Darjeeling | The Queen Of The Hills | When To Visit | What To Do
Known for its stunning locales, enthralling sunrises, scenic hills and the warm smiles of the locals Darjeeling is one of the most visited hill stations of Eastern India. Situated at a height of about 2,050 meters above sea level on a steep mountain ridge, nestled amidst the greenery of the tea plantations, the place is cool and refreshing all year round. Needless to say, Darjeeling is often called the Queen of the Hills.
Darjeeling is a very popular tourist destination in North-East India, mostly because it stays cold in the hot and humid summers of India. It could be the perfect honeymoon destination for you and your partner. The splendid tea gardens on steep mountain slopes, toy train rides through the charming city, and the mouth-watering traditional Tibetan cuisine all add beauty to the gorgeous panorama of the Himalayas.
There are over 86 tea estates in Darjeeling. The Darjeeling ‘chai’ is world famous for its flavor and aroma. Be sure to have a cup of locally made chai (tea) at the local Dhaba (restaurant) on your visit. You will love it. Darjeeling is also famous for its cultural diversity. The place is full of people from Nepal, Tibet and nearby Indian states.
A little bit of history
Darjeeling was previously the summer capital of India during the British Raj. It is famous for its toy trains established way back in 1881. The train still runs and is one of the UNESCO world heritage sites. There are also many churches and mansions that reflect the beautiful colonial architecture.
Tourist attractions in Darjeeling
The Kanchenjunga peak, the third highest peak in the world and the highest in India, is clearly visible from here and you can enjoy a mesmerising view. The monasteries, the zoo, botanical gardens, toy trains and the Darjeeling-Rangeet Valley Passenger Ropeway cable car which happens to be the longest Asian cable car are the most visited and liked destinations in Darjeeling. It is a wonderful place to walk around and explore the tea estates, villages, markets, the local lifestyle and much more. If you love the rich Indian tradition and the culture, then Darjeeling is a must-visit.
How to reach?
The nearest airport is Bagdogra which is around 95 km away from Darjeeling. There are direct flights from Delhi, Kolkata and Guwahati. Hire a taxi from the airport to reach Darjeeling. The ride will take about 3 hours.
When to visit?
Darjeeling is best visited during the summer months April to June when the temperature stays around 25 degree Celsius. Another advantage of visiting Darjeeling during summer is that there are plenty of outdoor activities to engage in. If you are a winter lover, you may plan a trip in December of January. During these months, the temperature stays in the 2.5 to 11 degree Celsius range.
