5 Best Hill Stations Near Kolkata For A Refreshing Summer Getaway
1. Darjeeling: The Queen of Hills
Darjeeling stands as an Indian hill station landmark which is approximately 520 kilometers from Kolkata. Situated in the western part of the Himalayas at an elevation of 2053 meters above sea level this town claims its position as the 'Queen of Hills'. Darjeeling gains fame from tea plantation areas together with colonial buildings and the UNESCO World Heritage-status toy train known as Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. Visitors engage in activities such as trekking plus river rafting or they visit spiritual sites including Ghum Monastery and Bhutia Busty Gompa. The area delivers both a pleasant atmospheric environment alongside captivating natural landscape that functions as an ideally refreshing spot to escape the heat of Kolkata summers.
2. Kalimpong: A Serene Escape
As its distance from Kolkata reaches 550 kilometers Kalimpong stands as another brilliant attraction within the Eastern Himalayas. Whose peaceful environment together with superb vistas sets Kalimpong apart from nearby tourist areas and appeals to visitors who seek relaxation. The area contains numerous flower cultivation centers together with Zang Dhok Palri Phodang monastery and educational institutions built by Christian missionaries. Tourists who love nature should check out Neora Valley National Park in addition to exploring Pine View Nursery. Kalimpong offers visitors relief from the bustling city life because of its tolerable summer weather and lush natural landscapes.
3. Mirik: A Picturesque Lake Town
Mirik stands as a little but enchanting hill station which embraces the landscape of orange orchards and cardamom plantations and dense forests at approximately 550 kilometers from Kolkata. Sumendu Lake serves as the main attraction in Mirik because people can ride boats while they gaze upon the beautiful mountain landscapes. Bokar Monastery stands alongside the Tibetan Buddhist center as main attractions in addition to the active local market that sells handmade crafts and souvenirs. The station's position at a lower elevation provides pleasant climatic conditions during summer thus attracting many families as well as couples.
4. Gangtok: Gateway to Sikkim
The small city of Gangtok exists in Sikkim although tourists can easily reach it by road or air travel from Kolkata which needs a journey of 600 kilometers. The capital city of Sikkim Gangtok presents visitors with colorful cultural hotspots and magnificent scenery and important spiritual sites. Visitors should explore the popular attractions of Rumtek Monastery combined with Tsomgo Lake and Nathula Pass which requires proper authorization. The site attracts thrill-seekers who love paragliding along with trekking and taking yak rides as their activities. Gangtok provides an ideal getaway for Kolkata residents because it offers pleasant summers coupled with stunning natural landscapes.
5. Lava and Loleygaon: Offbeat Treasures
The townships of Lava and Loleygaon function as truly unconventional mountain towns that exist near Kalimpong. These elevated locations provide visitors with clean forests and opportunities to spot rare wildlife together with breathtaking views of snow-covered summits. Lava protects the famous Neora Valley National Park which hosts both endangered red pandas and clouded leopards together with numerous other endangered species. The main attraction of Loleygaon is its canopy walk alongside its popular Rock Garden. These peaceful places offer visitors cancellation from the busy tourist areas.
Final Words
The Eastern Himalayan proximity of Kolkata enables its local residents to book simple trips to these attractive hill stations with ease. Every hill station profiled here provides distinct attractions that can fulfill any traveler's desires including adventure experiences, spiritual encounters or relaxing relaxation. The combination of lively Darjeeling charm with the untainted locations in Lava and Loleygaon provides visitors with remarkable mountain experiences surrounded by natural beauty. Take this chance to visit these refreshing retreats during summer since they provide both restful tranquility and exciting experiences just near Kolkata.
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