It is of no surprise that Darjeeling is one of the obvious destinations on your yearly holiday bucket list, especially if you are an avid photographer. The Himalayan mountain ranges, lush tea gardens, pine forests, wildlife, and the toy train ride make the picturesque hill station every photographer’s dreamland. Besides, the serenity of the place creates the perfect mood for you, to capture the true essence of nature’s beauty. So, if you want to capture some of the exceptional snaps, we are here to guide you through some of the offbeat destinations that you must visit as a photographer.
Tips for perfect photography
For perfect photography choosing a perfect spot is extremely important. Thus, we suggest you spend your vacation at the Anutri Hill resort. The resort is located at the Upper Batasia, with Batasia loop on one side and the Kanchenjunga on the other. It provides a180-degree panoramic view of the valley from every room of the resort. This unique location of the resort provides a heavenly view for photography to capture the majestic Kanchenjunga anytime from your room. From sunrise to sunsets, you will be able to capture the magnificent view from your window effortlessly. However, it is advisable that you visit during summer, from April to June to enjoy the unhindered view of the Kanchenjunga
On the other hand, the resort is located around some of the best tourist spots in Darjeeling, making it the most popular and favorite among the tourists. The most attractive of those is the Ghoom Hill station, which is the highest railway station in India. You can enjoy the sight of the entire Himalayan mountain range while riding the toy train. This is the ultimate heavenly experience for a photographer. You can video record the whole ride as well as capture the moving train along with the mountain ranges. You can capture the train while it takes a turn towards left or right, so that you can have a perfect blend of the colorful train and the snow capped mountain and blue sky.
Additionally, while at Ghoom make sure that you don’t miss out the Batasia loop. It is a big spiral loop where the train takes a 360-degree turn, overlooking the Darjeeling town. You can capture the panoramic view of the entire town. Another destination which is a must visit while at Ghoom is the Tiger Hill. During summer when the sky is clear, it provides a magnificent view of the Mt. Everest and Mt. Makalu along with the Kanchenjunga. The view of the sun rays falling on the snow capped Mt. Everest and the changing colors of the peak is nothing less than an ethereal experience for a photographer.
Apart from these exciting places we would suggest you to explore some of the most offbeat places around Darjeeling. All these places provide you with ample exciting subjects for photography. From tea gardens and pine forests to wildlife and nurseries, these will offer you myriad natural delights to capture the exotic pictures which no one has ever clicked before. So, let’s check out the curated list of some exciting offbeat destinations.
Bagora is a less popular hill station in Darjeeling district, surrounded by thickly wooded Alpine forest and Rhododendron trees. It offers a clear view of the River Teesta and the magnificent Kanchenjunga, all round the year, except for the monsoon season. All these mesmerizing natural beauties are every photographer’s delight.
Bara Mangwa is an eco-friendly village situated 35km away from the hustle bustle of the Darjeeling town. It offers the view of the beautiful convergence of river Teesta and river Rangeet on one side, and the lofty Kalimpong hill on the other. Additionally, if you are a bird photographer you will enjoy many of them in varied species.
Bees Gaon is a tranquil paradise, 30km away from the Darjeeling hill, covered by tea gardens and green vegetation. Besides, British Heritage buildings, pine forest and nurseries are the top tourist attractions.
Bunkulung is situated 18km away from Mirik, is covered with subalpine forest, orange orchard, and expansive tea gardens. Along with these, the mesmerizing views of the Kurseong city and the Balason River passing through it.
Chatakpur is an eco-friendly self-sufficient village with a small population size. The villagers survive on cultivated organic crops and shrubs on the terrace and the medicinal plants form the forest. This self-sufficiency of the villagers makes Chatakpur the most unique and offbeat destinations.
The Offbeat destinations in Darjeeling are the most suitable place for photography. These places are sparsely populated and not many tourists visit them often. You might find yourself completely alone in the midst of the mighty forests and beautiful valleys. You can set your tripods or turn on your mobile camera while enjoying some quintessential Darjeeling tea flavors. Hope this curated list of offbeat places will ease your trip to these exotic places. Having said that, don’t forget to book your room beforehand at Anutri Hill Resort to enjoy the ultimate luxurious vacation at Darjeeling.