Pay A Visit to Darjeeling
Retaining a quaint colonial aura, Darjeeling, the Queen of Hills rests on the serene lap of the lesser Himalayas in the state of West Bengal. Inhabited by the multiracial and some of the oldest tribes in the world, Darjeeling is a splendid Hill station that provides a rejuvenating retreat when the most part of India encounters with the raging heat of summer.
Darjeeling obtained its name from the Tibetan words, Dorje-Ling, which is interpreted as, "the place where the thunderbolt resides". The name got modified with the arrival of British in the 19th century. The cold weather similar to that of Britain and a feasible site encouraged the establishment of a resort and a sanatorium for the British soldiers. Its elevation of 6,700 feet allows the awe-inspiring confrontation with the majestic Mount Everest- the loftiest mountain in the world, and Kanchenjunga Peak- the third highest mountain in the world. The quaint province is the treat to the eyes and soul.
It's massive areas are submerged under the breathtakingly beautiful tea gardens, and Darjeeling Tea is internationally acclaimed for its distinctive aroma and flavor. The place breathes under the serene and ethereal spell of nature. Besides exploring the nature, the charming region encourages trekking, hiking, mountaineering, paragliding, etc. The perennial Teesta River provides adventurous white water rafting and angling. The ancient Tibetan monasteries and Japanese peace pagoda perfectly imbue tranquility in the heart of the explorers. British Schools, Gothic Church, Heritage Hotels, British cottages keep the Colonial charm alive. Toy Train known as Darjeeling Himalayan Railway(DHR) is reputed as UNESCO World Heritage Site and is worth a ride for a life enhancing experience. Immensely endowed by nature's brilliance, the ineffable Darjeeling is the ultimate dream destination for the wanderlusts worldwide.
Places of Interest
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Tiger Hill -
Toy Train Ride and Batasia Loop
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Japanese Peace Pagoda
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Nightingale Park
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Sandakphu Peak
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Rock Garden
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Senchal Lake and Wildlife Sanctuary
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Happy Valley Tea Estate
Tiger Hill
Located at an elevation of 2,590 meters and at a distance of 13km from the town, Tiger Hill is the intriguing sunrise view point to testify the arrival of dawn. Witness the first rays of the sun painting the twin peaks of Kanchenjunga and the majestic Mount Everest with its golden hues.
Toy Train Ride and Batasia Loop
This breathtaking spiral railway track is located 5km from the town. It's where the Toy Train takes a circular turn of 360 degrees. The loop favors the view of Kanchenjunga Peaks, the Toy Train whistling through the loop, a beautiful flower garden, and memorial of the Indian Army Gorkhas Soldiers.
Japanese Peace Pagoda
Japanese peace pagoda is the epitome of peace worldwide. The whitewashed pagoda was constructed under the supervision of Japanese monk Nichidatsu Fuji. It truly retains an ambiance of tranquility and solitude.
Nightingale Park
Formerly it was a private courtyard and was known as "the Shrubbery". Featuring a giant statue of Shiva and a musical fountain with stunning views, Nightingale Park is a perfect retreat from the boisterous crowds.
Sandakphu Peak
Sandakphu Peak, 11,941 feet, is the highest peak of West Bengal and a paradise for nature lovers with more than 600 varieties of orchids alone. Located adjacent to Nepal and Singalila Peak, Sandakphu Peak is often called as "the mountain of poisonous plants" due to the existence of Himalayan Cobra Lilies here. Sandakphu is famous for trekking, that leads through the tough trails and vales, land covered with lush greens, wildflowers, primulas, magnolias, and rhododendron bloomed forests.
Rock Garden
Located at an approx distance of 10 km away from the town, Rock Garden features the beautiful and gorgeous flower beds, peaceful atmosphere, cool air, and a waterfall, that turns a quite fascinating view during monsoons. Even the benches are carved out by cutting the rocks at various levels.
Senchal Lake and Wildlife Sanctuary
Established in 1915, it is one of the oldest wildlife sanctuaries in India. Located approximately at a distance of 11 km from the town this place is a haven for the wildlife enthusiasts. Apart from exotic birds, flora, and faunas, Senchal Lake located inside the sanctuary is the crucial appeal.
Happy Valley Tea Estate
Located at a distance of 3 km from the town, it spreads over an area of 437 acres. This immensely vast and fascinating Happy Valley Tea Estate is the oldest tea estate of Darjeeling that is established in 1854. Experience a sense of contentment while strolling through the lush green tea gardens inhaling the air that is blended with the aroma blooming tea bushes.
How to reach
Airways
The nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport, which is 88kms from Darjeeling. Direct domestic airlines available are Air India, Jet Airways, Indigo, etc. that operates from Delhi, Kolkata, and Guwahati, on daily basis. Druk Air (international) operates from Paro, Kathmandu, and Bangkok every week.
Railways
The Nearest Railway station is NJP, which is located at a distance of 10km from Siliguri. NJP is a major rail network of North Bengal that is linked to the major Indian cities. The famous Toy Train operates from NJP to Ghoom railway station at certain intervals. But we recommend Toy Train Ride for sightseeing and jungle safari because it moves at snail pace consuming 6-8 hours to reach Darjeeling instead of just 2.5-3 hours.
Roadways
Darjeeling is well connected to other major towns by road. Your road trip to Darjeeling begins from your arrival at Airport/Railway Station. Siliguri, the en route to Darjeeling has a provision for instant car rental alternatives and shared vehicles.
