Overview
Nestled in the eastern rage of the Himalayas, Darjeeling , full of pinewoods and Junipers, was earlier a part of the Kingdom of Sikkim. It merged with State of West Bengal after Independence and remains one of the most frequent hill stations of the east. Darjeeling means ‘the abode of the gods’ and at 6700ft. It is an enchanting hill station full of adventures. Darjeeling also known as ‘Queen of the Hills ‘. Darjeeling known primarily for its tea Industry and salubrious weather, this district includes the surrounding hills of Kurseong , Mirik, Kalimpong and Teari areas of Siliguri.
One of the most joyous activities in Darjeeling is to go on the Toy Train Joy Ride that runs between Darjeeling and Ghum (8KM ) a two hour round trip. Part of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR), under Indian Railways, which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999. The train has both Steam (Coal Fired ) and Diesel engines operating on the line, though most visitors seem to opt the former for its authenticity, not to mention its loud fog horn. The narrow gauge about 2f-ft wide, the runs along the road via Kurseong to New Jalpaiguri and provides picturesque vistas of the hills. At an altitude of 7, 407 ft, Ghum is not just the highest point on the DHR but also the highest Railway station in India.
Each morning , muffler -wrapped tourists make the procession towards Tiger Hill. One of the most highly recommended activities in Darjeeling is to watch the majestic sunrise from its highest point. As sun begins its ascent, it bathes the Kanchenjungha in an orange glow. Incidentally, owing to its height, it is also one of the points in West Bengal from where Mt Everest is visible.
Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park Commonly known as Darjeeling Zoo. This is the largest high altitude zoo in India. Opened in 1958, it has been recognized internationally for its excellent work in breeding animals suited to alpine conditions. From majestic snow leopards, black leopards, and Royal Bengal tigers to several species of deer, Tibetan wolves and exotic birds, the animals are kept in well maintained, semi natural enclosures. It has successfully bred endangered species such as Red Padas, which are mesmerizing to watch . Spread across 67acres, the premises also house the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute and the Bengal Natural History Museum . Ther is a combine entry free for all three.
A quintessential element of visiting Darjeeling is to take part in a Tea Testing at any of its major tea gardens. Some of the world’s best tea estates are situated here and offer several activities that give you a good taste of Tea Tourism. Head over to the sprawling estates of Makaibari, Thurbo, Castleton, Margarets Hope and Badamtam to see how tea is processed or enter their tearooms to fully svour the magnificence of Darjeeling, the champagne of teas.
As you enter the confines of Darjeeling , all roads lead to Chowrasta, the heart of the City.. This place is a major tourist hangout . Enjoy a cob of corn or take a horse ride around the famous Chakkar. You can venture into Habib Mallick and Sons for curios, or leisurely brows books at the Oxford Book Stor and take in colonial interiors. Keventer’s is known for its breakfast spreads. Penang has some of the best Tibetan food. For steaming thukpa, momos, Chilly chutney, try Dekevas. Glenary’s home made chocolates, gooey eclairs, pastries, roast chicken sandwich and soft warm bread earned it the reputation of being the best confectioner in the region down the decades. Park restaurant is one of Darjeeling’s bedt option for Indian food. Dafey Munal is a good place for light meals and desserts. Hasty Tasty is a nice place for vegetarian meals.
Excursions opportunity from Darjeeling are Mirik Lake Via Pashupati(Nepal border), Lepcha jagat, Lamahatta, Bijan Bari, Tinchule, Chatakpur, Mongpu etc. Adventure Tourists can explore Singalila national Park . Covering 78.60 sq km, Singalila is one of India’s smaller parks. The highest point of the Singalila Ridge in Darjeeling District, located near the West Bengal-Nepal Border, Sandakhphu(3636m) has become an extremely popular trekking destination. The peak is located at the edge of the Singalila National Park. Its summit boasts aw-inspiring views of some of the highest mountains of the world, including Everest and Kanchenjunga.