Darjeeling is a small hill station in the state of West Bengal. Famous for its balmy weather, lofty peaks and sprawling tea gardens, it is one of the tranquil towns, fairly visited by tourists. Apart from its lush flora, it is flanked by ornamental monasteries and historical monuments, which provide an ethereal aura to the place and surroundings. Though the town exudes a simple, low profile lifestyle, there is much, which can be enjoyed here. The adventure lovers can try their hand at mountaineering. For all those who wish to spend some quiet time relishing the affection of nature, Darjeeling is the ideal place, as it offers immense travel and tourism scope.

Tourist Attractions

The sprawling hill station offers a wide variety of tourist attractions, which leave the visitors, spell bound. Tiger Hill provides one of the most picturesque views of the valley. The sunrise and the sunsets from here are not to be missed and will leave an impregnable expression on your mind. The snow clad peaks of Kanchenjunga and Western Himalayas, leave you awe struck. A major part of Darjeeling is covered with tea gardens and plantations. There are around 70 gardens here, which provide a heavenly beauty to the place. The intricately trimmed gardens cast a spell on the visitors, with their exotic smell.

Ghoom is a small hillock, situated at a distance of 6 km from the town. It rises to an altitude of approximately 2,400 m and houses the famous Ghoom Gompa. It is the most popular monastery in Darjeeling and has a large statue of Maitreya Buddha. The other three "Gompas" in Ghoom are Samdenchoeling, Sakyachoeling and the Phin Sotholing. Another fascinating attraction in the town is Batasia Loop. Located at a distance of 5 km from the main town it is the spot where the tracks of the toy train spiral over itself in a manner that it forms a loop.

One of the oldest sites in Darjeeling is the Observatory Hill. Initially, it was used as a monastery known as Dorje Ling, which was destroyed by Nepalis in the 19th century. Presently, a temple stands at the same spot, which is visited by both Buddhists and Hindus. For a shopping spree in the hill station, don't forget to visit Chowrasta, which is the nucleus of commercial activity. It is packed with shops selling local handicrafts, tribal ornaments, brass and silver ornaments, statues, woolens and Gorkha daggers. Though Darjeeling has abundant flora, it does not lack behind in fauna in any manner.

The Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park is a must visit place for all the animal lovers. The park was set up in 1958 to explore the wildlife of the Himalayas. It preserves some of the rich and rare species of the region namely Siberian Tigers, Red Panda, Tibetan Wolf and varicolored birds. Besides, the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute (HMI) and Museums is a hot spot for all the adventure seekers. Set up in 1954, it was established after the conquest of Mount Everest by Prime Minster Jawaharlal Nehru. It is situated merely 2 km from the town and offers courses in mountaineering. The premises even hold a museum, which exhibits antique mountaineering equipments and wildlife.

How to Reach
By Air: The nearest airport is situated at Bagdogra, which is at a distance of 90 km from Darjeeling.

By Rail: The most convenient railway junction to reach Darjeeling is New Jalpaiguri / Siliguri. The World Heritage 'Toy Train' operates from here. Slowly chugging its way to the hill station, the train offers some breathtaking views of the landscape.

By Road: Darjeeling is well connected to all the major cities of the state and the country, via a network of good motorable roads and regular bus service.