The Magic Of DaRjEeLiNg

The queen of hills - darjeeling

2011-01-29T09:01:00.000-08:00

The sparkling beauty and charm of Darjeeling

2008-11-26T03:15:00.000-08:00

view-of-darjeeling-town

darjeeling pride of gorkhas

Our planet wears dazzling ornaments

Shangri-la in the sun

Gold of the gods

Some backyards have better views

darjeeling-misty-trees

Darjeeling at night

The beauty of Darjeeling is incomparable to any other place in India. Darjeeling is famous for the picturesque sunrises over the Tiger Hill, the famous Buddhist temples and monasteries and also the botanical and zoological gardens. Sightseeing in Darjeeling is a great experience for both the local and the foreign tourists. The snow-capped mountain ranges of the Kachenjunga attract a lot of people from all over the world. The place is popularly known as the Paradise of the East and people love to visit the place time and again. Darjeeling originally belonged to the independent state of Sikkim. Later in the eighteenth century, it was taken over by the Bhutanese and the Gurkhas. Tiger Hill is the highest point in Darjeeling. From here one can see the peaks of the Kanchenjunga and on a clear day the Everest looms into view.

The sparkling beauty and charm of Darjeeling got transformed in to the stream of words by Mark Twain-

" The one land that all men desire to see,
and having seen once even by a glimpse
would not give that glimpse
For the shows of the rest of the world combined".

The clean fresh mountain air, the verdant hills and valleys and the vast stretches of lush green tea gardens makes Darjeeling the queen of all the hill stations of India. The real magical aura is provided to the land by the 8,586 -m Mt. Kanchenjunga that leaves the tourists senses intoxicated.

Darjeeling - How to Reach?

2008-11-26T02:32:00.000-08:00

Darjeeling described as the "Queen of the Snow laden Himalayas" is a must see place in India, famous for its ecotourism and adventure tourism.

How to reach Darjeeling by Air:

... Bagdogra airport to Darjeeling

On the way from Bagdogra airport to ...

The nearest airport to Darjeeling is Bagdogra, which is connected to important cities of India by domestic airlines. Bagdogra is about 90 kms from Darjeeling and 10kms from Siliguri.From Bagdogra one can reach Darjeeling by taxi or jeep.

How to reach Darjeeling by Rail:

Darjeeling has a railway station but only the toy train from Jalpaiguri and New Jalpaiguri comes to this station. The railhead for all other trains is New Jalpaiguri (88 kms from Darjeeling) or Siliguri (80 kms from Darjeeling). From these stations there are direct trains to Kolkata, Delhi, Guwahati, Varanasi and other major cities in India.

How to reach Darjeeling by Road:

Darjeeling is well connected by roads. The State Transport runs buses from Calcutta and other nearby places like Kalimpong, Kurseong, Gangtok, Bagdogra and Siliguri. Private buses also ply.

Flower Show in Darjeeling

2008-11-23T10:50:00.000-08:00

Last weekend of April is Flower Show in Darjeeling as usual. There were more varieties and colour.

Tiger Hill

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sunrise from tiger hill

Tiger Hill is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Darjeeling, but you’ll have to get up early to enjoy it at its best! The hill, about 11 km from Darjeeling is at an altitude of 8,515 feet and is famous for its spectacular views at sunrise. The top of Mount Everest is visible, between the peaks of Kanchenjunga and Makalu.

Senchal Lake

2008-11-19T07:35:00.000-08:00

Darjeeling Senchal Lake

View of Sinchal Lake, Darjeeling

Senchal (or Sinchal) Lake is one of the most favorite spots for picnics in Darjeeling. It is about 3 kilometers from Ghoom.
Close to Tiger Hill is Senchal Lake, which supplies Darjeeling with its domestic water. It's a particularly scenic area and popular as a picnic spot with Indian holiday-makers.

Kanchenjunga Views

2008-11-17T00:07:00.001-08:00

sunrise on kanchenjunga -view point ...

Kangchenjunga is the third highest ...

At 8598m, this is the world's third highest mountain. From Darjeeling, the best uninterrupted views of it are from Bhan Bhakta Sarani. The name Kanchenjunga is derived from the Tibetan Khang (snow), chen (big), dzong (fortress or treasury) nga (five) - big five peaked snow fortress, or big five peaked treasury of the snow.

Batasia Loop and the War Memorial

2008-11-16T04:20:00.001-08:00

About 5 kms. from Darjeeling, this railway loop is a marvellous feat of engineering and with its magnificent view of Darjeeling town with the Kanchenjunga mountain is worth an experience, whether aboard the Toy Train or just watching the Toy Train pass through this loop. The War memorial is constructed in the memory of the brave sons of Darjeeling who died for the country since Independence in 1947.Many local handwork's and woolen items were sold by local peoples here for tourists.

Tea Gardens

2008-11-16T03:57:00.000-08:00

Tea Garden, Darjeeling

... closer look..........tea garden

Tea gardens near Darjeeling

Famous Happy Valley Tea Estate

While in Darjeeling a visit to any nearby Tea Garden to watch the actual process of the manufacturing of Darjeeling Tea is worth it. Some of the Tea Gardens also sell their packet teas. There are about 70 tea gardens in this hill region and the most accessible one is the Happy Valley Tea Estate, which is about 3 kms. from the town or within a walking distance of about 40 minutes.

Buddhist Monasteries

2008-11-14T11:21:00.000-08:00

Yiga Cholling Monastery

Buddha at Ghoom Monastery

Sakya Monastery

Bhutia Busty Monastery

Prayer Wheels

In and around Darjeeling there are important and interesting Tibetan Buddhist Monasteries. The oldest one is called the Yiga Cholling Monastery which is situated about 8 kms. from the town at Ghoom and enshrines an image of 'the Coming Buddha' or the Maitriya Buddha. It was constructed in 1875 and belongs to the Gelugpa Sect. The Samten Cholling Monastery is another interesting monastery nearby. The Drukpa Kargyud Monastery, also known as Dali Monastery, is a big monastery located 5 kms. from the town. It belongs to the Drukpa Sect and the Drukchen Rimpoche resides here. The Bhutia Busty Monastery is situated at C.R. Das Road and is within 15 minutes walk from the Mall.

The Observatory Hill

2008-11-12T02:44:00.000-08:00

Apart from the magnificent view it commands, this hill atop the Mall also is attached with great religious importance as a revered temple complex for both the Hindus and the Buddhists.

Rock Garden and Ganga Maya Park

2008-11-11T10:47:00.000-08:00

The Chunnu summer falls, locally known as the rock garden and Ganga Maya park are situated about 8 km from Darjeeling. The road drops down steeply to the park and garden, which is a popular picnic spot with tourists. There is a small waterfall and stream running through the park, and a small lake with boating facilities.

Japanese Peace Pagoda

2008-11-11T10:27:00.000-08:00

The building of the Peace Pagoda was intiated by Fuji Guru, the founder of the Nipponzan Myhoji Buddhist Order and a close friend of Mahatma Gandhi, as a symbol for world peace. The sparkling white pagoda rises 28.5 metres from the ground level and has a diameter of 23mts. Embedded in the wall of the pagoda are four statues of Buddha in gold polish and eight carvings on sandstone depicting different stages of Gautam Buddha’s life.

Dhirdham Temple

2008-11-08T04:45:00.000-08:00

Dhirdham Temple at another angle

Constructed in 1939, Dhirdham Temple is situated near Darjeeling Railway Station. It was constructed by Rai Saheb Purna Bahadur Pradhan. The temple architecture has been inspired by the famous Pashupatinath Temple at Kathmandu in Nepal. There is a statue of Lord Shiva outside the main temple. It depicts "Pancha Bakram Tri Netram" which means five different facial expressions of Lord Shiva in different moods and the third eye.

The Mall and Chowrasta

2008-11-08T04:14:00.000-08:00

A view from The Mall

The Mall road originates and culminates at the Chowrasta which is the hub of Darjeeling town, a square on the ridge of Darjeeling town and a good place to sit and relax. It is ideal for a leisurely walk around a setting that is perfect. A walk around The Mall is a must just at any time of the day with the pleasant view of the mountains, valleys with rhododendron trees and old houses.

Natural History Museum

2008-11-08T03:24:00.000-08:00

While taking a walk in The Mall a visit to the Museum of Natural History which lies closeby is worthwhile। This fine small museum exhibits an unique collection of the fauna of the Himalayan region, especially of the Eastern Himalayas।

Himalayan Mountaineering Institute

2008-11-08T03:13:00.000-08:00

It was founded in 1954 after the historic conquest of Everest on the 29th of May in 1953, when two people set foot atop Mount Everest. They were, Tenzing Norgay (Sherpa) from Darjeeling and Sir Edmund Hillary from New Zealand. As an honour to the great Sherpa this Institute was formed with the aim of imparting mountaineering skills to all the enthusiasts. Tenzing Sherpa himself was one of the founding members and also the Field Director of the Institute. It is situated on Jawahar Parbat and adjoins the Zoo. This Institute also houses a museum which holds a rare collection of mementos from various Everest expeditions. Nawang Gombu, the first man to have climbed the Everest twice is presently the Chief Advisor for the Mountaineering Training.

Himalayan Zoological Park

2008-11-07T10:32:00.000-08:00

Red Panda

Snow Leopard

Tibetan Wolf

Wild Cat

Himalayan Black Bear

Darjeeling zoo is internationally famous for its conservation breeding of red pandas and snow leopards, and is the only one of its kind in India. You can also see many other types of animals including Siberian Tigers, bears and wolves and Himalayan birds. It’s well worth a visit for its scenic location and peaceful atmosphere, as well as the rare species of animals.

The Nightingale Park

2008-11-07T10:06:00.000-08:00

Dusk at Nightingale Park.

The Nightingale Park is a pleasant place for a stroll and being at the top of a hill it has stunning views of the Kanchenjunga and the Singla Valley.

Lloyds Botanical Garden

2008-11-04T04:27:00.000-08:00

Rhododendron

Magnolia

Orchids

This is a colourful garden situated just below the market. In 1878 Mr. W. Lloyd gifted 40 acres of hillside to make a garden with local plants and flowers. It still has the most varied collection of rhododendron, magnolia, orchids, etc. of the Eastern Himalayas. It also has a glass-house full of alpine flowers and also features an Orchidarium and a collection of medicinal plants.

Darjeeling Rangeet Valley Passenger Ropeway

2008-11-04T03:41:00.000-08:00

This Ropeway is in one of the most beautiful part of the town and is situated at North Point about 3 kms. from town. The cable car ride takes 6 passengers at a time and it passes over the lush green tea gardens with breathtaking view of the mountains (Kanchenjunga) and provides an experience that cannot be easily forgotten. The valley has glorious views of Sikkim and the river Rangeet.

Tibetan Refugee Self Help Centre

2008-11-04T03:33:00.000-08:00

The centre was set up in 1959 to provide a place for the displaced Tibetans who followed the Dalai Lama into India. There are a wide range of Tibetan arts and crafts on display, including carpets, knitted sweaters and jackets, shawls and wooden furniture.

Ava Art Gallery

2008-11-04T03:14:00.000-08:00

"Still Strong"

"Torture"

The AVA art gallery is about 2km from the town enroute to Ghoom. It houses the unique art and embroidery works of Mrs. Ava Devi.

Shangri-La Regency

2008-10-30T10:53:00.000-07:00

the entrance to the hotel

Accessibility : Bagdogra Airport : 90 KM, New Jalpaiguri Railway Station : 90 KM, Darjeeling Railway Station : 1 KM

Locational Advantage : Shangri-La Regency is centrally located close to the Mall and entertainment area.

Description : Shangri-La Regency is a renowned Boutique hotel in Darjeeling that offers luxury and comfort without compromising on quality. The hotel is tailored in every aspect to meet the needs of discerning independent travelers and tour groups. Shangrila Regency provides efficiently caters to both corporate and leisure travelers. For an exciting stay in Darjeeling, Shangri-La Regency is an excellent option.

Accommodation at Hotel Shangrila Regency Darjeeling :

lobby

Shangri-La Regency offer 12 individually designed rooms offering some of the best views of the spectacular Kanchejunga mountain range.

Restaurants :

The restaurant at Shangri-La Regency offers the best of Indian, Chinese and Continental cuisines.

Services at Hotel Shangrila Regency Darjeeling :

bar

Travel Desk, Bar, Laundry Facility, Valet, Money Exchange Facility, Doctor on Call, Safe Vault with Cashier, EPABX enabled telephone facility, Cable TV, All Major Credit Cards Accepted, Restaurant, Breakfast, Car Rental Facility, Fax, Photocopy, Free Newspaper, Smoke Detector.

Karmi Farm Holidays

2008-10-30T10:50:00.000-07:00

Accessibility : Bagdogra Airport : 88 KM, New Jalpaiguri Railway Station : 78 KM, Darjeeling Bus Stand : 5 KM

Locational Advantage :
Karmi Farm Holidays is located near Bijanbari just 90 minutes drive from Darjeeling town.

Description : Karmi Farm Holidays is an eco-resort situated amidst verdant agricultural area in the outskirts of Darjeeling. The Karmi Farm is located on top of a hill surrounded by lofty heights of the Singalila Ridge. Favored by a number of tourists for its scenic beauty and serene atmosphere it has become a popular tourist lodge in Darajeeling. Karmi Farm offers quality services with warm hospitality and provides amenities at affordable rate.

Accommodation at Hotel Karmi Farm Holidays Darjeeling :
Karmi Farm Holidays offers 5 rooms categorized into 3 Suites and 2 Single Rooms fully furnished with modern facilities.

Restaurants : Karmi Farm Holidays has a restaurant, which offers traditional Nepalese, Sikkimese and Indian dishes.

Services at Hotel Karmi Farm Holidays Darjeeling :
Room Service, 24 hrs H/C running water, Travel Desk, Multi-cuisine Restaurant, Telephone, Satellite TV, Newspaper in Room .

Darjeeling Gymkhana Resort

2008-10-30T10:45:00.000-07:00

Accessibility : Bagdogra Airport : 75 KM, New Jalpaiguri Railway Station : 75 KM, Club Side Bus Stand : 1.5 KM

Locational Advantage : Darjeeling Gymkhana Resort is located near the Mall.

Description :

Reception

Darjeeling Gymkhana Resort is an oasis of elegance, comfort and luxury. Counted among the most preferred destinations in Darjeeling, the resort is set in a convenient location surrounded by the most gorgeous snow peaks in the world. Darjeeling Gymkhana Resort is the most ideal destination for business travelers, leisure and honeymooners as the resort offers many amenities with the most efficient service. Exemplary services coupled with superb facilities make this wonderful abode an instant choice for all holidaymakers visiting Darjeeling.

Accommodation at Hotel Darjeeling Gymkhana Resort :

Double Executive Room

Attic room

View of Rooms

Darjeeling Gymkhana Resort offers 22 rooms most with their own fireplace, attached bathrooms with bathtubs & showers, color televisions with cable network, telephone facility.

Restaurants :

Darjeeling Gymkhana Resort has one specialty restaurant serving mouthwatering Indian, Chinese and Continental dishes.

Services at Hotel Darjeeling Gymkhana Resort :
Health Club, Gym, Library, Billiards & Snooker, Badminton, Squash, Roller Skating, Lawn Tennis, Table Tennis, Attached Private Bath with shower, H/C Running Water, Multi-cuisine Restaurant, Cable TV, Telephone, Free Room Service, Laundry & Dry Cleaning, Travel Desk Facility, Doctor on Request, Business Centre, Banquet, Conference Hall, Fax, Broadband Facility.

Hotel Cedar Inn

2008-10-30T10:43:00.000-07:00

Accessibility :
Bagdogra Airport : 75 KM, New Jalpaiguri Railway Station : 75 KM, Darjeeling Bus Stand : 1 KM

Locational Advantage :
Cedar Inn is located in the city center, close to the Mall.

Description :

Cedar Inn is an elegant hotel designed in Victorian Gothic architecture, reflecting Darjeeling's colonial heritage. The Cedar Inn is conveniently situated in a sylvan environment amidst cedar trees. It is a well-known hotel offering magnificent view of the mountain peaks. Cedar Inn is renowned for its gracious colonial heritage, warm hospitality and multifarious amenities, creating a balance of rich culture and modern convenience to ensure the best comfortable stay in Darjeeling. Holiday in Darjeeling accompanied by the warm hospitality of Cedar Inn makes it worthwhile.

Accommodation at Hotel Cedar Inn Darjeeling :

Cedar Inn offers 22 rooms, most with their own fireplace, attached bathrooms with bathtubs & showers, color televisions with cable network, STD, ISD telephone facility.

Restaurants :

Creative Cuisine: A multi-cuisine restaurant serving the best of Himalayan foods, Indian, Chinese and Continental menus.

Services at Hotel Cedar Inn Darjeeling :
Fireplace, Attached Bathrooms with Bathtubs & Showers, Billiards & Snooker, Health Club, Gymnasium, Sauna, Steam, Convention Centre, Gift Shop, Library, Bar Facility, Baby Care Facility, Doctor on Demand, Laundry Service, Free Pick/Drop to town, Satellite TV, Direct Dialing STD/ISD Facility, Internet Facility, Fax on Demand, Photocopy, Courier, Room Service, 24 hrs H/C running water .

Hotel Fortune Resort Central

2008-10-29T12:09:00.000-07:00

Accessibility : Bagdogra Airport : 88 KM, New Jalpaiguri Railway Station : 87 KM, Darjeeling Heritage Railway Station : 2 KM

Locational Advantage : Fortune Resort Central is located on the Robertson Road and close to the Mall.

Description :

Fortune Resort Central in Darjeeling is one of the popularly acclaimed resorts in the hill station. The Fortune Resort Central has been extending British Heritage hospitality in Darjeeling for decades. The resort serves the tourists with the best of amenities, exemplary services and warm hospitality. Fortune Resort Central caters to business travelers by providing the latest technological facilities for board meetings or conferences. Fortune Resort Central provides all that is required for an exciting holiday.

Accommodation at Hotel Fortune Resort Central Darjeeling :

Fortune Resort Central offers 46 stylish rooms categorized into Standard Rooms, Fortune Club Rooms and Suites.

Restaurants :

Fortune Resort Central has one multi-cuisine restaurant called Orchid.

Services at Hotel Fortune Resort Central Darjeeling :

Men's Beauty Parlor, Shopping Arcade, Car Rental Facility, Conference Hall, Business Centre, Secretarial Assistance, Swimming Pool, Car Parking, Free Room Service, Wake up service, Front Desk, Laundry Facility, Post & Telegraph, Restaurant, Tea/Coffee Maker in all rooms, Safe Deposit Box, Doctor on Demand, Travel Desk Facility, Currency Exchange, Direct Dialing STD/ISD Facility, Satellite TV, Airport Pick/Drop .

Windamere Hotel

2008-10-29T11:58:00.000-07:00

Accessibility : Bagdogra Airport : 90 KM, New Jalpaiguri Railway Station : 90 KM, Darjeeling Bus Stand : 0.5 KM

Locational Advantage :
Windamere Hotel is situated on the Observatory Hill.

Description : Windamere Hotel is a popular hotel in Darjeeling with a rich heritage. Windamere Hotel was established in the 19th century as a lodging house for bachelor English and Scottish tea planters and later on converted into a hotel before the 2nd World War. Windamere Hotel in Darjeeling is famous for its appealing scenic ambience and is favored by tourists from India and abroad for its warm hospitality and excellent services.

Accommodation at Hotel Windamere Darjeeling :

Windamere Hotel offers 38 Suites and bedrooms that are equipped with latest modern amenities carefully selected to suit the taste of discerning guest.

Restaurants :

Windamere Hotel has one multi-cuisine restaurant serving the best of Indian, Chinese and Continental cuisines.

Services at Hotel Windamere Darjeeling :

Baby Sitting, Bar, Satellite TV, EPABX enabled telephone facility, Parking, Doctor on Request, Fire Safeguards, Laundry Facility, Money Changer, Power Back Up, Restaurant, 24 Hours Room Service, H/C Running Water, Room Heater, Safe Vault with Cashier, Banquet, Conference Facilities .

Dekeling Resort

2008-10-29T11:54:00.000-07:00

Accessibility : Bagdogra Airport : 90 KM, New Jalpaiguri Railway Station : 88 KM, Darjeeling Bus Stand : 1 KM

Locational Advantage :
Dekeling Resort is located in a serene, calm and peaceful locality.

Description : Dekeling Resort at Hawk's Nest combines every conceivable comfort and convenience in unique blend of British and Tibetan hospitality. Sir William Ferguson Ducat originally constructed the Resort in a style reflecting typical British house, which was recently restored by the Deveka family. The attractive resort is now available for enthusiastic holidaymakers and honeymooners looking for the finest accommodation. Efficiently equipped with modern amenities the Dekeling Resort fulfills the needs of discerning tourists.

Accommodation at Hotel Dekeling Resort Darjeeling :
Dekeling Resort offers 4 Suites provided with cable television, large private bath with adequate supply of hot and cold water.

Restaurants : Dekeling Resort has a restaurant, which offers Continental, Indian, Tibetan, Chinese & local delicacies.

Services at Hotel Dekeling Resort Darjeeling : Travel Desk Service, Laundry, Doctor on Call, Telephone, T. V., All Major Credit Cards Accepted, Car Rental, Fax, Free Room Service, 24 hrs H/C running water, Bar, Restaurant.

Swiss Hotel

2008-10-25T12:18:00.000-07:00

Accessibility : Bagdogra Airport : 100 KM, New Jalpaiguri Railway Station : 100 KM, Darjeeling Bus Stand : 0.5 KM

Locational Advantage : Swiss Hotel is located near the Mall.

Description :

Swiss Hotel has an elegant stone-built Victorian Gothic architecture surrounded by bright and colorful flower garden. It is an ideal place to rejuvenate and enjoy the tranquil environment. The Swiss hotel welcomes the guests with warm hospitality and provides them with excellent services making holiday in Darjeeling a delightful one. It is the ideal retreat for travelers looking for a reasonably priced hotel where they can enjoy a relaxed holiday in nature's lap.

Accommodation at Hotel Swiss Darjeeling :

Swiss Hotel offers 12 well appointed rooms, 08 of them being in the double storied building and 04 in the cottage section. All rooms are elegantly decorated and equipped with modern in-room facilities.

Restaurants :

The Whistling Steam: A multi-cuisine restaurant offering the finest Indian, Chinese and Continental menus.

Services at Hotel Swiss Darjeeling :

Cable TV, Car Rental, Childern Welcome, Doctor on Call, Room Heater, Fire Safeguards, Newspaper, Laundry, Lift, Live Entertainment, Money Changer, No Pets Allowed, Non Smoking Room, Parking, Power Back up, Restaurant, Room Service, Travel Desk, Recreational Activities, Indoor Games, Jogging, Trekking, Alarm Clock, Attached Bath with H/C Running Water, News Stand, Business Centre, In room Movie, Direct Dialing STD/ISD Facility, Hair Dryer.

Hotel Sunflower

2008-10-25T11:52:00.000-07:00

Accessibility :
Bagdogra Airport : 88 KM, New Jalpaiguri Railway Station : 78 KM, Darjeeling Bus Stand : 2 KM

Locational Advantage :
Hotel Sunflower is located near the Mall.

Description :

Reception

Lobby near Reception

Hotel Sunflower is a renowned luxury hotel located in the picturesque Mall Road. The hotel is reputed for giving great attention to details that helps in creating a soothing blend of warm hospitality and impeccable services in a homely ambience. Hotel Sunflower is fully equipped for any kind of travelers to Darjeeling for business, leisure or honeymoon. The hotel caters to guest with the best amenities and service. Hotel Sunflower brightens up holiday experience in Darjeeling.

Accommodation at Sunflower Hotel Darjeeling :

Deluxe room

Executive room

Hotel Sunflower has 15 well-appointed rooms equipped with in-room facilities like attached bath with running hot and cold water, telephone, color television, room heater, round the clock room service and more.

Restaurants :

Hotel Sunflower has one pure vegetarian restaurant offering mouthwatering delicacies.

Services at Sunflower Hotel Darjeeling :
Room Heater, 24 Hours Room Service, Attached Bath with H/C Running Water, Multi-cuisine Restaurant, Cable TV, Direct Dialing STD/ISD Facility, Laundry Facility, Dry Cleaning, Travel Desk, Doctor on Request, Business Centre, Conference Hall, Banquet Facility, Fax on Application, Internet Facility.

Hotel Seven Seventeen

2008-10-25T11:39:00.000-07:00

Accessibility : Bagdogra Airport : 90 KM, New Jalpaiguri Railway Station : 89 KM, Darjeeling Bus Stand : 1 KM

Locational Advantage :
The Mall, the main bus and taxi stands, the local market, banks and entertainment centers are all within walking distance from the hotel.

Description : Hotel Seven Seventeen is a popular hotel in Darjeeling. It is conveniently situated in the heart of the town within walking distance from the Mall, bus stand, and the main shopping and entertainment area of the town. Hotel Seven Seventeen is a fine place for business related travel, leisure holiday and honeymoon in the famous hill station of Darjeeling. Efficiently equipped with modern facilities and warm hospitable services Hotel Seven Seventeen is the most convenient place to savor Darjeeling.

Accommodation at Seven Seventeen Hotel Darjeeling :

Hotel Seven Seventeen offers 43 well-appointed rooms. Some of the modern in-room amenities are wall-to-wall carpeting color television with satellite channels, running hot and cold water, telephone and 24 hours swift room service.

Restaurants :

Blue Haven Restaurant: A multi-cuisine restaurant serving the best of Indian, Tibetan, Chinese and Continental cuisines.

Services at Seven Seventeen Hotel Darjeeling :
Attached Bath with 24 hrs H/C running water, Wall to Wall Carpeting, T. V. with Satellite Channels, EPABX enabled telephone facility, 24 Hours Room Service, Power Back Up, Doctor on Request, Massage Parlor, Laundry, Gift Shop, Travel Desk, Money Changer, Secretarial Service, Broadband Facility, Restaurant .

Hotel Mayfair

2008-10-23T04:57:00.000-07:00

Accessibility : Bagdogra Airport : 88 KM, New Jalpaiguri Railway Station : 88 KM, Darjeeling Bus Stand : 1.5 KM

Locational Advantage :
Mayfair Darjeeling is located just opposite to the Governor's House on the Mall Road.

Description :

Mayfair Darjeeling is one of the most popular luxury hotels in Darjeeling. The hotel was once the summerhouse of Maharaja Nazagunj. Today it is a perfect luxurious getaway to rejuvenate the mind, body and soul in the serene and tranquil setting amidst soothing natural backdrop. The sumptuous luxury and unmatched service makes Mayfair Darjeeling amongst the best destinations to enjoy this lovely hill station.

Accommodation at Hotel Mayfair Darjeeling :

Mayfair Darjeeling offers 5 Attic Rooms with wooden floors and walls with sloping ceilings, 6 Deluxe Rooms, 20 English Style Cottages tastefully appointed with modern amenities.

Restaurants :

Tiffany: A multi-cuisine restaurant that serves variety of Continental, Chinese and Indian delicacies.

Services at Hotel Mayfair Darjeeling :

Multi-cuisine Restaurant, Bar Facility, Health Club, Billiards Room, Squash, Table Tennis, Roller-Skating Room, Conference Hall, Library, Money Changer, Baby Sitting, Doctor on Call, Safe Deposit Locker with Cashier, Car Rental Service, Credit Cards Accepted, Car Parking, Travel Desk Facility.

The Elgin Hotel

2008-10-23T04:34:00.000-07:00

Accessibility : Bagdogra Airport : 105 KM, Darjeeling Railway Station : 0.5 KM, Darjeeling Bus Stand : 0.5 KM

Locational Advantage : The Elgin Hotel is located close to the Mall.

Description :
The Elgin Hotel is a popular unit of the Elgin Heritage Groups of Hotel in Darjeeling. The hotel is one of the best luxury hotels in Darjeeling offering unparalleled services and amenities for all kinds of travelers. The Elgin has hosted renowned personalities like the US Ambassador, the Crown Prince of Sikkim, Dominique Lapierre and Mark Tully to name a few. The Elgin Hotel is a luxurious cocoon for an exciting stay in Darjeeling.

Accommodation at Hotel Elgin Darjeeling :

The Elgin Hotel has 30 rooms that are beautifully decorated and equipped with modern amenities.

Restaurants :

The Elgin Hotel has two restaurants called Kanchan and Orchid serving the best of Indian, Chinese and Continental cuisines.

Services at Hotel Elgin Darjeeling : Room Service, Fax, Hot/Cold running water with attached bath, Room Heater, EPABX enabled telephone facility, Cable TV, Broadband Facility, Channel Music, Laundry & Dry Cleaning, Money Exchange Facility, Safe Vault with Cashier, Child Care Facility, Travel Desk Facility, Doctor on Demand, Secure Parking, Banquet, Conference Facilities, Restaurant.

Hotel Anand Palace

2008-10-22T11:17:00.000-07:00

Accessibility : Bagdogra Airport : 85 KM, New Jalpaiguri Railway Station : 83 KM, Darjeeling Bus Stand : 0.5 KM

Locational Advantage : Hotel Anand Palace is located opposite the Darjeeling Post Office.

Description :

Sitting area

Lobby

Hotel Anand Palace is a leading 3 Star hotel in Darjeeling established in 2006. The hotel is conveniently located just opposite to the Post Office in the city center. Hotel Anand Palace has a graceful and exquisitely decorated lobby and restaurant where one can come for a cup of coffee to relax after a tiring sightseeing tour. The accommodation is carefully designed to provide the best of comforts and magnificent views of the Kanchenjunga range. Hotel Anand Palace is one of the ideal hotels in Darjeeling offering advantageous location, useful facilities and impeccable services.

Accommodation at Anand Palace Darjeeling :

Hotel Anand Palace offers 45 tastefully designed rooms replete with modern amenities and 24 hours efficient room service.

Restaurants :

Chula Chowka: A multi-cuisine restaurant offering Indian, Chinese and delectable Indian cuisines.

Services at Anand Palace Darjeeling :
Conference Hall, Hot & Cold Running Water, Safe Deposit, Parking Facility, Cafe, Bar, Restaurant, Gift Shop, Banquet Hall, Standby Generators, Baby Sitting on request, Guest Lift & Food Lift, Travel Desk, Doctor on Call, Fitness Club, Table Tennis, Pool Table, Masseur, Multi Channel Television, Channel Music, High Speed Internet Connectivity, Laundry Service, Local Guide

Himalayan Resort

2008-10-21T05:21:00.000-07:00

Accessibility :

Bagdogra Airport : 90 KM, New Jalpaiguri Railway Station : 90 KM, Darjeeling Bus Stand : 1 KM

Locational Advantage :

Himalayan Resort is located near the Mall.

Description :

Himalayan Resort in Darjeeling is a leading 3 Star hotel renowned for offering excellent services and wide range of facilities. The resort is conveniently located in the city center providing easy excess to various destinations in and around the city. The Mall, business center and other happening places of Darjeeling are near the hotel. Himalayan Resort offers impeccable services and amenities for discerning business travelers, leisure and honeymoon couples.

Accommodation at Hotel Himalayan Resort Darjeeling :

Himalayan Resort offers 17 well appointed and fully furnished rooms with beautiful views of the Kanchenjunga.

Restaurants :
Ramp: A multi-cuisine restaurant offering the best of Indian, Chinese and Continental delicacies.

Services at Hotel Himalayan Resort Darjeeling : Car Rental Facility, Travel Desk Facility, Doctor on Request, Safe Deposit with Cashier, Money Changer, Laundry, Multi-cuisine Restaurant, Room Service, 24 hrs H/C running water, Telephone, Cable TV

Hotel Viceroy

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Accessibility : Bagdogra Airport : 88 KM, New Jalpaiguri Railway Station : 87 KM, Darjeeling Bus Stand : 0.5 KM

Locational Advantage : Viceroy Darjeeling is located near Clock Towers and The Mall.

Description :

Viceroy Darjeeling is one of the finest luxury hotels in Darjeeling. The hotel is a cocoon of sumptuous luxury offering excellent services and wide range of lavish amenities. Moreover, the hotel is located in the city center providing easy access to various locations of Darjeeling. Viceroy Darjeeling is the finest and fashionable deluxe hotel acclaimed as the best in Darjeeling. The Viceroy Darjeeling will pamper you with unlimited luxury.
Accommodation :

Viceroy Darjeeling offers 30 Executive Rooms and 7 Premium Rooms.

Restaurants :

The Crystal Room: A vibrant multi cuisine restaurant serving Indian, Chinese, Thai, Nepalese & Continental delicacies.

Services at Hotel Viceroy :

Internet Facility, Cable LCD TV, DVD Player, Refrigerator & Microwave in all rooms, Bar Facility, Sky Lit Bathrooms, 24 Hours Room Service, Elevator Facility, H/C Running Water, EPABX enabled telephone facility, Channel Music, Laundry & Dry Cleaning Facility, Currency Exchange, Safe Deposit Locker with Cashier, Travel Desk Service, Doctor on Call, Parking, Banquet Facility, Conference Facilities, Tea/Coffee Maker, Multi-cuisine Restaurant, Health Club, Sauna, Billiards & Snooker, Jacuzzi, Library, Power Back Up .

Sterling Resort

2008-10-16T10:46:00.000-07:00

Accessibility :
Bagdogra Airport : 100 KM, New Jalpaiguri Railway Station : 60 KM, Darjeeling Bus Stand : 8 KM

Locational Advantage : Sterling Resort Darjeeling is located on the Old Monastery Road.

Description :
Sterling Resort Darjeeling is acclaimed as a wonderful Dream Resort in the "Queen of the Hills". The resort provides the best of luxury for leisure and business travelers. Sterling Resort Darjeeling has played host to many important conferences and business meetings as it provides the latest technological facilities. Equipped with every modern amenities and services the Sterling Resort Darjeeling provides the finest luxury, comfort and hospitality in a homely ambience.

Accommodation :
Sterling Resort Darjeeling has 28 guest rooms equipped with hot plate, vessels, pressure cooker, cutlery and crockery.

Restaurants :
General Lloyd: A multi-cuisine restaurant offering the finest and best of Indian, Chinese and Continental dishes.

Services at Hotel Sterling Resort :
House Keeping, Safe Vault with Cashier, Secure Parking, Car Wash Service, First Aid, Laundry Facility, Shopping Arcade/Souvenir Shop, Library, Airport Transfer, Wheelchair, EPABX enabled telephone facility, T. V., DVD, OPH, LCD Slide Projector, PA System, Fax, Photocopy, Business Centre, Courier Service, Post & Telegraph, Secretarial Service, Multi-cuisine Restaurant

Gangtok

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Gangtok

Kanchenjunga, the world's third tallest peak, is visible from Gangtok.

Gangtok, cable car

from gangtok to tshangu lake

Capital of the 22nd State of India, Sikkim enjoys a mild, temperate climate all year round and offers spectacular views of the Himalayan ranges. Gangtok is the perfect destination for tourist in search of enchantment, tranquility, trekking or any other adventure.

The Dro-dul Chorten Stupa

Rumtek Monastery

It is a mystic land of stupas, monastery, temples and endless intriguing rituals / festivals. It is situated at an elevation of 1,780 meters / 5,480 feet and is the most often visited spot of India for its floristic composition, rare Orchids and butterflies. A mild temperate climate throughout the year it integrates different cultures and religion making it a wonderful destination, where age - old traditions and customs exist along with the new ancient Buddhist monuments and bustling commercial centers.

Namgyal Institute of Tibetology

It is a centre of Buddhist learning and culture, the most famous Buddhist site in the city being the Namgyal institute of Tibetology, Enchey Monastery and Rumtek Monastery.

Himalayan Black Bear

A wide variety of rare orchids are often featured in flower shows around the city and the town is the center of activity for tourist throughout the year.

Kurseong

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Kurseong is a tiny hill station situated in the Darjeeling district in the Indian state of West Bengal. Nestling in the valleys of Himalayas, and located at an altitude of 1458m, Kurseong is a nature lover’s delight and provides interesting trekking trails. This picturesque hill station can be enjoyed best on foot or by the Toy train that runs from New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling. Kurseong gets its name from the Nepali word, ‘Kharshang’ which means dawn’s pole star. Kurseong which was part of Sikkim was ceded to the British in 1835 by the king of Sikkim. It has some well reputed schools such as Goethals, Dow Hill and Victoria.

Kurseong, the land of the white orchid,

has many interesting spots that attract visitors. Eagle’s Craig, a popular landmark that is one km uphill from Kurseong offers magnificent views of Teesta River, Jannu and Kabru peaks and the verdant forests of Darjeeling valley.

st. mary hill

The Netaji Kothi or summer home of Netaji Subhash is situated on top of Eagle’s Craig, though it is in a dilapidated condition. The terraces, tea gardens and orchid nurseries of Kurseong are worth visiting.

Maiakibari Tea Estate

Major tea estates in and around the town are Ambotica, Castleton, Springside, Makaibari, Jogmaya and Ghomtee. The Giddapahar Mandir and Ambotia Siv Mandir are the well known temples in Kurseong. Dow Hill houses the Deer Park, the Forest museum and the amusement park. The newly constructed St. John’s church is worth a visit.

Kurseong is a perfect place for a quiet and rejuvenating holiday with its mild and temperate climate throughout the year. Its peace and tranquility has attracted many important people like Rabindra Nath Tagore and Mark twain who have sojourned here while Sister Nivedita, the disciple of Swami Vivekananda made Kurseong her home. The beautiful tea estates and the orchid gardens provide excellent opportunities for walks. A walk through the forest of Aranya Sarani leads to the meadows of Chimney. Kettle Valley Picnic spot at Dilaram Tea estate is a popular picnic location. As a travel destination in India, Kurseong which is just 30 km from Darjeeling and 50 km from Siliguri has great potential for development.

Kalimpong

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Kalimpong, a pristine hill station in West Bengal, is located about 50 km east of the famous tourist destination Darjeeling. This hill town, overlooking the beautiful Teesta valley, is at an altitude of 1250 m above the sea level and is vibrant with bustling activities. Kalimpong is located at the foothills of majestic Shiwalik ranges in Lower Himalayas. It is believed that until the 19th century the area was ruled by Bhutanese kings and was a forward post of the Bhutanese Army.

Mcfarland chuch

Buddhist monastries

Golden Buddha

Enshrined with ancient Buddhist monasteries, centuries old churches and exquisite revered temples, Kalimpong was earlier a part of Bhutan until it was wrested by British rulers and joined to Indian territory. The populaces in Kalimpong are mostly of Nepalis origin. These people are all migrated to this area in search of job opportunities.

Kalimpong - the world of green hills

Enriched with lush green forests and dense plantations of tea, Kalimpong is really marvelous and awe inspiring.

Kalimpong is renowned for many high quality educational Institutions. Students throng to this town from the entire North Eastern region of India and also from neighboring countries like Bangladesh, Burma and Bhutan to have their higher studies.

This town is bustling with flower markets, a major source of orchid flowers in the north east.

Springtime blossom in Kalimpong

One can enjoy the view of attractive flowers placed on the sideways of the street and the fragrances of the flowers make you to think about an eternal destination.

Rafting on the Teesta

Kalimpong is a breathtaking picnic spot and one can view the panoramic picture of the down valley known as Teesta Ranjit Valley from the spot known as 7th Mile View Point. This town is a best place for shopping, one can get items like Tibetan Jewelries, artifacts, copperwares, handicraft items and many varieties of dress materials.

Jalarpara Wildlife Sanctuary

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The sanctuary, 121 km from Silliguri is remarkable for its treasure of one-horned Rhinos. Trained elephant are available to take the tourist around. There is a tourist bungalow inside the forest.

Sandakphu

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Sandakphu Trek , tour in darjeeling

Sunrise from Sandakphu

On top of Sandakphu

Morning at Sandakphu

Sandakphu is a peak in Darjeeling. The name is derived due to the profound growth of poisonous plants around the peak. Sandakphu literally means “the height of poison plants”. It is located at a height of 3636 meters and around 58 km from Darjeeling.
Maneybhanjan is the starting place of any trekking activity to Sandakphu. From Sandakphu one can easily absorb the beautiful view of four peaks - Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga, Makalu, and Lhoste. Subalpine flowers, primulas, magnolias, rhododendrons, and hundreds of varieties of orchids blossom in this peak to capture the eyes of visitors. Sandakphu can be visited any time in the year.

Mirik

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This hill station is 49 km from Darjeeling. It is 6000 feet high with a beautiful lake in the centre.

Takdah

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It is 26 km away from city. Here are several nurseries growing Himalayan Orchids.

The Toy Train

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The 88km journey to Darjeeling from New Jalpaiguri or Silliguri on the famous miniature railway is certainly not the quickest way to get here but is nevertheless an experience that shouldn't be missed.

Until the late 1800s, all supplies for Darjeeling and all the tea exported had to be transported by bullock cart along aptly-named Hill Cart Rd. This was slow and expensive: rice that sold for Rs 98 a ton fetched Rs 240 a ton by the time it reached the hill station. Construction of the railway line up to Tindharia. In 1881 the line was completed through Darjeeling.

The whole line is an ingenious feat of engineering and includes five switchbacks and four complete loops. The last of these, known as the Batasia Loop, is five km short of Darjeeling and a popular spot for photographers.

Over the years there have been calls to pension off the elderly, unreliable, steam locomotives, the oldest of which (No 779) dates from 1892. In the last two years many of the country's steam engines have been shunted into the scrap yards. However, now that there are relatively few working steam lines, increased interest from all enthusiasts and tourist should ensure the survival of Darjeeling's Toy Train.

Laden La & Nehru Rds

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There are numerous cheap restaurants along Laden La Rd all clustered together between the State Bank of India and the post office. Several of them are Tibetan-run while the remainder offer Indian cuisine of various sorts. Most of them are pretty basic and could use a good scrub down. They include the Golden Dragon, Vineet, Utsang. Potala, Lotus, Penang, Soatlee and Washington.

Lhasa Restaurant

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It is a very cheap and very basic Tibetan restaurant serving good momos and thukpa.

Park Restaurant

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It has probably the best Indian cuisine in town. Tandoori items are mouthwatering - chicken sheek kebabs, chicken tikka masala. Decor is Graeco-Roman greenhouse finished off with shower-room curtains, but the food is excellent.

Keventer's Snack Bar

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Kev's (Keventer's Snack Bar), on Nehru Rd, is a popular place for breakfast and there are wonderful views from the open terrace. They have got ham, bacon, sausages and cheese, but service can be tediously slow.

Glenary's

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Glenary's, is an excellent place with a definite ghost-of-the-Raj air to it. Downstairs is the bakery; if you arrive early enough you can get very good brown bread. They also have croissants, doughnuts, garlic bread and a wonderful range of cakes. Tea time here is still a special occasion upstairs in the restaurant where you can also have full meals.

Windamere Hotel

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It is the place to go for a splurge. If you are not staying here, you must book in advance. Here you are served a full western meal, such as roast chicken, followed by a full-on Indian meal of curry, rice and chapatis! But it's not just food you get for your money - you are entertained by a pianist or string quartet during dinner and afterwards you can retire to the drawing room for a brandy by the fire. you can also come here for tea which includes the best Darjeeling tea, cucumber sandwiches and cakes, and the pianist tickling the ivories next door.

Curious & Carpets

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Most curio shops are on Chowrasta and along Nehru Rd. All things Himalayan are sold here - thangkas, brass statues, religious objects, jewellery, wood carving, woven fabrics, carpets etc - but if you are looking for bargains you have to shop judiciously and be prepared to spend plenty of time looking. Thangkas in particular may look impressive at first sight, but on closer inspection of the cheaper offerings you will find that little care has been taken over the finer detail.
If you are looking for bronze statues, the real goodies are kept under the counter and cost in multiples of US$! Woodcarvings tend to be excellent value for money. Most of the shops accept international credit cards.
West Bengal's Manusha Emporium, on Nehru Rd, is a fixed-price shop selling Himalayan handicrafts, silk and handloomed products. There is also a market off Hill Cart Rd next to the bus and taxi stands. Here you can find excellent and relatively cheap patterned woolen sweaters. If you need an umbrella these can be bought here cheaply. Made out of bamboo, they are collectors' items themselves!
For Tibetan carpets, the cheapest place in the area is at Hayden Hall, opposite the State Bank of India on Laden La Rd. It's a women's co-operative - excellent value and well worth checking out.

Darjeeling Tea

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A packet of tea is a popular souvenir. First Flush Super Fine Tippy Golden Flowery Orange Pekoe I is the top quality. The price varies enormously. The way to test tea is to take a small handful in your closed fist, breathe firmly on it through your fingers and then open your hand and smell the aromas released. At least it will look as if you know what you're doing even if you don't have clue! Avoid the tea in fancy boxes as this is usually blended and comes from Kolkata. A good place is Nathmull's Tea Merchants, near the post office on Laden La Rd.

Festivals and Special EventsThroughout the Year

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Owing to the diversity of the population of Darjeeling, some festival or the other is celebrated almost every month. Most of the Hindu and Tibetan festivals follow the lunar calendar and so the date of the festival does not fall on the exact date the next year. We will update our page to give you the exact date of the festival in the current year. Also a public holiday means that all the Government offices and Banks remain closed that day.

January

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New Year's eve and New Years Day is always a special day celebrations that go on the whole night.

Around the middle of the month Nepalis celebrate Maghe Sankrati (first day of Nepali month Magh) by eating only Tarool, tuber of various edible species of Dioscorea, known collectively as yam.

The end of January marks the end of the Tibetan Year. They have a festival to avert the negativity of the Old Year, and most of the Monasteries in the area will have cham (Tibetan Dance) during this time of the year. In Thupten Sangag Choling Monastery (also known as Dali monastery) they have a special Chakrasambhara (Mandala) prayer where one can see the colourful Mandala made of brightly coloured powder.

Preparing the Mandala with coloured powder for chakra sambhara (Mandala) prayer

26th January is India's Republic Day. This is a public holiday and different areas of Darjeeling celebrate this occasion with special programmes.

February

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Tibetan celebrate Losar (Tibetan New Year), this is the most important festival in the Tibetan calendar. They celebrate this for about a week with good food, new clothes and dances.

In the Shri Panchami or Sarswati Puja, Hindus of Darjeeling worship the goddess of knowledge Sarswati and the next day they take the idol with singing and dancing to immerse in the nearest stream. This is an important day in the Nepali calendar as this day they make a new beginning like a new account, sowing of seeds, etc.

Tibetan Losar Ceremony in a Darjeeling Monastery

On 11th January Tibetans celebrate Cho Nga Chopa in order to increase the merit and aid the devotion of future disciples, Buddha displayed a different miracle each day.

March

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In the beginning of this month Hindus in Darjeeling (specially people from the plains of India) celebrate Holi by smearing each other with coloured powder.

Nepalis dancing in the streets of Darjeeling with Damp (traditional musical instrument) in Chaite Dasain

Ram Nawami (Lord Ram's birthday), a Hindu festival, is celebrated by Hindus of Darjeeling by taking out a procession of the holy chariot with Lord Ram's idol. This day the business class Hindus start their new account. This day is also Chaita Dasai (original dasai of Nepali Hindus) and the day is celebrated with prayer to Devi (Shakti) for the triumph of good over evil. This day Nepalis put coloured rice (brightly coloured rice mixed with curd ) tika (mark on the forehead) as blessings from the elders of the house.

Tibetans celebrate Chotrul Duechen (Day of Offerings) during this month.

April

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Buddha Jayanti, birth anniversary of Lord Buddha, is celebrated with procession from Buddhist monasteries with Lamas (Tibetan Monks) musical troupe followed by Lord Buddha's idol, and the procession usually carries the Buddhist holy books around town.

Sansari Puja, is a Nepali Hindu ceremony for the good of the world. This day they worship Devi (Mai) (Goddess). They believe that if this Goddess is angry then you get diseases like measles, small pox, etc.

Good Friday and Easter Sunday celebrated in different Churches in town.

Muslims celebrate Muharram during the first month of the Islamic year remembering Hasan's battle against Yezid with street procession depicting mock battles.

May

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At the beginning of May Tibetans celebrate Saga Dawa and other Buddhists celebrate Buddha Shakyamuni's Enlightenment and Parinirvana. At the age of thirty-five Buddha attained enlightenment at Bodhgaya. This day also marks the anniversary of his Parinirvana.

June

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Ashar ko Pandra (15th day of Nepali month Asar) is a special day for Nepalis to eat curd and chewra (beaten rice). They say that goddess Parbati had given Lord Shiva curd and chewra on this day, so if you take the same this day, you get salvation.

July

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On 6th July Tibetans celebrate the birthday of His Holiness Dalai Lama.

During the first week of July Tibetans celebrate Dzam Ling Chi Sang - Local Deities' Day.

At the end of July Tibetans celebrate Chokhor Duchen - for seven weeks after Buddha's enlightenment, he did not teach. Finally, encouraged by Lord Indra and Lord Brahma, he turned the Wheel of Dharma for the first time, at Saranath, by teaching the 'Four Noble Truths'.

Sawane Sankrati, is the first day of the Nepali month Sawan. This day they offer prayer to the youngest Devi (Goddess). They believe that if this Devi is angry with someone then he geta scabies. This evening Nepalis in villages shout loudly "go away scabies".

August

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Tendong Lho Rumfaat prayer

On 8th August Lepchas celebrate Tendong Lho Rumfaat, the prayer of Tendong mountain. Lepchas believe that they are the descendents of the people who survived the 40 days and 40 nights of rain by going to the top of this mountain.

The full moon of the Nepali month of Bhadau is Newar's (a Nepali caste) Kwati Purne. This day they eat a special gruel/broth made of sprouted legumes.

Guru Purne (Fullmoon of the Gurus) is a special day for Nepali shamanism. This day different Jhankris (witch doctors) come dancing with their special dress and musical instruments to welcome the gods and goddesses on their return after the slumber in Sawan(the Nepali month).

Nepali Jhankris (witch doctors) on their way to Danra (Observatory Hill) on Guru Purne

On the same fullmoon day is Hindu's Raksha Bandhan (Thread of Protection) this day is celebrated by Nepali hindus as Raksha Bandhan and the priests come to a house and bind a thread on the right hand as a mark of Protection that the Gods will give for another year. Hindus from the plains celebrate this day as Rakhi, the day sisters bind colourful thread on their brother's right hand as a mark of protection.

15th August is India's Independence Day and a public holiday. This day is celebrated with different functions all over the town. Main celebrations are held at the Public Ground in Lebong, with students march-past and drills followed by football (soccer) Final match.

In the middle of August is Naag (Snake) Panchami (5th day of the month) which is celebrated by the Nepali Hindu. Priests go from door to door with special prayer and paste the picture of snakes protecting Lord Bishnu, as protection of Naag for that house.

September

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Nepali Hindu's Kushe Aaushi is in the beginning of September. Hindus believe Lord Vishnu is in the Saligram (stone), Tulsi plant, Pipal tree and Kush grass. This day priest comes home and gives Kush in every house as this Kush is needed to signify the presence of Lord Vishnu in all Pujas (special prayers) done throughout the year.

During early September is Teez, for Nepali Hindus, when the married women go back to their parent's house and celebrate. Its specially prevalent with Chettri and Brahmin castes of Nepalis. One can see women in bright red fariya (Nepali dress like Indian Sari) singing and dancing.

In the middle of September is Biswakarma Puja, a special day for Hindus, when they worship Lord Biswakarma, the god of machines and tools. This day all Hindus worship their tools of trade like their car, machines, computers, etc. This day most Hindus clean the machines and do not run the machine for a day.

October

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2nd October is Gandhi Jayanti (birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, father of the nation), a public holiday.

In October Hindus specially Nepali Hindus, have their greatest festival called Design. It's a continuous celebration for fifteen days. This festival starts from Jamare Aunshi (Newmoon, the day barley is sown in temples for dasain. The shrada (remembrance of the dead ancestors) ceremony is also performed during this period.

Nepali (Newer) women
on their way to the temple on Phul Pati

From the next day starts Durga Puja, Nepalis also call this Shakti (Power) puja, when the goddess Durga (triumph of good over evil) is worshipped for nine days to worship the nine different forms she comes in. Nepalis celebrate this by worshipping weapons like their traditional Khukuri, etc. On the seventh day is Phul Pati (Flowers and petals) when flowers of different kinds are taken round the town in procession and later taken to Goddess Durga in the temple. The eighth day is Maar (the day of sacrifice), this day is celebrated with the ceremonial sacrifice of a buffalo at Dali ground.

The tenth day is Tika day. On this day people go to their elders to get the blessings and the holy food (Prasad) of Shakti puja. This continues till the fullmoon day.

Marooni Dance
(Nepali traditional Dasain dance)

Tshechu ceremony in Dali Monastery

During the middle of October (this year on 19th October) Tibetans celebrate Tshechu Ceremony, the birth anniversary of Guru Padmasambhava (also known as Guru Rinpoche, the person who brought Buddhism to Tibet). This is celebrated on the 10th day of the fifth month of the Tibetan Calendar which falls sometime in June/July but because of the monsoon Thupten Sangag Choling (Dali) Monastery mostly celebrates it during October with traditional Tibetan dance and ceremonies.

At the end of October Tibetans celebrate Lhabab Duechen, Lord Buddha's descent from Heaven.

November

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The next important festival of Nepali Hindus is Tihar. The festival begins with Kag (Crow) Tihar when Crows are given good food as they are considered as the messanger of the Lord of Death, Yama. The next day is Kukur (Dog) Tihar. This day the dog is given good food as it is considered the guardian of Yama. The next day is Laxmi (Goddess of wealth) puja or Gai (Cow, symbolises Laxmi) Tihar when the Goddess of Wealth and Cow are worshipped along with money and jewellry. On this day it is customary to gamble. In the evening young girls go from house to house singing Bhaileni (special songs of Tihar) and they are offered money and food. Nepalis celebrate this day with lights and firecrackers in the evening.

The next day is Govardhan puja, when the bull is worshipped. On this day boys go from house to house singing deosee (singing special hymns to spread the message of Dasain), they are offered money and food. This day is specially important for Newars (a caste of Nepali) when they have Mah (self) puja. This day they worship self with special ceremony and a good feast.

The next day is Bhai Tika, when brothers go to their sister's house. There the sisters put a special tika on the forehead and garland them with a garland made of thread and marigold wishing them long life. Sisters offer them special food and brothers give them money and gifts. This is a day of merry making for the Nepalis.

At the beginning of November the Tibetans celebrate Lha Bab Duchen - Buddha Shakyamuni's Descent from Heaven. Buddha's mother had been reborn in Indra's Heaven. To repay her kindness and to liberate her, and also to benefit the gods, Buddha spent three months teaching in the realm of the gods.

End of November Lepchas celebrate Leerum (prayer of the house and prayer of the ancestors), Chenrum (prayer of the nature) and Cheurum (prayer of the snowy mountains, Kanchenjunga is the guardian deity of the Lepchas).

December

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At the beginning of December Lepchas celebrate Nambun, the day the demon Lhaso Mung Punu was finally defeated after 12 years of battle. On newmoon day they make a rice effigy of the demon and after a prayer they take it away from the house. From the next day they celebrate Nambun with good food, new dress and dances for another 10 to 15 days.

On 10th December Tibetans celebrate the anniversary of His Holiness Dalai Lama being bestowed with the Nobel Peace Prize.

At the end of December Tibetans celebrate Ngenpa Gu Dzom - Nine bad omens occuring together.

25th December, Christmas, is a special day for Christians and also a special day for all in Darjeeling. Partying and merrymaking last for a few days.

St.Paul’s School

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Darjeeling is renowned for its centers of educational excellence. It is to be said for the Schools of Darjeeling, as the alumni stand as models citizens. There are many famous Schools in Darjeeling, among the such Schools of Darjeeling are:

The origin and history of St.Paul’s School dates back to 1823 when Jon William Ricketts, a Prominent Anglo Indian leader of Bengal conduced the idea of unifying a public school meet the need of the growing Anglo-Indian population in Calcutta.

In 1862 Bishop Cotton founder of BCS, Simla visited Darjeeling and secured Jalpahar for a School.

In 1863 St.Poul’s School was again confronted with financial difficulties rendering it essential either merge it with another school or close it. However, fond memories of Archdeacon Corrie and Bishop Wilson mover Bishop Cotton to transfer the same school, with its name to Darjeeling in year 1863.

On this large Jalapahar estate St.Pauls opened sometime during 1864 with 31 boarders and a few day scholars withy the Rev.J.C. Enfield as Rector. The school now renovated-situated above at about 7600 feet above sea level- the highest school in the World then-began its new course of life.

In 1878 Mr. Richard Carter Rector of St.Pauls had received a new lease of life. New buildings a chapel –tennis court, cricket field were among the few new assets. A large mound Green Hill (presently Cotton Hall and Milman Hall) was a favourite place for viewing the cricket matches. By 1896 there were over 200 boarders.

Mr. Carter’s successor Rector E.A.Newaton took charge in 1898. He was a disciplinarian and a fine scholar. He also got constructed the two Eton fire courts in present existence. In 1909 he handed over charge to Rector E.E.Bendon.

The Lefroy Hospital was occupied in 1914 and the Lyon Hall in 1915. The ole school was demolished giving place to the present day lower field. In 1920 the Chapel was demolished to make room for Westcott Hall due to liberal donations by the Maharaja of Burdwan. In 1921 saw Mr. Benson bedridden and thus replaced by Rector F.V. Dawkins, who was in 1928 replaced by Rector R.L.Pellei. In 1933 leballing of ground for the new Chapel began, but ill health of Mr.Pelley saw the coming of the “Goddard Era” with Mr. Goddard L.J.

In 1963 Saw the retirement of Mr. Goddard and a new era began with Mr.D.S.Giabbs in 1964.

In 1971 was the year of War-probably the worst year in the school’s history of Darjeeling Chapter. In spite of new developments the school was ridden by a terrible monsoon, water shortage and poor telephone and postal services.Mr.Gibbs laid emphasis on the moulding of character and personality and brought about a remarkable all round improvement of the school. However, for personal reasons he retired to England in 1972.

Loretto Convent

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On 10th October 1846, Sisters of the Irish Branch of the Institute of the Blessed Virgin Mary, commonly known as the Loretto nuns arrived in Darjeeling from Calcutta. Within a few weeks of their arrival the Sisters opened a school with provisions for residential and day-pupils. The school celebrated one hundred and fifty years of dedicated service to education in Darjeeling in October 1996. Famous past-pupils include Shri Aurobindo, who was admitted as small boy, the actress Vivien Leigh, the princess of Bhutan and the King of Nepal. For many years, the novitiate of the Indian Branch of the Institute of the Blessed Virgin Mary was situated in Darjeeling and Mother Teresa made her novice ship here from 1921 to 1931.

St.Joseph’s College

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St.Joseph’s College is a minority Catholic educational institution owned and managed by the Darjeeling Jesuits of North Bengal. The College was first opened on February 13, 1888 at a place locally known as Sunny Bank in Darjeeling town. There were eighteen boarders and seven day scholars on the rolls. Numbers soon increased and the need was felt for more ample grounds. Extensive property was procured by Fr.Henry Depelchin SJ, the founder, on the town limits at North Point. The laying of foundation stone at North Point took place on April 27, 1890 and on February 18, 1892 the new building received the first North Pointers. In 1899 the student body consisted of 193 boys. Towards the end of 1908, the dear and devoted friend of the college, Sir Andrew Fraser, who had by his action on several occasional attested to his great

esteem for St.Joseph’s community, bestowed a gift of Rs.21,000 on the college as a final pledge of his sincere affection. This money was used to close in the quadrangle completely. With this the number of students increased to 290. In 1947, the year of Independence, the number reached 422, including ninety-three university students. Changes in the school department were dramatic. There was a steady increase in the numbers of day scholars. More striking was the growing international character of the school. An international student body was not new at North Point. There had always been a scattering of French and German boys from Tibet, Bhutan, Nepal and Burma. In 1954 twenty-eight nationalities could be found in the college, including staff.

In sports North Point continued to capture more the its share of honours.The old war-cry “The Blues, they never lose” may not have been literally true, but St.Joseph’s College remained, as always a very hard team to beat, In 1943 the Edinburgh Shield was back again in the College parlor after an absence of three years. In a description of a hockey match played on the college ground in 1947, the finals of the Pliva Shield Tournament, we read, “No one who saw the hillside packed with faces anxious to watch the match between Goethals and St.Joseph’s on September 17th could have a doubt that hockey is the hill-men’s favourite”. On this occasion North Point won the Pliva for the eighth time since its inception in 1933.

There was one North Point tradition that did not fade. The College had always been noted for its beautiful garden and the nineteen fifties were its golden age. Bro Udovc was in his prime and year captured the lion’s share of the prizes at the 18th Darjeeling flower show in 1952.

The adventures courses offered by the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute on Birch Hill were another innovation. From 1970 onwards, every year in the first week of February, the boys who were about to begin their senior year return for a three-week course in mountaineering under the guidance of experienced instructors.

Dr. Graham’s Homes, Kalimpong

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Nestling in the side of thickly wooded Deolo Hill at an elevation of 4,600 ft. and overlooking the town of Kalimpong to the south, is the picturesque estate of Dr.Graham’s Homes originally named St.Andrew’s Colonial Home. To the north, lie the majestic Himalayas dominated by the eternally snow-clad peak of Kanchanjunga (8560 Mts.) a mere 60 km.distant, and the boarders of Sikkim, Bhutan and Tibet.

The Homes, as they stand today, cover an area of almost 500 acres and include a school, farm, workshop, stores and clothing department catering for the needs of over 650 children and 100 members of the staff.

The founder, the Rev. Dr. John Anderson Graham felt the need for providing care and training for destitute E Eurasian and Anglo-Indian children, who under the appalling circumstances prevailing at the time, appeared doomed to a most miserable existence, with no hope for the future. It was with this thought in mind and the vision and enthusiasm of a born pioneer that Graham of Kalimpong took into his care six small children. These were housed in a rented building some distance from the present site.

The date September 24th,1900 a day that has meant everything to some 7,000 children who have passed through these Homes in the 90 years of its existence.

It was from this humble beginning that Dr.Graham embarked on the project of constructing and developing the institution we now know as Dr.Graham’s Homes-so renamed in memory of our founder who died on May 15th, 1942.

Dow Hill, Kurseong

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Teachers of both the schools are recruited through WB Public Service Commission. Both boys and girls are in Dow Hill School from KG till class IV. Thereafter, it is only for the girls. The other school is for boys and from class V. Both the schools have hostel facility. While tution fees are not needed in Govt. schools, moderate fees for boarding facilities are charged and the amount is less than half of what is required in other schools of the category.

Victoria Boys' School , Kurseong

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These two schools, established in 1879, are among the old schools in the country. But they are unique in many respects. They are the only schools under the Government of West Bengal, which are affiliated to ICSE.