Introducing Darjeeling
Draped over a steep mountain ridge, surrounded by tea plantations and backed by a splendid Himalayan panorama, the archetypal hill station of Darjeeling is rightly West Bengal’s premier drawcard. When you aren’t gazing at Khangchendzonga (8598m), you can explore colonial mansions and churches, Buddhist and Hindu temples, botanical gardens and a zoo for Himalayan fauna. The steep narrow streets are crowded with colourful souvenir and handicraft shops, and a good steaming brew and excellent Indian and Tibetan fare are never far away. For the adventurous there are superb treks which trace ancient trade routes and provide magnificent viewpoints.
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Most tourists visit after the monsoon (October and November) and during spring (mid-March to the end of May) when skies are dry, panoramas are clear and temperatures are pleasant.
Last updated: Feb 17, 2009
Tips & articles
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Eyes bigger than your stomach
19 January 2012
Bring a hearty appetite, roomy trousers, and a camera to these delicious destinations, where the presentation of food has become...
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Delhi to Darjeeling: a child-friendly train adventure
20 September 2010
If you have ever balked at the notion of a long Indian road trip with small children – but nevertheless...
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India with children
23 June 2009
Sound daunting? It needn’t be - with these tips, you’ll be whisking them round temples before they can say ‘But...
Thorn Tree forum discussion
Recent posts
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motorbike trip in Sikkim
by paulbutokai 14 September 2011
Hi a friend and me are going to Sikkim soon and we wanted to visit around riding motorbikes ... maybe finding bikes in Siliguri, or Darje…
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RE: Travelling the North
by kaynjay 13 September 2011
You really are coming at the best time of the year! Most days in Oct. & Nov. will be beautiful. In December in the hills there may be…
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RE: KOLKATA TO SIKKIM (route suggestions)
by everyonesplanet 12 September 2011
Obtaining an Inner Line Permit in Darjeeling is a hassle. Best way is to obtain it is at the border Rangpo. Bring the copies of your passpor…
