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Nepal
A path to self-discovery and personal growth. |
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Bhutan
A perfect place to unwind and enjoy the bounties of nature. |
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Tibet
A passage back into time – a look at the past |
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Sikkim
A vibrant realm of colors and breathtaking beauty |
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Darjeeling
The Queen of the hills |
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Ladakh
The last of the Shangri – La's |
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Wrote Mark Twain, "the one land that all men desire to see, and having seen once- by even a glimpse- would not give that glimpse for the shows of the rest of the world combined."
Darjeeling is believed to be derived from 'Dorjeeling' meaning the land of the “Dorjee” or thunderbolt. Incidentally the famous Buddhist Monastery standing at the top of the Observatory hill is also known by this name and it is believed that the thunderbolt of Indra struck here.
Often referred to as the “queen of the hills”, this small picturesque town still retains it colonial flavour and old world charm. It is steeped in history and the glorious past this small hill station enjoyed is visible in every nook and corner of the small town. The Mall, the gardens and a host landmarks like the St. Andrews Church, the Gymkhana, the Town hall and a host of schools housed in buildings that date back to the late 1800s make a visit to Darjeeling a travel back into time. A walk in the mall and a ride on the celebrated ‘toy train’ is indeed a journey back into a bygone era. Spread over in a natural amphitheatre with Kanchenjunga as its backdrop Darjeeling offers beautiful imagery often described in superlatives. Today it is the land of the beautiful rhododendrons, the sparkling white magnolias, never ending rolling hills covered with a sea of tea bushes, the evergreen forests of silver fir-all under the blanket of a brilliant azure sky dappled with specks of clouds. Darjeeling with its soothing climate and its beautiful landscape draws thousands of tourists from all around the globe. The laidback atmosphere, the ever smiling people, the unique culture and the magnificent scenery and provides a respite to all weary minds. It is a great escape and a perfect place to unwind and enjoy the bounties of nature.A visit to these hills provides a window into the lifestyle of the hill people, the memories of which forever remain etched in our minds. Today the town has an interesting mix of people - Nepalese, Tibetans, Lepchas, Bengalis - who make up the local populace. |
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Activity:
Tours
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Himalayan Mountaineering Institute
Darjeeling until the early 1950s was the hub of mountaineering activity in India. Nepal had not yet opened it doors to the west for tourism and most the expeditions in Nepal began in Darjeeling but no climbing institute existed then. However the ascent of Everest by Late Tenzing Norgay and Sir Edmund Hillary on 29th May 1953 gave an impetus to mountaineering in the country. On the 4th of November 1954 Darjeeling saw the opening of the Himalayan Institute by personal initiative of Late Pandit Jawahar Lal Nehru the first Prime Minister of India and Dr.B.C.Roy the then Chief Minister of West Bengal to promote mountaineering activities in the country. Late Maj N.D. Jayal was the first Principal whereas Late Tenzing Norgay was the Director of Field Training of the institute.
The Institute is one of the premier mountaineering training facilities in India supported by Indian Government to promote mountain climbing and adventure activities related to this sport. Since its inceptions decades ago hundreds of students have graduated from this institute and gone on to create history for themselves and achieve personal milestones. Today some of its students are well known figures in mountaineering circles. Located on the western fringe of town the institute offers three different courses: adventure, basic and adventure courses to the students who are interested to know more about climbing. It not only teaches students survival skills, navigational skills, climbing techniques but also imbibes a sense of discipline, leadership, team spirit and objectivity in the students. The museum housed in its premises showcases the equipments and personal gear used by Tenzing Norgay during his ascent of Mt. Everest.
Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park.
Established in 1958 under the Department of Education of the State for study and conservation of the Himalayan Fauna, it is the only Zoo in the world to breed Tibetan Wolf in captivity and the first South Asian Zoo to breed Snow Leopard, the Siberian Tiger and Red Panda .
Dhirdham Temple
Built in 1939 by Rai Saheb Purna Bahadur Pradhan the Dhirdham Temple stands below the Darjeeling Railway Sataion. The statue of Lord Shiva in different moods stands outside the main temple. The temple is built in a pagoda style and every morning and evening we can witness hordes of worshippers offering their prayers.
Tiger Hill
Perched on a ridge above Ghoom - Jorebungalow, 11 kms from Darjeeling town at an elevation of 2590 m, Tiger Hill offers mesmerizing sunrise as well as an astounding view of the imposing Kanchenjunga massif as well as a host of Himalayan giants like the Chomolhari, Makalu and Mount Everest. Tiger Hill is very popular with tourists and we can see hordes of people making their way to this vantage point to enjoy the sights that it has on offer.
Batasia Loop & War MemorialL
5 kms from Darjeeling is the Batasia Loop, an engineering marvel and feat. The view of the train navigating the loop against the backdrop of Kanchenjunga makes a post card perfect picture. The view of the sprawling Darjeeling town spread over the hillside is also worthwhile. The War Memorial in its vicinity built in memory of the brave soldiers of Darjeeling is also an interesting place to see.
Happy Valley Tea Estate
Located 3 kilometers from the main town, the Happy Valley tea estate is walking distance from the main thoroughfares of the town. En route you can visit the crematorium of some world famous personalities. Happy Valley produces one of the finest Darjeeling tea and being one of the oldest tea estates it still practices age old traditional methods of tea production.
Mirik Lake
Located midway on a 100 km alternative route between Darjeeling and Siliguri Mirik is a very popular destination among the tourists visiting the Darjeeling from various parts of the country. The green never ending stretches of tea gardens and the natural lake fed with perennial springs make it a favourite among locals who want a taste of the Darjeeling Hills.
Bhutia Busty Monastery
It is believed that Darjeeling derives its name from Bhutia Busty monastery which was originally located on the Observatory Hill and was called Dorjeeling meaning the place of the thunderbolt. The monastery was relocated to Bhutia Busty monastery after it was ransacked by the Nepalese in the 19th century. The original monastery was destroyed in an earthquake in 1934 and it owes its present existence to the generosity of the Late Raja of Sikkim.
Yiga-Choling Buddhist Monastery
Constructed in 1875 by Lama Sherab Gyatso, the Yiga – Choling is one of the largest monasteries in Darjeeling. Also known as the Ghoom Monastery it houses a 15 ft statue of the Maitreya Buddha and contains images of Chenrezi and Tsongkapa. The monastery belongs to the Gelugpa order.
Japanese Temple
The Shanti Stupa in Darjeeling was built by Fuji Guru a very close friend so Mahatma Gandhi. Built for World Peace, the Pagoda opened on 1st November 1992. Located in a very beautiful area of Darjeeling, it commands a panoramic view of Darjeeling and the Kanchenjunga range.
Kalimpong
Kalimpong is a quaint town that nestled on a hillock at an altitude of 1247 m. There are various interpretations as to how the town went on to be called Kalimpong. Some believe that Kalimpong means “King's Ministers" in Tibetan, derived from kalon ("King's ministers") and pong ("stockade"). But the meaning that has found the most favour however, is the Lepcha meaning of the name-'ridge where we play'. It is said that these local tribesmen used to organize field sports while not engaged in agricultural pursuits - hence the name. Some other people opine that it is deduced from the name Kalenpung, which in Lepcha means Hillock of Assemblage in time, the name was distorted to Kaleebung and later when the British could not pronounce it called it Kalimpong and the name has stuck ever since. Kalimpong enjoys the best climate in the region. Weekly markets on Wednesday and Saturdays offer a unique look into the local lifestyle. It is an interesting sight to see the locals haggle over the price of some goods with smiling shopkeepers. The life is laidback and the surroundings provide a perfect getaway from the trappings of modern life. The dense forests of golden oak trees offset by the rich undergrowth of moss and lichen provide an ideal setting for balmy walks on the thick cushions of russet-brown leaves. The vast rolling hills covered with a riot of wild flowers, the sparkling brooks and rivulets meandering lazily by the terraced fields are a feast for one's eyes.
Kurseong
The Land of White Orchids, Kurseong, is noted for its secluded charm. The town was ceded to the British by the King of Sikkim in 1835, as a small village. It gained prominence in 1880 when the Darjeeling-Himalayan Railway was extended to Kurseong on 23rd August. Since then Kurseong has been an important township in the district of Darjeeling. Perched on ridge at 1458 m surrounded by tea gardens on almost all sides Kurseong make a very pretty picture. This quaint township has seen towering figures in Indian art, literature and politics that have drawn inspiration for their work from this unassuming town. Great personalities like Rabindranath Tagore, Sister Nivedita, Atul Prasad Send, Netaji Subash Chandra Bose and Abanindranath Tagore spent some time here in Kurseong. Because of its lower elevation, Kurseong enjoys a milder and very healthy climate throughout the year. |
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What to Take
Clothing and Footwear
- Warm down jacket for the cold
- Warm clothes
- Spare clothing - several thinner layers are better than one thick layer
The weather in Nepal can vary significantly, and the best advice is to take clothing that will layer to cover all eventualities. It may easily be cold in the evenings and when walking at higher altitudes.
- Walking boots - well worn-in, with good ankle support and strong ridged soles with good tread, and spare boot laces
- Trekking boots
- Windproof/waterproof trousers and jacket with hood, good rain gear: It is quite likely to rain at some point whilst you are out.
- Sun protection: sunglasses with UV protection
- Loop-pile socks - one thick and one thin pair reduces the risk of blisters
- Long trousers and long-sleeved shirts - as protection from the sun.
- Sun hat - although it is unlikely to be too hot, the sun may be very strong
- Comfortable clothes - for evenings and comfortable shoes for sightseeing
- Lightweight survival bag
- A small rucksack - a bin liner will keep contents dry if it rains
- Balaclava/ warm Cap
- Scarf/ mask
- Windbreakers/ Jacket
- Down Sleeping bag
- Towel - if you intend to go swimming and for use on the trek (bath towels are of course supplied in hotels)
- Torch - essential as not everywhere has electricity and the mains supply can be erratic.
- Adapter - sockets may be large or small, 3 round pin or 2 round pin. Voltage is 220.
- Money belt; fold-up bag for souvenirs; camera and plenty of spare film; umbrella
Equipment/ Toiletries
- Flashlight
- Sunscreen/ Lip balm (high factor sun screen and lip protection)
- Water bottle: with at least 1 litre capacity.
- Moisturizing lotion
- A knife with a can opener
- Insect repellent
Medical Kit
We provide a first aid kit with medication for altitude sickness, nausea, dehydration, pain killers, and medication for dysentery, diarrhea, bandages, water purifier, antiseptic creams, throat lozenges, eye drops, antibiotics, nasal sprays, and pain relievers in tubes or spray but it is advisable to carry some medication on you without taking too much room in your baggage.
However we recommend the clients to carry the following items:
- Asprin or Panadol - for pain or fever
- Antihistamine - useful as a decongestant for colds, allergies, to ease the itch from insect bites and stings or to help prevent motion sickness
- Antibiotics-useful if you are traveling well off the beaten track but they must be prescribed
- Kaolin preparation (Pepto-Bismol), Imodium or Lomotil - for stomach upsets and to stop diarrhea and dehydration
- Rehydration mixture - for treatment of severe diarrhea and dehydration
- Antiseptic, Mercurochrome and Antibiotic powder or similar 'dry' spray-for cuts and grazes
- Calamine lotion-to ease irritation from bites and stings
- Bandages and band-aids- for minor injuries and wounds
- Scissors, Tweezers and a Thermometer
- Throat Lozenges
- Acetaminophen (paracetamol)
- Antacid tablets
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Access
Darjeeling and Kalimpong are connected to the rest of the country by air, train and road.
BY AIR – Major airlines operate direct flights from Calcutta and Delhi to Bagdogra airport which is 2 hours drive from Darjeeling and Kalimpong.
BY TRAIN – New Jalpaiguri, 2 hours from Darjeeling and Kalimpong, is connected to the major cities of India. Several trains operate between the major cities of India and New Jalpaiguri.
BY ROAD – Siliguri, the major hub in the plains is well connected to the rest of India by road. It is a 2 hour scenic drive through tea gardens and forests to Darjeeling and Kalimpong.
Documentation
An Indian Visa is required to visit Darjeeling. It can be obtained in the Indian Embassy or in the consulates.
Currency
The currency in Indiais the Indian Rupee (Rs), which is divided into 100 paisa (p). Bills are available in 10, 20, 50,100,500 and 1000 denominations. Travellers’ Cheques can be changed at banks in the cities but not necessarily elsewhere, although some hotels and travel agents are licensed to change money. US dollars in cash are not widely accepted so it is prudent to change your money into rupees before embarking on a trip. Your guide will be able to advise on where to change money. You will need your passport when you change money. Credit cards are accepted in hotels and shops catering to tourists. There is often a 3% to 4 % surcharge if paying by credit card. Credit cards are also useful as an emergency source of cash as there are a lot of automated teller machines in the major cities and towns and the major cities from where money can withdrawn. You may well be approached by people offering black market currency exchange – this is of course illegal, and hard currency gained in this way often contributes to criminal activities.
Best Season
It is best to visit this region in spring and autumn. Spring generally begins in March and ends in May. Though there is a slight haze the forests covered with a riot of scarlet coloured hododendrons, primulas, daisies, white magnolias and a host of other beautiful plants making a trek an exhilarating experience.
Mid September heralds the beginning of the autumn season. Mid September to mid November enjoys excellent climate coupled with deep blue sky and clear days making this period the best trekking period of the year.
Geography
With a geographical area of 3,149 sq.kms Darjeeling district shares it borders with the neighboring state of Sikkim and Nepal to the North, Indian districts of Jalpaiguri and West Dinajpur district and Bangladesh to the south, Nepal to the West and Sikkim to the east. The Ramam, Rangeet and the Teesta rivers serve as the boundaries between Sikkim and Darjeeling in the north and east while the Mechi River serves as the frontier with Nepal in the west. The southern part of the district is a small tract of land that stretches on to the Gangetic plains and is known as the Terai. Darjeeling is a part of the lower Himalayas and most of the district is a labyrinth of ridges and narrow valleys. Most of the land is covered by forest and the lower areas serve as tea plantation. Though different types of crops are grown here is mostly just for subsistence.
Climate
With the altitude varying from sea level to 3800 meters the district presents a great variation of climate. The low lying area of the district experiences a subtropical climate while the rest witnesses temperate climate. Winter in Darjeeling is extremely cold and extends from late November to February. The Spring season begins in March and continues until May and it is generally cool during this time. June to September are the wettest months of the year as it is the Monsoon. Autumn season begins in late September and continues through until early November. In general the hill areas enjoy pleasant sprung and autumn, heavy rain during the monsoons and cold winter with snowfall in higher altitudes. During Spring the flowers are in full bloom and climate is also very pleasant during this period. Autumn enjoys a favourable climate, clear skies and making these two the best seasons to visit this area.
Vegetation
Darjeeling is very rich in flora and fauna. It owes its richness to its diversity in climate, altitude and geography. During spring the hills are a riot of colours when the hillsides are covered with flaming scarlet rhododendron arboreum intermingled with white and pink flowers of magnolias. With the change in seasons the forests are splashed with myriad colours of beautiful flowers that change with every passing month. Due to the altitude variation of the district the climate and vegetation varies quite dramatically with the vegetation varying from Tropical Semi-Evergreen Forest, Tropical Moist Deciduous Forest, Sub-Tropical Forest, Wet Temperate Forest and Alpine Forest. Trees like Michelia Champaca, Terminalia Myriocarpa, Ailanthus Grandis, Phoebe which are valued tremendously for their timber grows in low lying areas. As we gain altitude these trees give way to with trees like the Shorea robust, Schima wallichii and Chukrassia velutina, Acacia catechu, Dalbergia sissoo and Bombax Ceiba. Tree species like Michelia excelsa, Abies densa, Tsuga brunoniana, Machilus, Quercus (oaks) can be found between 1800 to 3000 meters while Rhododendron Salix, Berberis and Juniper are found at higher altitudes. Huge tracts of exotic coniferous trees cover huge plantations in the area. Trees like the Cryptomeria japonica,Pinus petula and acer that are found abundantly here add to the beauty of the place.
People
The Newars are the indigenous people of the Kathmandu Valley who have migrated and settled in the district. They are mainly of Hindu and Buddhist origin. Though the Newars of Kathmandu are involved in different professions, the newars who reside in Darjeeling district are mostly involved in business. The Newars speak their own language and possess their own script. The Lepchas are a tribe from the neighbouring state of Sikkim now on the fringe of its existence. The lepchas are today a vanishing tribe on the brink of extinction. A small number of lepchas are still existent in the hills of Darjeeling and neighbouring Sikkim. The lepchas have their own distinctive script and culture. One of the oldest communities in the world we can find the mention of the Kirats in the Rig Veda. They resided in the Himalayan region of Nepal, Sikkim and India. The Kirats' have their own unique lifestyle and their culture that have been passed down from one generation to the other through the ages. These traditional residents of eastern Nepal the Limbus have their own identity because of immense belief in "Yumawad". Their traditions and cultures are still alive. Yumawad is a type of religious scripture, which have been continuously kept alive by their religious heads and handed over from generation to generation verbally. Originally resident of central Nepal, Tamangs are said to have migrated into Nepal from Tibet and later migrated to Darjeeling for better prospects. With distinctive Tibeto-Burman features they have their own language, culture and are traditionally Buddhists. Though traditionally Hindus and the Magar worship their gods and goddesses in a distinctive manner. They hail from the central Nepal.
Time Zones
India is 5 hours 30 minutes ahead of GMT. |
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