West Bengal Tourism

Darjeeling is a nestled in the Himalayan range in Northern Bengal. Also popularly known as the Queen of Hills is esteemed for its scenic beauty, vibrant green hills, views of green tea bushes and quaint township. The district hosts people from across the world and has various kinds of stays available starting from hotels to homestays. Whether you are an explorer or a sit-at-home-with-a-mug-of-hot-chocolate, the diverse nature of activities along with the warmth of its people will ensure that you are comfortable throughout your stay. For the nature s lover, there are beautiful trekking routes and campsites from Darjeeling, which gives the opportunity to get close to nature for the photographers- there are picturesque shots of the Himalayas available from every corner for the food lover the varied range of restaurants to street-side vendors will cater to all your food pangs for the shopaholic the local markets will surprise you with their diverse collection. Be it a trip for two days or a month-long retreat, this place will ensure a comforting stay amidst the most welcoming people.

Destinations

Tiger Hill

If you are not a morning person, then we suggest you stay up the night and visit this place directly at the crack of dawn because the sunrise view from the Tiger Hill is a breathtaking experience. Situated at an altitude of 2,590 meters and at a distance of 13km from Darjeeling town. This hill offers unparallel view of sunrise from behind the Kanchenjunga and the great Eastern Himalayan Mountains. The sunlight reflected on the snow-capped mountains creates a unique pallet of colours on the sky which even the best of the cameras fails to capture. On a clear day, Mount Everest, the world s highest peak, is also visible from here.

Batasia Loop

Batasia loop is a work of art by the Engineers Situated atop a hill with rail lines in a loop like manner, the loop was created to lower the slope of incline for the Darjeeling Himalayan Railways. From here, you can witness a panoramic view of the Kanchenjunga and other Himalayan peaks and have a walk around the garden with beautiful flowers. Right at the center of the loop is the War Memorial constructed in the memory of the brave Gorkha Soldiers who lost their lives while fighting for the Nation.

Darjeeling Himalayan Railway

The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, also known as the DHR or the Toy Train, is a 2 ft railway that runs between New Jalpaiguri and Darjeeling. Constructed between 1879- 1881, is also a UNESCO declared World Heritage Site. The diesel and steam run engine takes the most scenic route which provides picture-like views of the Himalayas. Diesel locomotives handle tourist trains from Darjeeling to Ghum India s highest railway station and the steam-hauled Red Panda service from Darjeeling to Kurseong. The view of hills, valleys and luscious green tea gardens is definitely a lifetime experience.

Shanti Stupa

Shanti Stupa or Peace Pagoda houses the four avatars of Buddha with the aim to spread peace around the world. This pagoda was built under the guidance of Nichidatsu Fujii, who was a Buddhist monk from Japan and founder of the Nipponzan-My h ji Buddhist Order. With a height of 28.5 metres 94 ft and diameter is 23 metres 75 ft , it is one of the most beautiful Pagodas in the state. It is situated on the slopes of the Jalapahar hills of Darjeeling.

Ghoom

Ghoom is a quaint hill town about 6 kms from Darjeeling. This town is popular for the multiple Buddhist monasteries amidst the mountainous terrain. These monasteries offer a beautiful escape to serenity and peace with the Himalayas at the backdrop. Ghoom houses the highest railway station in India which is situated at an altitude of 7,407 ft which also has an adjacent museum a must visit for a railway enthusiast.

DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM
GOVERNMENT OF WEST BENGAL