Beyond A Cup of Tea: 10 Best Spots to Sightsee in Darjeeling

Beautiful sunsets, spectacular scenery, the natural beauty of the hills, the vestige of the magnificent past and the embracing smile of the local people make Darjeeling an absolute paradise on earth. A summer respite for the visitors, Darjeeling is one the most sought-after destination of North east India. A blend of splendid mountains, alluring tea garden, and delectable toy train, the hill station work wonders to cater the picturesque panorama of the great Himalaya.

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Courtesy to the magnificent sight that an onlooker could glimpse from Darjeeling, the place is eminently known as the “Queen of the Himalayas”. So, let’s take you on a ride to 10 of best spots to sight-see in the land of scintillating Darjeeling.

10 Great Spots To Visit In Darjeeling

1. Tiger Hill: The sunrise point

Standing tall at an astonishing height of 2,500 meters, Tiger Hill is an undisputed tourist puller. Known for its pinnacle point, the hill showcases spectacular panorama between Mount Everest and Kangchenjunga. The sunrise impact on Kangchenjunga is spectacular and something that one would cherish throughout the lifetime. It is amazing to observe how Kangchenjunga turns from red to crimson to yellow.

Featuring a rejuvenating sunrise in the midst of the mountains, the hill lets you capture a mesmerizing vista of some connecting peaks. Along these lines, Tiger Hill is a remarkable destination for observing the beauty of the mountains and the thrill of trekking.

2. Batasia Loop: Darjeeling’s spiral railway

Another paradise for nature lovers, it showcases splendid garden that encompasses the track for the toy trains. The Batasia Loop boasts the beauty of a plethora of vibrant flora and evergreen gardens.

Spread across an area of 50,000 square feet, the spherical track assists the Toy Train to journey around a circular loop. The site also boasts a rich blend of an eco garden and a wagon load of eateries. A bright sunny day at Batasia Loop could pave the way for an astounding panorama view of the Kanchenjunga range.

3. Happy Valley Tea Garden: Oldest tea estate of Darjeeling

Nothing could be as alluring as witnessing the budding tea gardens of Darjeeling. Nestled around 3 km from the city, Happy Valley Tea Garden is worth exploring. Stretching across 437 acres area, this oldest tea estate of Darjeeling also showcases the actual process of tea manufacturing.

If you wish to set your eyes on the plucking process of tea leaves at happy valley gardens, then you could plan a visit from March to May.

4. Observatory hill: A sight beyond limit

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Darjeeling doesn’t stop alluring its visitors when it comes to capstones of a mountainous range. One such hill-peak is Observatory Hill which finds its way on our list. One of the oldest sites in the entire district, hill site is widely visited to catch a glimpse of the snow-studded Mount Kanchenjunga.

The view of this gigantic mountain from Observatory hills is mind-blowing. If the sky is clear, the serenity and beauty of the place could simply take your breath way.

5.  Himalayan Mountaineering Institute: ‘May you climb from peak to peak’

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If you are adventurous and you wish to widen your knowledge on mountain climbing, Himalayan Mountaineering Institute is a must-visit place!

The institute laid its foundation stone back in 1954 and features a tall climbing wall for training purpose. Established in the memory of Tenzing Norgay who was the first to climb the Everest, the institute offers some other attractions incorporating a museum, souvenir shop, and eatery. There is also an auditorium, which features movies, lectures, and workshops on mountaineering.

6. Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR): A joyride with the Toy-train

Operated on a narrow gauge, this toy train offers a joy ride of the lifetime. Regarded with the World Heritage Status by UNESCO, the train starts from the plains and rises to 2050 meters above sea level. Passing through the lush green forests, it caters some of the most breathtaking views of the mountains.It makes its way across a looped track that takes you through some beautiful parks offering a panoramic 360-degree view. A trip to the Incredible India would be incomplete without a ride on the DHR.

7. The Mall: A leisure stroll

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A sight seeing trip in and around Darjeeling would definitely incorporate spending time on the Mall. Situated at the heart of the town, it showcases the best eateries. A one-stop place to try out the best Nepali, Tibetan, and other cuisines, it also features few of the finest curio and handicrafts stores enriched with the collection of handicrafts, carpets, metal figurines and collectibles, shawls, etc.

After an exhaustive day exploring the beauty of the town, you could rest at the Central Heritage Resorts, one of the finest hotels in Darjeeling. It features deliberately crafted and spaciously appointed rooms laid with wooden flooring, complemented by all the modern amenities.

8. Senchal Lake and Wildlife Sanctuary: An absolute picnic spot

Situated beside the Tiger Hill, Senchal Lake works wonders to offer an incredible scenery of the alluring nature wrapped in a friendly ambience all around.

This site is eminently known for sheltering one of the oldest wildlife sanctuaries in India. Hosting a rich variety of flora and fauna, the sanctuary showcases few of the rarest species of animals. Spread across an area of 4000 ha, the sanctuary also boasts a plethora of bird species. A hidden gem around Darjeeling, the lake and sanctuary could be rejoiced by the visitors of all age group.

9. Ghoom Monastery: Darjeeling’s oldest Tibetan Monastery 

Another nearby attraction for tourists, the Ghoom Monastery features a 15-ft high statue of ‘Maitreya Buddha’ at the entrance, which catches a glimpse of visitors to a large extent. Largest among three other monasteries at Ghum area, it was built long back in 1875. The monastery complex is enriched with the goodness of religious bells, intricately decorated thanka, and drums.

10. Japanese Peace Pagoda: A serene farewell

Established way back in 1972, Japanese Peace Pagoda is one of the major pilgrimages for Buddhists. Complimented by a massive prayer room, it offers the visitors an ambiance of peace and serenity.

Here, one could observe the four avatars of Lord Buddha. The mystical music of drums and prayers inside the temple compound imparts all new heights to divinity. It is one of the most sought-after destinations that you could never afford to miss when travelling to Darjeeling.

Whenever you go to a tourist place, you will often discover that a pleasant hotel stays greatly contributes to the success of your trip. Embrace yourself, travelers! Chas Sian is the most picturesque hotel in the town, overseeing the beautiful hills and majestic mountains of Darjeeling. Besides the luxurious rooms, the hotel offers a breathtaking view of the sun rise from the Mt. Kangchenjunga, right opposite to you while you enjoy the special Darjeeling tea on the bed.

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