,” Darjeeling is a vibrant hill station offering breathtaking views of the Kanchenjunga range, tea plantations, and colonial-era charm. It’s a must-visit for tea lovers, adventure seekers, and those who enjoy scenic hilltop vistas.
• Highlights:
  • Tiger Hill: Best known for its sunrise view over Kanchenjunga.
  • Batasia Loop: A unique railway loop with beautiful gardens.
  • Darjeeling Himalayan Railway: Ride the famous Toy Train.
  • Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park: Home to rare animals like the snow leopard and red panda.
• Distance from Kurseong: 30 km (Approx. 1-hour drive)

5.2 Mirik (45 km)

• Why Visit: Mirik is a charming lakeside town with peaceful surroundings and panoramic views of the Himalayas. The town is ideal for those looking to unwind in nature, surrounded by serene landscapes and cool weather.
• Highlights:
  • Sumendu Lake: Enjoy boat rides with views of the surrounding hills.
  • Mirik Monastery: A peaceful place for introspection and meditation.
  • Pashupati Market: Shop for local goods and souvenirs.
  • Tea Gardens: Visit the Mirik tea estates for a guided tour.
• Distance from Kurseong: 45 km (Approx. 1.5-hour drive)

5.3 Tindharia (20 km)

• Why Visit: Tindharia is known for its mesmerising views of the hills and tea estates. The area is also famous for being an important part of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. It offers a quiet retreat for nature lovers and railway enthusiasts.
• Highlights:
  • Tindharia Railway Station: A prominent station on the Toy Train route.
  • Tea Gardens: Visit the local tea estates to learn about tea production.
  • Viewpoints: Enjoy spectacular views of the Kanchenjunga range and surrounding hills.
• Distance from Kurseong: 20 km (Approx. 40-minute drive)

5.4 Sonada (22 km)

• Why Visit: Sonada is a quaint town that offers a peaceful atmosphere with a mix of colonial-era charm and natural beauty. The town is less crowded than Darjeeling, making it perfect for those seeking solitude.
• Highlights:
  • Sonada Monastery: A serene Buddhist monastery to explore.
  • Toy Train Station: It’s a stop on the famous Darjeeling Himalayan Railway.
  • Tea Gardens: Explore the sprawling tea plantations of Sonada.
• Distance from Kurseong: 22 km (Approx. 45-minute drive)

5.5 Bunkulung (30 km)

• Why Visit: Bunkulung is a hidden gem with its lush landscapes, tea gardens, and scenic beauty. It’s ideal for those looking to experience authentic rural life in the hills. The area offers trekking opportunities and a quiet retreat.
• Highlights:
  • Bunkulung Tea Estate: Learn about the tea-making process and enjoy some fresh tea.
  • Trekking Trails: Several trails offer beautiful views of the surrounding hills.
• Distance from Kurseong: 30 km (Approx. 1-hour drive)

5.6 Lepchajagat (40 km)

• Why Visit: Lepchajagat is a charming village perched on the edge of a forest and offers panoramic views of the Himalayas. The village is perfect for trekking, bird-watching, and nature walks.
• Highlights:
  • Lepchajagat Viewpoint: A great spot for catching the morning sun and views of the Kanchenjunga range.
  • Trekking: Explore the nearby forests and trails.
• Distance from Kurseong: 40 km (Approx. 1.5-hour drive)

5.7 Margaret’s Deck (35 km)

• Why Visit: Margaret’s Deck is a famous viewpoint located near Darjeeling, offering a great spot for a tea break with a view. The deck overlooks the valleys and is an excellent place for photography.
• Highlights:
  • Spectacular Views: Offers panoramic views of the Himalayas and tea gardens.
  • Tea Experience: Enjoy a cup of Darjeeling tea while soaking in the view.
• Distance from Kurseong: 35 km (Approx. 1-hour drive)

5.8 Chimney – A Quiet Escape near Kurseong

Tucked about 8 km from Kurseong town, Chimney is a lesser-known gem named after a lone British-era chimney that still stands tall amidst pine forests and meadows. The place once had a British rest house, now gone, but the chimney remains, giving the spot its unique identity.

Chimney is ideal for travellers looking to step off the beaten track. With misty woods, open landscapes, and hardly any crowds, it’s a peaceful getaway for nature lovers, photographers, and slow travellers.

• Located at a short drive from Kurseong, perfect for a half-day or full-day trip.
• The remaining British-era chimney adds a touch of historical curiosity.
• Surrounded by dense pine forests, great for leisurely walks and birdwatching.
• Offers scenic views of the surrounding hills, valleys, and tea estates.
• Popular among locals for picnics and quiet weekend drives.
• The road to Chimney is lined with beautiful vistas, especially during sunrise or foggy mornings.

6. Food and Cafés to Try

Kurseong is known for its tea gardens and traditional Himalayan cuisine. Here are some recommendations:

• Kurseong’s Tea Cafés: Several local cafés offer fresh tea and local snacks. Don’t miss out on tasting Darjeeling tea, a famous variety grown in the area.
• Local Food to Try:
  • Momos: Dumplings filled with meat or vegetables.
  • Thukpa: A delicious noodle soup.
  • Chowmein: A local twist on noodles, often served with vegetables or meat.
  • Sel Roti: A traditional Nepali sweet, perfect with tea.

7. What to Pack

• Warm Clothing: Even in summer, Kurseong can get chilly, especially in the evenings. Pack a light jacket or sweater, and consider bringing a heavier coat during winter months (November to February).
• Comfortable Shoes: The hill station has plenty of walking and trekking opportunities. Comfortable shoes are a must.
• Rain Gear: Kurseong experiences a fair amount of rainfall, especially during the monsoon season (June to September). Pack an umbrella or waterproof gear.
• Camera: Kurseong is filled with beautiful viewpoints and landscapes, so bring a camera to capture the breathtaking scenery.

Plan Your Trip Today!

Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer vacation, Kurseong is waiting to be discovered. Don’t forget to pack your camera, wear your hiking shoes, and prepare for an unforgettable experience. From the cool, crisp air to the warm hospitality of the locals, Kurseong is the kind of destination you’ll want to return to again and again.