Visiting Places
Tiger Hill
Tiger Hill, located 13 km from Darjeeling near Ghoom, stands at an altitude of 2,590 meters (8,482 ft). It is famous for its breathtaking sunrise views over Mount Kanchenjunga and, on clear days, Mount Everest. Visitors gather early morning to witness the golden rays illuminating the Himalayan peaks, making it one of Darjeeling’s most iconic viewpoints.
Himalayan Railway (Toy Train)
The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, popularly known as the Toy Train, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site built between 1879 and 1881. This narrow-gauge railway offers scenic journeys through the hills, passing tea gardens, villages, and the famous Batasia Loop. The popular Joy Ride between Darjeeling and Ghoom provides a memorable Himalayan experience.
Batasia Loop
Batasia Loop is a remarkable spiral railway track built to reduce the steep gradient of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. Commissioned in 1919, the track circles around a landscaped garden offering panoramic views of Mount Kanchenjunga. It also houses a War Memorial dedicated to Gorkha soldiers, making it both scenic and historical.
Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park
Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park is one of India’s highest altitude zoos, located in Darjeeling. It is renowned for conserving rare Himalayan species such as the Red Panda, Snow Leopard, and Tibetan Wolf. Surrounded by natural forest, the park provides an educational and scenic experience for wildlife enthusiasts.
Ghoom Monastery
Ghoom Monastery, also known as Yiga Choeling Monastery, was built in 1850 and is one of the oldest Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in Darjeeling. Situated at around 8,000 feet, it is famous for its 15-foot statue of Maitreya Buddha. The monastery belongs to the Gelukpa sect and offers peaceful spiritual surroundings.
Japanese Peace Pagoda & Temple
The Japanese Peace Pagoda and Temple, located on Jalapahar Hill in Darjeeling, were built to promote global peace and harmony. Featuring traditional Japanese architecture, the structure houses four golden Buddha statues and offers stunning views of the Kanchenjunga range. It is a serene place for meditation and reflection.
Bhutia Busti Monastery
Bhutia Busty Monastery, also known as Karma Dorjee Chyoling Monastery, belongs to the Nyingma sect of Tibetan Buddhism. Originally located on Observatory Hill, it was relocated in 1879. The monastery is known for its peaceful environment, ancient scriptures, and beautiful hilltop setting overlooking Darjeeling town.
Happy Valley Tea Estate
Established in 1854, Happy Valley Tea Estate is one of the oldest tea gardens in Darjeeling. Spread over 177 hectares at an altitude of about 2,100 meters, it produces world-famous Darjeeling tea. Visitors can explore the tea factory, learn about tea processing, and enjoy scenic views of lush green plantations.