Darjeeling

It is the Queen of Hills that still lives in between the green paradise and to the backdrop of the snowy peaks. It has always served as an escape destination to avoid the summer of the plains. The wind gets chilling as you start ascending towards Darjeeling. It was first celebrated as a respite from the hot and humid weather by the British. The colonial presence is still evident here and the mixture of splendid tea gardens on rolling mountain slopes, meandering toy train rides through the picturesque city and delectable traditional Tibetan cuisine. Darjeeling works as wonders to cater to the gorgeous panorama of the Himalayas. Explore and find what makes Darjeeling a Queen destination in the foothills of the Himalayas. The hills are calling, its time you start planning.

Places to Visit in Darjeeling

Himalayan Mountaineering Institute and Darjeeling Zoo

It is one of the most popular places that attracts tourist irrespective what age bar to fall into. It is not just a zoo that conserves the wildlife but also a Mountaineering Institute and Museum that displays several mountaineering gears and expedition artifacts. This institute is built in the memory of Tenzing Norgay who, along with Sir Edmund Hillary, climbed the Everest in 1953. Located within the boundary of Himalayan Mountaineering Institute is the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park. This zoo also houses many endangered species of animals like the snow leopard, red panda, goral (mountain goat), Siberian tiger, Tibetan Wolf, and a variety of birds.

Tiger Hill

It is one of the most exciting adventures that the tourist plans to see during their Darjeeling trip. It is the second highest point in the whole Darjeeling hills and it overlooks the snow-capped mountain ranges. The Tiger Hill is one of the two points in India from where you can capture the entire Mount Everest and Kanchendzonga along with other peaks like Kabru, Rathong, and Kokhtang. Tiger Hill is mainly known for the sunrise view and an amazing view of the Kanchendzonga peak.

Batasia Loop

The Batasia Loop, a paradise for nature lovers is popularly known for its spiral narrow gauge railway track where the Toy Train makes a complete trip around a wonderful circular garden. Covering an area of 50,000 square feet, this place is dotted with several flowering plants. It also maintains an eco garden, Gorkha War memorial with many restaurants and eateries. The distance is approximately 5 kilometers from the main town of Darjeeling and is close to Ghoom. Moreover, if you are lucky enough then you will get the breathtaking view of Kanchendzonga range on a clear sunny day.

Chowrasta

Located in the heart of Darjeeling town, Darjeeling Mall and Chowrasta are one of the best places to see in this hill station. One can definitely not miss this happening place on a trip to Darjeeling. Besides shopping in several boutique shops, restaurants and eateries, this place also makes you see nature at its best. Some of the noted shops are Habeeb Mullick & Son, Curio Corner, Nathmulls Tea & Sunset Lounge, Golden Tips, Jolly arts, and Bhutan Tibet Art Shop. The Hawa Ghar and the huge golden statue of the Nepali poet, Bhanubhakta Acharya are the two major attractions. The Bhutia Market is also a major attraction for shopaholics.

Rock Garden & Ganga Maya

Both these places are a haven for garden lovers. Located at a distance of 10 kilometers from the Darjeeling town, Rock Garden is a picturesque and colourful terraced garden which is dotted with varieties of flowering plants, blazing the rocks and cliffs. The Chunnu Summer Falls is another added feature. On the other hand is Ganga Maya Park, located 3 kilometers ahead. It is another park which is blessed with nature and a narrow gushing stream flowing through it. The park also hosts varied species of colourful flowers and a lake. Tourists can also enjoy Gorkha Folk Dance here.