Waquar Habib
Darjeeling, a picturesque hill station in West Bengal, India, is known as the "Queen of the Hills" for its stunning Himalayan views, lush tea gardens, and colonial-era architecture, making it a captivating destination for travellers.
Tiger Hill in Darjeeling is renowned for its breathtaking sunrise views over the Kanchenjunga and other Himalayan peaks. This vantage point, dating back to the British colonial era, offers a panoramic view of Mount Everest on clear days, making it a haven for nature lovers and photographers.
The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers a nostalgic ride on a narrow-gauge steam locomotive. It was built between 1879 and 1881 and is commonly called the "Toy Train". The train meanders through lush hills and charming villages, showcasing engineering marvels.
The Batasia Loop is a spiral railway track on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. It offers 360-degree views of the hills and the Kanchenjunga range and includes a war memorial dedicated to Gorkha soldiers.
Established in 1958, this high-altitude zoo focuses on conserving endangered Himalayan species like the snow leopard, red panda, and Himalayan wolf. It plays a crucial role in breeding and preserving these rare animals.
Established in 1986, Singalila National Park is famous for its diverse flora and fauna, including the endangered red panda and the Himalayan black bear. The park offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas and is a popular trekking destination, particularly for the Sandakphu trek, the highest point in West Bengal.
Established in 1854, Happy Valley Tea Estate is one of Darjeeling's oldest and most famous tea gardens. Visitors can tour the estate to learn about the intricate process of tea production and sample some of the world's finest teas, renowned for their unique aroma and flavour.
Established in 1954 to commemorate Tenzing Norgay's historic Mount Everest ascent, the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute provides mountaineering training and features a museum displaying climbing equipment, memorabilia, and photographs.
The Japanese Temple, also known as Nipponzan Myohoji Buddhist Temple, was established in 1972 near the Peace Pagoda. It offers a tranquil environment for meditation and spiritual reflection amidst the chanting of Buddhist prayers.
The Rock Garden, developed by the Gorkha Hill Council Tourism Department, includes terraced gardens, waterfalls, and scenic spots. A few kilometres away, Ganga Maya Park offers a beautiful setting with a small lake where visitors can enjoy boating and experience local cultural performances.
Observatory Hill is famous for the sacred Mahakal Temple and is a significant religious site for Hindus and Buddhists. The hill provides panoramic views of Darjeeling town and the Himalayas. It has historical importance dating back to the British era when it housed an observatory.