Darjeeling, the breathtaking hill station in the lap of the Himalayas in West Bengal, has been a major global tourist spot for its captivating natural beauty, magnificent wildlife, and serenity. If you are also planning a detoxifying mountain vacation in Darjeeling, buckle up for an all exciting trip in this mesmerizing hill station that nature has perfectly planned for your rejuvenation.
From snow-clad mountain peaks, lush green valleys, emerald tea estates, and pristine streams to diverse flora and fauna, you definitely have some of the best places to visit in Darjeeling. Check them out below to add some of them to your bucket list now.
Tiger Hill
Kick-start your day with the magnificent sunrise view at Tiger Hill, located 2590 meters above sea level and 13 kilometers away from Darjeeling. Tiger hill is actually the peak of the highest railway station Ghoom, from where you can witness the heavenly beauty of the sun-kissed Kanchenjunga peak along with some glimpses of the mighty Mt.Everest and other Himalayan peaks. If you want to witness the fascinating morning sun peek a booing from behind the Kanchenjunga (Khangchendonzga), wake up early to book a comfortable space in the observatory deck at Tiger Hill.
The Heritage Darjeeling Himalayan Railway
Also famously known as the “Darjeeling Toy Train”, first started its fun whistling journey in 1881. When in Darjeeling, don’t miss this opportunity to take a joy ride on this train that covers 80kms from New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling, offering you some majestic hillside views of the valleys and hills, as it whistles through the hilly slopes and narrow tunnels. If you are an avid photographer, you will surely enjoy this journey to get some spectacular shots of the scenic beauty around.
Batasia Loop
Another spectacular railway path amidst the natural serenity is sure to leave you in splits. Located at Hill Cart Road in Ghoom, the Batasia Loop railway track is a sight to behold amidst jaw-dropping scenic beauty. If you want to witness this majestic view up close, choose your base wisely by booking with the best hill resort in Darjeeling, like the Anutrihill hotel, situated in the Upper Batasia. This hotel offers a magnificent view of the Kanchenjunga on the right and Batasia Loop on the left.
The Emerald Tea Estate
If you have a refined taste for tea, visiting the tea estates is a must when in Darjeeling. The captivating beauty of the sprawling tea gardens and the natural refreshing aroma of the fresh tea leaves are a kind of sensual treats you can’t afford to ignore. Here you can also take a guided tour to witness every step of tea making, from flawless plucking of the fresh leaves to processing, and get back home with a pack or batch of authentic Darjeeling tea.
Japanese Peace Pagoda
This Japanese architectural wonder is a major tourist attraction and a monument dedicated to spreading the message of world peace and unity. The Japanese Peace Pagoda is a two-storied white building housing the four avatars of Lord Buddha.
Ghoom Monastery
One of the oldest monasteries was founded in 1850 by Lama Sherab Gyatso, the Ghoom monastery is one of the major and ancient Buddhist pilgrimages in Darjeeling. This monastery houses a 15ft statue of ‘Maitreya Buddha’.
Padmaja Naidu Zoological Park
This is must visit place when in Darjeeling not only because it is the highest-altitude zoo in India but a safe hub for many unknown Himalayan fauna and endangered species. Located 7000ft high, this conservation park has been bestowed with the prestigious ‘Earth Heroes’ in 2014.
Takeaway
So next time you head for a Darjeeling trip to chill solo or with your gang, check in advance with the best resorts in Darjeeling and pay a visit to these sites for a safe, satisfying, and cherishing vacation in the lap of the Himalayas.
