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DARJEELING
With
snow-crested hills as the backdrop, ever-fragrant tea
plantations, aromatic coniferous groves and the untamed
jungles of fern and bamboo, Darjeeling is but an ethereal
setting. The Victorian town of Darjeeling has cautiously
retained its old world splendour and charm and is as popular
as ever. The vast stretch of tea gardens blanketing the
lower slopes is a sight to be treasured. The town is
privileged to have eighty-four tea gardens that are no less
famous among the tea connoisseurs. Darjeeling is a few-hour
drive from Siliguri but the town can be best visited by the
Toy Train which is like a jewel in Darjeeling's crown.
Climate of Darjeeling
From April to June is the time of summers. During this
season the temperature is between 20 degrees and 24 degrees
centigrade. The sky remains bright and cool winds blow.
December to mid-February is the winter time and during the
period weather is cool and there are frequent hailstorm as
well. Occasional snowfall can be experienced. Monsoons
arrive in July and continue till mid-September. The weather
is misty and heavy rainfalls are experienced. March to June
and September to November are the best time to witness the
beauties of the city.
Major Tourist Attractions in Darjeeling
»
The Mall -The Mall is a popular street in the town of
Darjeeling and is bustling with crowds of people. The street
is fringed with a number of Tibetan-run shops. You can buy
hand-made sweaters, souvenirs and Himalyan handicrafts here.
» Chowrasta - It is the origin and culmination point
of the Mall Road. The place is the centre of the town and
has a number of hotels, restaurants and shops. One can find
woollen garments, tribal ornaments, thankas, rosaries and
Gorkha daggers.
» The Toy Train - The Toy Train is the key attraction
of the town. It feels like heaven as the train takes you
zigzagging on the slopes giving you a breathtaking view of
the majestic Himalays.
» Observatory Hill - Popular as Makal Babu Ko Thaan,
the Observatory Hill is the oldest place in the town. The
temple that stands here is a haunt of the Shaivites and the
Buddhists.
» Tiger Hill - The spot affords a magnificent view of
the Kanchenjunga and the Mt. Everest, the highest peak of
the world. The splendid view of the sunrise is the key
attraction of the site. The hill is located at a distance of
13 km from the town.
» Darjeeling Gymkhana Club The club provides its visitors
with myriad facilities of indoor and outdoor games. The club
also offers the opportunity of being a regular member of the
club.
» Senchal Golf Course - Perched at an elevation of
8150 feet, the Senchal Golf Course is one of the highest in
the world. The course is located near the Tiger Hill. |