Darjeeling
Travel Information
Travel Information
Located at a distance of 3km from the city of Darjeeling, Batasia Loop is one of the popular tourist sites that attracts tourists in a huge number. Nestled on top of the Ghoom station the place is situated on a garden that is surrounded by a rail route which welcomes the world famous toy train taking 1 full round of the park before leaving to the next station. The backdrop of the Himalayas with lush gardens and the beauty of toy trains make a picturesque view of the valley. Nearby Attractions: Guru Sakya Monastery, Ghoom Monastery, Japanese Peace Pagoda.
Tiger Hill is a place located on top of Senchal Lake at an elevation of 2,590 meters above sea level. The site is a tourist hub that offers one of the best sunrise views you can ever see. The sunrise behind the crystal peak of Mt Kanchenjunga scattering golden rays of light is a moment that every tourist dreams of. From the panoramic view of the Himalayas to the scenic view of the surrounding mountains, Tiger Hill is a must-visit place in Darjeeling. Nearby attractions: Senchal Lake, Chatakpur, Senchal Temple.
If you have an interest in witnessing the Himalayan wildlife then Padmaja Naidu Zoo is the best place for you to visit in Darjeeling. Established in the year 1958 the place was built in the name of the former governor of West Bengal, Padmaja Naidu. The zoo offers tourists to witness some of the rare and endangered animal species such as the Red Panda, Royal Bengal Tiger, Himalayan Wolf, Yak and many more. The park is known for being one of the largest natural habitats for red panda in India. Nearby attractions: Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, Nightingale Park.
Filled with an abundance of nature’s bounty and offering the scenic beauty of the Himalayan region, Nightingale Park is another popular tourist attraction point of the city. Due to its serene vibes, and pleasant environment, the park is common among couples for spending a peaceful time with their loved ones. The park also includes a statue of lord Shiva placed on top of the park that marks a landmark of the park. Nearby attractions: Chowrasta, Padmaja Naidu Zoological Park.
Established in the year 1878 by William Lloyd, the botanical park is a part of a historical monument made in the colonial era. It is one of the oldest parks of Darjeeling and inhabits more than 150 species of cacti and a huge variety of orchid plants that are unique on their own. Situated at a height of 6000 ft is one of the most popular sites to visit in Darjeeling. Nearby places: Zoological Park, Victoria Falls.
Situated at a distance of 23 km from the city of Darjeeling, Lamahatta is one of the most beautiful places to visit. Established as an eco-tourism place, Lamahatta was established by the government of webs Bengal in the year 2012. Surrounded by alpine trees and lush greenery the place offers the best view of the nearby valleys and rivers. With pleasant weather and a quiet environment, the park is an ideal place for spending quality time with your loved ones. Nearby attractions: Lamahatta Eco Park, Sacred Lake, Gari Danda Fort. Lamahatta Monastery.
Built in the year 1972 by Nichidatsu Fujii, Peace Pagoda is one of the sacred places of Darjeeling. With a backdrop of lush alpine trees, and a scenic view of the Himalayas, the place is perfect for people in search of peace and spirituality. The place comprises a giant stupa that was made as a symbol of peace among the religions of the world. Peace Pagoda of Darjeeling is one of the 80 peace pagodas located all over the world. Nearby attractions: Batasia Loop, Ghoom Monastery, Tiger Hill.
Bagdogra airport is the nearest airport from the city of Darjeeling located at a distance of 68 km. From here tourists can take private taxis or shared taxis which take a journey of around 3 hrs to reach the city of Darjeeling.
NJP is the nearest railway station located at a distance of 70 km from where tourist can take toy train to reach the city of Darjeeling.
Hoping into taxi from Siliguri and travelling through the road while enjoying the beautiful valleys and scenic beauty of Darjeeling and its nearby areas.
Being situated at an elevation of 2045 m Darjeeling is known for its subtropical climate with annual precipitation of 3100 mm. Although Darjeeling is regarded best for tourism throughout the year, the month of April to June is regarded as the best time to visit the ‘Queen of Hills’. Some people also prefer to visit during the winter. The average temperature of Darjeeling is 16 degrees Celsius which can drop as low as 5 degrees Celsius during winters.
Darjeeling once used to be the esteemed part of Sikkim that was annexed by the East Indian Company after the signing of the treaty between Nepal and Sikkim. The British people used Darjeeling as a place for summer retreats. Due to its proximity to Nepal and Bhutan, Darjeeling served as a British outpost in the Himalayas till the independence of India. The city was under colonial rule for over a decade where British made excellent monuments each of which reflects the architecture of the colonial era some of which can still be seen in the hills of Darjeeling.
Darjeeling with its lush tea gardens, snow peaks and breathtaking beauty is regarded as one of the best hill resorts in the world. The city is also one of the most visited hill stations of India and highly contributes towards the tourism of West Bengal. Due to its backdrop of the Himalayas, diverse wildlife, and vibrant culture, the city has gained the name of ‘The Queen of Hills’ which attracts tourists from all over the world. Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR) is the heritage of Darjeeling which was added to the list of World Heritage Sites by UNESCO in 1999.
Darjeeling is highly known for its rich culture which can be seen in its traditions, clothing, art and crafts. The hill station earlier being part of Sikkim has huge similarities in their traditions and arts. The folk dance and songs are the major part of their traditional culture which can be observed on the eve of festivals and religious events. Although diverse community coexists together, Hinduism and Buddhism are the religions that are mostly followed by the people of Darjeeling.
The city of Darjeeling inhabits a diverse community that lives together cheerfully. Lepchas are the oldest inhabitants of Darjeeling who prefer them to be called Rongpa. The people are calm and friendly with a huge interest in dance music that is performed during festivals or celebrating religious events. The city is renowned for its hosting music festivals which include performances from some of the biggest musical bands from India attracting music lovers from all over the world.
Besides being known for its rich wildlife and scenic nature, food is one of the main parts of Darjeeling that is popular worldwide. Rice and meat are the staple diet of the people. Each of the dishes is prepared using regional spices and seasonal vegetables. Momo, Shaphaley, Alu Dum, and Kinema are some of the popular dishes in Darjeeling. Visitors can also relish to authentic cuisines of Darjeeling in some of the most popular hotels and restaurants that date back to the colonial era.
Trekking along the tough terrains and snow peaks to reach some of the highest motorable passes is one of the most exciting activities to indulge in Darjeeling. Sandakhphu is the highest peak in Darjeeling that offers trekking activities to the tourist.
Tourists can also take a short walk to the local market where they can explore local arts and crafts that can be taken as a souvenirs. The shop also offers a wide range of street foods such as Momo, Thukpa, Shaphaley and many more.
The trip to Darjeeling will be incomplete without having witnessed the beauty of the sunrise from the tiger hill. The place can either be reached by a vehicle or through trekking through the valley of Senchal.
Darjeeling toy train is a part of cultural heritage and having a ride on the toy train is among the most popular activities to do in Darjeeling. The journey takes you through the dense valleys while offering beautiful views of the Darjeeling city.
Tourists can also take a visit to explore the vastly spread tea gardens that create a wonderful view. Darjeeling tea is one of the most consumed beverages that are popular worldwide for its unique colour and taste.
Travelling across the valleys of Darjeeling in a cable car is one of the most exciting activities to indulge in. The 45-minute-long journey offers its passengers the top view of the city along with its nearby valleys and scenic views of the Himalayas.
Despite being known for scenic beauty and food cuisines, Darjeeling also includes a range of offbeat destinations that offer various activities such as trekking camping and many more that can elevate the quality of your vacation
Darjeeling is a paradise for food lovers as it offers diverse dishes each of which are prepared using traditional methods and regional spices. Momo, Shaphaley, and Thukpa are some of the must-try dishes of Darjeeling.
