Darjeeling

Culture

Darjeeling has a unique and diverse culture. The city is a home to mix immigrants from Nepal, Sikkim, Tibet, Bhutan and even Europe, due to work opportunities in tea plantations in the bygone era. Hinduism and Vajyarana Buddhism are the main religions of the people. One of the major festivals of Darjeeling is Losar, primarily their new year, which is celebrated in January or February depending on the position of the moon (lunar calendar). Darjeeling Carnival is another major festival held annually. The fair involves a display of folk dance and arts. Local rock bands participate in the same. Other important festivals are Makar Sankranti, Chotrul Duchen (Buddhist festival commemorating the four events in the life of Gautam Buddha), Tendong Lho Rumfaat (Prayer of the Tendong mountain) etc.

History

The name Darjeeling means the "the land of the thunderbolt", derived from the Tibet word "Dorje" meaning "thunder" and "ling" meaning “piece of land”. Prior to its acquisition by East India Company, Darjeeling used to be a part of Sikkim and even before that, a part of Nepal. In February 1829, a dispute broke out between Nepal and Sikkim about their borders and hence, Lord William Bentinck- Governor General of India at the time, set out to resolve the situation. In the process, he realised that the quaint hill town had strategic advantages for trade and military outpost. Later, it was also realised that the land was ideal for tea plantations. The district underwent major development and became a major tourist attraction visited by the British officials. It, therefore, earned itself the title of "Queen of hills". After independence, the district was merged with West Bengal and since then is one of the most popular hill stations in India.

Things to do in Darjeeling

Rock Climbing

Darjeeling has few of the best mountaineering rocks that can actually be scaled by you under safe environment and Tenzing Rock is one of them. The first man to climb Mt. Everest was supposed to be from here and he also learned his early stage mountaineering in these rocks here. Now it is a tourist hub that brings tourist of all kind here and there are also provisions for tea and souvenirs to take back home.

See the gems inside the HMI Museum

The Himalayan Mountaineering Museum was a dedication towards Tenzing Norgay which was shown by the Government of India. The compound also has a museum inside that has some of the equipments actually used to scale the mountains and some precious artifacts’ that are rare. It is a great collection which must be visited by all.

Try Ropeway

Once closed to visitors due to some technical difficulties, the Darjeeling Ropeway is an excellent offering that manages to thrill the long lined queue of tourists. Every morning you will find many tourists lined up for the Ropeway experience to and fro. The Whole ride lasts for around half and hour and the best part of it is the scenic surrounding view that comes along with the ride.

Sunrise view

The first thing that every tourist prepare for is the amazing sunrise view from Tiger Hill. The sun rises and its can be seen in unique colors and shapes before it actually blends into its original shape. This change is what drives tourists here after waking up before sunrise and that too when it is extremely cold. The sacrifice is worth and provides a wonderful experience to cherish forever.

Sandakphu Trek

It is one of the best adventure and trekking trail that brings many adventure enthusiasts to Darjeeling. This rich and colorful trekking in the region of Sandakphu is extremely scenic and the views during this trek are really wonderful and out of this world. It can be really challenging and could tire you up during it but sometimes scenic beauty is a good deal to take up few risks like this.

Places to Visit in Darjeeling

• Tiger Hill
• Batasia Loop
• Rock Garden & Ganga Maya
• The Mall road
• The Japanese Peace pagoda
• Happy Valley Tea estate

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