Kurseong: Nestled in the lush greenery of pine, fir and birch forests, at an altitude of 1,458 m., the picturesque tourist resort of Kurseong is a place of unforgettable charm. 32 km. away from Darjeeling, it is also the place where buses and taxis usually stop on their way between Siliguri and Darjeeling. Famous for its natural bounty of orchids, Kurseong is endearingly called Land of the White Orchid. 

There are several churches and many good schools in Kurseong, of which the Dow Hill Forest School has a beautiful campus. The Forest Museum, the Deer Park, the mini amusement park and the water reservoir - all set amid moss-laden conifers - are worth a visit. The Eagle's Crag is a popular landmark. 

A one kilometre ascent takes one to the top of Dow Hill where a well-developed tourist complex is situated. Standing here on a clear day, one can have a sweeping view of the plains in striking contrast to the hills around. All around are the ubiquitous tea plantations. The Castleton Tea Estate, which produces the world's most expensive tea, is nearby. 

How To Get There 
Kurseong has road links with Darjeeling (32 km.), Siliguri (48 km.), and Mirik (46 km. via Pankhabari and 76 km. via Ghoom). 

Kurseong is a major station on the Toy Train route between Siliguri and Darjeeling. The train stops at Kurseong for a short break before continuing on its way. 

Phalut: Phalut in Tibetan means Peeled Summit or Denuded Peak, which describes it perfectly. Situated 23 km. away from Sandakphu, Phalut stands on the Darjeeling-Sikkim-Nepal border. The Phalut Ridge is part of almost all the trekking routes in the Sikkim-Darjeeling region, and the culminating point of a number of shorter treks. 

The Phalut peak is a universal favourite of trekkers. At an altitude of 3,600 m., it is a vantage point to experience the awesome beauty of the Himalayas. On clear days, one can have a great view of the Kanchenjungha range. The Everest however, remains hidden by peak No. XIII, a mountain shaped like an enormous armchair of snow. 

How To Get There 
Along the Singalila trekking route, Phalut is 21 km. away from Sandakphu. This journey constitutes the third day of the seven-day trek, and is a relatively easier one. On their way, trekkers are greeted by rhododendrons of different hues, magnolias, chestnut oak, and the stately silver fir emerging out of the mysterious mists. The imposing Himalayas loom large on the western horizon. The final stretch is almost bereft of vegetation, owing to the sweeping icy winds. The Phalut peak is the destination and also the stopover for the night.