Darjeeling, a beautiful town located in the Indian state of West Bengal, is known for its breathtaking views of the Himalayas, lush tea gardens, and colonial architecture. With a variety of attractions, it can be difficult to decide which places to visit during your trip. In this blog post, we have compiled a list of the top 10 places to visit in Darjeeling in 2023.
Tiger Hill: Known for its stunning sunrise views, Tiger Hill is a must-visit attraction in Darjeeling. Visitors can witness the first rays of the sun illuminating the snow-capped peaks of Kanchenjunga, the third highest mountain in the world.
Darjeeling Himalayan Railway: Also known as the "Toy Train," this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a unique experience of traversing through the tea gardens and narrow streets of Darjeeling. The train runs on a 2-foot gauge track and covers a distance of 88 km.
Batasia Loop: Located on the way to Darjeeling from Ghoom, the Batasia Loop is a railway engineering marvel. The train makes a complete 360-degree turn while descending from an altitude of 140 feet, offering a panoramic view of the town.
Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park: This zoo is dedicated to the conservation of endangered species like the snow leopard, red panda, and Tibetan wolf. The park also offers a breathtaking view of the Himalayas.
Happy Valley Tea Estate: Darjeeling is famous for its tea gardens, and the Happy Valley Tea Estate is one of the oldest and largest tea plantations in the region. Visitors can take a tour of the factory and witness the tea-making process.
Mahakal Temple: A popular pilgrimage site, the Mahakal Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is located on a hilltop, offering a panoramic view of the town and the Himalayas.
Observatory Hill: The Observatory Hill is a sacred site for both Hindus and Buddhists. The hill offers a panoramic view of the town, and visitors can witness the convergence of different religious practices.
Darjeeling Mall: The Mall Road, also known as Chowrasta, is the heart of Darjeeling. It offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes. Visitors can also witness the cultural performances held in the open-air theater.
Lloyd Botanical Garden: Spread over an area of 40 acres, the Lloyd Botanical Garden houses a variety of plant species, including the rare Himalayan flora. The garden also offers a picturesque view of the surrounding hills.
Japanese Peace Pagoda: Built by the Japanese Buddhist monk, Nichidatsu Fujii, the Japanese Peace Pagoda offers a serene and peaceful environment. The Pagoda also offers a breathtaking view of the town and the Himalayas.
In conclusion, Darjeeling offers a variety of attractions that cater to different interests. These top 10 places are a must-visit during your trip to Darjeeling in 2023.