About City

Gangtok
"The Gateway to Sikkim"

Incredibly alluring, pleasantly boisterous and wreathed in clouds - Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim, is one of the most popular hill stations in India. Lying at the height of 1650 m above sea level, the town during its bright sunny days offers spectacular views of Mt. Kanchenjunga. Gangtok is a base for adventure enthusiasts comprising of trekkers and campers to the Himalayan mountain ranges. During the months of March to Mid-May, blooming of wild Rhododendrons transform the surrounding regions in vast fields of colourful carpets.

Its name meaning hill-top, Gangtok can be safely said to be one of the most beautiful hill stations in the country. With everything in just the right amount from a blend of cultural identities to urbanisation, Gangtok is a breathing and dynamic bit of paradise of the northeast. Gangtok and its surrounding regions are abundant in natural beauty and have various natural attractions such as the Tsomgo Lake, Ban Jhakri falls, Tashi viewpoint and more. Other places to visit include many famous religious sites such as the Enchey Monastery, Ganesh Tok, Do Drul Chorten Rumtek Monastery, etc. Also, river Teesta is one of the best spots for white water rafting in North East India.

Places To Visit In Gangtok

1. Nathu La Pass
This is a pass which connects Tibet with Sikkim at a height of 4310 m. Nathu La Pass was once the part of the ancient Silk Route. To visit this place, one need to collect a permit from Gangtok and only Indian citizens are permitted to see the Indian side of the pass and that too just on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays.

2. MG Road
MG Road is the heart of Gangtok and its most happening place. It is the central shopping hub of this beautiful state capital with various shops, restaurants, and hotels lined up along both sides.

3. Rumtek Monastery
This Monastery is situated 24 km from Gangtok and is considered to be of the most sacred monasteries in Buddhism. The most sacred traditional Buddhist rites are performed in this very building and the religious significance of Rumtek Monastery has attracted devotees and tourists from all over the world.

4. Tsomgo Lake
The Tsongmo Lake is situated 35 km away from the main town of Gangtok. The lake has been considered as holy and been worshipped by Sikkimese people since years.

5. Ganesh Tok
Ganesh Tok is a Ganesh Temple located 7 km from Gangtok at an altitude of 6500 m. The temple is so small that it can accommodate only one person at a time and one has to crawl to reach there.

6. Namgyal Institute of Tibetology
The museum, housed in a traditional Tibetan-style mansion, boasts a jaw-dropping collection of artefacts related to Vajrayana Buddhism and the Tibetan culture. The main aim of the museum is to promote scholastic and cultural research. The museum displays Buddhist manuscripts, icons, thangkas, which are Tibetan cloth paintings and some Tantric ritual objects, such as a thumpa, which is a bowl made from a human skull and the kangling, which is a human thighbone trumpet. The museum also houses ritual objects, jewellery, mementos, books and documentaries on Sikkimese tradition and culture.

7. Kanchenjunga
The third highest peak in the world, the majestic Kanchenjunga is one of the most stunning mountains in the world. Surrounded by Nepal, Sikkim and Tibet, this mountain was fisrt scaled in 1955 but since then has been declared sacred. Kanchenjunga is a Tibetan name which means 'The Five Treasures of the High Snow'. The treasures represent the five repositories of God, namely gold, silver, gems, grain and holy books. There are a lot of trekking routes in Kanchenjunga which will take you through woody forests and serene countryside.

8. Baba Mandir
Situated on the road passing between Nathula and Jelepla Pass, Baba Mandir is the shrine which was built at the Samadhi of Baba Harbhajan Singh. People worship him as a saint who guards the lives of soldiers along the border.

9. Mangan
The town of Mangan, situated in the northern part of Sikkim is a major tourist attraction for trekking, monasteries and its Yumthang Valley.

10. Himalayan Zoological Park
Himalayan Zoological Park is located in Bulbuley, 3 km away from Gangtok and is definitely the place for all the wildlife lovers. With an altitude of 1780 meters, one gets an amazing view of the Mount Khangchendzonga from here.

11. Reshi Hot Springs
Sikkim has numerous hot springs, but the Reshi Hot Spring is the most famous one due to its strategic location and the religious significance that it holds. Easily accessible, the spring is present right after a downhill drive of an hour towards the Rangit River valley.

12. Kabi Longstok
Situated at a distance of 17 km from the northern capital of Gangtok is the Kabi Town which is considered to be a historical place due to the initiation of the Sikkimese history here in the early 13th century. With the wonderful stories that this place holds, this place is surely going to captivate you with its wonderful beauty. 

13. Seven Sisters Waterfalls
Justifying its name, Seven Sisters Waterfalls comprises of seven different waterfalls amicably arranged side by side on a wide rugged cliff which seems distinct when looked at from a distance. This famous waterfall is situated at a distance of 32 kilometres from Gangtok on the Gangtok-Lachung Highway.

14. Tinkitam
Tinkitam Rayong is a petite village in Sikip Tehsil in South District of Sikkim State with Mount Kanchenjanga in the backdrop of this town and its natural habitat supporting a rare species of orchid, Paphiopedilum Faireanum or ladys slipper.

15. Flower Exhibition Centre
Flower Exhibition Centre showcases flowers from the different parts of Sikkim together under a single roof which makes it a heaven for all the nature lovers.

16. Do Drul Chorten
One of the most important stupas in Sikkim, Do Drul Chorten was built in the year 1945 under the supervision of late Truslshi and Rimpoche. The Stupa has around 108 Mani Lhakor or prayer wheels.

17. Saramsa Garden
Saramsa Garden, also known as Ipecac Garden, is indeed a treat for your senses. The exquisite range of different coloured flowers with the surrounding lush greenery is going to hold your attention. There is a large greenhouse in the garden as well which preserves a range of orchids.

18. Hanuman Tok
Hanuman Tok is a very famous temple of Gangtok which is named after Lord Hanuman and is a maintained by the Indian Army. The temple also gives an amazing view of the Kanchenjunga peak which is the third highest peak in the world.

19. Paragliding
Paragliding is one of the thrilling things to do in Gangtok and one activity that you must definitely experience. The place lets you try your hand at the opportunity with the help of a professional trainer and with complete safety measures. Besides giving you a very amazing adrenaline rush, the activity lets you have a bird's eye view of the beautiful city.

20. Tashi View Point
Situated 8 km away from the main town of Gangtok, Tashi Viewpoint is a scenic beauty from where travellers can get a view of the magnificent Mount Sinilochu and Mount Kanchenjunga. This spot also serves as an amazing picnic place for local as well as foreign tourists due to the presence of a cafeteria and sheds bordering the site of the viewpoint.

21. Tsuk La Khang Monastery
Situated in the complex of the Royal Palace, Tsuk La Khang is the prime place of worship for the local Buddhists residing in the region. This beautiful two-storied structure with mural covered interiors also comprises of a large collection of scriptures, is decorated with altars and images of Lord Buddha, and tantric deities.

22. Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary
Nestled in the exquisite Yumthang Valley in North Sikkim, the Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary is a beautiful place to spend time amidst the picturesque location and natural beauty all around. The adventure lovers can also have their share of fun by trekking through the Yumthang Valley.

23. Banjhakri Falls
A new sightseeing destination for the tourists and spread over an area of two acres of land, the Banjhakri Falls is situated at a distance of 10-12 kilometres from Gangtok. Beautifully landscaped gardens are present around the waterfall along with beautiful statues of Lyam Lymay, Mangpas, Lepcha, and Ban Jhakri ancestors.

24. Ranka Monastery
Also known as Lingdum Monastery, the Ranka Monastery which follows the Zurmang Kagyud lineage of Buddhism is situated at a distance of 20 km from Gangtok. It is spread over a vast area and provides terrific scenic views to the tourists.

25. Enchey Monastery
Enchey Monastery meaning 'the solitary temple' is a holy pilgrimage spot for the Buddhists situated in a magical wonderland surrounded by natural beauty. The presence of tall pine trees, flower meadows and the beautiful view of the Kanchenjunga Hills, gives the devotees a feeling of being in the middle of a serene and blessed environment.

26. Saga Dawa
The Saga Dawa festival is one of the most important festivals for the people of Sikkim celebrated with much enthusiasm in the capital city Gangtok. The Mahayana Buddhist tradition recognizes the full moon day of the fourth month of the Buddhist calendar as the anniversary of Buddha's birth, his enlightenment, and his Nirvana. The day is celebrated by various names across India and abroad.

27. International Flower Festival in Gangtok
The International Flower Show is held in Gangtok every year. Several beautiful species of flowers are showcased here, such as orchids, gladioli, roses, cacti, alpine plants, creepers, climbers, ferns, herbs etc. Also, lectures and seminars are held in which renowned botanical scientists come over to speak. The festival takes place throughout May and is a primary source of attraction among the tourists as well as the local inhabitants. The Flower Show is also accompanied by a food festival, where one may try several local delicacies.

28. Gangtok Ropeway
Known to be one of the top thrilling things to do in Gangtok, Gangtok Ropeway breathtaking bird’s eye view of the valley below. Inaugurated in 2003, the double cable zig back ropeway can carry up to 24 passengers and covers a distance of 2 km to and fro. Usually, the cable cars are full, and you have to wait in line for your turn, but the gorgeous views of the Kanchenjunga peaks is totally worth the wait. Also, since there are no seats inside the cable car, so to obtain a good view standing seat (next to the glass pane), you will have to try and get in first.

29. Yak Safari
Experiencing Yak Ride is one of the most essential activities and unique things to do in Gangtok. You can experience the joyride in any one of the three places where the activity is organized. You can try it at Dzongri area and/or Tsomgo lake. Never forget to leave the saddle or you disbalance and are on the ground in no time. Nevertheless, it is one of the most fun experiences that you will try in your life.

30. Mountain Biking in Gangtok
Another one of the thrilling activities and things to do in Gangtok is riding a mountain bike in the hills and valleys. Other than giving you a high adrenaline rush, mountain biking lets you take a peek into the unexplored and un-commercialized part of the city. The thrilling ride takes you through the best of forests and valleys, rivers, waterfalls and lakes.

31. Phodong Monastery
Located in Phodong near Gangtok in Sikkim, Phodong Monastery is one amongst the six most important Buddhist monasteries in the state. Besides being a popular place of tourism, the monastery is a very important place of Buddhist pilgrimage. Boasting of a striking architecture with vibrant coloured exteriors and delicate interiors that are adorned with gorgeous paintings, murals and frescoes, the monastery is also considered one of the most beautiful in all the country. It houses a total of around 260 monks at present.

Top activities in Gangtok

The top activities in Gangtok are Tsongmo Lake and Baba Mandir Day Tour from Gangtok, Private Sightseeing Charter Trip for Gangtok, Private Sightseeing Charter Trip for Phodong Monastery from Gangtok, Private Morning Sightseeing Charter Trip for Tashi View Point in Gangtok, Private Bagdogra Airport (IXB) Transfers for Gangtok, Gangtok Heritage 4-Hour Walking Tour.

Top sightseeing places in Gangtok

The top sightseeing places in Gangtok are Nathula Pass, MG Road, Gangtok, Rumtek Monastery, Tsomgo Lake, Ganesh Tok, Namgyal Institute of Tibetology.

How to Reach Gangtok

The nearest well-connected airport from Gangtok is in Bagdogra in West Bengal which lies at a distance of 126 Kms. One can hail a cab or taxi from there to Gangtok. The nearest railway station from Gangtok is in Siliguri, which is directly connected to the major cities of the country. Taxi and state bus services are available from Siliguri to Gangtok.

Food of Gangtok

Gangtok is home to almost everything that the cuisine of this area has to offer in its most rich, splendid, authentic form with a flattering variety of options. What is impossible to miss in Gangtok includes Momos, Thukpa, Wonton, Gyathuk, Thenthuk and more, along with a Sikkim style meat patty called Shah-Phaley.
Along with this you get to choose from a huge variety of authentic soups almost unique to the area. Chang is a locally made alcoholic beverage and is a must try while here. Authentic Tibetan and Indo-Chinese cuisines are also available in the restaurants and must also be tried.

Best Time To Visit

The best time to visit Gangtok is during the months of late September to mid-December and from March to May. These autumn and spring-summer months experience a pleasant climate which is ideal for sightseeing. The period of late September to mid-December is when the days are sunny with unobstructed views of the Himalayas. Between March to May, the bloom of Rhododendron flowers is a sight worth its weight in gold. It is best to avoid a visit  Gangtok and the state of Sikkim during the monsoon months of July to early September since the heavy rainfall leads to landslides which may cause a lot of inconveniences.
 

About City

Lachung, a tourist hotspot situated in North Sikkim is a splendid destination that is sited at the spot where two tributaries Lachung and Lachen meet. This town is a popular tourist attraction because of the many waterfalls that gush in this area. Glimpses of snow covered mountains can also be caught from this place and offer a spectacular sight. Lachung is also a preferred base to visit the famous Yumthang Valley, quite a landmark in Sikkim's tourism scene.

Lachung is a small town in Sikkim which has majestic mountains all around that tempt tourists to travel here every year. It is that beautiful town of Sikkim which has several snow covered mountains, sparkling streams, peaks, amazing waterfalls and much more. It is the perfect tourist spot which guarantees you pleasurable holidays amidst apple orchards, peaches and apricots. The market in Lachung is filled with handicrafts such as exquisitely woven rugs and blankets that make this town ideal for shopping sprees. Lachung means 'Small Mountain', and it gets this name as it is outlined by majestic mountains.

Lachung Zero Point 

Alternatively known as Yumesamdong, Lachung Zero Point is located at an altitude of 15,300 feet above sea level and is the last outpost of civilization. The journey to Zero Point from Yumthang valley is a lifetime experience as you drive through tortuous and rugged roads. The snow-clad mountains, the flowing rivers and the yaks grazing in search of vegetation make up for thrilling views. There are no roads further and just vast landscapes that never seem to end.

Since the place is close to India-China border, Inner Line permit is required which can be obtained from the Tourist Information Centre or any registered tour operator. The best time to visit Zero Point is between February and June when the roads are clear and easily accessible. You can hire a cab from tour operators registered under Sikkim Tourism from Yumthang valley which is just 26 km away.  

Sightseeing In and Around Lachung 

Lachung Monastery- Established in 1880, Lachung Monastery is a Buddhist gompa in Sikkim. A visit to the monastery is an interesting experience as you get to learn about the principles and culture of Buddhism. 
 
Yumthang Valley- Popularly known as the Sikkim Valley of Flowers, Yumthang valley makes you feel like you have landed in the lap of nature. At an elevation of 3564 metres, it has blooming flowers, flowing rivers, hot springs and yaks grazing on meadows. The best season to visit Yumthang is from February to June when flowers cover the valley in hues of the rainbow. It is only an hour drive from Lachung.

Chungthang- Situated at the confluence of Lachen and Lachung rivers, Chungthang is a small picturesque town where you can take a halt while going to Yumthang valley. The river Teesta, also known as the lifeline of Sikkim is formed here. This place has been associated with many legends and is considered as a holy place blessed by Guru Padmasambhava, the patron saint of Sikkim. There is a stone which to this day bears the footprints of Padmasambhava.

Thangu Valley- At an altitude of 13000 feet, the Thangu valley offers you with scenic views of countless alpine flowers and snowy landscapes. It is an ideal place for nature lovers and trek enthusiasts as the valley provide a base for trekking to Chopta Valley and Muguthang. Besides Teesta river, Chopta, Thangu and Lassur also flow through this valley.   

Chopta- Just 20 minutes drive from Thangu, Chopta valley is another beautiful attraction in North Sikkim. Located at an altitude of 14000 feet, it is a very popular destination amongst trekkers as it is a starting point of some interesting treks and also a gateway to the holy Gurudongmar Lake. Varieties of rhododendrons, primulas and wildflowers bloom in from May to September while snow covers the whole valley in winters.

Seven Sisters Waterfall- As the name itself suggests, Seven Sisters Waterfalls is seven different waterfalls flowing on a wide rugged cliff offering a captivating view. It is an ideal picnic and photography spot and a haven for nature lovers. Located on Gangtok-Lachung highway, the best time to visit is during monsoon when the falls come to life.

Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary- Located in the Yumthang Valley of Flowers, the sanctuary is a nature park of 43 sq.kms and has around forty species of rhododendrons and bird species like wood snipe and hoary-throated barwing. In addition, there are various other trees like Potentillas, Saxifrages, Primulas, Aconites and many more.

Things to Do & Activities 

Mask dance at Lachung Monastery- Located 50 km from Lachung, the Lachung Monastery can fascinate anyone with the mask dance performed every year during winters. The beauty of the sight is enhanced by heavy masks and striking colourful clothes worn by the performers. You can interact with the monks to know about their lifestyle and also shop at the handloom centre for authentic Sikkim textile.

Day trip to Gurudongmar Lake- At an altitude of 17,800 feet, the half-frozen lake with snow clad mountains in the backdrop make for a beautiful sight. It has been associated with many religious beliefs since old times.

Trekking to Mount Katao- A trip to Lachung would be incomplete without visiting Mount Katao. Trekking on snowy trails and basking in the sun amidst breathtaking views of Katao should be definitely on your list.

Visit Bhim Nala Waterfalls- Known as the tallest waterfall in Sikkim, Bhim Nala Waterfall flows in three tiers. 13 km away from Lachung, it can be a perfect spot for taking pictures, sipping coffee and relaxing while you are on the way to Lachung.

How to reach Lachung 

Air: Gangtok airport is the nearest airports Lachung. From there regular flights are available to different destinations. You will have to take a taxi or bus from here to reach Lachung.

Rail: Lachung railway station is near to the city and is easily accessible by road. You can hire any of the available public transport to reach there. Rail network is well connected and make your journey comfortable

Road: Lachung is a hill station and tourists usually prefer to travel through road. You can get taxi, jeeps, and buses to reach this place. Gangtok (113 km) is well connected to Lachung with road transport facility.

Lachung Weather & Best Time to Visit 

The best time to visit Lachung is almost throughout the year as each season has its own beauty. However, summers and winters are preferred over the monsoon season since heavy rainfall can spoil outdoor activities. Summers witness calm and pleasant temperature while winters are cold due to incessant snowfall. The monsoon season comes with continuous showers and therefore disrupts sightseeing plans.

Summer Season
March month marks the beginning of the summer season which lasts till May. The temperature ranges between 10 to 28 degrees Celcius and the pleasing weather make it easy to discover the town. The views are even more fascinating owing to lush greenery and blooming flowers.

Monsoon Season
The mercury takes a dip to 12 degrees and this season observes heavy downpours. It begins from July and lasts till September. If you have sightseeing plans, monsoon is not a good time to visit as rainfall can mess with your plans.

Winter Season
Winters in Lachung are chilling with the mercury hovering around 10 degrees and even falling below 0 degrees. The season starts setting in from October and lasts till February. Winters are characterized by heavy snowfall and fog. However, you will witness some spellbinding views as the whole city is covered with snow.

About City

Darjeeling
"Queen of The Himalayas"

The previous summer capital of India under the British Raj, Darjeeling has come off age as one of the most sought after hill stations in India. Located in West Bengal, this scenic hill station is the perfect getaway for a romantic honeymoon. Nestled amidst acres of tea plantations, Darjeeling stands at the height of 2,050 meters above sea level, thus boasting a cool climate all year round.

The toy train established back in 1881 is conferred the title of World Heritage Status by UNESCO. The train begins its journey from the plains and rises to over 2000 metres above sea level, offering breathtaking views of the mountains as it chugs along.

Over 86 tea estates in Darjeeling are responsible for producing the worldwide famous 'Darjeeling Tea'. Have a cup of locally brewed chai at the tea estate, or get down amidst the plantations to pluck a few tea leaves yourself; you are free to take your pick!

The third highest peak in the world and the highest in India, the Kanchenjunga peak, is visible from here, and you can enjoy a panoramic view of the peak. Some of Darjeeling's most popular attractions include monasteries, botanical gardens, a zoo, and the Darjeeling-Rangeet Valley Passenger Ropeway cable car, which is the longest Asian cable car. Tiger Hill is a fantastic spot to see the sunrise over the mountains in all its fiery glory.

Places To Visit In Darjeeling

1. Darjeeling Himalayan Railway
A visit to the city of Darjeeling is incomplete without a joyride at the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway toy train. Moving at a snail pace over the hilly terrain, it is an experience no one wants to miss. The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway also referred to as the DHR, and lovingly called the 'Darjeeling Toy Train', is a 2 feet narrow gauge train that runs between New Jalpaiguri and Darjeeling, in West Bengal, India. The construction of this 88-kilometre long railway line took place between 1879 and 1881, and a ride on this train route has been a coveted experience ever since. A journey in the Darjeeling Toy Train has amazing sights with pleasing mountain views and pass by villages and local shops on the way, with children merrily waving at them.

2. Tiger Hill
If you want to witness the first rays of sun hitting the twin peaks of Kangchenjunga, along with a panoramic view of Everest peeping through the peaks standing by its side, then Tiger Hills make for a perfect sunrise for you. You can see Kurseong to the south along with multiple rivers flowing down. Senchal Wildlife Sanctuary is another nearby attraction you could visit - the place inhabits various high-altitude animals and bird.

3. Batasia Loop
Located around 5 km from Darjeeling, Batasia loop is a spiral railway track where the toy train takes a complete 360 degree turn. The toy train descends by 1,000 ft. as it completes the loop through a large circular area.

4. Darjeeling Ropeway
Darjeeling Ropeway is a cable car circuit where one can witness a myriad of exquisite landscapes, from the glorious snow-capped mountains to the charming valley replete with verdant tea estates.

5. Himalayan Mountaineering Institute
The Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, commonly known as HMI Darjelling, was established on November 4, 1954 primarily to encourage mountaineering as an organized sport in India. HMI regularly conducts Adventure, Basic and Advanced levels of mountaineering courses which are very comprehensive courses. These courses are highly subsidised to encourage mountaineering as a sport.

6. Nightingale Park
This park was earlier called 'The Shrubbery' when it was a private courtyard. The park was closed for renovation for about four years and has reopened for public since 2011. There is a giant statue of Lord Shiva, a musical fountain along with the great scenery.

7. Rock Garden
The Rock Garden or the Barbotey Garden as its commonly known, is located a little far from the city around ~10 km away. The benches in the garden are made by cutting rocks at different levels.

8. Singalila National Park
Singalila National Park , located on the Singalila Ridge at a height of 7000 feet above sea level, is a national park of India in Darjeeling . The park is well known for the trekking and other adventure sports. The national park is similar to a paradise for the trekkers and adventure lovers.

9. Japanese Peace Pagoda
As you climb up from Clubside along Gandhi and AJC Bose roads, you see this glistening white structure standing out - that's the Peace Pagoda. The Peace Pagoda, one of the 70 odd such structures built under the guidance of Japanese monk Nichidatsu Fujii, is worth a visit during the daily pujas.

10. Sandakphu Trek
Sandakphu Peak (11,941 Feet) is the highest peak in West Bengal. The highest peak of Singalila Ridge in Darjeeling district, almost near the border of Nepal, it is located very close to Singalila National Park.

11. River Rafting in Teesta
White Water Rafting in the River Teesta is one of the most exciting things to do in Darjeeling. A favourite among the adventure junkees, the rafting has a series of rapids ranging from Grade 1 to 4. However, the difficult rapids are only allowed to the professionals or the seasonal trainers as it is risky. You should definitely try this activity when in Darjeeling.

12. Tea Plantations
With over 80 tea estates covering over 17,500 hectares of land, the tea plantations of Darjeeling are a unique aromatic experience to visitors of this hilly tourist trap.

13. City Shopping
Shop for traditional arts and crafts of Tibet and Sikkim. Also, make sure you buy Darjeeling tea from the locals - Nathmull's Tea Room is popular among most tourists. There is an Oxford bookstore as well which provide good collection of books.

14. Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park
Padmaja Naidu Zoo plays host to the only collection of Siberian Tigers in India and few other exotic animal species, such as Red pandas, Snow leopards, Himalayan black bears etc.

15. Tinchuley
At a distance of about 32 km from Darjeeling, Tinchuley is an offbeat hamlet situated close to the West Bengal-Sikkim border. With an altitude of 5550 ft, the name of the place derives from the words ‘tin’ and ‘chula’, which translates as ‘three ovens’ because the trio of hills constituting the hill station resemble mud ovens.

16. Happy Valley Tea Estate
At a magical altitude of 6,800 feet, the Happy Valley Tea Estate is the second oldest tea estate in the tea-rich town of Darjeeling. One can take a guided tour through the fragrant factory, learning and observing the procedure to produce the different varieties of tea.

17. Observatory Hill
Like most other hill stations in India, Darjeeling also has a Mall Road and atop the Mall is the Observatory hill. The hill hosts the famous Mahakal temple and the original shrine of Bhutia Busty monastery, making the place of religious significance for Hindus and Buddhists alike.

18. Monastries in Darjeeling
You must visit monasteries in Darjeeling to experience the essence of the place. There are lots of monasteries spread across the city, all having their own relevance.

19. Trekking
Offering you a sweeping view of four out of the five highest peaks of the world Mt. Everest, Kanchenjunga, Makalu and Lhotse, all in a single stretch, Darjeeling offers some of the best trekking routes in the world.

20. Ghoom Monastery
At a grand elevation of 8,000 feet, the Yiga Choeling or old Ghoom Monastery is the oldest Tibetan Buddhist Monastery of Darjeeling. A 15-foot high statue of Maitreyi Buddha is seen in the central hall, made entirely of clay brought from Tibet. Rare Buddhist manuscripts like the Kangyur can be found here.

21. Bengal Natural History Museum
A testament to the indigenous flora and fauna of the region, the Bengal Natural History Museum is a fascinating plethora of more than 4000 specimens being exhibited located in the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park in Darjeeling.

22. Lamahatta Eco Park
Lamahatta is a scenic village in West Bengal, 23km from Darjeeling. To showcase the magnificent views of peaks & rivers and the dhupi & pine forests here, the Lamahatta Eco Park was created in 2012. Lamahatta means Monk's Hermitage and so, this place promises an environment that feels as tranquil as a monk - a measure of balance between nature & man. At an altitude of 5,700 ft., this eco-park has a lot to offer.

23. Lepchajagat
Lepchajagat is a small village around 19km from Darjeeling. At a height of 6,956 ft, this vilage is considered a haven for nature lovers and honeymooners. Amidst dense forests of pines, oaks and rhododendrons, this village gives you tranquility. Viewing the Kanchenjunga peaks from here is a serene experience. It is now part of a reserved forest area.

How to Reach Darjeeling

The nearest rail is New Jalpaiguri. This is well connected to most of the major cities in India. The town of Darjeeling is approachable from Siliguri, nearly 80 km away, by Darjeeling Himalayan Railway also known as Toy Train. The nearest airport is Bagdodara, near Siliguri. Cabs are easily available from Bagodara to Darjeeling.

Food of Darjeeling

There are lots of options for foodies as well in Darjeeling from traditional Tibetan and Sikkimese cuisine to Thai delicacies to good old North Indian dishes, Darjeeling has plenty of options to cater to the taste buds of food lovers, spoiling them with scrumptious food and lip-smacking delicacies amidst the ambience of gorgeous views. Essentially the food here has distinct traces of Bengali, Nepali and Tibetan elements, styles and dishes, all together.

In spite of such wide choices, one of the first items on the cuisine here includes the finest and freshest qualities of tea found in the area which you must try. The popular items that you must indulge in include Momos, Thukpa, Aloo Dum, Sael Roti, Naga Platter, Nepali thali, Tongba, Channg and many more. Not to mention, tea is a popular beverage consumed by all.

 

Best Time To Visit

The best time to visit Darjeeling is between April to June when the weather is pleasant. However, a lot of people also prefer visiting the place during the winter months from October to December. The months of July to August welcome the showers. With heavy rainfall, a lot of roadblocks are observed in the hill station and hence visiting Darjeeling during these months is not very advisable. 

The months from October to March see a sudden change in the weather, as by the end of October a slight cold reigns in the area. Winter is at its peak from mid- November to January and the temperature ranges between 7 degrees to 5-degree Celcius. 

April to June marks the offset of summers in the city. Darjeeling during these months is pleasant and not very hot. The temperature reaches 25 degrees at the max. The gushing bright sunlight makes it ideal for exploring the tourists' spots. 

September again is an excellent time to visit as there is less rainfall and the greenery is at its best at this time of the year.