Darjeeling
- Known for its natural splendor, Darjeeling's best gift to its'
visitors is the dawn of a new day. The mountains awaken first with a
tentative peeking of the sun. Darjeeling, called the 'dream land of the
East' and the 'queens of hill stations' , has been a popular hill station
since the times of the British. Due to its proximity with three
international borders, those of India-Nepal and India-Bhutan, this place is
strategically very important.
The Darjeeling toy train coming from Siliguri is some thing which is liked
by the elders and the children equally. The real fun in coming to Darjeeling
is by the toy train. The toy train takes six to seven hours to cover a
distance of 82 kms and the slow speed gives you enough time to watch and
appreciate the beauty which nature has provided it. This toy train passes
through the Forests, waterfalls, over deep valleys and through the mountains
and tunnels.
The nearest airport to Darjeeling is
the Bagdogra airport. Bagdogra is 10 kms from Siliguri and is an important
military installation. From Bagdogra one can take a bus or taxi to
Darjeeling. Darjeeling has a railway station but only the toy train from
Jalpaiguri and New Jalpaiguri comes here. The major trains connecting the
place with all the major places in India come to Jalpaiguri or New
Jalpaiguri. From here again you have to take the toy train or a bus or taxi
to Darjeeling. The place is well connected by roads. The state transports
run buses from Calcutta and other nearby places. The private operators also
have their buses and the fair does not vary much in the state or in the
private buses.

»
Kanchenjunga View, Darjeeling
From Darjeeling one can have the best, uninterrupted view of the worlds
third highest peak. Bhan Bhakta Sarani provides one of the enthralling views
of these snow capped peaks. The Chowrasta also gives you a good sight to the
Kanchenjunga peak.
»
Observatory Hills, Darjeeling
This point provides one of the breathtaking views of Kanchenjunga peaks.
This place is also very sacred for the Hindus and the Buddhists as there are
temples and monasteries at this place. The Kali temple is decorated with the
colorful flags. Be aware of the monkey groups as some them are very
aggressive.
»
Darjeeling Zoological Gardens
The zoo is situated two kms form the main town. This zoological garden of
Darjeeling houses some of the rare species of animals and birds. This is the
only zoo in India having the Siberian Tigers. Apart from these the rare Red
Panda is also there. The Snow Leopards, Great Grey Birds, Snow Yaks are some
the animals which are attracting tourist in great numbers.

»
Monasteries in Darjeeling
Monasteries in around Darjeeling generate tremendous interest among
visitors, be it in the form of architectural extravagance or the spiritual
message embodied in them.
»
Dhoom Gompa, Darjeeling
About 8 kms from Darjeeling is the Dhoom Gompa. Here a very beautiful
statue of the Maitrayie Buddha is established. The Monastery has also
preserved some of the rare handwritten Buddhist manuscripts.
»
Tiger Hill
Tiger hills is the highest point in the area which provides the most exotic
view of the Kanchenjunga peaks. From this place the other peaks of the
Eastern Himalayas can be seen. On a clear day the sight of Mt.Everest is
just enthralling.