Pondicherry Beach

Beach lovers and sun-worshippers will experience oodles of bliss in Pondicherry. The calm and soothing water, clear and bright sand, impressive seclusion and resorts and cottages providing a brilliant sight of the sea makes the beaches of Pondicherry an exotic destination for tourists.

Every beach of Pondicherry is special and unique in its own way. The sparkling and clean Serenity beach is best for swimming and sunbathing. The beaches of Pondicherry induce you to stroll or sit leisurely on the seashore. The Paradise beach is an ideal place for beach sport. While cruising in the sea one can watch the dolphins playing merrily.

The Karaikal Beach has a breathtaking view of the confluence Arasalar River and the sea and should not be missed. The boating club on this beach supplies tourists with rowing boats, pedaller boats and motorboats. Palm trees and fishing hamlets on the Mahe beach gives the beach a gracious look.

Pondicherry beaches are peaceful and awesome in their beauty. The beaches are adorned with palm trees that whisper and sway in the breeze. The breathtaking vision of the sunset and the exhilarating vision dawn and the gleaming sand under a morning sun brings in liveliness and radiance to the beaches. Explore the beaches of Pondicherry to savor this bit of exotica to its fullest.

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Kovalam Beach

The natural beauty, paradisiacal surroundings and the sand washed shore makes Kovalam the most prominent beach of South India. Besides several private beaches, there are just two main beaches in Kovalam; Eve’s beach and Lighthouse beach.

Semi-circular in shape and located in seclusion, Eve’s beach has a relatively better beach area. The Lighthouse beach, as its name suggests, is named after the lighthouse that is situated there. The area of both these beaches extent over 4 kilometers. It just takes about 20 minutes to walk from Lighthouse beach to Eve’s beach.

The beaches of Kovalam were drawn into the limelight in the early seventies by the Hippies. Gradually this fishing village of Kerala transformed into a prominent tourist destination.

Apart from sunbathing and surfing loads of promising marine activities are possible on the beaches of Kovalam. Sunrise and sunset cruises are arranged by the local fishermen in their fishing boats. One of the popular activities here is the Catamaran cruise scheduled on the country raft. Angling in deep-sea was recently introduced here. Boogie boards and surfboards can be hired on the Kovalam beach.

The private beaches of Kovalam which are attached and owned by the resorts are loved by tourists because of their seclusion and cleanliness.

The coconut trees lined along the Kovalam beach makes it look divine. The surroundings of the Kovalam beach will rejuvenate you body and will make your stay relaxing. A boat-ride, in a luxurious rice-boat, gives you fascinating glimpse of rural life in little hamlets and the stunning patches of coral reefs on the coast.

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Mangalore Beach

The immaculate beaches of Mangalore will help you to unwind and distress. Its attractive and sparkling beach is basically undiscovered and unspoilt. Its lustrous and exotic beaches attract tourists all round the year.

The view of the Ullal beach through its casuarinas groves looks very attractive. The summer sand, which the Ullal beach houses, is admired for the melodic sound made by the sea breeze and the trees. The Ullal beach is known for producing rough currents as frequently. The Panambur beach and Taneerbhavi beach are a delight to visit. It’s idyllic surrounding; swaying of the palm trees, endless stretch of silvery sand and well-maintained beaches makes this place a fascinating picnic spot too.

The glorious view of the Sunset and the stunning view from the lighthouse will make your day worthwhile. The Kaupu beach is very picturesque. You will completely be lost in you own thoughts by its sheer beauty.

The Someshwar beach gives you an astounding view of its pristine beach from the hillock. The sight of the sunset from here is absolutely breathtaking.

It is not safe to venture out for swimming in some of the beaches of Mangalore due to rough waves and the presence of shape rocks. However the gleaming and pristine beaches are admiring from its beautiful shore.

The beaches of Mangalore are unique and thrilling has all the qualities of making your holiday perfect and memorable. Its glistening beaches will definitely bring some respite for those who want to flee from the daily routine.

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Daman Beaches

Daman a former Portuguese colony attracts tourists for its sensuous beaches. Daman, which is now a union territory of India, has just three beaches. These beaches have remained famous from the time Portuguese ruled this place. Swimmers, sunbathers, beachcombers and pony riders swarm these beaches.

Devka beach with its rocky terrain and black sand has less visitors and entertainment. Deep swimming in Devka beach is not advisable since it contains too many rocks. You will usually find walkers strolling on this quaint beach. Whereas the fisherman’s beach and Jampore beach are fine sandy beaches suitable for sunbathers and for horse riding. The fisherman’s beach is well known for boat rides. Sunrise and Sunset cruises are arranged by the local fishermen on this beach. The restaurants on the seashore offer delicious seafood.

The resorts in Daman, which offer beachside accommodation, are a treat to the tourists. It is a pleasure dining at the sea facing restaurants of Daman.

The best part of Daman beaches is that they are wonderfully blue with myriad-hued fishing boats. It is indeed a picture perfect setting. There is a sudden hush due to the absence of traffic. Here you will find the peace and tranquility that a always tourist looks forward to.

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Andaman & Nikobar Islands Beach

Explore the exotic and unspoilt beaches of Andaman and Nicobar Islands which provide a truly dramatic yet tranquil environment in which you will certainly find rest and relaxation. Whether you are a diver, surfer, sun-lover or someone just looking to escape the hectic work schedule back home, the beaches of Andaman and Nicobar will suit your needs.

The beaches in the most popular island of Jolly Buoy in Andaman and Nicobar offer superb underwater view of the marine life. The dazzling coral reef here can be viewed while sailing in the glass bottom boats. The beaches in this archipelago, like Vijaynagar beach, Radhanagar beach, Corbyn’s Cove and Harminder bay beach offer virgin beaches, pollution free environment and a magnificent sight of the corals and aquatic life.

Karmatang beach of Andaman and Nicobar Islands focuses on turtle nesting, the marine life here comprises of Green sea turtle, Olive Ridley Turtle, Leather black turtle, reticulate python, water monitor lizard and salt water crocodiles.

All the beaches here are ideal for sun basking, sea bathing, snorkeling and scuba diving. These lovely beaches consist of enormous stretches of white sand adorned with dense and lush green forest.

Renowned for sun-soaked islands, sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, the beaches of Andaman and Nicobar have been a favored destination for those seeking a tropical holiday in an all-natural setting. An expedition filled with sun, surf and sand on this gorgeous island will make your holiday unforgettable and drift you away from monotony and boredom.

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Lakshadweep Islands Beach

The beaches of Lakshadweep Islands are mesmerizing and fun-filled. They are the only genuine coral islands of India. The turquoise waters of Lakshadweep make it a dream destination. A visit to the various islands of Lakshadweep will help you to relax and admire its incredible beaches. The spectacular beauty of Lakshadweep’s coral beaches remain supreme. Only a few of these stunning and charming beaches of Lakshadweep are open to tourists.

The coconut canopies and the swaying palms, astounding coral reefs, silvery sand beaches, opulent marine life and the blue lagoons are all responsible for enhancing the beauty of Lakshadweep beaches.

Although it is only the Bangaram beach that is well equipped with accommodation and food provisions; one-day tours arrangements are made for tourists who are keen to visit the pristine beaches of Agatti, Androt, Kavaratti, Minicoy and Kalpeni. The central attraction of the Bangaram beach is the blue light that it gives out - this is due to the bioluminescent plankton that are deposited during high tide.

All the beaches of Lakshadweep offer a wonderful array of adventure and water sports. Experience ecstasy with sports such as windsurfing, snorkeling, yatching, kayaking and deep-sea fishing on these beaches. The less adventurous type could sunbathe in the fantastic beaches of Lakshadweep and sail in the glass-bottomed boat.

Set on the Arabian Sea resembling a cluster of gemstone, the Lakshadweep Island and its beaches are an ultimate paradise for those who have always desired to dive into the depth of the seabed and gaze the mystical and vibrant marine life.

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Goa Beaches

Beach Travel

Goa beaches are one of the most beautiful beaches in the world - just the perfect background settings to take pictures. The beauty of these beaches is really enchanting. Options are numerous - you can enjoy a cool swim or allow yourself to relax in the sun to get the much-admired tan. Also, you can participate in other adventures here. Goa has many beaches to choose from. In fact one can have the pick of the best.

The tropical climate that prevails for most part of the year is a pleasant experience for visitors. The names of the beaches are generally related to the villages located near by. Goan beaches genuinely help you to forget about all the stress and unwind.

Goa has got just about everything; sun, surf, sea, casinos, carnivals, nightlife, water sports, angling, treks. There is so much to do. Goa will certainly define your holidays and recharge your senses. Whether it is an 8 year old kid looking for fun, a 24 year old on his path to occupational burn-out or simply a 65 year old wanting to relax, Goa opens up its granular hands and accepts one and all into its stumble sandcastle.

The long stretches of beach are very picturesque, with shady palm trees and silvery sand. The shacks on the beaches add color and charm to the coastline of Goa.

The sprawling coastline of Goa has made it a perfect place for water sports. The uncluttered and peaceful beaches give you an opportunity to enjoy to its fullest. Goa is magical; having visited Goa once you are bound to experience withdrawal symptoms on return.

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Manali

The Kullu valley has an ancient town in its lap called Manali. Surrounded by towering peaks at an arm length, Manali's major asset is its proximity to the snowline. It is a flourishing orchard industry, a popular honeymoon destination and trailhead for numerous treks as well as a great countryside ideal for adventure sport lovers.

Manali literally means the 'Home of Manu'. Manu is the mythological character who is supposed to have survived when the world was drowned in Flood. He then came to Manali and recreated human life. Thus, the area of Manali is sacred and Hindus treat the temples over here as pilgrimage.


PLACES TO SEE IN MANALI

Arjun Gufa
On the left bank of the river Beas, near Prini village, is the "Arjun Gufa" or the cave of Arjuna. It is believed that Arjuna practiced austerities to get Pashupata Ashtra or weapon from Lord Indra.
Hadimba Temple
Built in 1553, this four-story wooden Hadimba or Dhungiri temple is famous for its exquisitely caved doorway. It is located in the middle of a forest called the Dhungiri Van Vihar.

Jagatsukh
About 6 kms. from Manali is the famous Shiva Temple in "shikara" style. It houses temples dedicated to Lord Shiva and Sandhya Gayatri.

Kothi
This is a quiet but picturesque spot, at the foot of the Rohtang pass, 12 kms. away from Manali town. It offers a magnificent view of the snow-capped peaks and glaciers.

Manu Temple
Manali is named after the sage Manu who was the creator of human race on the earth and it is believed that he meditated here. This is supposed to be the only temple of Manu in India.

Monasteries
Manali is known for its shiny gompas or Buddhist monasteries. It is maintained by donations from the local community and by sale of hand-woven carpets in the temple workshop.

Rahala waterfalls
About 16 km from Manali at the start of the climb to the Rohtang Pass, are the beautiful Rahalla Falls at an altitude of 2,501 m.

Rohtang Pass
Rohtang Pass (3979 m) is the highest point on the Manali-Keylong road. It provides a wide panoramic view of mountains rising far above clouds, which is truly a breath taking sight.

Solang Valley
Solang valley offers the view of glaciers and snow capped mountains and peaks. It has fine ski slopes. The Mountaineering Institute has installed a ski lift for training purpose. The 12-km hike up the western banks of the Beas to the Solang Valley is noteworthy.

Vashist Hot Water Springs and Temple
Across the Beas river is Vashist, a small village with natural sulphur springs. Modern bathhouses, with Turkish-style showers, have the hot water piped into them for the convenience of the visitors who come here to benefit from the medicinal properties. There is a pyramidal stone temple dedicated to Vashist Muni and another Temple of Lord Ram.

SHOPPING
The Mall in Manali offers many interesting items to be purchased, from cloths to decorative pieces and gift items. Woollen goods are the town's real forte, particularly the brilliantly patterned shawls for which it is known for. The NSC or 'New Shopping Centre' Market near the bus stand sells a good selection. Another reliable emporium is the government - sponsored Bhutico, which has an outlet on the Mall, just opposite the tourist office. Around the bazaar there are innumerable stalls stacked with hand-woven goods and pillbox Kullu Topis. Manali's other specialty is Himalayan handicrafts, mainly assorted Tibetan curios such as prayer wheels, amulets, dorjees or thunderbolts, masks, musical instruments, jewellery and thangkas.

HOW TO REACH:
Manali is located 40 kms away from Kullu to the North at the end of the valley on the national highway leading to Leh. Manali is not easily approachable by rail. The nearest rail head is Chandigarh at a distance of 315 kms. There is narrow gauge trail to Joginder Nagar at a distance of 135 kms from Manali. By air Manali is much closer. The nearest airport is Bhuntar that is about 50 kms away from Manali. Flight can be availed from Delhi on a regular basis. Another option is to take a road trail from Delhi. Manali is connected by road from Delhi through the National Highway 21 that goes top Leh. It is interesting to know that it is the second highest motorable road in the world.

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Almora Hill Station, India

Almora is one of the most popular hill stations of Uttaranchal and is in a shape of a horseshoe. It is one of the five districts in the newly carved state of the Uttaranchal and is situated at the height of 1,638 meters. It is also known, as the cultural capital of Kumaon. It is surrounded by four hill ranges, each having temples on top of its peak. These temples are of goddesses Banari Devi, Kasar Devi, Sayahi Devi and the temple of Sun god. 

Known for its scenic beauty, here you can conveniently enjoy the snow-clad peaks of Himalayas together with beautiful blue and green ridges. It offers breathtaking views that ensnare many tourists and makes this hill station one of the most beautiful hill stations in North India. 







There are many places in and around Almora that are a must see for any tourist. The Chitai Temple dedicated to Lord Golu is very famous with people from Kumau. People hang little bells in this temple once their wishes are fulfilled. A beautiful pine forest surrounds it. The 1000-year old temple, Nanda Devi Temple is one of the main attractions of Almora. Its has beautiful carvings on its walls and young people from various neighboring areas come here to participate in the dance festival, which is held every year. Other beautiful places in Almora include Deer Park, Bright End Corner and Kasar Devi Temple. 

PLACES TO SEE IN ALMORA :

Chitai Temple : 

This is a very busy area. This temple is dedicated to Lord Golu. The people of Kumau worship him. Once a wish is fulfilled people hang little bells in this temple. Therefore there are thousands of little bells hanging there. The view of the Himalayas is extremely beautiful from here. This temple is 8 kms away by walk through a beautiful pine forest, but one can go by cart too.

Bright End Corner: 

Almora is 2 kms away from here. A highlight of this point is the sunset and the sunrise seen through the Himalayan peaks. A circuit house close by allows tourists to spend some time in this peaceful surrounding. Close by is the Vivekananda Library which has many books on literature. A little away is the Vivekananda Memorial where Swami Vivekananda had stopped for a while on his journey to the Himalayas.

Katarmal: 

This 800-year old Sun Temple is the second in importance after the Sun Temple of Konark in Orissa. Seven kms away from Almora this historical important temple is an example of intricate sculpturing. This temple is in need of restoration now.

Deer Park : 3 kms from Almora this park is in NTD (Narayan Tiwari Dewai).

Nanda Devi Temple : This 1000-year old temple is one of the main attraction of Almora. Its walls have carvings on them. Every year a festival is held here in which youth from various mountainous areas come here to participate in this dance festival.

Kasar Devi: 

Near Kalimutt is the temple of Kasar Devi. This ancient temple was built on a mountain peak in the second century. The distance between Kalimatt and Kasar Devi is less than 1 km and can be easily covered by foot. The surrounding area has become the home of many foreigners. The main town is 6 km away.

State Museum: 

This museum is near the bus stand . It is closed on Mondays and other Government Holidays. It is open from 10:30 A.M. to 4:30 P.M.

Around Almora:

Bageshwar (90Km.)
Bageshwar and Sitalakhet are other places of tourist interest. Bageshwar is one of the main camping sites for the journey to Pindari Glacier, which is situated at a height of 3,820 meters.Sitlakhet is the new tourist resort on the Syahi Devi hill.Kafni Glacier is also close by(around 3,870 meters above sea level).

Binsar (30Km.)
Binsar, once the summer capital of the Chand Rajas (7th to 8th centuries) is located at a distance of 34 kms from Almora.

Baijnath (70Km.)
From Kausani, the road descends to Garur & Baijnath (70 km Almora, 26 km from Bageshwar and 19 km from Kausani) on the bank of Gomti river in a flat valley. Perched at an altitude of 1126 m. below Kausani is the famous temple complex of Baijnath in the Garur valley of Katyur. A group of ancient temples dating back to the 12th & 13th century line the banks of the river, presenting a beautiful sight. The temples are remarked upon, for its carving stone work & heritage. Built by Katyuri Ruler, these have over the time become synonymous with India's rich mythology. The mail 10th century temple houses a beautiful idol of Goddess Parvati chiseled in black stone. Shiva & Parvati are believed to have married at the confluence of the Gomati & Garur Ganga. Innumerable tales of Lord Shiva & Parvati make these temples a fascinating experience. The Katyur Dynasty is believed to take their name from Kartikeya the mythical son of Shiva & Parvati.

Gannath (47Km.)
Gannath is known for natural caves and ancient Shiva temples. This place is 47 kms from Almora. It is good place for nature lovers and ideal for spending your day with surpassing beauty. Every year on Kartik Purnima day a fair is organized here.

Jageshwar (34Km.)
Jageshwar is located 34 kms from Almora. There is an ancient Shiva temple at Jageshwar. This temple is surrounded by huge fur trees. In fact, this temple is in the series of ancient temples which were built in Kumaon region many centuries ago. The Jageshwar Shiva temple carries archaeological importance too. the architecture of this temple is worth giving a close examination.

Kalimath (5Km.)
From Kalimath one gets a good view of Almora town and the adjoining area. The sight of the nearby hills is amazing. This place is 4.5 kms from Almora. Close to Kalimath is Kasar Devi. There is temple dedicated to Kasar devi. This temple dates back to second century. One can go on foot from Kalimath to Kasardevi which is hardly one kms.

Katarmal (17Km.)
After the Sun temple at Konark, Orissa, Katarmal has the second important sun temple in the country. This temple is almost 800 years old. But this temple has not received the amount of attention it must have received. Due to neglect, the sun temple at Katarmal is in very bad shape. One feels very sad that a monument of such historical importance has been left to decay like this. This temple has some unique architectural style and the images carved on the walls are very intricately done. All this is bound to attract attention of the visitor. This place is 17 kms from Almora.

Koshi (12Km.)
Natural beauty of this place surpasses any other place. Koshi is 12 kms from Almora. The Govind Vallabh Pant Environment Research Institute is located here. There is guest house which provides good and comfortable stay at Koshi.

SHOPPING:

Almora is definitely not a shopper’s paradise but its local handicraft items are unique and must-buys if you are holidaying there. The Woollens at Showroom Mall Road and Copper Works at Tamta Mohalla are the most famous Almora handicraft buys. The Almora women are excellent weavers and most of the woolens in the neighboring Nainital shopping hubs are exported from here. A special breed of Rabbit, Angora, produces this wool which is extremely soft, fine and very warm. The Garud Woollens of the Kumaon Schedule Tribe Development Corporation at Shikhar Hotel compound also has good priced woolens. For Bronze and Brass wares and decorative items you can hunt about in shops at Lal Bazaar and Chowk Bazaar.

NOSH:

Woolens apart, Almora’s other pride of place are sweets, especially the Singora and Bal Mithaiare. Glory Restaurant (The Mall, across the Madras Cafe) is a very good vegetarian place with Indian and Continental food. Mount View Restaurant, in the Hotel Shikhar, Swagar Restaurant (next to the Hotel Shikar), Soni Dhaba (at The Mall bus stand) are names gourmets should mug-up.

SNIPPETS:

“In these hills, nature’s hospitality eclipses all men can ever do. The enchanting beauties of the Himalayas, their bracing climate and the soothing green that envelopes you leaves nothing more to be desired. I wonder whether the scenery of these hills and the climate are to be surpassed, if equaled, by any of the beauty spots of the world. After having been nearly three weeks in Almora Hills, I am more than ever amazed why our people need go in Europe in search of health.” -- Mahatama M.K. Gandhi

“These mountains are associated with the best memories of our race: Here, therefore, must be one of centers, not merely of activity, but more of calmness of meditation, and of peace and I hope some one to realize it.” -- Swami Vivekananda

Hollywood connection : The popular Hollywood star, Uma Thurman (of Kill Bill fame) spent considerable period of her childhood at Almora and being devout Buddhists, the Dalai Lama used to be one of their notable guests.

GETAWAYS:

Kasauni (51 km): The Katyur Valley, the picturesque hills, Mahatma Gandhi’s Anakshakti Ashram and the innumerable treks make Kasauni more than a part of the Almora vacationers itinerary. Pinnath (10 km), Bura Pinnath (5 km) and Bhakot are the highest points near Kausani.

Binsar Hills (30 km): Binsar hill, locally known as Jhandi Dhar, rises to a height of 2,412 m and plays a host to some of the most enchanting wildlife like the Panther and Barking Deer in its little wildlife sanctuary. A temple legend there threatens - should anyone take away anything belonging to the God or his worshippers and avenging spirit and compels him conscience stricken to restore it twenty fold.

Bageshwer (90 km): Situated at the confluence of the rivers Saryu and Gomti, every January Bageshwar hosts the famous Uttaraini fair. Visit its temples or explore the glaciers of Sunderdunga, Kafni and Pindari near Bageshwar.

Ranikhet (50 km): Ask an Indian army man and he will tell you, with pride, the lores of Ranikhet. Officially, this is where the prestigious Kumaun Regiment of Indian Army has its center. The Kumaun Regimental museum and amicably maintained green golf course are sites of interest for vacationers. From here, some 4 km away is Chaubatiya gardens famous for their sprawling orchards of delicious apples, plums, peaches and apricots. In and around Ranikhet there are some famous temples of the Hindus for religious minded like Jhoola Devi Mandir, Ram Mandir, Herakhan Mandir, Kalika Temple and Binsar Mahadeva.

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Darjeeling

Darjeeling - a Himalayan Queen

At an elevation of 6812 ft., this West Bengal hill-station, with its monastries and tea gardens set against the snow-capped vistas of the world's third-highest mountain, Mount Kanchenjunga (27,400 ft.), is just the perfect retreat if the mention of a cozy vacation peppered with adventure escapades ticks you on. Just as the flight of your imagination begins to take off, a quaint whistle of a century old little train penetrates the vista and you are reminded once again - it is Darjeeling!

GENERAL INFORMATION 

Area (in miles): 1, 200 sq.miles.
Height (in meters): 2, 134 mts.

CLIMATE
Summers - Summer The summer months are the best time for visiting Darjeeling when the climate remains in a pleasant mood. Summers arrive in the month of April and lasts till June with a maximum temperature of 25°C.

Winters - The winter months creep in during December and is over by February. temperatures drop to 1°C along with heavy mist and rains toward end of December. The month of December is ocassionally accompanied by heavy snow fall.

Best Seasons: ( May - June ) & ( September - November).

Clothing: In summer: Light woolens and In winter: Heavy woolens.

Languages: Gorkha, Nepali, Hindi, Bengali, Tibetan and English.

Religions: Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam and Christianity.

HOW TO GET THERE?

BY AIR

Well connected by Air from all parts of the country to Bagdogra(Siliguri), which is the nearest Airport and is a mere 3 hours drive from Darjeeling.

BY TRAIN

The famous Darjeeling Mail from Sealdah (Calcutta) besides other express trains from all over the country operate on daily basis to the nearest railhead at New Jalpaiguri(NJP/Siliguri). Change over at New Jalpaiguri to the world reknowned Toy Train which winds its way up the hills to Darjeeling.

BY ROAD

Very well connected to Siliguri which is a terminal city. A fleet of luxury State/Private buses run overnight to Siliguri from Calcutta.From Siliguri, a 2 hour scenic drive through tea gardens and forsets either by taxi or luxury bus which operate throughout the day, takes you to Darjeeling.

ATTRACTIONS:

The Toy train:

"The most enjoyable day I've spent on earth is of mixed ecstacy of deadly fright and unimaginable joy."
Mark Twain (after his ride on the Toy Train in 1895)

Trains came to India in the early part of the last century. Among the very first and the most novel is the famous Darjeeling Toy Train which made its maiden trip in September 1881.
  
It is a pioneering work of achievement projecting not only its engineering ingenuity but it also marks the historic development of 19th century British Health Resort or convalescent centre in the remote North Eastern Himalayas.
In 1870, Franklyn Prestage came up with the brilliant idea - ' The Toy Train'. But it was only eight years later that he submitted the scheme to Lt. Governor Sir Astley Eden, who gave immediate sanction to it. The construction of the railway began under the name of "Darjeeling Tramway Co.", which was renamed the "Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Co." and has ever since retained this name officially.

Tiger Hill: 

Roosted at 8482 ft. near the Ghoom Monastery and about 13 km from the town, the magnificient views of the sunrise over the Kanchenjunga makes it a photographer's dream-come-true. On a sunny day, the world's highest peak, the Mount Everest, can be spotted in the distant horizon. Flanking the Tiger hill is the Senchal lake with a 9-hole golf course (one of the highest in the world), a clubhouse and an exotic tourist lodge - that is a popular weekend escape.

Monastries: 

The Monastery at Ghoom, about 6 km south of the city has a 4.57-m high statue of a seated Maitreya Buddha (the coming Buddha) that attracts adherents from far and wide. Aloobari Gompa, about 3 km from the city centre, is a good place to drop by for some interesting Tibetan and Sikkimese religious accessories you can also buy as souvenirs. About 11 km from the city, with the backdrop of Kanchenjunga, is the colorful Bhutia Busty Gompa, whose library has the original Tibetan Book of the Dead, amongst thousand other Buddhist texts.

The Observatory Hill: 

For a good visual sweep of the entire purlieu climb up the Observatory Hill or the Mahakal Baba ko Sthan, held sacred by Hindus and Buddhists. The Kali shrine and the colorful fluttering Buddhist prayer flags strung between the pine trees make a beatific spectacle.

Himalayan Mountaineering Institute: 

Perched on the Jawarhar Parbat, about 2 km from Chowrasta, is an institute for training the adventure mongers. Why you should go there for is the institute's collection of historic mountaineering equipment, specimens of Himalayan flora and fauna, a relief model of the Himalayas and a record of all attempts to scale the Mount Everest.

Zoological Park: 

Neighboring the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute is the Padmaja Naidu Zoological Park that houses the Siberian tigers, Himalayan Black bear and the Red Panda. Not to be missed is the Snow Leopard breeding centre here.

Dhirdham Temple: Located just below the Darjeeling railway station, the temple is a replica of the famous Pashupatinath Temple of Kathmandu (Nepal).

Passenger Ropeway: 

Situated at 3 km from the city center at the North Point is the 5-km long India's first passenger ropeway that connects Darjeeling with Singla Bazaar on the Ranjit River at the bottom of the valley. A ride on this cable-car repletes the theme of adventure so typical of this roof-top city.

Adventure escapades: 

Trekking begins in Darjeeling and proceeds through Maneybhanjyang, Tonglu, Sandakphu and ends in Phalut. Teesta river is ideal for whitewater rafting.

Festivals: 

The Beni Mela is held on the banks of the River Teesta in January, the New Year for the Bhutias and the Lepchas. Tibetan New Year is celebrated in February and is marked by great festivities, religious ceremonies and colourful folk dances in monasteries. Every 14-20 November, the Teesta Tea and Tourism Festival is held here with cultural performances, tea estate visits and organised tours, treks and walks around the region.

SHOPPING:

Shop for Himalayan curios like thangkas (Tibetan paintings), brass statues, Nepali khukris and masks, jewelery, woodcarvings, woven fabrics and bamboo baskets, carpets and of course, the famous Darjeeling tea. Chowrasta and The Mall are the shopping spots. For Tibetan souvenirs visit Habib Mullick and for local handicrafts go down to Hayden Hall.

NOSH:

Darjeeling momos (a steamed dough dumpling stuffed with pork, beef or vegetables) and thukpas (noodles in soup) are famous. Wai-Wai is a packaged snack comprising of noodles which can be munched dry or boiled. Churpee, a kind of cheese made from cow's or yak's milk. For the freezing evenings try Chhang, a local beer made from millet or the royal Darjeeling tea.

For Indian and Chinese food, check out Park (Laden La Road) and for wholesome vegetarian thalis and Indian snacks head to Hasty Tasty (the Mall).

What to see in darjeeling?


Rare pics of Darjeeling

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