Kurseong — The Land of White Orchids
A charming hill town in the Darjeeling district, West Bengal, India
Perched between Siliguri and Darjeeling at roughly 1,458 meters above sea level, Kurseong is a peaceful hill town known for its lush tea gardens, mild climate, and panoramic views of the Himalaya. The name "Kurseong" comes from the Nepali words “Kurse” (white) and “Ong” (orchid) — a nod to its wild orchids and flowering trees.
Best time to visit: Mar — May, Sep — Nov
Altitude
1,458 m
Language
Bengali, Nepali, English
Population
~28,000
Highlights & Things to Do
- 🍃 Walk through tea gardens and learn tea processing.
- 🌄 Hike to Eagle’s Crag (Deer Park) for sunrise views.
- 🚂 Ride the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway toy train.
- 🏡 Stay at Glenburn Tea Estate heritage bungalows.
- 🛍️ Explore Kurseong bazaar for crafts and local food.
History Snapshot
Kurseong grew during the British colonial era as a hill station and tea-growing hub. The British built cool-weather bungalows and established tea gardens that still define the town’s culture and landscape today.
How to Get There
By Road: 50–60 km from Siliguri (2–2.5 hrs), 45 km from Darjeeling.
By Rail: Nearest major station is New Jalpaiguri (NJP).
By Air: Bagdogra Airport (IXB), 1.5–2 hrs drive.
Travel Tips
- Pack layers — mornings and evenings get chilly.
- Respect local customs and avoid littering.
- Connectivity can be patchy — download maps before trips.
At a Glance
Small-town charm, scenic viewpoints, tea culture, and a relaxed pace — ideal for 2–4 day getaways.