Kolkata is surrounded by picture-perfect mountain ranges, which serve as the ideal retreat for anyone wishing to escape the stress of their daily life. The hill stations, which are a stone's throw away from Kolkata, offer breathtaking views to travel enthusiasts and lovers. Whether one wants to explore snow-capped mountains or wake up breathing in the aroma of tea leaves, these hill stations have it all.

If you are looking for a place that is sure to take all your city-life stress away, keep reading this article on the best hill stations near Kolkata.

Here is the list of the top 19 hill stations to visit near Kolkata. The average hotel costs for each location are also mentioned below. However, the hotel prices might change according to seasons and availability. Thus, after deciding on how to reach the destination, you should call the hotels and resorts as per your choice and know the ongoing room tariffs.

1. Dooars Valley | Approx: 7.5 km

Dooars Valley remains true to its name and is an excellent hill station that offers a plethora of flora and fauna, ranges of mountains, lush green forests, and mesmerising rivers cutting the landscapes everywhere. 

It acts as a gateway to the hill stations of Bhutan and North Bengal. This region also offers wildlife sanctuaries where one might spot one-horned rhinos, herds of deer, reptiles, elephants and guars. One can also visit the Tiger reserve located here.

• Best Time to Visit: November and December
• Top Things to Do: Jungle safaris, White water rafting, and Trekking
• Top Places to Visit: Samsing and Suntalekhola, Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary, Latpanchore and Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 800 to ₹ 1,500 per person overall (1 Nights/2 Days)
• How to Reach: By road, by train, by air

2. Ajodhya Hills | Approx: 304 km

Ajodhya Hills is located at an altitude of 855 metres above sea level and is 304 km from Kolkata, making it the nearest hill station to the city. It is famous as a stopover point on Lord Rama's exile from Ayodhya. 

Thus, the name. These hills are the highest points of southern West Bengal. Adventure enthusiasts can definitely visit this place as it offers various adventure sports.

• Best Time to Visit: September to March
• Top Things to Do: Rock climbing, trekking
• Top Places to Visit: Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary, Jhilimili, Tata Steel Zoological Park, Dimna Lake and waterfalls near Kolkata, namely Barehipani Falls and Joranda Falls, are some of the popular tourist attractions
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 1,000 to ₹ 1,500 per person overall (Hotel cost)
• How to Reach: By road, by train, by air

3. Shillong | Approx: 495 km

Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya, is one of the lovely hill towns near Kolkata. It is a fascinating area of Eastern India. However, it is somewhat far from Kolkata. Individuals who are planning for a long trip of approximately 4-5 days can definitely give it a try. Shillong is the spot to go if you're a true nature lover seeking a wonderful retreat from the city.

• Best Time to Visit: September to May
• Top Things to Do: Rock climbing, camping, kayaking at Kynshi River, Waterfall hopping, Walking around Wards Lake, hangout at Nokrek National Park
• Top Places to Visit: Mawlynnong, Shillong Peak, David Scott Trail, Mawphlang, Don Bosco Museum
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 2,000 to ₹ 3,500 per person overall (1 Nights/2 Days)
• How to Reach: By road, by train, by air

4. Sandakphu | Approx: 500 km

Sandakphu is popular for being the highest peak in West Bengal and is situated on the West Bengal-Nepal Border. Sandakphu, one of the best hill stations near Kolkata, offers a breathtaking view of four of the highest mountain peaks, Kanchenjunga, Makalu, Everest and Lhotse. 

One can enjoy the best view of mountain Kanchenjunga from Sandakphu, and it is also known as Sleeping Shiva or Sleeping Buddha. Sandakphu is a paradise for true adventure enthusiasts, and one can enjoy trekking here.

• Best Time to Visit: October to May
• Top Things to Do: Trekking, skiing
• Top Places to Visit: Tumling, Manebhanjan, Varsey Rhododendron Sanctuary, Tonglu, Chitrey 
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 1,200 to ₹ 2,200 per person overall (Hotel Cost)
• How to Reach: By road, by train, by air

5. Netarhat | Approx: 575 km

Situated around 575 km from Kolkata, Netarhat is an unexplored hill station near Kolkata. This place is famous for its sunrise and sunset views and is also known as Queen of Chota Nagpur.

This hill station is filled with dense forests of Mahua, Sal, Pears trees, Kendu, and Eucalyptus trees. It is also home to some endangered species of snakes, and one might be lucky enough to spot tigers, elephants and wolves as it is located near Betla National Park.

• Best Time to Visit: All year round
• Top Things to Do: One can spend time getting lost in the beauty and silence of the mountains and also spend some quality time with family.
• Top Places to Visit: Betla National Park, Upper Ghaghri Waterfall, Lower Ghaghri Waterfall, Pune Forest and Magnolia Point
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 1,000 to ₹ 2,000 per person overall (1 Nights/2 Days)
• How to Reach: By road, by train, by air

6. Sittong | Approx: 580 km

Sittong, located approximately 580 km from Kolkata, is a beautiful cluster of villages situated in the Kurseong division of the Darjeeling district. This place has become very famous for its orange cultivation. 

Although the area does not have many tourist places to offer, visitors can indulge themselves in watching the beauty of nature. Sittong has an elevation of 4000 feet and is also home to the Lepcha tribes.

• Best Time to Visit: Late December to early January
• Top Things to Do: Trekking, Camping
• Top Places to Visit: Jogighat, Sittong Church, Mahananda Wildlife sanctuary
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 2,000 to ₹ 3,000 per person overall (Package Tour cost)
• How to Reach: By road, by train, by air

7. Kurseong | Approx: 584 km

Located at an elevation of 1458 meters, Kurseong is just 584 km from Kolkata and 30 km from Darjeeling. Kurseong offers pleasant weather throughout the year, and the winters here are not as chilli as in Darjeeling.

This place is locally known as "Kharsang", which means "land of white orchids" in the Lepcha language. One can enjoy a stay of two-three days here and explore Kurseong’s temples, churches, magnificent mountain slopes and tea plantations and lush estates.

• Best Time to Visit: Every month of the year except the monsoon months of June and July
• Top Things to Do: Visit the churches, Museums and temples, Explore the historical aspects,  also shop and bring back home some interesting souvenirs.
• Top Places to Visit: Eagle’s Craig, Tea gardens, Deer Park, Forest Museum, Ambotia Shiva mandir, Netaji Subhash Chandra Museum, Forest Museum, Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Museum
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 1,600 to ₹ 2,500 per person overall (1 Nights/2 Days)
• How to Reach: By road, by train, by air

8. Mirik | Approx: 596 km

Mirik, known as the twin of Darjeeling town, is located approximately 596 km from Kolkata and helps one unwind, forgetting all the city-life stress. It has become a popular destination owing to its natural beauty, accessibility and soothing climate. 

The main attraction of this place is Sumendu Lake which is surrounded by pine trees on one side and a garden on the other side. One can either walk around the lake or enjoy boating on quaint shikaras while visiting this place.

• Best Time to Visit: March to September
• Top Things to Do: Enjoy the view of the river, trekking in nearby areas
• Top Places to Visit: Jorpokhri, Sukhiapokhri, Kurseong, Lepchajagat
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 1,500 to ₹ 2,500 per person overall (1 Nights/2 Days)
• How to Reach: By road, by train, by air

9. Darjeeling | Approx: 612 km

Darjeeling, having an elevation of 2045 m and located at a distance of 612 kilometres from Kolkata, is indeed the favourite and most visited hill station in West Bengal. It has pleasant wintery weather throughout the year due to its elevation. Darjeeling offers some very beautiful tea gardens, and it has been declared a World Heritage site.

• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Top Things to Do: Trekking because Darjeeling offers some of the best trek routes in India, Shop for tea leaves
• Top Places to Visit: Japanese Peace Pagoda, Nightingale Park, Great Himalayan Railway, Batasia Loop, Tiger Hill, Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological National Park, Rock Garden
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 1,000 to ₹ 2,000 per person overall (Hotel Cost)
• How to Reach: By road, by train, by air

10. Kalimpong | Approx: 621 km

Kalimpong is located approximately 621 km from Kolkata, and it offers beautiful panoramic mountain views. It is one of the best choices for escaping from the busy city life and entering into a world of peace. Tourists can also enjoy the Buddhist culture here, as it offers monasteries, Tibetan handicrafts, and beautiful flower markets. 

• Best Time to Visit: March to June and September to December
• Top Things to Do: Trekking, rafting at Teesta River, Bird Watching
• Top Places to Visit: Deolo Hill, Cactus Nursery, Morgan House, Durpin Dara Hill, Galingka, Jang Dog Palriffo Brang Gompa, Thongsa Gompa, 
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 1,000 to ₹ 1,500 per person overall (Hotel cost)
• How to Reach: By road, by train, by air

11. Tinchuley | Approx: 624 km

Tinchuley is a tiny hamlet in Darjeeling, which literally means Three Ovens or Teen Chullah. This location gets its name from the three hilltops that surround the hamlet. This location, which is 5,800 feet above sea level and 3 kilometres from Takdah, faces the Kalimpong hills. 

This location has gained popularity due to a WWF (World Wide Federation) programme that supports 17 households in creating a model organic village. The villagers here use contemporary farming techniques and floriculture practices as part of this endeavour. This location makes it an excellent vacation if you're seeking the closest hill station to Kolkata, being only 624 kms away.

• Best Time to Visit: November to February
• Top Things to Do: Trekking and Sightseeing
• Top Places to Visit: Nirmal’s Orange Orchards, Teesta Valley, Peshok Tea Estate
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 2,000 to ₹ 3,500 per person overall (1 Nights/2 Days)
• How to Reach: By road, by train, by air

12. Mongpu | Approx: 640 km

Mongpu, another of the uncommon hill stations near Kolkata, is a small mountain village with an average elevation of 3,700 feet above sea level. Mongpu offers nature enthusiasts a treat for the soul with its lush green tea estates, beautiful orchids, and other such beauties.

Mongpu, a remarkably picturesque location, is also a haven for book lovers because it was once the residence of the noble laureate Rabindranath Tagore. This is one of the top tourist destinations in West Bengal.

• Best Time to Visit: All year long
• Top Things to Do: Indulge in the aroma of blooming orchids, and find historical significance and peace in the summer residence of Tagore.
• Top Places to Visit: The most attractive tourist attraction is the summer residence of Tagore.
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 1,500 to ₹ 3,000 per person overall (1 Nights/2 Days)
• How to Reach: By road, by train, by air

13. Upper and Lower Fagu | Approx: 640 km

One of the offbeat hill stations near Kolkata, located in the Dooars region, is Fagu, which is around 9 kilometres from Lava. This wonderful location, which is 6,200 feet above sea level, is surrounded by thick vegetation and stunning views, giving it an almost dreamlike appearance. 

This location is a visual delight because one can enjoy a 360-degree view of the Mahananda River Valley and the magnificent Mt. Kanchenjunga that surrounds it.

• Best Time to Visit: March to May or October to February
• Top Things to Do: Trekking, watching beautiful sunsets
• Top Places to Visit: Changey waterfalls, Samabeong brew, Jhandi Dara
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 800 to ₹ 1,700 per person overall (1 Nights/2 Days)
• How to Reach: By road, by train, by air

14. Pedong | Approx: 641 km

Pedong, located 641 km from Kolkata, is a small sleepy village which remains nestled under the umbrella of Kalimpong Hills. Travellers on their way to the Silk Route often stop here for a night and relax. This is one of the unexplored hill stations near Kolkata, which will surely mesmerise the visitors with its beauty.

• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Top Things to Do: Bird Watching, Nature Walks, Rock Climbing, Fishing, Trekking
• Top Places to Visit: Sillery Gaon, Rikisum, Tinchulry View Point, Rishi, Damsang Fort, and Sangchhen Gompa
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 1,500 to ₹ 2,500 per person overall (Hotel cost)
• How to Reach: By road, by train, by air

15. Takdah | Approx: 650 km

Takdah, at the height of 4000 feet, is only 28 kilometres from Darjeeling. Despite being so close to Darjeeling, there aren't many tourists there yet. In addition, this tranquil location continues to be much cooler than the neighbourhood. 

The term comes from the constant presence of fog in this lovely area. This location was once well-known for being a British military cantonment, and the historic buildings still stand as evidence of that era today.

• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Top Things to Do: Sightseeing and Trekking
• Top Places to Visit: Teesta Valley, Orchid Centre, Lamahatta Villa, Takdah Monastery 
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 1,200 to ₹ 2,500 per person overall (1 Nights/2 Days)
• How to Reach: By road, by train, by air

16. Gangtok | Approx: 670 km

Gangtok, located approximately 670 kms from Kolkata, is the state capital of Sikkim and a great holiday spot for tourists who want to experience waterfalls, mountain passes and rivers near Kolkata. It is undeniably one of the best tourist destinations for nature lovers and also those who want to enjoy surreal Tibetan culture. Gangtok is great for relaxing and offers some of the best picturesque mountain views.

• Best Time to Visit: October to June
• Top Things to Do: Trekking, Mountain Biking, Rafting at Teesta-Rangeet, Watching a flower show
• Top Places to Visit: Tsomgo Lake, Rumtek Monastery, Do Drul Chorten, Singhik viewpoint, Seven sisters waterfall, Nathu La pass, Tashi Viewpoint, 
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 1,200 to ₹ 2,000 per person overall (1 Nights/2 Days)
• How to Reach: By road, by train, by air

17. Ravangla | Approx: 671 km

Ravangla is a small village nestled on the foothills of Tendong and Maenam Hill and is located approximately 671 km from Kolkata. This has emerged as an off-bit tourist destination in Sikkim, owing to its proximity to Borong and Maenam Hill. 

It has turned into a base for trekking enthusiasts in South Sikkim. This place offers snowy landscapes and magnificent mountain views. 

• Best Time to Visit: February to March and October to November
• Top Things to Do: Trekking and bird watching
• Top Places to Visit: Rayong Sunrise View Point, Borong Hot Springs, and Ralang Monasteries.
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 1,200 to ₹ 2,000 per person overall (1 Nights/2 Days)
• How to Reach: By road, by train, by air

18. Lava | Approx: 676 km

Lava is located at an elevation of 2350 metres and is dooming as a popular tourist destination. It is a must-visit place for wildlife and nature lovers as this place offers scenic views of lush green forests. 

Apart from that, one can enjoy the view of the snow-peaked mountains of Tibet and Bhutan from The Sherpa View Point. This place is also home to a monastery which interests academics and scholars. 

• Best Time to Visit: October to April
• Top Things to Do: Trekking to Rachela and Jelepla Pass, taking a walk along the lush green forests, visiting the Bhutanese Monastery, Ghanti Dara, etc.
• Top Places to Visit: Ghoom, Lolegaon, Kalimpong, and Darjeeling
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 1,000 to ₹ 1,500 per person overall (Hotel cost)
• How to Reach: By road, by train, by air

19. Lolegaon | Approx: 680 km

Lolegaon is a small Lepcha village and is an ideal escape for anyone who is trying to escape city life. This place has an elevation of 1675 metres and offers a 360-degree view of the entire Kanchenjunga range. 

Tourists can also enjoy sunset and sunrise views from the observatory located here. This place is a delight to travellers because it offers jungle walks through forests and amazing wildlife, and the main attraction is a hanging bridge inside the dense forest.

• Best Time to Visit: March to May and September to February
• Top Things to Do: Trekking, Bird Watching, Canopy walk
• Top Places to Visit: Kaffer, Jhandi Dara
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 900 to ₹ 2,000 per person overall (Hotel cost)
• How to Reach: By road, by train, by air