Best places to visit in Darjeeling
Darjeeling is also known as the” Queen of the Hills”. Darjeeling is at an altitude of 2134 meter above sea level. With the rolling mountains, the audacity of this place is amazing. One can finds ample of tea plantations as Darjeeling produces the best tea in the world.
Main tourist attractions of Darjeeling
Darjeeling Himalayan Railway
It is one of the most popular attraction of Darjeeling. It is also known as ‘Toy Train’. In 1999, Darjeeling Himalayan Railway was declared as World Heritage site by UNESCO.
Singalila National Park
The park is known for its amazing views and panoramic views of the lesser Himalayas. The National park is famous as a Trekker’s paradise with a large variety of mountainous vegetation, fauna and birds.
Tiger hill
It is one of the famous peaks of Darjeeling. Here one can reach either by jeep or through foots which transverses through some of the oldest tea plantations in Darjeeling. The place is best known as a trekking destination and its peak offer some of the marvelous views of monolithic Mount Everest and Kanchendzonga.
Observatory Hill
It is the famous view point and tourist attraction in Darjeeling. It is famous for its magnificent views in Kanchendzonga and an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Batasia Loop
The place is famous for housing a Gorkha war memorial and while in the toy train you can witness a 360-degree views of Darjeeling.
Happy Valley Tea Estate
It is one of the major tourist attractions in Darjeeling. The place is located among midst of breathtaking surroundings in India. It also houses one of the highest tea factories in the world. It was established in the year 1854 by an Englishman.
Neora Valley National Park
It is one of the richest biological zones in north-east.
Best time to visit Darjeeling
While summer months from April to June are the ideal time to travel to Darjeeling, some travellers including couples also prefer to visit the beautiful town during winter months from October to December.
Main fairs and festivals of Darjeeling
Teesta Tea and Tourism festival
Teesta Tea and Tourism festival celebrated in the month of November or December; Darjeeling tea festival attracts tourists from various parts of the world. The event includes the display and exhibition on the culture of tea and tasting sessions. Tea lovers will be educated and acquainted to the tradition of tea. You can even buy different types of tea including scented teas, black tea, oozing tea, white tea, masala tea and green tea.
Darjeeling Carnival
This festival is celebrated in the month of November. The main feature of 10-day carnival includes is rock and band music in English, Bengali and Nepali by the localities, painting and photo exhibitions, poetry reading sessions by different groups and many more such activity. Local and traditional food stalls are set up where people of all ages come and enjoy. Of all the festivals of Darjeeling, this one is very interesting.
New Year Celebrations
Apart from the festivals celebrated in Darjeeling, New Year’s Eve always marks for special celebrations in the town. With the start of the year in January, the Bhutias and Lepchas celebrate the New Year with vibrant traditional dances on the streets. It is one of the best experiences to witness these long processions. Fairs are also organized around this time where you can enjoy authentic local food items such as Momo and thupka.
Ram Navami and Chaita Dasai
On Ram Navami day, a procession carrying Lord Ram’s idol is taken out along with lots of fun. This day is also called Chaita Dasai. It is celebrated with a prayer offering to Devi (Shakti) for the triumph of good over evil. On this day everyone puts brightly colored rice (mixed with curd ) tika as blessings on the forehead.
