Darjeeling
conjures visions of serenity, of vibrant green hills steeped in
splendour. A land of breathtaking beauty crowned by the majestic
Himalayas. It is one of the most magnificent hill resorts in the
world. This heavenly retreat is bathed in hues of every shade. The
flaming red rhododendrons, the sparkling white magnolias, the miles
of undulating hillsides covered with emerald green tea bushes, the
exotic forests of silver fir-all under the blanket of a brilliant
azure sky dappled with specks of clouds, compellingly confounds
Darjeeling as The Queen of Hill Stations.
Trekking
in DarjeelingOne of the famous trekking route taken by
the trekkers is that of the Darjeeling-Sandakphu / Phalut trek. This
trekking route is best during the months of April, May, October and
November. As during these seasons the visibility is clear and the
weather is also hospitable. For trekking on this route one does not
have to carry much luggage as the Gorkha Hill Council has provided
trekkers hut and other facilities all along the route. But it is
advisable to carry your own sleeping bags. On this route the trekker
must be prepared for all kinds of weather and high altitude mountain
sickness. The trek passes through low areas and very high ridges so
temperature varies a lot be prepared for all types of weather. There
surroundings may be very attractive but there are some areas which
have long stretches without any water, so carry water with yourself.
Regular meals are available. Guides and porters can also be
arranged. Phalut is also called the view point of the Himalayas and
is one of the most important & famous treks in the region.
The
trek starts with a small bus trip to Manaybhanjang. From here the
trek passes through the mountains to Sandakphu. From here you can
proceed further up or you can return via Rimbik then to Darjeeling
by Bus. One can also take a short cut and not go to Ohalut. From
Sandakphu backtrek to Bikhay Bhanjang and cut across to Rimbik. But
keep in mind that this trek is a difficult one with no water or food
in between.
Attractions in Darjeeling
- Batasia Loop
- Bhutia Busty Gompa
- Botanical Gardens
- Chowrasta
- Dhoom Gompa
- Happy Valley Estate
- Darjeeling Toy Trains
How to Reach
- Air
The nearest airport is Bagdogra.
- Rail
The nearest rail junction is New Jalpaiguri,
8 kms away from Bagdogra airport.
- Road
Darjeeling is accessible to all vehicles.
But particularly the 80 kms drive to Darjeeling from Jalpaiguri
or Bagdogra has winding roads through dense green forests.From:
Calcutta 651 kms, Gangtok 100 kms, Kalimpong 51 kms.