Kurseong’s iconic tea gardens and train experiences to go back in time

Kurseong is one of those quiet towns that may not seem spectacular and will, most probably, get passed over for bigger and trendier destinations, but wait till you give it a second look. Located in the Darjeeling district in West Bengal, Kurseong is the hill station that connects two major commercial places – Siliguri and Darjeeling.
Also read: Oldest railway stations in India

Kurseong is located on the Hill Cart Road and is known for its tea gardens. These tea estates produce some of the finest teas in the region.


It’s quite possible that your favourite morning cuppa might have started its journey from one of the tea estates here in Kurseong. Some of the popular tea gardens in and around Kurseong include the Ambotia Tea Estate, Castleton Tea Estate, Makaibari Tea Estate, and the Goomtee Tea Estate.


The tea gardens in Kurseong and the surrounding areas are also known for their scenic beauty, and many visitors come to the region to enjoy the picturesque landscapes and fresh mountain air. Visitors can take a tour of these tea gardens, learn about the tea-making process, and sample some of the local brews. Don’t forget to grab yourself some tea souvenirs!



Did you also know that Kurseong is also an important stop on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (also known as the "Toy Train") route?


In fact, the headquarters of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR) is actually located in Kurseong. The railway station in Kurseong serves as an important operational and administrative hub for the DHR, and it is also home to the railway's workshops and training center.



The journey from Kurseong to Darjeeling takes around 3-4 hours, covering a distance of approximately 28 kilometers (17 miles). Along the way, the train passes through several picturesque locations, including tea gardens, dense forests, and quaint hillside villages.


The train makes several stops along the way, including at Sonada and Ghum, which is the highest railway station in India.


On your next visit to Darjeeling, make sure you experience this iconic train ride!