Are you planning a trip to Darjeeling and wondering which places to visit? Look no further. In this post, I’ll be sharing with you the top 5 tourist places to visit in Darjeeling. From breathtaking views to cultural experiences, Darjeeling has it all. So grab a cup of chai and let’s get started!
1. Tiger Hill
Tiger Hill is a must-visit destination in Darjeeling. It is famous for its sunrise views over the Himalayan mountain range. The best time to visit Tiger Hill is early morning, around 4 am, to catch the first glimpse of the sunrise. On clear days, you can see the Kanchenjunga, the world’s third-highest peak, and the Everest from here. Tiger Hill is also home to the Ghoom Monastery and the War Memorial.
2. Darjeeling Himalayan Railway
The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, also known as the Toy Train, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an iconic attraction in Darjeeling. The Toy Train runs from Darjeeling to Ghoom and back, offering scenic views of the town and the mountains. The train passes through several loops and spirals, including the famous Batasia Loop, which gives you a 360-degree view of the surrounding landscape. The best time to ride the Toy Train is in the morning or late afternoon when the sun isn’t too harsh.
3. Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park
The Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park is a popular attraction in Darjeeling, known for its conservation efforts and breeding programs. The zoo is home to several animals, including the red panda, snow leopard, and Himalayan wolf. The highlight of the zoo is the big cats’ section, where you can see Bengal tigers, Siberian tigers, and Indian lions up close. The zoo also has a Himalayan bird aviary and a Himalayan animal museum.
4. Peace Pagoda
The Peace Pagoda is a beautiful Buddhist temple located in Darjeeling’s Jalapahar Hill. The temple was built by Japanese Buddhist monks to promote world peace and harmony. The temple offers stunning views of the Kanchenjunga and Darjeeling town. The temple complex has four statues of Buddha, each facing a different direction, symbolizing his teachings spreading in all directions. The temple is peaceful and serene, making it an ideal spot for meditation or reflection.
5. Himalayan Mountaineering Institute
The Himalayan Mountaineering Institute (HMI) is a must-visit destination for adventure enthusiasts and mountaineering enthusiasts. The institute was founded in 1954 by Tenzing Norgay, one of the first people to summit Mount Everest. The HMI has a mountaineering museum, which displays equipment and artifacts used in mountaineering expeditions. The institute also offers mountaineering courses for beginners and advanced climbers. The institute is located in the same complex as the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park.
Wrap-up
Darjeeling is a place not to be missed when it comes to exploring the natural beauty of India. The 5 top tourist places that I have mentioned in this blog are just a few of the many attractions that Darjeeling has to offer. With its stunning mountain views, rich culture, and warm hospitality, Darjeeling will steal your heart in no time. So book your tickets and make sure to add these gems to your itinerary.
Remember to tag us in your Darjeeling photos on social media @mytravellingadventures to show us your memories of this beautiful place.
Happy travels!
