Fun and entertainment is another name of Darjeeling Himalayan railway and owing to its importance the place where it sheds its engine has become a place for tourist adventure.
Since we understand the line that runs through the steep gauge and stretch is something different as compare to any other railway tracks but there is much more than just a hilly slopes and sharp turnings.
Although we need to understand its importance and contribution in easing revenue from tourist but more we need to be conscious regarding its history and repulsive situation but first we need to thank British government and East India Company for turning this dream project into reality and today their courteous approach has left its trademark around the globe.
Darjeeling Himalayan railway station, which is a main junction and point of terminals is one of the most pristine and historical site. Built between late 18th century this is the place where the main stream of engine rest its head and for tourist information this engine are most unique in designs and very rare and are to be found in some other hill station of India, where British had set up this steam engine railway.
Steam engine which was the first mark of British colony can be considered as oldest and historical and understanding its importance UNESCO have announced this place as World Heritage Site, since then the value and impetus of this station has witnessed mass number of tourist.
What’s more interesting to notice Darjeeling Himalayan railway is the second site to have this Honour of UNESCO and the tracks which were built in 1881 are still the same and very little renovation has been done, which in turn gives the taste of authentic British engineering.
At present day the locomotive which has four diesel engine runs through the tracks of Kurseong to Darjeeling which in its first phase used to run till Siliguri but with the growing natural calamities the tracks was removed from Kurseong to Siliguri and today it function and runs through the gates of Darjeeling Himalayan railway station till Kurseong.
Pay a visit here to witness narration of British approach where they had share their glory time by making this place as their summer retreat and lived through the ages.
Nearby Attraction
Beside the beautiful gate of Darjeeling railway station which is settled perfectly at a site of Darjeeling main town, here you have brilliant opportunity to see and allure nearby attractions like chowrasta which is 10 minutes away from this site, Lloyd Botanical garden 15 minutes away from this site, Mall road and observatory hall 15 minutes away from this site, Nightingale park 20 minutes away from this site, Himalayan mountaineering institute 25 minutes away from this site and Padmaja Himalayan zoological park which is also 25 minutes away from here.
You can also visit to other interesting attractions like Singamari Rope Way, Peace Pagoda, Batasia Loop, Tiger Hill, Mirik Lake and Jamuney Bridge.
How to Reach
Nearest railway station from Darjeeling is New Jalpaiguri which is at a distance of 72 km.
Nearest airport from Darjeeling is Bagdogra, which is at a distance of 69 km from here.
Located near the proximity of Chowrasta Square, Observatory Hill are perhaps the most exquisite places
to be around while you walk through the doors of Darjeeling. The most eloquent and impressive thing that you are going to notice from the site of the Observatory hill is the magical view of Mount Kanchenjunga.
to be around while you walk through the doors of Darjeeling. The most eloquent and impressive thing that you are going to notice from the site of the Observatory hill is the magical view of Mount Kanchenjunga.
As per the history before the feet of Observatory hill the site was obtained and possessed by ever historical Bhutia Busty Monastery but now the site is covered and nurtured by ever divine force of Mahakal temple.
Monastery
It is very important to note that before an assertion of Mahakal Temple the site was observed by the presence of the oldest monastery of Darjeeling which was established by Dorje Rinzing in late 17th century. As per the believes the name Darjeeling has its association with the monks of Monastery who relate in terms of defining the land referred Dorje Ling which means land of thunderbolt.
There is another set of opinion who believes that the walls of monastery were destroyed by the raid of Gorkha in 1815 which was successfully reconstructed in 1861 and was reallocated to its present location in 1879.
Temple
Nestled within the heights of Chowrasta an adulating beauty of Observatory hill which is commonly known as Mahakal temple is a divine and one of the most renowned and celebrated temple within the whole district of Darjeeling.
Tourist Centre
As the site is perched perfectly between the most alluring destinations of Darjeeling Chowrasta and mall the site has been confirmed as the place form where you could clearly enjoy the view of Mount Kanchenjunga and other seductive sites which is located at far corner of east.
Around The Hill
While you walk down to get the blessings of Lord Shiva and would try to explore the point of caves make sure to enjoy the pristine site which is located within the vicinity of Mall and Observatory hall such as Birch hill, Raj Bhawan which is an official residential address of Governor of West Bengal, The Himalayan Mountaineering Institute which is settled within the ambiance of Jawahar parbat, St. Andrews colonial church, Ranga Mancha which is the latest addition of showcase and many more.
Best Time to Visit
Although the side of Darjeeling and gates of Observatory hill is open throughout the year but the best time would be during the time summer and during the month of October and November when sky will be clear and you will get to see the brilliance of Observatory hill.
How to Reach
The nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri which is located at a distance of approximately 71 km and it will take round about 2 and half hour to reach here.
The nearest airport is Bagdogra which is located at a distance of about 77 km and it will take round about 2 and half hour of ride to reach here.
The nearest nodal point to both New Jalpaiguri and Bagdogra is Siliguri which is located at a distance of round about 5 to 7 km and once you land here make sure to hire cab or better get into shared sumo for cost efficient ride.
Many times we wonder regarding the things that we should sum up while alluring the beauty of the destinations
which are irrespective of boundaries. Through this article today we are going to talk about the grandiose of Victoria Falls which is considered as 7 wonders of the world and would also concentrate on the things that we should do while travelling the shore of the falls.
which are irrespective of boundaries. Through this article today we are going to talk about the grandiose of Victoria Falls which is considered as 7 wonders of the world and would also concentrate on the things that we should do while travelling the shore of the falls.
1. Explore the fall
Since two third of the Victoria Falls facade around the relief of Zimbabwe, make sure before you rush through the heights of 16 viewpoints take your time to enjoy the lush green ambiance of the rainforest. Now on your way to 16 viewpoints through the gorge edge that starts with an effigy of David Livingstone on the gap of the western edge.
Now you will pose within the edge of danger point from where you can view the surreal charm of the Victoria Falls Bridge and within the surroundings of the bridge you will witness some bungee jumpers.
During rainy season the grace of drizzle would be so enormous you would like you are walking under the roof of the tropical thunder storm. Further if you are fortunate to be here on a full moon day take an opportunity to take a night tour to witness lunar rainbow.
2. Take the Plunge
For adventure lover, Victoria Falls is heaven. Come here to meet with daredevils as the ultimate section of thrill begins the moment you walk here. Imagine freeing yourself from the height of 111 m above the Zambezi River speaks it all for you.
If you looking forward for a white knuckle ride than take an initiative to go for white water rafting along with violent Class V rapids and gorge swing or zip-line across the gorge. Call for a 12 minute helicopter ride which would take you above the surface of the falls where you can view every precious and pristine elements like of the Devil’s Cataract, Eastern Cataract and swirling mist.
3. Walk with Lions
Reaching close to the field of lions and walking with them within their territory is different experience altogether which is brought to you by conservation and preservation project. Prepare yourself to experience the wild scenario where you would be left with your guide and handlers to explore the fierce of lions.
While walking along with your guide within the open space do remember to consider yourself fortunate if you came across the lions stalk and hunt bushbuck, impala or wildebeest. Make sure to shutter bug with the kings of jungle but also remember to be wary about the things.
4. Have Afternoon Tea at the Victoria Falls Hotel
Established during the calls of 90s the grand hotel of Victoria is blessed with tropical gardens and lily ponds. From the site of Victoria Falls Hotel one can view the glory of the Zambezi Gorge and the railway bridge from its large terrace.
One must understand in past years many celebrities and diplomats have walked through the doors of the hotel and amongst them Queen Elizabeth of Great Britain needs special mention.
As far as indoor amenities are concern the interiors and design have been recently renewed highlighting colonial details which include chintz curtains, old-fashioned bath tubs and antique wooden furnishings. Enjoy the exotic blends of tea at the terraced Stanley’s Bar with its elegant spread of sandwiches, scones and cakes.
5. Shop for Souvenirs
Travelling without shopping does not make sense, so while you walk here do remember to check out the main town to enjoy the souvenirs of shopping. Walk down to Elephant Walk Shopping village where you have an opportunity to meet with numerous artists who perfect their skills on beaded wire creations, portraits and stone sculptures.
Once you are done visiting the site of the hamlet take a moment to rush through the doors of the museum where you will witness a history regarding an origin of Shona tribal culture. Since you are here make sure to check the small stalls where you will find local sellers selling their mementos.
6. Ride the Tram
Travel back with time as the 19th century style tram car would look to hook you up from sunset point or better stop by here during the time of morning to sprint for your sit at Vitoria Falls Station.
The historical tram would bends its way from town to the African bush and would travel down the distance of Victoria Falls rainforest before calling off at Victoria Falls Bridge. While riding the broad gauge of the tram traveller can witness thrilling exhibition of stunt and can also invest time in enjoying the presentation where history of bridge would unveil itself.
7. Cruise the Zambezi
An eternal flow of Zambezi which starts from the northwest of Zambia cascades for more than 2,700km through six countries before emptying out into the Indian Ocean at Mozambique. Come here and cruise down the distance along with Zambezi explorer.
While you cruise down the shore you will witness the flocks of hippos and crocodiles. Walk into signature deck where you have an opportunity to sip premium alcohol. Sip it all while enjoying the glorious sunset of Africa.
8. Luxe Out for a River Experience, Stay at the A’zambezi River Lodge
Nestled within the banks of Mighty River, stand here to explore the course of sunset cruise beside that here you will have an opportunity to see dance exhibition of tribal’s and cultural cuisine in its turn would complete your journey.
Make sure to spend time or better one night at the Victoria Falls Safari lodge where you will witness the grandeur of African architecture and designs. Talking about its location the site is perched perfectly within the top of the plateau where wildlife like kudus, impala and elephants would come to welcome your way.
9. Spend an Evening at the Boma
Well if you wish to experience the traditional sensory of Africa then walk inside the floor of Boma at Victoria Falls Safari Lodge.
Here the tourist would be dressed in traditional robes clothes and you would be tempted with a chance to taste the native millet beer and a grand buffet along with blends of local taste of like impala, kudu steaks, crocodile stew as well as crunchy mopane worms served on cast iron plates. Spend night enjoying the atmosphere where fortune teller would come to guess your forthcomings and traditional healer would recharge your mind.
10. Enjoy the Joys of Animal Kingdom
Walk down to the Elephant Wallow where you can take a ride of gentle giants and would have a chance to feed them and these amazing creatures in their turn would elevate your mind with their small tricks and performance. Make sure to understand that the place is a part of the Wild Horizons Wildlife Sanctuary and Orphanage.
Once you are done visiting the site come to explore the brilliance of 12-acre Spencer’s Creek Crocodile Farm which is located within the natural creek. Here you have an awesome chance to understand their life cycle and have an opportunity to trace different types of Nile crocodile.
Kurseong or Kharsang which literally translates to ‘Land of the white Orchids’ in Lepcha language boats
of several places of tourist interest and among them is the renowned St. Mary Hill. After Darjeeling has become one of the tourist hubs of West Bengal, Kurseong has been a popular excursion from the ‘Queen of the Hills’ because of its exotic natural beauty and tourist places of interest.
of several places of tourist interest and among them is the renowned St. Mary Hill. After Darjeeling has become one of the tourist hubs of West Bengal, Kurseong has been a popular excursion from the ‘Queen of the Hills’ because of its exotic natural beauty and tourist places of interest.
Serene and composed, St. Mary Hill placed at a distance of 4 km from the railway station of Kurseong amidst the deep woods is one of the major attractions of Kurseong town in Darjeeling district of West Bengal. The hill houses the eastern Forest Rangers College (EFRC), newly constructed St. John’s Church along with the statue of Mary and Jesus which adorns the hill to give it a look of a stunning hill resort.
Things to Do: While venturing on the way from the Bagdogra Airport or the New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP), your car will likely to stop at the immaculate beautiful Kurseong Hills.
The top of the St. Mary Hill provides a commanding view of the low lying plains nearly about 1525 below and also of the emerald valley of Kurseong town. On your way you will be enthralled with the scenic vistas and the picturesque landscape of this place which is totally beyond words to describe.
Note: Make sure to carry a camera to capture some memorable moments while in this place.
Best time to Visit: September to mid-June is the ideal time to visit this hill beauty as it experiences the most soothing climate during this period.
Accommodation: As Kurseong is a small town, you will find limited number of reasonably priced hotels and resorts for staying. You can opt for mid range to budgeted accommodation options while in this place. Some of the hotels that offer pleasant and comfortable stay facilitated with all modern amenities are Hotel Amarjeet and Cochrane Hotel. Kurseong Tourist Lodge, Kurseong Palace Hotel, Hotel Hill Top are some of the budget hotels that you can opt for longer staying in Kurseong.
Travel Tips:
Ø Summer clothing should be light woolen with heavy woolens in winter.
Ø Make sure to purchase some local art crafts and handicrafts to take back home as a memento along with woolen garments.
Ø While in this place momo, thukpa, noodles and Churpee are the edibles which are regional, go ahead and taste some of them for satiating your taste buds.
Ø English, Bengali, Tibetan are the languages that are spoken in this place with Nepali being the major language.
How to Reach: Closest airport is Bagdogra at about 48 km whereas the major railway stations are Siliguri Junction at 42 km and New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP) at about 47 km. You can get number of options like car, sumo or bus to reach Siliguri from the airport and railway stations to reach the main town of Siliguri from where you can venture for Kurseong.
Once you reach Siliguri you can get plenty of options to reach this place. You can reserve a small vehicle or get on a vehicle to reach.
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