Darjeeling is known as the queen of hill stations. Regarded as one of the popular hill resorts in India, Darjeeling is located in the Indian state of west Bengal at an altitude of 2134 m or 7000 ft above sea level. In the year 1983 the king of Sikkim gifted Darjeeling to the East India Company. The British officials used to visit the place in order to take some respite from the scorching heat of the plains. There are several places to see in Darjeeling. The following are some of the most commonly visited destinations in the city of Darjeeling.
Information on Places to See in Darjeeling
Tiger Hill – The tiger hill is the highest point in Darjeeling. The point is located at an altitude of 2,590m or 8,482 ft above sea level and is at a distance of about 13 kms from the main town. One will be able to see the beautiful sun rise and the splendor of the majestic Kanchenjunga from this point. If the sky is clear then tourists can even have a glimpse of the Mt Everest. The great north east Himalayan ranges can also be viewed from this place.
Himalayan Mountaineering Institute – The mountaineering institute was set up Tenzing Norgay, who accompanied Edmund Hillary to climb Mt Everest for the first time on 29th May 1953. On visiting the place one can find out the various types of tools that were used for the climb. Adjacent to the institute a zoological garden is located. One may get to see wild animals like the yaks, Siberian tigers and red pandas in the zoo.
Passerby Ropeway – Darjeeling’s Rangeet valley ropeway is regarded as one of the oldest ropeways of the country. The journey of the ropeway starts from North Point at a distance of 3 kms from the main town. To book the seats you have to come in contact with the officer-in-charge of the Rangeet Valley Ropeway Station.
Dhoom Gompa – The Dhoom Gompa is about 8 kms away from Darjeeling. The place is famous for the beautiful statue of Maitrayie Buddha. The monastery is also the store house of rare handwritten Buddhist manuscripts.
The Mall – The Mall is the commercial hub of Darjeeling. You will find shops selling uniquely designed Himalayan artifacts, Tibetan handloom and such. The mall gives way to the ‘chowrasta’ where children would love to have a joyful pony ride or a secretive place for lovers. The toy train traveling from Siliguri to Darjeeling is one of the common attractions of this hill station. You will get the opportunity to have a close view of the majestic beauty of Himalayas throughout the long journey of 6 to 7 hours covering a mere distance of 82 kms. You are recommended to explore the prominent places to see in Darjeeling in the internet before visiting the hill station.
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