Tourist places in Darjeeling

Darjeeling, the world famous tourist destination, is a city of Indian state of West Bengal. It is well known for its tea industry and Eco-tourism. During the colonial time the British developed it as a major hill station and tea- growing area. Subsequently extensive tea plantation was done in the region. Now the Darjeeling tea is internationally renowned tea and ranks among most popular black teas. Darjeeling has pleasant weather throughout the year.  Average temperature of the region ranges from 25c in summer to 10c in winter.

Places of interest:

Darjeeling is famous for its beautiful natural sights and pleasant weather.

Kanchenjunga Mountain :

Kanchenjunga Mountain
Image credit: flickr

 

Standing at the altitude of about 8580m, Kanchenjunga Mountain is third Highest Mountain in the world. Located just 11 km from Darjeeling, Tiger Hills offer its tourists wonderful views of Kanchenjunga Mountain. The Tiger Hills is elevated at the altitude of about 2550m. Mount Everest which is about 225 km from Tiger Hill can also be seen from the Tiger Hill. It also provides amazing sight of Sun rising. But one has to get up early at 4.am to be able to witness the event of Sun rising.

Observatory Hills :

Observatory Hill, Darjeeling
Image credit: Matt Stabile

 

Another place of interest in Darjeeling is Observatory Hills. The place has religious importance attached to it. It is important for both Hindus and Buddhist. Temple of Mahakal is situated on this hill. Mahakal is considered to be one of the incarnations of Lord Shiva.

Mountaineering Museum :

Mountaineering Museum in Darjeeling has the collection of historical mountaineering equipment, specimens of Himalayan Flora and fauna and relief model of Himalaya.

Everest museum :

Everest museum is another museum to be seen here.

Snow Leopard Breeding Center :

Darjeeling also houses Snow Leopard Breeding Center which is devoted to snow leopard breeding program. Snow leopard is one of the endangered species and efforts are being taken breed these species in captivity. Snow leopards are kept in large enclosures and visitors are allowed to watch them.  Complete silence is maintained in the center.
The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway also known as Troy train is UNESCO recognized World Heritage.  Journey of the troy train starts from Siliguri and offers excellent views. Other places of interest   in Darjeeling include Aloobari Gompa,Bhutai Busty Gompa, Ghoom Monastery  and Badamtam Tea Estate.

Best time to visit Darjeeling

1] March to May :

Temperature during this months are between 13°C to 18°C. You can feel bright sunlight sky and fresh breeze atmosphere.

2] October to November :

Temperature ranges between 5°C to 7°C and it's the best and recommended time by most of the traveler because the monsoon season would have stopped by this month and you can experience clear sky and moderate cool temperature.

How to reach:

By road:

 Darjeeling is well connected by rail and road to other parts of the state and the country. Many state run buses and private luxury buses are available from other cities of the state and the country.

By train:

 The nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri. It is well connected to many other cities of India. Darjeeling can also be reached from Siliguri by the famous Troy Train.

By airport:

 Nearest airport is Bagdogra near Siliguri. You can hire a taxi or cab from there to reach your desire destination.

Other details: 

The diverse ethnic populace of the town celebrates several local festivals in the town. The Darjeeling Carnival is celebrated over ten days every year in the winter. The carnival is initiated by civic society movement known as Darjeeling Initiative.