Darjeeling is the prettiest hill station located in the Northern part of our country. Magnificent view of snow covered Kanchehjunga, torrents flowing down to mountain slopes, lovely tea estates are some of the sightseeing at Darjeeling. Landscapes with firs, pines and ferns along with charming behavior of the local people are the real attractions of the North East. We can find almost 4500 types of flowering plants at Darjeeling district along with rhododendrons, orchids, magnolia etc.
If you take a tour to the forest parts, you can observe some amazing animal species like red pandas, pangolins, yellow throated martens, barking deer, leopards and elephants in their natural inhabitants. If your intention is to relax and enjoy local cuisine, local people like Nepalis and Tibetans will make you feel perfectly at home. History of Darjeeling dates long back to 1700 when it was ruled by the King of Sikkim. Later on, it was taken over by Gorkhas from Nepal.
Weather comes in different phases with the change of season. Each season carries its own charm. But one thing is assured that you will get a relief heat and dust. Summer is little bit chill with clear sky, while Monsoon comes with plenty of rains, fog and invisible sky. Winter is very chill but offers a clear visibility. The majority of population consists of Nepalis, Tibetians, Lepchas and Bengalis as well. Accordingly different faiths and religions are practiced in Darjeeling. Diversity of culture are prominently reflected in the ethnic and local cuisine that we get in Darjeeling. Local restaurants serve usual foods like rice, vegetables, fish and meat. In case, you want to taste Nepali thalis or Darjeeling pickles, they are also served on demand.
Toy Train is another attraction for tourists in Darjeeling. This is also recognized as one of the engineering marvels of Darjeeling. When we think of Darjeeling, our mind invokes the image of flashes of green hilly areas, snow covered peaks and women plucking tea in the garden. This Himalayan necklace unfolds breath taking beauty and plenty of stunning hill resorts. A new concept “Home Stay” has come up to replenish your plate of comfortable journey and overnight stay. Flaming red rhododendron flowers, serene white magnolias, lush green of the tea bushes give the ample reason to call Darjeeling as Queen of Hills. After you are done with queen of the Hills and want to deviate a little off the beaten track, there are numerous places to visit in Darjeeling. These places are also very eye catching and comparatively less crowded. Need not to be dissuaded by winter in Darjeeling. Darjeeling in winter is offbeat time and is better than some aspects. The only thing that one might repent is the clear view of Kanchenjunga which remains blanketed with snowflakes.
Most of the premiere hotels and lodges are located at Mall road where you will not get the hustle bustle of local people. They offer great value for money with cozy rooms, delicious dishes and other necessary amenities.
Where there is a tea, there is a hope.
