Nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, Kurseong is a hill station in West Bengal that offers a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. While many visitors like you flock to its popular tourist spots, this quaint town also houses a bucket full of hidden offbeat places in Kureong that are yet not explored enough. From serene monasteries tucked away amidst lush greenery to quaint villages that offer a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage, Kurseong is a delightful destination for those seeking the best offbeat places in Kurseong. Get ready to step off the beaten path and discover the true essence of Kurseong!
Top 6 Offbeat Places In Kurseong
Kurseong offers several offbeat and lesser-known attractions. Some offbeat places in Kurseong that you must explore are:
1. Eagle’s Crag Viewpoint
Eagle Crag Viewpoint is one of the offbeat places in Kurseong that offers a breathtaking panorama of the surrounding landscape. The name itself translates to ‘Eagle’s crag’, hinting at its majestic views. Unlike the more crowded viewpoints in Kurseong, Giddapahar offers a serene escape, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Furthermore, the viewpoint boasts stunning vistas of rolling mountains, sprawling tea estates, and, on a clear day, even the snow-capped peak of Kanchenjunga, the world’s third-highest mountain. Moreover, there’s also a small temple dedicated to Goddess Durga, Giddapahar Seti Mata Temple, carved out of rock, adding a touch of cultural significance to the site.
Distance: 1.9 Km
Travel Time: 9 minutes
Best Time to Visit: Between March and May and September to November
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2. Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Museum
The Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Museum is a must-visit for history buffs and anyone interested in Indian independence. It’s housed in the residence of Netaji’s elder brother, Sarat Chandra Bose, where Netaji spent some time under house arrest by the British. The museum also offers a glimpse into Netaji’s life.
Furthermore, inaugurated in 2000, the museum showcases a collection of photographs depicting Netaji’s life and family, letters written by him, and other interesting artefacts. The well-maintained house, located amidst scenic beauty, offers a historical ambience. Moreover, it also functions as an institute for Himalayan Language & Culture Studies, making it a multifaceted destination for those seeking both historical and cultural enrichment in offbeat places in Kurseong.
Distance: 4.4 Km
Travel Time: 15 minutes
Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year
3. Bhangzang Salamander Lake
The Bhangzang Salamander Lake stands out as one of the offbeat places in Kurseong, offering a serene haven for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers. This small lake, shrouded in tranquillity, is particularly famous for being the habitat of the endangered Himalayan newt, also known as the Bhangzang salamander.
Furthermore, the surrounding area boasts lush tea gardens and dense forests, adding to the lake’s captivating beauty and peaceful atmosphere. The conservation of this fragile ecosystem is a priority, making it a responsible form of tourism to enjoy the scenic beauty, observe the unique wildlife from a distance, and immerse yourself in the tranquillity of the environment.
Distance: 15.1 Km
Travel Time: 37 minutes
Best Time to Visit: June to September
Suggested Read: Places to Visit in Jalpaiguri
4. Deer Park
Deer Park, also known as Downhill Eco Park, is a recreational spot nestled amidst the scenic beauty of Dow Hill in Kurseong. Though its deer population has recently dwindled, it remains a haven for nature lovers seeking a peaceful escape. The park offers a serene ambience, enhanced by its towering pine trees.
You can indulge in leisurely walks along the pathways, basking in the crisp mountain air and the melodious symphony of birdsong. While deer sightings may be rare, the park is teeming with a diverse range of flora and fauna, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts seeking offbeat places in Kurseong.
Distance: 3.6 Km
Travel Time: 12 minutes
Best Time to Visit: March to June.
5. Makaibari Tea Estate
Makaibari Tea Estate is more than just a plantation. It’s a historical and environmental gem. Founded in 1852, it’s one of the oldest tea estates in Darjeeling and among the few owned by an Indian family, the Banerjee. Makaibari boasts a rich heritage, with the first tea factory in Darjeeling district established here in 1859 (though it closed in 1933). The estate spans over six ridges, carpeted with verdant tea bushes. Interestingly, the cultivation here is unique.
Furthermore, unlike conventional monoculture plantations, Makaibari follows a six-tier permaculture system, where various fruits, wildflowers, and woods flourish alongside the tea plants, mimicking a natural ecosystem. This method not only fosters biodiversity but is believed to enhance the quality and flavour of the tea. Moreover, visitors can explore this distinctive approach to tea cultivation while immersing themselves in the tranquil surroundings of this offbeat places in Kurseong within 200 Kms.
Distance: 4.1 Km
Travel Time: 15 minutes
Best Time to Visit: March to May
Suggested Read: Places to Visit in West Bengal
6. Ambotia Shiva Mandir
The Ambotia Shiva Mandir stands out as one of the best offbeat places in Kurseong, offering a serene sanctuary for spiritual seekers. While it is a Hindu temple, the architecture has a distinct Buddhist or Tibetan influence, giving it a monastery-like appearance. The temple is shrouded in peace and tranquillity, making it a perfect refuge for those seeking spiritual solace or a break from the hustle and bustle of Kurseong town.
Furthermore, one of the most captivating elements of the temple is the Shiv Linga, the sacred idol representing Lord Shiva. This unique representation is believed to be an ancient dead tree trunk that has grown over time, a phenomenon that devotees find genuinely remarkable. It is seen as a testament to the divine presence of Lord Shiva himself, adding a profound spiritual dimension to the temple. Moreover, another delightful feature is the orange orchard, a refreshing sight that complements the temple’s serene atmosphere.
Distance: 1.5 Km
Travel Time: 8 minutes
Best Time to Visit: March and May or September and October
Further Read: Homestays in Darjeeling
The offbeat places in Kurseong offer you a chance to explore its beauty, cultural richness, and tranquillity, providing a refreshing break from the ordinary. You can immerse yourself in the serene ambience of this hidden gem and create lasting memories that will forever etch themselves into your heart. So, why wait? Book your trip to Kurseong today. Set out on a fantastic adventure to discover hidden gems where peace and excitement are ready to be found.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Offbeat Places in Kurseong
What is special in Kurseong?
Kurseong is a tourist hotspot famous for its beautiful tea gardens, diverse flora and fauna, charming villages, and breathtaking viewpoints. It houses attractions like Eagle’s Craig, Giddapahar View Point, Kurseong Deer Park, and the tea gardens. It’s also known for its colonial-era schools and religious centres.
How many days are enough for Kurseong?
To fully experience the serene environment and explore the attractions of Kurseong, a stay of 2-3 days is enough.
What is the best time to visit Kurseong?
The most favourable time to visit Kurseong is from March to May and October to December. During these periods, the weather is typically pleasant, and the clear skies provide stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.
How far is Kurseong from the Darjeeling toy train?
The toy train journey from Darjeeling to Kurseong covers a distance of about 29 Km
What is the highest peak in Kurseong?
The highest point in Kurseong is Bagora, also known as Zero Point.
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