Darjeeling- Queen of hill station.

 Darjeeling- Queen of hill station.

In case you are seeking the serenity of mountains, the power of cold winds and the aroma of tea plantations all at one place, Darjeeling is the right place. This hill station nestles in the bosom of West Bengal and is a picturesque and colonial place with world renowned Darjeeling tea.

So, first, we are going to discuss the travel to Darjeeling; the most common way to get to Darjeeling is via Siliguri or New Jalpaiguri (NJP). Here you can have the experience of the toy train which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a slow train that runs across the hills, tea gardens and little villages- and what a picture it is worthy of a postcard!

Tea Garden

When we talk of Darjeeling the first thing that comes to our mind is that of the lush green tea gardens. Visit the Happy Valley Tea Estate or Makaibari and you can pluck tea and then have fresh tea brewed. Sunshine on the hills, cool breeze and a cup of tea, that is life sorted!

Tiger hill

Tiger Hill is the most famous place in Darjeeling. The awaking at 4 am can be a little difficult, but the first golden sun rays on the Kanchenjunga peak will make all the enthusiasm disappear. You may even see Mount Everest in case the weather is clear.

Colonial Charm

Darjeeling still carries the marks of the British rule. The old market areas, churches and heritage hotels here have a different touch. It is a must to walk on Mall Road, eat local momos and thukpa and visit handicraft shops.

Batasia Loop and Ghoom Monastery

Ghoom Monastery is also among the oldest monasteries in Darjeeling where the tranquility will soothe you immediately. And on your way back, don’t miss the Batasia Loop- a spiral train track which gives you a panoramic view of the entire Darjeeling town and the Kanchenjunga.

Indigenous culture and Indigenous food

Darjeeling also has a rather eclectic food scene a combination of Tibetan, Nepal and Bengali food. Not to be missed is the steamed momos, hot thukpa, churpi (yak cheese) and Darjeeling tea. You will also get local festivals and traditional music here.

When To Go

This place is best visited between March and May and October to December. At this time weather is nice and the view of the mountains through clear skis is also the best. Its greenery is augmented to a great extent during monsoon but sometimes the travel plans may get disturbed due to rain.

Conclusion

Darjeeling is more than a hill station, it is an experience, a hearted one where you get a fine balance of nature, culture and history. Whether it is a single tourist, a couple or a family, this destination becomes a memorable journey to all of them.