
Darjeeling
can rightly be called as the eclat and splendor of nature. This hill
town is perched at an altitude of 2134 m directly opposite the ranges of
Kanchenjunga the world's 3rd highest mountain. The beautiful valley of
Darjeeling is a popular hill station since the British regime and is
encompassed by tea plantations on all sides.
Lying in the eastern state of West Bengal the city offers the cool and
chilly weather of Himalayas. The breath-taking sunrise and sunsets are
memorable panorama at Darjeeling. It also offers a spectacular sight of
the snow capped mountains of the majestic Himalayas, the view of
Kanchenjunga and Mount Everest are specially resplendent.
Darjeeling is the most distinguished tea-growing state also export tea
to other countries. The city also has its religious significance due to
its Buddhist Monasteries and the Hindu temples that are quite eminent
for their architectural and cultural splendor.
Main Attractions of Darjeeling City
Ghoom Buddhist Monastery
The most prestigious monastery in Darjeeling situated at a distance of
about 8-km from the city. It sanctifies the holy image of Maitreya
Buddha (the coming Buddha). The sight is an important pilgrimage for the
Buddhist community.
Tiger Hill
It the highest point in the city with a height of 2590m. The hill is
quite renowned for its dazzling dawn view over the Kanchenjunga peak
just 11km from Darjeeling. It is also the hot picnic spot among the
locals as well as the foreigners.
Lloyds Botanical Garden
It is a kaleidoscopic garden located below the market motor stand. The
garden is famous for its splendid accumulation of Himalayan plants,
flowers, orchids and shrubs have their medicinal value.
Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park
This wildlife park is perched on a high altitude and has great wild
life attractions. It is a new home for the Siberian Tiger, Himalayan
Black Deer, Deer Panda, Llama and birds. The park is also rich in its
wild vegetation that supports diverse number of species.
Toy Train of Darjeeling
The famous Toy Train of Darjeeling was established in 117 and made its
original trip in September 1881. Officially known as the Darjeeling
Himalayan Railway, it forms a route from New Jalpaiguri (the current
broad gauge railhead). The train covers a distance of 88 km of which 16
km is in the plains. The journey takes up to 10 hours these days
including its stops. Travel through Darjeeling Toy Train is just a
magnificent experience for a tourist.
Trekking In Darjeeling
Considered as a Queen of Hill Station the city recognized as one of the
best Hill Resorts. Darjeeling is also an absolute heaven for trekkers
and adventure lovers. Trekking in Darjeeling will takes you to places
from where one can feel the proximity of the sky above and is still in
its pristine glory. It offers a splendid beauty of snow-capped mountains
with the sublime grandeur of the Himalayas.
Shopping Halt
Every shopper includes the purchase of tea in its shopping list that
can be obtained from many government and private outlets. Other shopping
charm includes Tibetan handicrafts, ladies scarves and other antiques.
Gorkha knives, locally made carpets, leatherwork and woodwork are also
attractions of the city. Major shopping hub are- Hayden Hall, Manjusha
(West Bengal Emporium), Gram Shilpa and Tibetan Refugees Self-Help
Center.
Mode of Transport
Air: The nearest airport is at Bagdogra, 90 km away from
Darjeeling. Darjeeling is well connected to all major cities of India by
domestic airlines.
Rail: New Jalpaiguri /Siliguri is the main railway station for
all trains, except the toy train running to Darjeeling. Siliguri is also
connected to Kolkatta.
Road: The city is well connected by means of bus services, there
are bus connections to Darjeeling from Siliguri, Bagdogra, Gangtok,
Kurseong and Kathmandu. Deluxe and Semi-Deluxe buses also operate on
these routes.