In India, there is a city named Darjeeling which is located in the West Bengal state. Darjeeling was founded in the year 1835 by the British East India Company, during company rule in India. In the Himalayan foothills, Darjeeling is one of the best places to visit in summer. The ‘Darjeeling’ word came from the Tibetan words, ‘dorje’ meaning thunderbolt (originally the scepter of Indra) and the ‘ling’ means a land or a place, hence ‘the land of the thunderbolt’. Darjeeling is known for its wonderful vistas, tea garden, and rich cultural heritage and is the favorite destination for travelers to visit. So, Let’s discuss Darjeeling, the best time to visit in Darjeeling and best places to visit in Darjeeling.
BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN DARJEELING
Kanchenjunga Mountains
The Kanchenjunga Mountains is the third highest mountain in the world. Tourists from all countries come there to see the amazing view of the mountain, which is 28,150 feet (8,580 m) in height, and only 40 miles (64km) away.
Tiger Hill
The Tiger hill is 2,590 meters (8,500 ft) is the mountain located in Darjeeling. The hill has a wide view of Mount Everest and Mount Kanchenjunga. It is packed with tourists since it is a very famous viewpoint of Darjeeling.
Happy Valley Tea Estate
The Happy Valley Tea Estate is the second oldest tea estate. It is spread over 440 acres. It is situated at a height of 2,100 meters, (6,900 ft) above sea level. This tea estate has more than 1500 people. The tea state has a museum and has the highest factory in the world. For its beautiful surfaced greenery this is a major tourist attraction.
Mahakal Temple
The temple is situated on the top of a hill. Mahakal Temple is a beautiful worship place for both Hindus and Buddhists. The temple is delicate to lord shiva. As you go up the hill, you will see the colorful prayer flags, Buddhist monasteries and small shrines. It is a beautiful and perfect spot for soul-searching.
Darjeeling Himalayan Railways
The Darjeeling Himalayan Railways also known as “TOY TRAIN”. It is the must ride attraction in Darjeeling. tourists enjoy the beauty and the mesmerizing view of Darjeeling through this train.
Batasia Loop
The Batasi loop is surrounded by the beautiful flower and tea gardens and encircled by the wonderful toy train. Batasi loop gives the 360-degree view of the beautiful Darjeeling town and mount Kanchenjunga in the horizon.
Padmaja Naidu Himalayan zoological park
Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoo is the largest high-altitude zoo in India. This zoo is at an altitude of over 2,100 meters. This zoo preserves the Himalayan animal species like Tibetan wolves, red pandas and snow leopards.
Japanese peace pagoda
Peace pagodas were built as a symbol of peace. This place is a Buddhist stupa: a monument to inspire peace and to provide peace for people of all creeds and castes and races.
BEST TIME TO VISIT IN DARJEELING
The best time to visit in Darjeeling is April-June. In the peak season the crowd is more. The peak season has warm yet windy weather.
The moderate season to visit in Darjeeling is July-November. In the moderate season the crowd is average. The moderate season has freshened surroundings.
The off-season to visit Darjeeling is October-March. In the off-season there will be less crowd. The off-season has toy trains and cable rides.
EVENTS AND FESTIVALS OF DARJEELING
The events and festivals of Darjeeling are Teesta Tea Festival in November and The Losar (Tibetan New Year).
FAMOUS RESTAURANTS IN DARJEELING
Darjeeling is famous for Nepali, Tibetan, and Bengali influences. The local try dishes are memos, thump and Darjeeling tea. It is one of the most glorious hill stations in India. Darjeeling is crowned by the glorious Himalayas and this is surrounded by the green tea plantation. Popularly known as the Queen of hill stations in India. Not many people know that Darjeeling is a foodie’s paradise also.
Here are some of the most famous restaurants in Darjeeling that you must visit.
1. Kunga restaurant
Kunga Restaurant is one of the most famous family restaurants in Darjeeling. The restaurant is famous for its Chinese and Tibetan dishes. The must-have dishes are chicken memos and pork Waiwai. The location of the restaurant is near Ramada hotel, Gandhi Road. Cheuk bazaar, Darjeeling. The price for two people is Rs 400 and the restaurant opens at 8 am.
2. Glenarm
Glenarm is the most famous restaurant located near the mall. This restaurant is surrounded by the wonderful hills and valleys at one end. Some must-tries include mixed grill and beef burger. This restaurant is located in Nehru Road, Cheuk bazaar, Darjeeling. The price for two people is Rs 1,200 and the restaurant opens at 1pm.
3. Eventer’s
Eventers is one of the oldest famous restaurants in Darjeeling, this restaurant is famous for its English breakfast spread. You can see the amazing and peaceful view from the top deck of this restaurant. when you are in Darjeeling you cannot miss the cup of hot chocolate at eventers. This restaurant is located in Nehru Road, mall chow Rasta bazaar, Darjeeling. The price for two people is Rs 400 and the restaurant opens at 8 am.
How to reach Darjeeling?
No doubt Darjeeling is a well-connected city. Darjeeling is connected by roads and by railway to the major cities of India. The nearest airport is Bag Dogra, which is 96 km away. from the airport you can book a taxi to reach your destination. One more amazing and popular way to reach the hill station is the Darjeeling Himalayan railway, also known as toy train.
Things to buy in Darjeeling.
Darjeeling is known for its tea estates, and unique and beautiful handicraft products. The markets are the right place to shop for local products.
Nearby destinations from Darjeeling.
Darjeeling is a blend of serenity and cultural heritage. The nearby places of Darjeeling are also very beautiful and have many things to explore. few of the nearby places are:
Kurseong
Kurseong is a pretty Himalayan town located close to Siliguri, in Bengal. This place is also called the place of white orchid.
Siliguri
Siliguri is located on the bank of the Mahananda river and Teesta River. Siliguri is also known as “gateway of northeast Indian”, it is also popular for three Ts: tea, timber, and tourism. It is the third largest urban collection in West Bengal, after Asansol and Kolkata.
Kalimpong
Kalimpong is a hill town in east India. It is also known as the land of kings. Kalimpong has colonial era buildings such as MacFarlane memorial church. It is famous for Tibetan handicrafts and beautiful churches.
Darjeeling’s allure lies in its harmonious blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and colonial charm. Whether sipping tea overlooking misty hills, immersing oneself in local traditions, or embarking on scenic adventures, Darjeeling promises an enriching and unforgettable experience for travelers seeking tranquility amidst the Himalayan splendor. It remains a destination where time slows down, allowing visitors to embrace the serenity of the mountains and the warmth of its people, leaving an indelible mark on every journeyer’s heart.