One
of the fast developing cities of West Bengal, Siliguri is situated at
the foot of the Himalayas in the plains. It is often referred to as the
"Gateway to North-East India". It is situated in the
Darjeeling district and is the commercial hub of North Bengal.
Demographics
The inhabitants of Siliguri are mostly Bengali and Nepalese. The most
commonly spoken language includes Bengali and Nepali. The business class
mostly comprises of Marwaris.
Climate
Siliguri has a pleasant climate. Summers are moderate with maximum
temperature of 40° C. Winters are cool and pleasant with a maximum
of 15°C and minimum of 3°C. Dense fog and light rains are
experienced in winters. The monsoon season lasts from June to September
accompanied by heavy rainfall.
How to Visit Siliguri?
Siliguri is a fast growing cosmopolitan city and is the departure point
for Darjeeling, Sikkim, Kalimpong, Nepal and North-Eastern states of
India. The city attracts thousands of tourists every year and is well
connected to all major states of India through rail, roads and air.
- Air : Bagdogra airport is located 12 km west of
Siliguri and is connected to major Indian cities by regular flights.
A regular helicopter service also links Siliguri with Gangtok.
- Rail : Siliguri is well connected by trains to
almost major cities in India. There are three important railway
stations in the city:
- Siliguri Town
- Siliguri Junction
- New Jalpaiguri
- Road : The Tenzing Norgay Central Bus Terminal
is the major destination for most buses. The city is also connected
by bus service from the Bhutanese capital Thimphu. Jeeps also link
Siliguri to adjacent towns.
Important Tourist Destinations in Siliguri
The city represents the diverse culture and ethos of West Bengal. The
various tourist spots in and around Siliguri include:
- Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary
- Madhuban Park
- Natute Interpretation Centre
- Umrao Singh Boat Club
- Sukna Lake
- Salugara Monastery
- Coronation Bridge
- Naxalbari
- Picnic Spots like Garubathan, Lover's Point
- Surya Sen Park
Besides this, Siliguri is the transit point to neighbouring tourist
places like Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Gangtok, and North-Eastern States of
India. It is also a departure point for neighbouring countries like
Nepal, Bhutan and Bangladesh.
Education in Siliguri
Siliguri has good education facilities for primary, secondary as well
as higher education. The city has many government and private schools,
colleges and other professional institutions. Some of the educational
institutes include :
- Banimandir Railway Higher Secondary School
- Don Bosco School
- Jyotsnamoyee Girl's High School
- Saint Joseph's Convent School
- Siliguri College
- North Bengal University
- The Jalpaiguri Government Engineering College
- The Siliguri Institute of Technology
Economy
Siliguri is located critically located in the Chicken's neck, that is a
narrow strip of land joining the mainland of India to its North-Eastern
States. It is also well connected to countries like Nepal, Bhutan and
Bangladesh and is the commercial hub of North Bengal. The location of
the city makes it an ideal business place. The city has eventually
emerged as a profitable business centre. Many national organizations and
companies have set up their offices in the city. The popular Hong-Kong
market is the destination for various Chinese goods. Tea, Timber and
Transport, commonly known as 3Ts are the main business of the city.
Besides, the Federation of Chamber of Commerce and Industry of North
Bengal (FOCIN) is headquartered at Siliguri.
The Indian Army and the Assam Riffles, an Indian paramilitary wing have
their bases in Siliguri.
