A famous tourist attraction, Batasia Loop is part of the famous Darjeeling Himalayan Railway in the state of West Bengal. Its popularity among visitors lies in its beauty and uniqueness. At Batasia Loop, the railway track makes a spiral bend and then the toy train enters a tunnel.
Where is Batasia Loop?
One of the greatest engineering feats, Batasia Loop lies almost 5 kilometers from Darjeeling town. Part of the toy-train track between Darjeeling and Ghoom, it was constructed by the British to counter the sharp descent that happens just after the train crosses Ghoom, the highest railway station. As the train completes the circular loop, it descends 140 feet and crosses its own track through a tunnel below. Located on Hill Cart Road, the Batasia loop is situated at an altitude of 7000 meters from sea level. It houses a garden that is 50000 square feet covered with grass and beautified with seasonal and perennial flowers and shrubs.
Why visit Batasia Loop?
First and foremost, Batasia Loop is a treat for the eyes. The stunning visual landscape with the backdrop of snowy mountains sure leaves a person in awe of the beauty of the place. The word ‘batasia’ literally, means an airy space. If you are looking for a weekend gateway to unwind yourself, then Batasia Loop is a perfect place to rejuvenate in the lap of nature surrounded by snow-clad mountains.
Things to do at Batasia Loop
As one walks through the sprawling garden around which the rail track is laid, a spectacular panoramic view is witnessed with the Darjeeling town on one side and the snow-covered peaks of the Eastern Himalayas on the other. The magnificent view of Batasia Loop can also be enjoyed by sitting in the peaceful and serene environment of the garden. You can take a stroll around the loop to complete the one spiral which is an exciting experience.
You can see the war memorial that was built in the year of 1995 at the center of Batasia Loop to honor the Gorkha soldiers who laid down their lives for the independence of our country. A cenotaph built next to a 3-meter-high statue of a Gorkha soldier has the roll of honor of the soldiers along with the dates.
There is an Eco Garden at Batasia Loop which houses many species of rare plants and flowers. It is an exciting tourist attraction as you get to know unique information.
As you cross the exit area, you will find a local market just outside the loop area. There are stalls of local relishes like shingaras and samosas. Stalls of bags, hats, and other decorative items are there.
How to reach Batasia Loop?
Batasia Loop can be reached by boarding the toy train from Darjeeling town. Generally, the toy train from Darjeeling runs twice a day while during tourist season it may run four times a day. By road, it takes around 20 minutes to reach Batasia Loop from Darjeeling town via National Highway 55. You can board a taxi or bus. You can visit Batasia Loop from 5 am to 8 pm any day of the week. The entry fee is INR 15/- per person.
Where to stay?
If you want to wake up to the stunning view of Batasia Loop then your first and best choice is Anutri Hill Resort. Located at Upper Batasia, Anutri Hill Resort offers a panoramic view of the gorgeous Kanchenjunga on the right and the majestic Batasia Loop on the left. To make your stay at Batasia Loop more luxurious and fulfilling, the resort offers a range of rooms starting from only INR 5000/-. Whether you want to spend quality time with your family or have a happening weekend with your friends, at Anutri Hill Resort you will find packages tailor-made for you.
