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Discover Darjeeling
Discover Darjeeling

Chimney

The Chimney in Kurseong is a popular tourist attraction situated in the hill town of Kurseong in Darjeeling district, West Bengal. It is an old brick chimney that stands as a remnant of the town’s colonial past, symbolizing its rich history and heritage

The Chimney offers panoramic views of the surrounding tea gardens, valleys, and the majestic Himalayan mountains. It is a serene and tranquil spot where visitors can enjoy the scenic beauty and capture memorable photographs. The Chimney is a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and nature lovers exploring Kurseong.The Chimney at Kurseong is a historic structure built by the British in 1839. Situated on the elevated hills of Kurseong, this tall chimney serves as a viewpoint, offering visitors a mesmerizing panoramic view of the magnificent Mahananda, Balason, and the famous Teesta River on one side. On the other side, it provides a captivating vista of the mighty Kanchenjunga and Sandakphu Hills.

Chimney Travelers Guide

Everything you need to plan and travel to Chimney, from essential travel tips to must-visit attractions and accommodation options, discover the best of this enchanting destination.

Chimney Viewpoint: The iconic chimney structure is a major attraction, offering panoramic views of the surrounding rivers and hills. It provides a perfect vantage point to admire the beauty of the Mahananda, Balason, and Teesta Rivers, as well as the majestic Kanchenjunga and Sandakphu Hills. 

Riverside Walks: The riverside areas in Chimney offer peaceful and scenic walking trails. Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls along the banks of the Mahananda and Balason Rivers, taking in the tranquility and natural beauty of the surroundings.

Tea Gardens: Chimney is surrounded by lush tea gardens, providing a picturesque backdrop to the region. Visitors can explore the tea plantations, learn about tea cultivation and processing, and even indulge in tea-tasting sessions.

Tea Estate Visit: Explore the scenic tea estates and learn about tea cultivation in this charming hillside region.

Hiking Trails: Embark on picturesque hikes through lush forests and rolling hills.

Birdwatching: Spot a variety of bird species in the area’s diverse ecosystem.

Village Walks: Take leisurely walks to experience local culture and interact with friendly villagers.

Photography: Capture stunning landscapes and tea plantation vistas through your lens.

Peaceful Retreat: Enjoy the serene ambiance and peaceful surroundings for relaxation.

Chimney village in Kurseong offers a limited range of accommodations due to its secluded location. Visitors can find homestays and guesthouses that provide a cozy and authentic experience of staying amidst the serene surroundings. 

These accommodations offer basic amenities and warm hospitality, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the tranquility of the village. It is recommended to make prior arrangements and bookings for a comfortable stay in Chimney.

In Chimney village, visitors can savor local delicacies and traditional cuisines prepared by the hospitable locals. The food options predominantly include authentic Nepali and Bengali dishes, along with some popular Indian cuisines. The use of fresh local ingredients adds to the flavors, making the dining experience in Chimney a delightful one.

Chimney village is well-connected by road, and local transport facilities mainly include taxis and shared jeeps. Visitors can easily hire taxis or avail of shared jeeps to travel within and around Chimney. These transportation options provide convenient access to nearby attractions and neighboring towns in the region.

Chimney experiences pleasant temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F) during summer and cooler temperatures of 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F) during winter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to plan and travel to Chimney, from essential travel tips to must-visit attractions and accommodation options, discover the best of this enchanting destination.

Chimney is famous for its iconic chimney, which serves as a viewpoint offering panoramic views of the Mahananda, Balason, and Teesta rivers, as well as the majestic Kanchenjunga and Sandakphu Hills. It is also known for its serene and tranquil environment, making it a perfect destination for peace-seeking travelers.

By Air: The nearest airport to Chimney is Bagdogra Airport. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Chimney, which is approximately a 3-4 hour drive.

By Train: The nearest railway station to Chimney is New Jalpaiguri Railway Station. From the railway station, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Chimney, which is approximately a 3-4 hour journey.

By Road: Chimney is well-connected by road, and you can easily reach there by hiring a taxi or taking a bus from nearby cities like Siliguri or Darjeeling. The journey by road usually takes around 3-4 hours, depending on the traffic and road conditions.

In Chimney, cash is the primary mode of payment for most transactions, including local shops and small eateries. It is recommended to carry sufficient cash as access to ATMs may be limited or non in the area.

A recommended duration for a visit to Chimney is typically 2 to 3 days, depending on your preferences and the activities you plan to engage in.

The best time to visit Chimney is during the months of March to May and October to December when the average temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C. During these months, the weather is pleasant and comfortable for exploring the area. It is advisable to avoid the monsoon season (June to September) when temperatures can vary between 10°C to 20°C and heavy rainfall can disrupt travel plans.

Chimeni, also known as Chimney, served as a refuge for the British during the First World War, and they constructed a towering 24 ft. chimney. Today, this historic chimney, over a century old, stands as a prominent landmark and a popular tourist attraction in the village.

Chimeni or Chimney was once a den of British during the First World War. They built a huge 24 ft. chimney. The gigantic chimney is now more than 100 years old and one of the major attractions of this village.