Places to Visit in Darjeeling

The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway also referred to as the DHR, and fondly called the 'Darjeeling Toy Train', is a 2 feet thin measure train that runs stuck between New Jalpaiguri and Darjeeling, in West Bengal, India. The building of this 88-kilometre long railway line took set among 1879 and 1881, and a ride on this train way has been a coveted experience ever since. A trip in the Darjeeling Toy Train has amazing things to see with enjoyable mountain peak vision and pass by villages and local area shops on the way, with children merrily waving at them.

The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway provides important transportation links among a variety of part of the Darjeeling hills and slighter plains and is a part of sheer manufacturing originality and vision. How else can a little fog engine pull mini coaches up the steep mountains peak by overcoming approximately impractical curves and gradients? This is maybe why the Darjeeling Toy Train was confirmed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site on 2 December 1999.

Later on, two more railway outline was extra, and the place came to be well-known as the Mountain Railways of India. A travel on such a tradition transport is no doubt a calming and delightful one but is also important because this train is what once provides the first and most vital mountain transfer link in the country.

Tiger Hill

Tiger Hill, Darjeeling Overview

Deceitful at an elevation of 2590 meters and a distance of 13 kilometres apart from the Darjeeling, Tiger Hill is most popular for its fine things to see of sunrise from where you can see the mountain peaks of Kanchenjunga clarify before the sun is seen at lower elevations. The splendid vision of snow-coverd mountains peak sitting among cotton clouds attract traveler to Tiger Hill from all over the country. Amusingly, this is also the top of Ghoom, which is the uppermost railway station in the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The early time from Darjeeling is 3.30 AM to arrive at tiger hill by 4.15 AM The first time become 4.15 AM in winters payable to late sunrise time. The roads get blocked by a convoy of jeeps and cars in the peak season. To get up to the sunrise spots, it requires a short rise on foot from the parking spot. One can book a car or an Innova for INR 1200/ INR 1800 from a travel agency in the town or pay INR 200 per head.

Batasia Loop

Maybe one of the most charming train routes in all of Darjeeling, the Batasia Loop is a lush green toy train way that is destined to decrease the height of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. The rare design of this magnificent attraction allows the track to wrap up just about itself through a hilltop tunnel. One of the most delightful aspects of the Batasia Loop is its unparalleled natural beauty which is a superb view to observe. Placed on Hill Cart Road (NH 55), you can enjoy a panoramic vision of the Darjeeling in all its lush wonder.

Locted in Ghoom which is about 5 kilometres from Darjeeling, the cause behind creating the superb way of the Batasia Loop was rooted in easing navigation approximately the terrain of Darjeeling. It rises from the among of pea green carpets of mountain vegetation and overlooks the snowy peaks of Kanchenjungha on one side as well. Appealing flowers line the way, which makes a trip during Batasia Loop a have got to after you have witness the charming sunrise of Tiger Hill. The vision of the train tear past the white of the clouds and deeper into the green beauty of the terrain is a refreshing and charming journey which should not be missed.

Darjeeling Ropeway

Darjeeling is famous crosswise the world as one of the most pictorial hill stations, where one can observer a countless of beautiful landscape, from the magnificent snow-covered mountains peak to the delightful valley sated with lush tea estates. For this reason, the Darjeeling Ropeway finds itself as a main attraction of Darjeeling, charitable its passenger a collection of divine panoramic vision as they travel across the delightful valley.

Establish in 1968, the Darjeeling Ropeway is India's first cable car system, set up to cater to the tea gardens in the valleys which did not have simple entrance. Today, it serves as a popular traveler’s hotspot, attracting scores of travelers all year surrounding to experience the loveliness of Darjeeling's view in the perfect way possible.

With 16 cable cars, every car provide somewhere to stay 6 people as it travels from the North Point in Singamari to the Singla Bazaar, placed by the banks of the delightful Ramman river, transporting passengers at an elevation of 7000 feet. The vision of the many tea estate of Darjeeling, the cascading waterfalls, and the royal Kanchenjunga makes this experience an important to every traveler in Darjeeling.

The gondola moves at a sensible speed, allowing travellers some good chance for some stunning photo chance. At the underneath end of the trip, the cable car halts for a as, where travellers may explore the gorgeous tea gardens, or tranquil downhill at the little mountain cafe, before happening back to the Singamari base station.

Himalayan Mountaineering institutes

Located in Darjeeling, Himalayan mountain climbing organization is accepted as one of the finest mountain climbing institutes in the world. Establish on 4th November 1954, the actual cause of this offer was to support, improve and support the notice of the people in the sports of mountain climbing, and to channel the abundant power of the youthful into an inspired and self-awarding activity. Aspirant mountaineers from all over the world come to this organization to build up their skills.

Further being one of the perfect mountaineering institutes in the world, the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute has become a main tourist’s attraction on account of its pictorial setting in the hill station of Darjeeling. The wonderful vision of the 8586-meter high peak of Kanchenjunga, the third uppermost peak in the world, from these institutes is actually mesmerizing.

In the field of adventure, the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute aims at rising mountain climbing as an activity of logical and commercial pursuit. A climber doesn't just climb mountains, he understands them. He feels the earth under his feet and pampers it. Mountaineering is a methodically crafty activity that needs intensive training and deliberate process, and this is where this splendid institute comes in.

In the 63 years reality, the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute has skilled more 45000 students include 2500 aspirants from diverse countries of the world. The excitement of climbing; of climbing snow covered mountains throughout the rare scenery in the middle of untouched nature is one that can't be expressed by mere words. This is an exploration of a lifetime and for a lifetime.

Best Places for Shopping in Darjeeling for All the Shopaholics

Popular for its tea plantation, Darjeeling is a haven for tea addicts, shopping in Darjeeling and in its small markets and old school malls will give you a great feel for the town. The authentic flavors and aromas of the teas will steal your heart away. Apart from hoarding packets of tea leaves, one can also shop local knick-knacks such as handicraft items, woolen scarves and caps, faux jewelry items, and many other things from the markets in the city. Whether it is the Chowk Bazaar that you head to or The Mall Road, you will have a marvelous experience shopping in Darjeeling.

Top Places for Shopping in Darjeeling:

1. Nehru Road

Placed on the Hill Cart Road, this market has tinny shops which have been set up by the local populace of Darjeeling. A must-visit shopping location, Nehru Road, offers an enjoyable street shopping experience for shopaholics. The market stretches on an uphill road. In recent years, several branded stores have also opened their outlets. The State Government added a Handicrafts Emporium recently. For those who love arts and crafts, make sure that you pick up some stunning paintings for your home. The art specimens contribute by skilled Bengali craftsmen and artisans can also be seen at the Art Gallery in the area. It is suitable to keep cash in useful because most of the shops do not allow cards here.

What to Buy: Darjeeling tea, woolens, handicrafts, leather handbags, books, paintings, Khukree or Gorkha knives, Buddha statues
Timings: 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM

2. Batasia Loop Market

This marketplace gets its name as a result of its site. The street shopping location is placed on Ghum and Darjeeling's loop-line. If you are an avid shopper who is alert of the bargaining tricks, then this is the perfect place for you. You can shop heap full of bags without on fire a hole in your pocket. There is also a toy train line starting from here which will definitely improve your experience of shopping in Darjeeling.

What to Buy: House decor items, Woolen wear, accessories for women
Timings: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

3. Ghoom Monastery Market

The perfect time to visit the Ghoom Monastery and the market in the locality is early on mornings and evenings because the daylight and sundown from here are just mesmerising. The colourful streamer banners adorning the streets, give off enjoyable vibes. Buddhist monks walking in the local area will have a soothing effect on you even as you store Tibetan souvenirs from the Ghoom market.

What to Buy: Tibetan artefacts including singing bowls, prayer wheels, prayer flags, Thangkas (a form of Tibetan wall paintings), bags for women
Timings: 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM

4. Teesta Bazaar

Nearby the Kalimpong local area and build-up city, Melli, Teesta Bazar is situated all along the banks of Teesta River. Bounded by a huge expanse of natural beauty, travelers while on their way to Darjeeling, on the Siliguri - Gangtok highway, stop by this market. Handcraftedartefactss by the locals is sold at a varied price range. You can get reasonably priced items as well as costly ones that are prepared with great efforts and time. Treat yourself to piping hot momos while you enjoy one of the best places for shopping in Darjeeling.

What to Buy: Hunting equipment, footwear, wall paintings called 'Thangkas', copper wares, crockery, silverware and lanterns
Timings: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

5. Pashupati Nagar Market

Near the serene town of Mirik, Pashupati Nagar Market is enveloped in the calm of green hills. Another street market, it offers cheap bargains on imported goods from Thailand. Very close to the Nepal border, Pashupati Nagar Market will present some attractive natural sights that will double the shopping fun. One can also get electronic things at very reasonable rates here. The huge range of cosmetic items on sale here is a treat for fashionistas.

What to Buy: Small souvenirs, woolen jackets, shawls and sweaters, Gorkha knives, books and Darjeeling Tea
Timings: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

6. The Mall Road

If you visit Darjeeling and you miss out on visiting The Mall Road, well, you certainly missed out on the BEST place for shopping in Darjeeling. You can get anything and everything that you would want to shop here. Be sure of having enough time on your hands for visiting this market. You will lose track of time with the endless tempting options at The Mall Road. If you happen to be interested in hunting, then Mall Road will offer you some interesting items for your next adventure.

What to Buy: Fancy jewellery items, woolen cloths ranging from shawls, jackets, scarves and sweaters, Tibetan masks and other handmade souvenirs.
Timings: 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM

 

 

Darjeeling Rock Garden 

Rock Garden is a beautiful picnic destination terraced with a natural fall famous as Chunnu summer fall, placed 10 km apart from Darjeeling. It is also well-known as Barbotey Rock Garden which is bounded by a stunning hill stream all along with the slope covered with attractive blossom gardens and sitting preparations at a variety of levels. It is considered one of the most chosen visiting destinations for nature lovers traveling to Darjeeling.

Away from the spot itself, the way to Darjeeling Rock Garden also offers a pleasant view where one has to go during a picturesque trip full with rocky hills and plants shared by sharp hairpins and very vertical roads before one arrived at the extraordinary sight of Rock Garden which is positioned between the clouds with the soothing sound of Chunnu Summer-fall. The tourist attraction is also surrounded by tea gardens and flower gardens terraced with a calm lake on the top where guests can spend a gorgeous time and relax after a long and tiring trip.

Singalila National Park

Placed at a height of more than 7000 feet above the sea in the Singalila range, the Singalila National Park is the highest national park in West Bengal. Initially a wildlife sanctuary, the national park encompasses a beautiful, 78.60 sq km land of virgin rhododendron forests, alpine valley and rare species of animals and orchids. It is most famous for the breathtakingly mind-stirring view of the Himalayan peak that it offers, providing a panoramic view of the gigantic Himalayas from Nepal to Sikkim and up to Bhutan. Singalila is home to the very rare and exotic Red panda and the Himalayan black bear.

This wonderful Singalila National Park is a haven for all the flora and fauna residing here as the local area is strictly reserved for guard of biodiversity and tricks like developmental forestry, poaching, hunting and grazing on farming are not allowable. The national park is also a division of a trekking way and no less than a heaven for trekkers and adventure lovers. Singalila National Park derives its name from the Singalila spur, which runs during the park, downhill from Mount Kanchenjunga in the north and running south to the northern fringe of the Gangetic Plains.

Nightingale Park

Located in the mesmerizing hill station of Darjeeling, the Nightingale Park is a public park area frequented by the tourists and locals to relish gorgeous views of the Kanchenjunga ranges. It serves as an ideal place to unwind and recharge amidst lush greenery and soothing winds. This park was earlier called 'The Shrubbery' when it was a private courtyard of Sir Thomas Tartan's Bungalow, during the British reign.

Flanked by a covered archway, the entrance leads you to pebbled walkways around this oval-shaped park. Since the Nightingale Park is on slightly elevated terrain, you need to climb a few steps to reach the entry to this green haven. The park was closed for renovation for about four years and has reopened for the public since 2011. There is a giant statue of Lord Shiva, a musical fountain along with the great scenery.

Darjeeling Peace Pagoda

Placed on the slopes of Jalapahar hills in Darjeeling, the Peace Pagoda, or the Japanese Peace Pagoda is one of the peace pagodas designed to establish unity, harmony and goodwill amongst people belonging to different sects of society. Famous for its tranquility, it offers eye-catching views of snow-clad peaks including the Kanchenjunga peak making it a perfect destination for peace and nature lovers.

The Peace Pagoda was built up under the leadership of Nichidatsu Fujii, a Buddhist monk from Japan. The foundation stone was laid on 3 November 1972 and was inaugurated on 1 November 1992. Designed by M. Ohka, it took 36 months to complete the construction. The pagoda houses the four avatars of Buddha including Maitreya Buddha and was designed to bring together people of different castes in search of peace.

Sandakphu Important tourist spot in Darjeeling

Sandakphu Peak (11,941 Feet) is the maximum mountain peak in West Bengal. The highest peak of Singalila Ridge in Darjeeling district, almost near the border of Nepal, it is located very close to Singalila National Park. Sandakphu, the highest peak in West Bengal, gives you a spectacular view of four out of five uppermost mountain peaks in the world. The best view possible is of mountain Kanchendzonga. You can arrive at the peak either by car or by trekking. The trek is a beautiful 51 km long way up the hill, starting from Manebhanjan.

Sandakphu is also known as the "mountain of poisonous plants" because of the abundance of Himalayan Cobra Lilies here. Since this is an arduous trek, it is advisable to undertake it only after ensuring your complete fitness.The trek to the prove is quite exhilarating passing through several distinct terrains, from challenging valleys to the lush green of the lands dotted with rhododendrons, magnolias, primulas and vibrant wildflowers. The place is a paradise for nature lover with about 600 varieties of orchids alone.

Darjeeling Peace Pagoda

Japanese Peace Pagoda, Darjeeling Overview

Placed on the slopes of Jalapahar hills in Darjeeling, the Peace Pagoda, or the Japanese Peace Pagoda is one of the peace pagodas designed to establish unity, harmony and goodwill amongst people belonging to different sects of society. Famous for its calm, it offers dazzling visions of snow-covered peaks including the Kanchenjunga peak making it an ideal place for peace and up

The leadership of Nichidatsu Fujii, a Buddhist monk from Japan. The base rock was laid on 3 November 1972 and was inaugurated on 1 November 1992. Designed by M. Ohka, it took 36 months to complete the building. The pagoda houses the four avatars of Buddha with Maitreya Buddha and was considered to bring together people of diverse castes in search of peace.

River Rafting in Teesta

White Water Rafting in the River Teesta is one of the most stirring things to do in Darjeeling. A favorite between the exploration junkees, the rafting has a series of rapids ranging from score 1 to 4. However, the hard rapids are only allowable to the professional or the serial trainer as it is dangerous. You should absolutely try this action when in Darjeeling.

 

 

Tea Gardens in Darjeeling 

Darjeeling is famous to be home to some of the perfect tea estates in the world. The UNESCO world heritage site boasts acres of resplendent meadows that also serve as the perfect tourist attraction. Here’s everything you need to know about the scintillating tea gardens in Darjeeling.

History of Tea Gardens in Darjeeling

The past of the tea gardens can be traced back to 1852 when Darjeeling was only a small village and was used as a hill resort by the British officials and their families. The British in progress planted tea leaves here and to meet manpower, work was hired even from crosswise the Nepal border. Regularly the business took shape and in 1866 alone, there were 39 prosperous tea estates. In 1870, the number grew to 56, and in the end, Darjeeling became one of the greatest tea-producing estates in the country.

Best Tea Gardens in Darjeeling

1. Puttabong Tea Estate

Originally popular as Tukvar Tea Estate, Puttabong Tea Estate is considered to be the oldest tea estate in Darjeeling. Based at a height of 1500 to 6500 ft., the extensive stunning tea garden also overlooks the snow-covered Kanchenjunga Peak. The estate uses sustainable products and techniques like vermicompost, cattle farming, and liquid fertilizers. It produces some of the best quality tea in the world.

2. Glenburn Tea Estate

Glenburn Tea Estate was acquired by the Scotts in 1859. It is a gorgeous tea estate with the River Run Geet graceful underneath it. It was afterward handed off to personal possession - the Prakash Family. Here you can not only taste perfumed tea but also have a completely informed guided tour, tasty snacks and soothing nature walks. You can also view the whole process of making teas in the factory.

3. Makaibari Tea Estate

Makaibari was created in 1859 and has been with the Banerjee’s ever since. It has been approved for four generations and is well-known to house the first-ever tea factory in the world. The owner and producers use natural methods to grow the best quality tea. You can taste some of it, breathe in the smell and also take back some with you when you go back.

4. Gopaldhara Tea Estate

Gopaldhara Tea Estate is one of the comparatively newer tea estates that were established in 1955. It is one of the main producers of tea and exports large quantities of it. Increase over 320 hectares; the estate is set at a height of 5500 to 7000 ft. Some of the perfect tea types produced here take in Pearl Tea, Stupa, Olympic Flame, and Silver Needles.

5. Okayti Tea Estate

Okayti Tea Estate was recognized in the 1870s and is also one of the oldest tea estates in the country. Also called Rangdoo Tea Estate, this one is flanked by two other tea gardens on the side. It produces a big quantity of the best tea and has vast extensive beautiful gardens that are a delicacy to the eyes. Here you can find the exacting black teas, white teas, and green teas. 

6. Happy Valley Tea Estate

Happy Valley Tea Estate is one of the most commercial tea estates in Darjeeling where tourism is at its peak. The tourists visit Happy Valley to witness the process of tea plucking, reaping, and processing. Other than tasting deliciously aromatic cups of piping hot teas, you can also purchase tea here at the estate. Known for its beautiful meadows, the Happy Valley Tea Estate is a must-visit here.

Nature Walks in Tea Gardens in Darjeeling

Nature Walks in the splendid tea gardens is the most cherished activity when in Darjeeling. You can connect with the employees and help them pluck teas. Or you can go to the factories and watch the making of these fine tea powders. Or better still; pick up some to take it back home with you to enjoy a small part of Darjeeling in the humdrum of life.

Shopping in Darjeeling

Most popular for its tea plantations, Darjeeling is a paradise for tea addicts, shopping in Darjeeling and in its small markets and old school malls will give you a huge feel for the city. The genuine flavors and aromas of the teas will take your heart away. Apart from notice packets of tea leaves, one can also shop local area knick-knacks such as handicraft, woolen scarves and caps, faux jewelry things, and many other things from the markets in the city. Whether it is the Chowk Bazaar that you head to or The Mall Road, you will have a wonderful experience shopping in Darjeeling.

Top Places for Shopping in Darjeeling:

1. Nehru Road

Placed on the Hill Cart Road, this market has small shops which have been set up by the local population of Darjeeling. A must-visit shopping destination, Nehru Road, offers a delightful street shopping experience for shopaholics. The market stretches on an uphill road. In recent years, several branded stores have also opened their outlets. The State Government added a Handicrafts Emporium recently. For those who love arts and crafts, make sure that you pick up some stunning paintings for your home. The art specimens contributed by skilled Bengali craftsmen and artisans can also be seen at the Art Gallery in the locality. It is wise to keep money in handy because most of the shops do not accept cards here.

2. Batasia Loop MarketEast

This market gets its name as a result of its place. The road shopping spot is located on Ghum and Darjeeling's loop-line. If you are an avid shopper who is alert of the bargain actions, then this is the exact place for you. You can shop a heap full of bags without blazing a hole in your pocket. There is also a toy train line starting from here which will surely improve your experience of shopping in Darjeeling.

What to Buy: House decor items, Woolen wear, accessories for women
Timings: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

3. Ghoom Monastery Market

The perfect time to visit the Ghoom Monastery and the marketplace in the environs is early in the mornings and evenings because the sunrise and sunset from here are simply mesmerizing. The colorful streamer banner decorates the streets, giving off enjoyable feelings. Buddhist monks walking in the local area will have a reassuring effect on you while you shop Tibetan souvenirs from the Ghoom market.

What to Buy: Tibetan artifacts with singing bowls, prayer wheels, prayer flags, Thangkas (a form of Tibetan wall paintings), bags for women
Timings: 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM

4. Teesta Bazaar

Nearby the Kalimpong local area and business city, Melli, Teesta Bazar is placed all along the banks of Teesta River. Bounded by a huge spread of natural beauty, tourists while on their way to Darjeeling, on the Siliguri - Gangtok highway, stop by this market. Handcrafted Artifacts by the local’s are sold at a various price range. You can get reasonably priced things as well as costly ones that are ready with large efforts and time. Treat yourself to piping hot momos while you enjoy one of the perfect destinations for shopping in Darjeeling

What to Buy: Hunting tools, footwear, wall paintings called 'Thangkas', copper wares, crockery, silverware and lanterns
Timings: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park

The Padmaja Naidu Zoological Park is a superb enclosure in Darjeeling housing a broad several of animals. Also well-known as Darjeeling Zoo, this is a place of safety for animals of all kinds and a massive center of attraction for animal lovers and nature enthusiasts.

The zoo is popular worldwide for its breeding and conservation programs and also includes an off-display reproduction hub for snow leopards and red pandas. In adding up to these unique type, the zoo is also enriched with Asiatic black bear, barking deer, leopards, blue and yellow Macaw, Eastern Pangolin, Pheasant, Himalayan Monal, Himalayan Wolf, Lady Amherst, Leopard Cat, Macaw, Red Jungle Fowl, Red Panda, Royal Bengal Tiger, Sambar Deer, Timmins’s Tragopan, Yak, and many more.

This attraction was set up in 1958 and was named after the previous chief of West Bengal, Padmaja Naidu, who was also the daughter of Sarojini Naidu. With a standard height of an enormous 7000 feet, it is the main high elevation zoo in India. The Padmaja Naidu Zoological Park specialize in propagation animals adapted to alpine conditions and has successful caged propagation programs for the snow leopard, the seriously endangered Himalayan wolf and the red panda.

The zoo serves as the mid hub for Central Zoo Authority of India's red panda program and is a member of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums. Due to its unbending efforts to repopulate these endangered species; the Darjeeling Zoo has been awarded the important honors of "The Earth Heroes" in 2014 out of over 300 zoos internationally. 

Tinchuley

At a distance of about 32 km from Darjeeling, Tinchuley is an offbeat small town located close to the West Bengal-Sikkim border. With a height of 5550 ft, the name of the spot derives from the words ‘tin’ and ‘Chula’, which translate as ‘three ovens’ because the trio of hills constitutes the hill station which resembles dirt ovens. Wonderfully, the environmental variety of the village is not weary by this: the rivers Teesta and Ranjeet also meet quite close to it. All of this contributes to Tinchuley's plentiful natural beauty.

Though popular for its tea plantation and clean fruit orchards like Darjeeling, Tinchuley is, in addition, a quieter and more incomprehensible place - there's a sense of peace pervading the atmosphere that's or else missing in its busier counterpart. In Tinchuley, one can engage in rock mountain climbing, trekking, seeing the sights, all alongside a scenic green mountains cape that seems like something out of a film set. With a financial system that started flourishing during the taking part of World flora and fauna Federation (WWF) in modernizing the place's farming and branching its manufacture off into floriculture, sericulture, and natural products took place; Tinchuley began growing in popularity as an ideal tourist destination.

Tinchuley is the dream spot for those who are looking for something spiritual out of their travels. Its beautiful mountain cape and peaceful refined lands show that. So if you're looking for something amazing of precisely that nature, then you know where to be!

 

Happy Valley Tea Estate

At a supernatural height of 6,800 feet, the Happy Valley Tea land in Darjeeling is a fine land area of about 437 acres, raising some of the best shrubs of this delightful drink in the world. It is the second oldest tea land in the tea-rich city of Darjeeling, with its origin being intimately linked to the past of humanizing and producing the world-famous Darjeeling Tea. The Happy Valley Tea land is a must-visit magnetism for travelers visiting Darjeeling as it offers a natural pictorial vision with a wonderful look of Himalayan foothills. Nature lovers will find it not easy to depart the spot even after hours due to its graceful beauty surrounded with hundred and acres of Tea Gardens, mesmerizing weather, open clouds and stunning Aroma of high-quality tea being produced.

At this lavish wonderland, cost for the natural world is clear in the use of natural beauty and biodynamic processes of farming. One can take a guide tour during the aromatic factory, observe how new tea leaves are washed out, rolled, fermented, dried out, sorted and finally graded to make the different variety of tea we see in the market, from customary black tea and green tea to more beautiful speciality teas like Super Fine Tippy Golden Flowery Orange Pekoe. Also well-known as Black Orthodox Tea, this is one of the top tea blends of India which is enjoyed across the world. A tea-tasting session is also held at Happy Valley Tea Estate where first-timers are privy to experiencing the subtlety caught up in distinguishing the variety of groups of tea. One can also purchase the tea products from the shop in the estate.

Darjeeling Observatory Hill

Observatory Hill is an increasing hill located above Chowrasta Square, around 2 km from the Darjeeling Himalayan railway station, just on top of the Mall Road in the picturesque hill city of Darjeeling. It is one of the most visited traveler attractions in Darjeeling as it offers a panoramic vision of the mountains all along with the presence of a variety of Hindu and Buddhist temples including Kanchenjunga Temple, Mahakal temple and Tibetan Memorial Shrine.

The traveler attraction is actually visited by adventure seekers who want to enjoy a mesmerizing vision of the mountains after trekking all along with people having spiritual beliefs. It can take around 15 minutes for travelers to visit Observatory Hill from the Mall Road and in the thin and steep uphill path; tourists have to go to a small cave which is valued by temples. The whole walk is full with colorful flags and small yet visible shrines with the quiet full sound of devotional belts. It is suggested for elderly people to take some rest on side benches though trekking to the traveler attraction as it can be very tiring.

Monasteries in Darjeeling

You have to visit monasteries in Darjeeling to experience the heart of the. There are a lot of monasteries across the town, all having their personal significance.

Some that stand out in the crowd are the Ghoom monastery, Bhutia Busty monastery and Aloobari monastery. Ghoom monastery is popular for its 15 ft. high special statue of Maitreya Buddha. It is also well-known as the Sakya monastery. Aloobari Gompa would be a destination of choice if you're interested in both shopping as well as seeing the sights. You can find lots of local area stalls outside the monastery. The fact that it is one of the oldest monasteries in Darjeeling adds to its splendor. Bhutia Busty Gompa is one more monastery located about a kilometer out of Darjeeling. This one is the most pictorial out of all monasteries. The holy place was originally placed on Observatory Hill but was rebuilt later at its current place.

Trekking in Darjeeling

Present you a sweeping vision of four out of the five maximum peaks of the world Mt. Everest, Kanchenjunga, Makalu and Lhotse, all in a single stretch, Darjeeling offers some of the best trekking ways in the world.

Singalila variety is one of the most famous trekking ways though Sandakphu & Singalila Trek, Phalut Trek and Sikkim Trek - Dzongri & Goechala are some of the other trekking ways in Darjeeling.

Ghoom Monastery

At an impressive height of 8,000 feet, the Yiga Choeling or old Ghoom Monastery is the oldest Tibetan Buddhist Monastery of Darjeeling. Established in 1850 by Lama Sherab Gyatso, this holy place is a division of the Yellow Hat sect known as Gelupka who worship the 'Coming Buddha' or 'Maitreya Buddha'. A 15-foot high statue of Maitreya Buddha is seen in the middle hall, made totally of mud brought from Tibet. This statue was installed in the tenure of the second head of the monastery Lama Domo Geshe Rinpoche. One can also find many unique Buddhist manuscripts within the building. Guests are treated to a gorgeous vision of the grand Kanchenjunga outside the monastery. Prayer flags are flown by the resident monks in classic Tibetan ritual.

Bengal Natural History Museum

An observer to the inhabitant flowers and fauna of the area, the Bengal Natural History Museum is a beautiful overabundance of more than 4000 examples being exhibited. Placed in the heart of Darjeeling at the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, this museum was firstly ongoing as a small structure in the Botanical Garden destined to showcase the variety of butterflies and birds of the hills. Today, one can find preserved remnants of the bird type, reptiles, insects, fishes, and mammals displayed in a replication of their usual habitat. A beautiful show of a variety of natural resources of the area is now here as well.

There are two parts at the museum, one at the land level and the additional in the basement. This total collection of birds include unique specimens such as the Himalayan Brown Wood Owl, Northern spotted owlet, Northern Brown Fish Owl, pelicans, pheasants, Tibetan fox, Tibetan Lynx, Toddy cat, panthers, leopards, tigers, and the Estuarine crocodile, envoy of the native wildlife of the Eastern Himalayas. There is also a big collection of birds' nests and eggs. A specialized taxidermy unit is nearby at the Bengal Natural History Museum to oversee the curative, stuffing and preparation of the birds and animals to be displayed as exhibits.

Lamahatta Eco Park

Lamahatta is a picturesque village in West Bengal, 23 km from Darjeeling. To showcase the magnificent view of mountain peaks & rivers and the Dhupi & pine forests here, the Lamahatta Eco Park was created in 2012. Lamahatta means Monk's Hermitage and so, this spot promises an atmosphere that feels as peaceful as a monk - a measure of balance among nature & man. At an elevation of 5,700 ft., this eco-park has a lot to offer.

The eco-park has wooden & bamboo gazebos that overlook the loveliness of Lamahatta. The manicured garden, well-known as the 'Roadside Garden', flowers a variety of plants seasonally including white and yellow orchids. There are many homestays around the local area.

Lepchajagat

Lepchajagat is a tiny village approximately 19 km from Darjeeling. At an altitude of 6,956 ft, this village is considered a haven for nature lovers and honeymooners. Among dense forests of pines, oaks and rhododendrons, this village gives you calm. Viewing the Kanchenjunga mountain peaks from here is a peaceful experience. It is now part of a reserved forest local area.