DARJELLING

Darjeeling (hill station)

About:-

Darjeeling is a hill station with vast expanses of tea estates and Tibetan influence in their craft, culture and cuisine.

Famous for its beautiful tea plantations and the quality of Darjeeling tea, Darjeeling is a delight for all kind of tourists. The toy train established back in 1881, still runs in this part and is also one of the UNESCO World Heritage sites. Beautiful colonial architecture including mansions and churches dot this little beautiful town.

Darjeeling is brimming with cultural diversity. The third highest peak in the world and the highest in India, the Kanchenjunga peak is clearly visible from here and you can enjoy a panoramic view of the peak. Some of Darjeeling's most popular attractions include monasteries, botanical gardens, a zoo, and the Darjeeling-Rangeet Valley Passenger Ropeway cable car which happens to be the longest Asian cable car. Darjeeling is a wonderful place to walk around and explore the tea estates, villages, and markets.

ATTRACTIONS & PLACES TO VISIT AND EXPLORE IN DARJEELING

RELIGIOUS DARJEELING

1. The Peace Pagoda

The Japanese Peace Pagoda on the slopes of Jalaphar Hill is a short distance from the town and showcases the four avatars of Buddha, including the Maitreya Buddha. It is open to people of all races and creeds and is purposely made to propagate peace and prosperity in the world. The Japanese Peace Pagoda was made under the supervision of a devout Japanese monk called Nichidatsu Fujii (1885-1985), who is also revered as the founder of the Nipponzan-Myōhōji Buddhist Order. The pagoda took about 20 years to build; i.e. from 1972 to 1992.

Opening Closing Time: -          9 am to 6 pm

Entrance Fee:-                          Free Entry

2. The Ghoom Monastery in Darjeeling

The Ghoom Monastery, built in 1875 by a lama called Sherab Gyatso, is the largest in Ghoom (8 kilometres from the city of Darjeeling) and holds the statue of the Maitreya Buddha, believed to be ‘The Buddha to Come’. The statue is a whopping 15 feet in height. Also known as the Yiga Choeling Monastery, Ghoom Monastery preserves some rare, handwritten Buddhist manuscripts. The monks of Ghoom Monastery follow the Gelugpa order of Buddhism.

Opening Closing Time: -            10 am to 6 pm

Entrance Fee: -                            Free Entry

3. Mag-Dhog Yolmowa Monastery in Darjeeling

The Mag-Dhog Yolmowa Monastery, locally known as Aloobari after its location, dedicated to world peace is a popular sight on the Old Military Road. Its construction started in 1914 with the intention of warding off World War I under the supervision of Sri Sangay Lama, a high priest of the Yolmowa - a community that is a native of north-east Nepal and is now living in Darjeeling.

The monastery houses many idols of Lord Buddha and Padmasambhava along with ancient Buddhist manuscripts and beautiful paintings believed to have been done using grass and herbs.

4. The Bhutia Busty Gompa in Darjeeling

The Bhutia Busty Gompa is a beautiful walk uphill from the busy Mall Road of Darjeeling through a narrow meandering road. The road, passing by a few houses, finally opens up to verdant trees with just the sound of cool breeze whispering on your ears. The monastery is a bit off-route and hence often missed by tourists, which makes it a perfect place for people looking to spend some time amid serene environs. The Bhutia Busty Gompa has a library that has several rare scriptures; one among them is The Tibetan Book of the Dead.

Opening Closing Time: -         9 am to 6 pm

Entrance Fee: -                        Free Entry

5. Dhirdham and Mahakal Temples in Darjeeling

Dhirdham Temple is a Hindu temple deeply inspired by Tibetan and Buddhist architectural styles. It was built by Rai Saheb Purna Bahadur Pradhan in 1939. There is a statue of Lord Shiva here that represents the five different expressions of Lord Shiva in five situations and the third eye. Aartis are held at 8 am and 6 pm here every day. It is located close to the Darjeeling Railway Station.

Situated atop the Observatory Hill, the Mahakal temple offers one of most beautiful and curious religious observations.  Three shiva-lingas representing Brahma, Vishnu and Maheshwar are believed to have been manifested here. Devotees walk around the shrine barefoot while ringing the bells placed around it. Hundreds of prayer flags tied to the shrine and trees that flutter in the breeze add to the peace and quiet here.

These holy sites are popular with the followers of both Buddhism and Hinduism.

Parks and Gardens in Darjeeling

1. Tea Plantations in Darjeeling

A visit to a tea plantation is a must when in Darjeeling. There are more than 86 gardens that produce the famous Darjeeling tea. Visit tea estates and take a guided tour and learn all that goes in to processing tea. The estates in this region are renowned for the high quality Dooars and Terai teas. You can get a taste of all these teas at the plantations itself for Rs. 5 to Rs. 10. Else you can always visit the mall road for a tea tasting sessions at the shops of Nathmulls and Golden Tips tea.

2. Batasia Loop in Darjeeling

Reach Batasia loop at nine in the morning and you'll see the most amazing spectacle ever - shopkeepers with their little makeshift stalls and curio-spreads on the railway lines wrap up their business with superb agility and speed as the Toy Train arrives to traverse this little loop.

On a clear day, the Batasia Loop renders clear views of the surrounding valleys and mountains.

3. Himalayan Mountaineering Institute and Zoo in Darjeeling

The Himalayan Mountaineering Institute was established by Tenzing Norgay, the sherpa who, along with Sir Edmund Hillary, reached the summit of Mount Everest. The campus has a memorial for him, and it also houses a museum that showcases mountaineering equipment. These include the ones that Tenzing Norgay used. The Mountaineering Institute also has a small zoological park that houses various species of Himalayan animals.

Opening Closing Time: -   9 am to 6 pm

For Kids

The wildlife at the zoo keeps the excitement levels high for kids. Spot the rare Red Panda, Snow Leopard, Himalayan Deer and Black Bear. Among the birds, the majestic macaw is the biggest attraction.

Entrance Fee:-      Free Entry

4. Neora Valley National Park in Darjeeling

The Neora Valley National Park is a region of rich biodiversity, situated in the beautiful Darjeeling district of West Bengal. This wildlife reserve falls in the catchment area of the Neora River and shares its boundaries with similar establishments of Sikkim and Bhutan. This wildlife conservation spot was notified as a national park in 1992.

More than 31 types of mammals, 258 bird species, 276 insects, 38 other invertebrates and six types of leeches inhabit the park. Himalayan Tahr, Black Bear, Sambar, Barking Deer, Goral, Tiger, Leopard, Chinese Marmorata Pangolin and Malayan Giant Squirrel can be spotted in the park. This region is also considered important.

Opening Closing Time: -   06:00 am – 06:00 pm (Daily)

Photo Opp

The rich flora and fauna of Neora Valley National Park make it a paradise for nature and wildlife photography. You can also capture the captivating panorama of the Kanchendzonga range, which lies in the backdrop of this national park.

For Kids

A trip to Neora Valley National Park will acquaint kids with the splendid biodiversity of the Eastern Himalayas, especially the forested regions of West Bengal.

Entrance Fee: -         Free Entry

5. Lloyd's Botanical Garden in Darjeeling

Lloyd's Botanical Garden is one of the oldest establishments of its kind, located in the heart of Darjeeling. The garden, established in 1878, was named after William Lloyd, who provided the required land for it. Sprawling across an area of 40 acres, it is dotted with tall trees of bamboo and oak. Carpeted with flowers of Rhododendron, Geranium, Magnolia and Cotoneaster, the garden gets covered with different hues of nature with the arrival of spring. Rare and endemic orchids found in the Singalila Ridge are also preserved in this botanical garden, which also has an amazing collection of 150 cactus and succulent plant species.

The rich variety of flora preserved in this place makes it a paradise for both botanists and nature lovers. Another highlight of Lloyd's Botanical Garden is the pair of living fossils, which have been preserved here with utmost care.

Opening Closing Time: - 06:00 am – 05:00 pm (Daily)

Photo Opp

With abundant greenery in every direction, this botanical garden forms a wonderful background for beautiful photographs. You can click pictures of several rare plants, trees and flowers that are preserved in this garden.

For Kids

Lloyd's Botanical Garden provides a wonderful opportunity for kids to learn about native and rare flora of West Bengal.

NATURAL ATTRACTIONS IN DARJEELING

1. Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary In Darjeeling

"Lying in the Eastern Himalayan foothills in Jalpaiguri district, the Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary offers 960.31 hectares of fabulous scenery and rare flora and fauna. The name of this wildlife refuge is derived from two words- 'Chapra'- meaning a variety of fish and 'Mari'- meaning abundance. Earlier a notified wildlife reserve, this place was declared a sanctuary in 1998 by the government of India. The rich biodiversity of this protected region makes it a paradise for nature lovers and animals. Elephants, Indian Bison, Royal Bengal Tiger and Leopard are the main animals inhabiting the sanctuary. Birds like Peafowls, Parrots, Kingfishers, Green Pigeons, Partridges and Hornbills also flock in the region, making it an ideal haunt of birdwatchers. The views of the Kanchenjunga and other lofty mountains beyond expansive patches of lush vegetation from this sanctuary are truly breathtaking. "

Opening Closing Time: -

06:00 am to 06:00 pm - Open all days, Closed during the rainy season (June 16th – September 15th)

Photo Opp

Tourists can click countless photographs on their trip to the Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary. The animals and avian species in their natural elements are unique sights that you won't want to miss clicking. Furthermore, the distant mountain ranges, lofty trees and undulating terrains can be awesome backdrops for you to pose in style and get clicked.

For Kids

The Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary is an ideal place for kids to visit. A trip to this sanctuary would definitely enlighten people of all age groups about the rich flora and fauna of West Bengal and the Himalayan terrains.

2. Himalayan Mountaineering Institute in Darjeeling

The Himalayan Mountaineering Institute (HMI) is a premier organisation, which is engaged in the promotion of mountaineering as an organised sport like any other game in India. Inception of this institute took place after the successful and historic climb of Mount Everest by Tenzing Norgay and Edmund Hillary in the year 1953. To encourage the youth to take up the adventurous activity of mountaineering as a sport, HMI was established in 1954 on 4th November.

Another highlight of HMI is its mountaineering museum, which was founded in the year 1957. A fine assortment of paintings, literary works, artefacts and models related to life in mountains is showcased at this museum. The historic scientific equipment named Hitler's Telescope is also preserved in this museum, by using which you can view the lofty Khangchendzonga. The Everest section of this museum features tools, maps and other articles that were used during the several attempts to climb this peak.

Opening Closing Time

09:00 am – 01:00 pm and 02:00 pm – 05:00 pm

Open all days, except Tuesday

Photo Opp

The Himalayan Mountaineering Institute serves as a perfect place for nature photography owing to its beautiful surroundings. The distant yet stunning vista of Mount Kanchenjunga is worth capturing in your camera.

For Kids

HMI conducts special mountaineering and rock climbing courses for children, which encourage them to opt for this adventurous sport. Kids taking part in these courses would learn about this fabulous activity, which would inculcate the traits of confidence and bravery in them.

Entrance Fee: -   Rs. 40

3. Kanchenjunga Mountain in Darjeeling

With a height of 8586 m, the imposing Kanchenjunga Mountain enjoys the position of being the third highest mountain in the world. This towering mountain touches the eastern border of Nepal along with the Indian state of Sikkim. The word ‘Kanchenjunga’ in Tibetan means ‘the five treasure houses of snow’. Travellers can enjoy some really fantastic views of the Kanchenjunga Mountain from the popular sites of Darjeeling, such as the Tiger Hill and Darjeeling War Memorial.

The area surrounding this mountain is believed to be home to the snow leopard, Himalayan black bear and Assamese macaque. Adding to the beauty of this place are cascading waterfalls, verdant plantation and varied species of plants.

Photo Opp

Starting from pristine forests to enthralling views of the snow-covered hills, you will get ample opportunities to take snapshots of a host of beautiful sights.

4. Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park in Darjeeling

Sprawling across 67.56 acres, at an elevation of 7000 feet above the plains, the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park is recognised as the largest high-altitude zoo in the country. The Department of Science and Technology (Government of India) and Department of Education (Government of West Bengal) joined hands to establish the park on 14th August, 1958.

Previously known as the 'Himalayan Zoological Park', the park got its present name in 1975  this wildlife park is renowned for specialising in conservation breeding programmes of Snow Leopards, Tibetan Wolf, Red Panda and other endangered fauna of Eastern Himalayas.

Opening Closing Time: -

08:30 am – 04:30 pm (Summer) and 08:30 am – 04:00 pm (Winter)

Open all days, except Thursday

5. Bindu Dam in Darjeeling

Bindu Dam, located in Bindu Village of West Bengal, is built across the Jaldhaka River. The main purpose of the construction of this dam was to control the supply of water to the Jaldhaka Hydel Project at Jhalong. Situated on the Indo-Bhutan border, this dam is a heaven for birdwatchers. Owing to its serene and peaceful location, the place has become a popular tourist spot in the area. Moreover, the forest bordering the dam is quite famous among adventure seekers as it gives ample opportunities to enjoy activities like trekking and hiking.

Photo Opp

The location of the dam offers good shots of the gushing river and hilly surroundings. So, don’t miss the opportunity to capture some beautiful photographs here.

6. Kawlay Dara View Point in Darjeeling

Kawlay Dara View Point in Mirik is the best place to enjoy remarkable views of the snow-clad Himalayan mountain ranges and lush greenery. A major tourist spot, this viewpoint is an ideal place to witness sunrise above the misty mountains. You will be enchanted by the fascinating views of the sunrays falling on the mountains, creating a picture-perfect moment. Dense evergreen forests, tea estates and orange orchards are also visible from this viewpoint.

Travellers can reach this point quite easily as a number of taxis and local buses are available from nearby places like Darjeeling, Siliguri and Bagdogra.

Opening Closing Time: -     Sunrise – Sunset (Daily)

Photo Opp

Kawlay Dara View Point with mesmerising surroundings offers best photo opportunities. You can capture breathtaking views of the sunrise and sunset from this point.

7. Samthar Plateau in Darjeeling

Samthar Plateau, in the Kalimpong region of West Bengal, is a picturesque highland ideal for adventure seekers. Owing to its undulating terrains, the plateau serves as a perfect spot for enjoying adventurous activities like hiking, mountain biking and nature exploration. Located at an elevation of about 1,400 m in the foothills of the mighty Himalayas, this scenic destination features terraced fields, mountain streams and thatch huts that add to its natural beauty. Moreover, this place is also considered a heaven for birdwatchers and nature lovers.

Photo Opp

Samthar Plateau is an ideal place for photo shoots owing to its beautiful landscape. Pose against the beautiful backdrop or get clicked on a bike - all geared up in a biker’s jacket.

Darjeeling Toy Train in Darjeeling

The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, also known as the Darjeeling Toy Train, is a prominent crowd-puller in the beautiful hill station of West Bengal. It is an outstanding engineering marvel, noted for being the best example of a hill passenger railway. This narrow (2 feet) train, listed as a World Heritage by UNESCO, takes you on 83 km long rail journey from Darjeeling to the railhead in Siliguri. This journey is an amazing way to ascent hilly terrains and to behold stunning views of the majestic Himalayas. 

The joy ride in this train commences at New Jalpaiguri, the busiest station in the plains. It then crosses and halts at various spots, such as the Siliguri Station, Mahanadi Bridge, Sukna Station, Rangtang Station and Ghoom. From there, the train finally descends four miles towards Darjeeling. En route, the train passes through many loops, the prominent one being the Batasia Loop, where the toy train makes a 360 degree turn. At this point, you will feel as if you have stepped into a fantasy world, where the bewitching panorama is simply out of the world. Despite being 7 to 8 hours expedition uphill, the ride in this train is a memorable experience.

Opening Closing Time: -     09:00 am – 04:15 pm (Daily)

Photo Opp

The entire journey takes you to beautiful places. You can capture these amazing views in your camera so as to cherish them forever.

Entrance Fee: -      Rs. 360 per person

How to Rich Darjeeling

By Air

Bagdogra Airport is the nearest air connection which is 96 kilometres away from Darjeeling. Many carriers like Air India, Jet Airways, Spice Jet, Indigo, Go Air run direct flights from Delhi, Guwahati and Kolkata to Darjeeling.

By Train

The Darjeeling railway station is administered by the Darjeeling Himalayan Railways (DHR). The nearest railway station in Darjeeling is at New Jalpaiguri (62 kilometres from the main town) which connects major Indian cities like Kolkata, Delhi, Guwahati, Chennai, Mumbai, Bangalore, Bhubaneshwar and Cochin. The DHR Toy Train service starts at New Jalpaiguri and will get you to Darjeeling at a speed no faster than 30 miles per hour. It takes 7 hours and halts at Batasia Loop from where passengers can take photographic shots of Mt. Kanchenjunga.

Road/Self Drive

The road network in Darjeeling is quite good and one can easily venture out to Darjeeling from nearby cities like Siliguri, Kalimpong and Kurseong. En route, you can also enjoy stunning mountain beauty as well as the green environs.