Coronation Bridge and the Teesta gorge at Sevoke
The Coronation Bridge was named for the coronation of King George VI in 1937, when its foundation stone was laid, and finished in 1941. The river bed was too deep and fast for piers, so the bridge rests on a single fixed arch anchored into rock on either side. It still carries traffic towards the Dooars and Assam.
Just before the bridge, steps climb from the road to the Sevokeshwari Kali temple, a busy shrine for travellers on the hill roads. Stand at the viewpoints to watch the Teesta come out of its gorge into the plains. It is a fine short trip, but do not stop on the bridge itself; traffic is heavy and stopping is not allowed.
Questions travellers ask
Good to know
How far is the Coronation Bridge from Siliguri?
The bridge is at Sevoke, about 20 km from Siliguri, 40 minutes to an hour by car depending on traffic. Shared autos and buses go towards Sevoke, but a reserved car is easier and lets you stop at Salugara on the way. Expect to pay around ₹1,200–2,000 for a return trip with waiting time.
Can I walk on the Coronation Bridge?
The bridge is a narrow working road with heavy trucks, and stopping on it is not permitted. The safest views are from the roadside viewpoints and the area near the Sevokeshwari Kali temple. Photographers should use those spots and keep clear of traffic. In the monsoon, watch for landslides on the hillsides above the road.
Is Sevoke on the way to Gangtok or the Dooars?
Yes. Sevoke is where the road to Gangtok and Kalimpong (National Highway 10) leaves the plains and enters the Teesta valley, and the Coronation Bridge carries the road east to the Dooars. If you are heading to Gangtok, Kalimpong or Gorumara, you will pass the area anyway, so a short photo stop needs no extra trip.
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