Tourist places in and around Darjeeling
The Mall
Essentially a market place, it is one of the most defining areas of this town. The Mall is the center of the town and is lined on both sides with shops that sell Tibetan hand-knitted sweaters and souvenirs, curios, Himalayan artifacts and antiques. This hive of all activities leads to the Chowrastra or town square, where you can hire ponies for trotting around or simply catch views of the Kanchanjunga Range.Observatory Hill
This is the oldest site in Darjeeling where most of the high end hotels are located. Legends have it that a Red Hat Buddhist Monastery called Dorje Ling, or 'Place of the Thunderbolt', from where Darjeeling derives its name, stood at this spot, which was later destroyed by the Nepalis. The famous Bhutia Basti Gompa was located here before being shifted near Chowrasta. Today, a Kali Temple sacred to both Buddhists and Hindus is located here.This hill held sacred by Hindus and Buddhists affords a panoramic view of Kanchenjunga. There is a 19th century Mahakaal Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and a Buddhist Monastery. It had an observatory, which no longer exists.
Apart from the magnificent view it commands, great religious importance is attached to the observatory Hill by both Hindus and Buddhists who are worshipped here by the hundreds.
Tenzing Norgy Mountaineering Institute
This Institute was founded and managed by the late Tenzing Norgay who conquered Mt Everest with Sir Edmund Hillary in 1953. Today, it has on display records of some major expeditions undertaken. Next to this is the Everest Museum, which traces the history of different attempts on the world's highest peak. You may also contact the institute for mountaineering courses for all levels. And a one-off rock-climbing session can be taken at the Tenzing Norgay Rock, located on the northern fringes of Darjeeling.Open from 9:00 am-4.30 pm Entrance fee: Rs 6 It lies on Jawahar Parbat and is the first mountaineering training centre of the country. The HMI Museum depicts history of mountaineering, while the Everest Museum displays memorabilia of the 1953, Everest expedition of Renzing and Hillary. Another attraction is the huge ‘Hitler's Telescope', which provides a fine view of Kanchenjunga.
Darjeeling Rangeet Valley Passenger Ropeway
Located at North Point about 3-km from the town, this is the first passenger ropeway in India. Temporarily under restoration, it connects North Point to Singla Bazaar over the Rangeet River in the valley.Open from 8:00 am-3:30 pm
There are two ropeway systems at Darjiling one is 1,408m long, connecting arjiling with dijanbari at the little Rangeet valley. While the second one is a bi-cable passenger ropeway that connects Darjiling's North Point and singla, covering an aerial distance of 8kms. It is the first bi-cable passenger carrying ropeway in India and the longest its kind in Asia.
Dr. Graham's Homes school
Dr. Graham's Homes school which was founded by Dr. John Anderson Graham in 1900 is one of the main attractions of Kalimpong. This has been built on the slopes of Delo Hill, approximately three kilometers away from the town. Visitors who want to witness a bird's eye view of the picturesque place have to go to Durpin Dara, an observatory point at the hill top, from where one can get an overall view of the mighty Himalayan ranges. There are a number of monasteries in this area, among which the Pedong Monastery and the Thongsha Gompa are the oldest and widely known. Another monastery is the Tharpa Choling Monastery which has been constructed in 1937 by the Yellow Hat Sect, situated at Tirpai Hill at a distance of around two kilometers from Kalimpong.Bhutia Basti Gompa
Situated 1 km out of town, this monastery is built against the spectacular backdrop of the Kanchenjunga Mountains. The shrine located here, earlier stood on the Observatory Hill. It is built in Tibeto-Nepalese architecture and is a storehouse of ancient Buddhist texts and artifacts, including the original volume of the Tibetan Book of the Dead.Darjeeling Toy Train
Built in the late 19th century, the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway is today a World Heritage sight, only the second railway to have made it to that list. Built through a zigzag of tracks, the distance of almost 87 kms between Kurseong and Ghoom takes almost the entire day. And it's worth it! En route, you pass through rhododendron slopes, rolling hills and spectacular views of the Kanchenjunga, and cross villages with quaint names like Margaret's Hope, and chug past the front doors of houses that have red-tiles and potted-flowers.Lioyd Botanical Garden
As picturesque as Darjeeling is, head out to the numerous gardens and parks. Head out to the Shrubbery, behind Raj Bhavan, and the Lloyd Botanical Gardens that offers several varieties of flowers and orchids. Also you can catch a view of the Kanchenjunga Range and Singalila Valley. The Bengal Natural History Museum is excellent for garnering information on the varied Himalayan fauna and Bengal wildlife.Open from 10am-4pm
Entry fee: Rs 2
This well laid out terraced garden has a fine collection of plant specimens from the sub-temperate and temperate Himalayas. There is also a representative collection of plants from all over the world. The Orchidarium here has over 2,500 plants. An annual flower show is held here during the summer months.
A colourful garden situated just below the Market Motor Stand. It contains a representative collection of Himalayan plants, flowers, orchids etc. The green houses are well worth a visit. Timing: 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. Entrance free.
Padmaja Naidu Zoological Park
Other than the usual animals here, this zoological park is home to the Snow Leopard Breeding Center, the only place in the world where breeding of snow leopards in captivity has been successful. Led by Kiran Moktan, who dedicated his life to this program, catching a glimpse of the adorable cubs gamboling with their mother, is an ultimate experience. Remember to maintain silence when visiting the enclosure. While walking out, keep an eye on the trees nearby to sight the elusive red panda!Open from 10:00 am-4:30 pm
Entry fee: Rs 10
Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park is the only centre in India for the breding of the rare snow leopard. The Ussurian tigers and the Himalayan black bear are also among its attractions. The Himalayan Mountaineeing Institute which was established in 1954 by the then Prime Minister, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, is the place Mount Everest. Tenzing Norgay, one of the first climbers of Everest was the Founder Director and Advisor till his demise. Darjeeling-Ranjit Valley ropeway is another attraction which is very near to this place. The Tibetan Refugee Self Help Centre is the place where the excellent Tibetan crafts like carpets, wood and leather work are displayed for the visitors.
It is located located near the Tenzing Norgay Mountainerring Institute and is home to some rare Himalayan fauna like, snow leopard, yak, Siberian tiger, Himalayan black bear, red panda, Tibetan wolf, Himalayan pheasant etc.
Situated on Jawahar Parbat about 2 km. From Chowrasta, this unique institution trains mountaineers. It has a museum containing an interesting collection of mountaineering equipment. Adjacent to the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, it is a high altitude wild life park and new home for Siberian Tiger, Himalayan Black Bear, Deer, Red Panda, Snow Leopard and Birds. Timings: 9 a.m. to 4.30 p.m. Closed on Thursday. Entrance Fee: Rs. 6/- per head for Himalayan Mountaineering Institute and Zoo.
Natural History Museum
A rich collection of local fauna are exhibited here.Dhirdham Temple
It resembles the famous Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu.The Shrubbery
This charming garden at Jawahar Parbat, behind Raj Bhawan, provides a breath-taking view of Kanchenjunga range and single valley.A colourful garden situated just below the Market Motor Stand. It contains a representative collection of Himalayan plants, flowers, orchids etc. The green houses are well worth a visit. Timing: 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. Entrance free.
Japanese Peace Pagoda
It was inaugurated in 1993 and affords an excellent view of the town and majectic mountains. On the way is Lalkothi, the DGHC council House, which can be viewed from outside.The Snow Leopard breeding Centre
It was started in 1986 to breed Snow Leopards in captivity with the help of International Snow Leopard captive breeding project. Entrance fee Rs. 10/- Closed on Thursday.Tenzing Rock and Gombu Rock
Situated at Lebong Cart Road. Himalayan Mountaineering Institute conducts preliminary course on Rock climbing on these Rocks.Natural History Museum
Within walking distance from Chowrasta, this interesting museum contains comprehensive collection of the fauna of the region. Opens from 10 a.m. too 4 p.m. Closed on Thursdays. Entrance fee: Re 2/-, children Rs. 1/-.Around Darjiling
Ghoom Monastery (8 km)
One of the renowned monasteries of Darjeeling, Ghoom is located at 8000 ft, 8 km from Darjeeling and belongs to the Yellow sect of Buddhists. It is home to the 15 ft high statue of the Maitreya Buddha. Painted in gold, the statue is said to be coated with precious stones. The rooftops and facades have colorfully painted figures intended to scare away evil spirits. The external walls are lined with prayer wheels, which are spun during praying and the internal walls are lit with butter lamps. Also check out the several thangkas on the walls. The monastery also houses the Tibetan translations of some of the most famous Sanskrit works by literary geniuses.No visit to Darjeeling is complete without a visit to Ghoom which is 6k m away from the main town. The hillick is dominated by the famous Yiga Choeling Monastery which has 15 images of the Maitreya Buddha. Belonging to the Yellow Hat Sect, the monastery contains many ancient palm leaves and pape manuscripts in Tribetan script. The Museum of Natural History is where one can see a fine collection of Himalayan animals, reptiles, birds and insects. If flora is what one enjoys, then Liyod Botanical Garden is the place of interest. IT has a marvellous collection of alpine flora and orchids.
It is well known for the railway station at higest altitude in the country. The Tibetan Buddhist Monastery here enshrines a 4.8m statue of the Maitreya Buddha and is famous for the Tibetan New Year celebrations (Feb-Mar). the 30.5m high Ghoom Rock offers a fine view and is a popular tourist site.
Batasia Loop (5 km)
Batasia Loop is about five kilometes from Darjeeling and three kilometers from Ghoom, and the meter-gauge, toy train winds its way over this brilliant piece of engineering delight. It is a pleasant and delightful descent from Ghoom- the highest railway station in the world.It lies just below Ghoom and is an engineering marvel where the railway line negotiates a graceful circle and descends 1000 ft. The site affords a spectacular view of Darjiling, with the majestic Kanchenjungha in the background. There is also a War Memorial.
About 5 km from Darjeeling, this Railway Loop is a marvellous feat of engineering. It is fascinating to watch the toy train wind its way round the loop. The War Memorial constructed in the memory of brave sons of Darjeeling who died in different action since 1947, is worth a visit. A glorious view of snowy peak and town can be seen from this place. Entrance fee: Rs. 2/- Timings: sunrise till two hours after sunset.
Kalimpong (52 km)
Teesta, the crown of this queen valley is spread over the tiny town of Kalimpong. Once, it was the headquarter of a Bhutanese Governor. The word, kalim means the king's minister and pong means the stronghold. The place is situated at an altitude of about 1250 metres and covers around 3.55 square miles.This charming hill resort has some of the best flower and orchid producing nurseries in the country. There are also three Buddhist monasteries, Mangal Dhaam, a recently constructed temple in the memory of late guru shree 108 Mangal Dasji and St. Theresa's Church. Kalimpong is also a shopper's paradise, Tibetan craft items can be picked up as souvenirs.
Mirik (49 km)
Mirik is the place which is famous for tea gardens and orange orchards. The climate of this place is cool and charming, and gives a completely diffeent experience to the visitors. Lush green valley covered with tea plantations, samll cottages, long oak trees, big lake and juicy orranges are the things which are unique in this place. Fishing and boating in the lake gives something more to the tourists.The beautiful fill resort surrounded by tea estates, orange orchards, cardamom plantations and lush woods full of oak, maple and chestnut trees is famous for the sumendu lake. Boating and angling facilities are available here.
Kurseong (32 km)
The picturesque town located between Darjiling and Siliguri is referred as the ‘Land of the White Orchid'. It is dotted with several churches and good schools. There is also a Forest Museum, Deer Park, mini amusement park and a lovely water reservoir. The Eagle's Crag, command a panoramic view of the undulating plains below.Tiger Hill (13 km)
This is the highest point in the area and is located about 14 kms from Darjeeling. The best time to visit it is early morning, when the first rays of the sun create a dramatic effect on the distant Himalayan peaks. And if you're lucky you just might also catch a glimpse of Mount Everest. Carry your camera and some warm clothing, since the altitude makes it bone-jarringly cold.The 2,585m high hill affords the best view of Kanchenjunga, especially at sunrise. One can enjoy an awe-inspiring view of the Himalayas from a viewing tower here.
Situated at an altitude of 2590 metres (8482 ft.) and 13 kms from the town, this spot has earned international fame for the magnificent view of the sunrise over "Kanchenjunga" and the great Eastern Himalayan Mountains. Even Mount Everest, the world's highest peak, is visible from here.
Senchal (10 km)
The three artifical lakes on a 2,487m. high hill supply water to Darjiling and is also a popular picnic spot. The golf course here is one of the highest in the world. There is also the senchal sanctuary, the home to barking deer, wild boar and black bear etc.Shiliguri (87 km)
Scenic shiliguri set amidst tea gardens and set forests is the main transit point for Darjiling. Kalimpanh and the exotic north-eastern states. It is indeed a centre of commercial and communication network of north-eastern India.The famous Jaldapadra Sanctuary is located 121kms from here.
Chowrasta or Crossroad
It is the is the ‘heart of Victorian Darjiling' and a hub of commercial activity. The famous Mall Road originates and culminates here and is studded with hotels, restaurants, shops and stal;ls, the attracftive promenade affords fine view of the Himalayas. One can also enjoy a leisurely ride on a horse-back.STEP ASIDE:
About 3 mins walk from Chowrasta will bring the visitors to the place where the famous Indian patriot Deshbandu Chittaranjan Das had passed away in 1925.Ava Art Gallery:
About 2 km from town on the way to Ghoom. It houses fine art and embroidery work of Mrs. Ava Devi. Timing 8 a.m. to 12 noon and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Entrance: 25 p.Happy Valley Tea Estate
Of about seventy tea gardens in this hilly region, this is one of the nearest, about 3 km from the town. Here one can see the processing of the world famous Darjeeling tea. Timing: 8 a.m. to 12 noon and 1 p.m. to 4.30 p.m. Closed on Sundays (afternoon and) and Mondays (full day).Darjeeling Rangeet Valley Passenger Ropeway
At North Point about 3 km from the town. The first passenger ropeway in India. For reservation of ropeway seats please contact Officer in-charge, Darjeeling Rangeet Valley Ropeway Station, North Point, Darjeeling. Phone: 52731. Regular share taxi service available from Market Motor. Stand to the Ropeway Station. Fare 5.00.Lebong Race Course
About 8 km from the town, it is the smallest race course in the world. The complete lap is only 480 yds. Long. It was laid out in 1885 as a parade ground.Garg World Amusement Park
Situated at a distance of about 4 km. On Gandhi Road it is a new amusement park with a variety of attractions. Entry fee: Rs. 15/-Barbotey Rock Garden
Situated 10 kms. from town it is a very attractive picnic spot with natural water falls.Handicraft
Tibetan Refugee Self Help Centre Tibetan refugee self help centre was established on 1st October 1959 to rehabilitate displaced Tibetians who had followed His Holiness The Dalai Lama to India in early 1959. This centre produces excellent carpets, woollen goods, wood work, leather work etc. The Tiebtan craftsmen can be seen at work at the centre.Closed on Sundays.Manjusha, Bengal Emporium
Prominent hill handicrafts, handloom and silk products of West Bengal are displayed and sold here. The emporium is situated at Nehru Road.Hayden Hall
Woollen carpets, cotton shoulder bags, table mats, hand knitted pure woollen sweaters and caps are available for sale at reasonable prices. The items are woven by the local ladies.Gram Silpa
Khadi and Village Industries Commission, Govt. of India, an ideal place to buy khadi handloom silk products. Excursions, Picnic Spots & Short treks Senchal Lake: A favourite picnic spot about 10 km. from the town. Senchal Lake provides water supply to Darjeeling town. Singla: Altitude 244 metres or 800 ft. (approx.). This attractive picnic spot near Rangeet River has been earmarked by the Department of Tourism, DGHC for a water sports complex. Ajitar: 21 km. from Darjeeling by road (jeepable), it is a magnificent picnic spot. Bijanbari: 38 km. from Darjeeling by road (motorable). Situated at an altitude of 762 metres or 2500 ft. This beautiful picnic spot is near the Little Rangeet river.Attractions
Strolling up the Mall, past the quaint Tibetan market, you arrive at Observatory Hill, the popular meeting place for tourists as well as residents. It is popular not only for its religious importance but also for its picturesque views.Located about two kilometres from the marketplace on Jawahar Parvat is the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, established after the conquest of the Everest in 1954. The Everest Museum is famous for its unique collection of mountaineering equipment and findings. It offers mountaineering and adventure courses.
No visit to Darjeeling is complete without a visit to Ghoom Monastery, which is 6 kilometres away from the main town. The famous Yiga Choeling Monastery and a 4.5-metre tall image of the Maitreya Buddha dominate the hillock.
A strategic point to watch the spectacular sunrise is Tiger Hill. It offers a magnificent view of the rising sun over the snow-capped Mt. Kanchenjunga and other great Eastern Himalayan peaks.
Bhutia Busti is an important attraction of Darjeeling. Originally a branch of the Nygmapa sect's Phodang Monastery in Sikkim, it was transferred to Darjeeling in 1879. The shrine was formerly situated on the Observatory Hill.
The Dhirdham Temple is situated near the railway station and is accessible either by a lazy walk or by jeep. The temple is similar in its architecture to the famous Pashupatinath Temple of Kathmandu in Nepal.
Quick Getaways
Situated at a distance of 26 km from Darjeeling, the Takdah valley is famous for the beautiful nurseries growing some of the rare Himalayan plants and orchids. Takdah also produces some of the best-flavoured tea of the world.Kurseong is a peaceful hill station surrounded by tea gardens. The pollution-free climate and relaxing environs of Kurseong make it an ideal resort to beat the summer's heat. The Makaibari Tea Estate and Forest Museum on Dow Hills are its main attractions.
Set in scenic surroundings, Mirik is 49 km from Darjeeling, and for those seeking peace and tranquility. The Sumendu Lake at the bottom of the Mirik Spur is the most dominating feature. Fishing is a popular pastime here. Mirik is almost completely surrounded by some of the best tea gardens of the region. It is also the largest producer of oranges in West Bengal.
Sandakphu, 58 km from Darjeeling, is the only point from where you can see four of the five highest peaks of the world, namely, Mt. Everest, Kanchenjunga, Makalu and Lhotse and is a trekkers' paradise.