Incredible India! Zanskar - A Little Explored Destination of J & K

Fast Facts About Zanskar

Located in the State of : Jammu and Kashmir

District: Kargil

Famous As: Scenic, Trekking

Languages Spoken: Ladakhi, Hindi

Best Time to Visit: June to September

Average Temperature at Zanskar: Summer 5 to 40°C, Winter -14 to 24°C

Altitude of Zanskar: 4950m

STD code of Zanskar: 01985

Often referred to as a lost land (little explored land), Zanskar is nestled in between the majestic Himalayan ranges, bestowed with perfidious countryside and a rigid life style. A devour of pretty landscape and cultural diversity, Zanskar is blessed by nature with pungent, therapeutic foliage and aromatic plants. Zanskar is divided in to three sub-regions of Sham, Stod and Lungnak. With its magnificient glaciers, deep woods, enchanting valleys and tedious trekking paths, Zanskar valley presents a enjoyable outlook of nature.

Buddhist Monastries in Zanskar

The picturesque land of Zanskar is a haven of thriving Buddhist monasteries, which displays elegant architecture and traditional richness. Spread over a vast expansion of 5000 square kilometers, this region is not accessible for most part of the year owing to the intense snowstorms. The peak stockades of this lost valley hold a number of very old but lively monasteries. Some of these establishments have revolved around secluded caverns that are used by celebrated Buddhist saints for protracted ruminations in search of enlightenment and knowledge.

Trekking in Zanskar

Highly acclaimed for its adventurous trekking paths, Zanskar offers wonderful opportunities in challenging activities, which could not be equated with anything else. The most spectacular trekking events in the entire world, The Chadar trek in Zanskar is to be experienced at least once in a lifetime. The mesmerizing journey through the frozen Zanskar River is in fact a voyage to the heart of this isolated place. This impressive ramble pursues the conventional trading course through the Zanskar Ravine. This gorge, which is impenetrable throughout the summer, is sustenance to the outer world in the pits of winter.

Jeep Safari In Zanskar

The dash of escapades can be added by Jeep Safaris through the rough roads of this craggy yet eye-catching valley. Jeep safari through the remotest interiors of this great land would provide one with the exhilarating opportunity to intermingle with the locales. The natural beauty of an unspoiled landscape with breath taking scenery of marvelous glaciers makes a spectacular panorama.

Incredible India! Lansdowne: A Seculded Hill Station in Uttarakhand

Fastfacts about Lansdowne

Located in the State: Uttarakhand

District: Pauri Garhwal

Famous as: A Quaint Hill Station of North India

Local Languages: Garhwali & Hindi

Best Time to Visit: March to October

Are you looking for a quaint break in this summer away from the heat and mundane city life? If you answer affirmatively, then the small but beautiful hill station of Lansdowne in the north Indian state of Uttarakhand can be a perfect place for you. Little explored and blessed with unspoiled nature, soothing breeze and amazing surroundings, Lansdowne is a place for all including family vacationers, honeymooners, adventure seekers and groups. Lansdowne is located on the Kotware-Pauri Road at a height of 1,706 meters on a hillock. Lansdowne, named after its founder Lord Lansdowne, was the main base of independent movement activities of India during the British Raj.

Not only in summers, the hill station of Lansdowne is visited by tourists almost all through the year. The characteristic pleasant climate of Lansdowne makes the town very comfortable for vacationing tourists. In fact, Lansdowne is considered a gateway of romance, thanks to the natural comforts, nice accommodations, pleasant weather, calm environment and secluded atmosphere.

Lansdowne is surrounded by lusting greeneries of thick Oak woods and blue Pine forests. Magnificent views of snow covered mounts and forests, bracing cool air and unpolluted clean fresh atmosphere altogether make Lansdowne a perfect place for eco-tourism. The annual festival ‘Shardotsav’, celebrated during the season of autumn is a major attraction for the travelers to Lansdowne.

Things to Do & See in Lansdowne

The War Memorial at the Parade Ground of the Garhwal Rifles Center is a prime attraction for the travelers to the hill station. Places of interest around the city include Tip-n-Top (Tiffin Top), Santoshi Mata Temple, Regimental Museum, Bhulla Taal, St. Mary's Church, Lover's lane. The excursions from the hill town are Tarkeshwar Mahadev temple, Bhairav Garhi Temple, Bhim pakora(a stone which vibrates if touched).The Annual ‘Sharadotsav’ (Festival of Autumn) is also organized at this hill station during autumn season.

Jungle Safari in Lansdowne: The hill station of Lansdowne is surrounded by dense forest that offers an ideal setting for Jungle Safari. The Oak trees and blue pine woods make the landscape of Lansdowne challenging for the adventurous tourist. While on Jungle Safari you can see many wild flora and fauna. There are a number of tour agents who arrange the planned jungle safari at an affordable price in the forests surrounding the hill station of Lansdowne.

Tarkeshwar Mahadev Temple: Set at a close distance from Lansdowne atop of a hill of height 2092 meters, this temple is believed to be one of the ancient holy sites or SiddhaPitas. The main deity of Tarkeshwar Mahadev Temple is Lord Shiva and many devotees visit this ancient temple to offer prayers with the belief that the offerings here makes the wishes of the devotees be fulfilled. Mahashivarathri is celebrated annually with grandeur.

Kanvashram: This a sacred ashram located near Lansdowne hill station. Kanvashram is considered a gateway to Puri, the most sought temple town in India. This ashram is bordered by thick forests and hillocks, making it a beautiful place for feasting the eyes of tourists. A spectacular attraction nearby is the famous Malini River flowing near to this Ashram. This ashram bears mythological importance related to the Sage Kanvan.

Accommodation in Lansdowne: Good accommodation options are available in Lansdowne. You can stay at hotels, resorts or guest houses dotted across the town.

How to Reach Lansdowne: You can reach Lansdowne through Air, Rail and Road.

By Air: The nearest airport is Jollygrant Airport in Dehradoon, which is about 100 kms. away. Jollygrant airport is connected to IGI Airport in New Delhi. Taxi services are available from Jollygrant Airport to Lansdowne and it costs about Rs. 2000. Delhi is the nearest international airport which is 235 km away from Lansdowne. Delhi is well connected to all major cities in India and many cities abroad.

By Train: Kotdwar Railway Station is the nearest railhead from Lansdowne, which is nearly 40 kms. away. You can hire a taxi from the railway station to Lansdowne that will cost you about Rs 750.

By Road: Good roads connect Lansdowne with New Delhi, and other major cities of Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh.

Nainital - The Lake City of India

Nainital - A destination for All

Renowned as the home of noted conservationist Jim Corbett, Nainital is fondly called the 'Lake City of India'. Nainital is set an elevation of 1938 metres and considered the largest and one of the most popular hill resorts of Kumaon region. A glittering jewel in the Himalayan necklace, the hill station was discovered by a Britisher Lord Barron in 1841 and has grown around a 'tal' (mountain-lake). Nainital is blessed with pristine natural beauty and an enchanting landscape.

Nainital is always bustling with tourists who flock the city from far and wide. Today, the life of Nainital revolves around the Naini Lake, which mirrors the sun playing hide and seek with the clouds and mountains. The turquoise Naini Lake shimmers at the foot of the surrounding mountains, dotted with psychedelic sail boats. The tree flanked Mall runs parallel to the lake, teeming with tourists, hotels, shops and restaurants.

Nainital is the quintessential hill station, offering all trappings of civilization, while nestled in the beautiful Himalayan landscape. Spend your time walking leisurely by the lake, shopping at the Tibetan market or climbing up to Snow View in the ropeway to admire the brilliant vista of snow peaks. The town also offers some beautiful treks into the surrounding mountains.

Must Dos in Nainital

Naini Lake - Enjoy boating on the Naini Lake surrounded by lush green surroundings. There is no better way to unwind than to languidly float down water. Take a full tour of the lake, which brushes past the surrounding mountains and the greenery. The mountains dapple the water, a breeze ruffles your hair as you drift down lazily away from the Mall, it’s all serene.

Gondola Ride - Take a cable car or gondola to Snow View peak (2270 metres) from where you get a panoramic view of the snow covered Himalayan peaks and also surrounding valleys. The return ticket covers a one-hour stay. You can also trek up to Snow View, a fairly steep walk, to encounter dhabas and kiosks at the top.

St. John’s Church in the Wilderness - Built in 1844, St. John’s Church in the Wilderness showcases typical Victorian architecture, built in stone with thick walls and stained glass windows. The altar inside the church is inscribed with names of the 1880 landslide victims.

Shopping in Nainital

Shopping is a must do activity in Nainital. In fact, Nainital and its candles are synonymous. The Barra Bazaar at Mallital is lined with shops selling various types of candles. Nainital is also a great place to pick up natural preserves - an excellent variety of fruit squashes, jams, jellies, pickles and marmalades, all locally produced, are available in shops lining the Mall. Also visit the Tibetan Market at the Flats, a flea market area selling junk jewellery, bags, scarves, fake branded watches and so on. If you look closely, and haggle intelligently, you can pick up some good bargains.

Nearby Getaways from Nainital

Ranikhet - Siutated 64 kilometres away, Ranikhet is a quaint mountain town untouched by commercialisation. It offers awe inspiring views of the snow peaks spreading over 300 kilometres along with solitude, peace and tranquility. Heavily shaded by deodars and pine, life is gentle here and the world is dark green. With its colonial history, the town seems to be a chapter from the past. Highly recommended place for travelers to Nainital.

Sattal – Literally meaning ‘the seven lake’, Sattal is constituted by seven scattered lakes. A profusion of oaks and deodars and the gently dappling water charms you. The area around the lakes offers picturesque treks into the wilderness. Do go for a swim in the lake or a boat ride.

Srinagar - a paradise on earth

Quick Facts
Situated in: Jammu & Kashmir
Popular As: Summer Capital of Jammu and Kashmir
Major Attractions : Dal Lake, Hazratbal Mosque, Nagin Lake, Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh, Chasma Shahi, Jama Masjid, Museum etc .
Suitable Time To Visit : March to October

One of the most beautiful cities in India, Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu & Kashmir state. Set along the beautil Dal Lake and Jhelum River, Srinagar thronged by discerning tourist and honeymooners in large numbers. Besides serving as a base for holidays in Kashmir Valley, the city is also the starting point for trips to Ladakh region. Lakes are major attractions of Srinagar is famous for lakes popular among them are Dal Lake and Nagin Lake. These lakes are studded with numerous beautiful houseboats offering luxurious accommodation.

A stay in the houseboat is a must do activity while on a holiday in Srinagar. The tranquil city is also renowned for traditional handicrafts and dry fruits. Srinagar is a historic city and has it connection with numerous ancient rulers including the mighty Mughals. Any trip to Srinagar is incomplete without some shopping, don’t forget to buy traditional handicrafts and handloom items. On the whole, gear up for a thrilling vacation in Srinagar this vacation.

Srinagar is well-connected by air and road. Srinagar Airport is 13 km out of the city and connected to major cities of India. Jammu Tawi Railway Station is the nearest railhead from Srinagar. National Highway 1 A connects Sringar with Jammu. For local transport auto-rickshaws and taxis are available in Srinagar.

Plenty of accommodation options are available in Srinagar, opt a hotel of your choice and enjoy a memorable vacation amidst natural surroundings. Also take excursions to nearby places like Pahalgam (45 km), Gulmarg (56 km) and Amarnath (145 km)

Major Attractions in Srinagar
Dal Lake: Dal Lake is a maze of intricate waterways and it contains vegetable gardens, lotus plantations, shops and narrow lanes of water, bordered with the willow trees. Within the lake there are two islands Silver Island (Sona Lank) and Gold Island (Rupa Lank). There is a third island, Nehru Park, at the end of the main stretch of the lake side Boulevard. Don’t miss a shikara ride around the lake and visits to the Mughal Gardens and many other places on the lake side.

Nagin Lake: A beautiful lake, Nagin Lake is ringed by a number of trees. You will find a number of houseboats on this quieter and cleaner lake.

Shalimar Bagh: Shalimar Bagh is considered the most beautiful Mughal gardens in Srinagar. Built by Jehangir in 1616 for her wife Nur Jahan, the garden has four terraces and gets water from Harwan Lake through canal. During spring and autumn season numerous varieties of colourful flowers blooms inside the garden.

Nishat Bagh: Nishat Bagh is one of the largest of Mughal gardens, designed in 1633 by Nur Jahan's brother Asaf Khan,. Situated on the banks of Dal Lake with the Zabarwan hills in the backdrop, Nishat Bagh provides magnificent view across the lake to the Pir Panjal Mountain.

Chasma Shahi: Chasma Shahi is the smallest Mughal gardens in Srinagar. The garden lies well up the hillside, above the Nehru Memorial Park. Chasma Shahi is set in picturesque surrounding having a cool water spring.

Pari Mahal: Just above the Chasma Shahi is Pari Mahal. Originally an astronomical observatory, built by Mughal Emperor Dara Shikho, the palace’s arched terraces have been turned into a beautiful garden.

Hazratbal Mosque: On the North West Shore of Dal Lake is Hazratbal Mosque. Built of white marble the masjid is surrounded by a dome and enshrines a single hair of Prophet Muhammad.

Nasim Bagh: Located ahead of Hazratbal Mosque is Nasim Bagh. The garden was built by Emperor Akbar in 1586 and nowadays used by an engineering college.

Other attractions of Srinagar: Harwan Lake, Hari Parbat Fort, Jama Masjid, Shankaracharya Hill, Shri Pratap Singh Museum and Shah Hamdan Mosque are other attractions in and around Srinagar.

Dehradun - Abode of Drona

Quick Facts
Situated in: Uttaranchal
Also Known As: Abode of Drona
Main Attractions: Tapowan, Tapkeshawar Temple, Chandrabani, Sai Darbar Temple, Tibetan Temple, Robber's Cave, Malsi Deer Park, Sahastradhara, Laxman Siddh and Santala Devi Temple
Suitable Time To Visit: November to March

Whether you are an adventure seeker, a discerning traveller or looking for a spiritual journey, Dehradun offers almost everything as per your choice. Commonly known as the 'Abode of Drona', Dehradun is a hill station, serving as the capital of newly created state of Uttarakhand. Situated in the Great Indian Himalayan ranges, the charming city draw a large number of tourists from India and foreign countries as well. An ancient city, Dehradun finds its description in Ashoka's inscriptions dating back to 250 BC, even today can be seen outside the city.

The city remained an important centre for Garhwal rulers, later on the British captured the area and developed it as a hill resort. Besides a hill resort, Dehradun also houses the headquarters of several National Institutes and Organizations, namely ONGC, Forest Research Institute and Survey of India. Dehradun is also home to some of India's noted educational and training institutes like Indian Military Academy, Indira Gandhi National Forest Academy (IGNFA) and Rashtriya Indian Military College (RIMC).

Dehradun has its own domestic airport, Jolly Grant Airport (25 km), which is served by flights from Delhi. Dehradun Railway Station in connected by trains to Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and other parts of the country. National Highways, State Highways and good roads connect Dehradun with rest of the country.

For accommodation, plenty of good hotels are available in the town of Dehradun. You may stay in hotels or guest houses, as per your requirements and budget.

Any trip to Dehradun is incomplete without some shopping activities. The shops at Dehradun sell traditional handicrafts, which you can buy as souvenirs for family members, relatives or friends.

Major Attractions in Dehradun
Tapowan: Tapowan is situated on the Dehradun - Rajpur Road, about 5 km from the city bus stand. Set amidst the picturesque surroundings, Tapowan carries an interesting legend linked to Guru Dronacharya.

Tapkeshawar Shiv Temple: Tapkeshawar Shiv Temple is an ancient place of worship in the Garhi Cantt. Area, just 5 kms away from city bus stand. This temple can be easily reached by road. During the occasion of Maha Shivratri devotes throng the temple to participate in the fair and pay their obeisance to the presiding deity.

Chandrabani: Chadrabani Temple (Gautam Kund) lies at a distance of 7 km from Dehradun. According to a legend this place was inhabited by Maharishi Gautam, his wife and daughter who are even today worshipped by the people. Every year thousands of devotees visit this temple to take a holy dip in the sacred Kund.

Forest Research Institute: A forest based training institute in India, Forest Research Institute is located 7 km away from Clock Tower on the Dehradun - Chakrata road. Established in 1906, the Forest Research Institute is one of the oldest institutes of its kind in the world and highly acclaimed worldover. The research institute houses a Botanical Museum, which you can visit.

Indian Military Academy: Indian Military Academy (IMA) is situated at a distance of 8 kms from the city centre. A government owned premier training institute for Army Officer, the Indian Military Academy is functional from 1st October 1932. Here you can see War Memorial, Museum, Library. Shooting Demonstration Room, 18 holes Golf Course and Arms and ammunition.

Sai Darbar Temple: Sai Darbar Temple is 8 km away from the city centre along the Clock Tower on Rajpur Road. The temple due to high cultural and spiritual importance draws large number of tourists and devotees.

Tibetan Temple (Buddha Temple): Adjacent to Sai Darbar Temple is the Tibetan Temple, dedicated to Lord Buddha.

Robber's Cave (Guchhupani): The Robber's Cave is a perfect picnic spot, situated 8 kms away from the bus terminal. To visit Robber’s Cave you need to take bus up to Anarwala village and further a trek of one kilometre to reach this spot.

Malsi Deer Park: Malsi Deer Park is a well developed mini-zoological park, just 10 km from Dehradun. The park also has a children's park flanked by splendid natural surroundings.

Sahastradhara: Sahastradhara is located 11 kms away from Dehradun, popular as a picnic spot. The 9 mts high waterfall, the River Baldi and caves provide a spectacular sight to the place. The Sulphur spring is another attraction at Sahastradhrana, people believe that the water of the spring possess medicinal properties and cure skin infections.

Laxman Siddh: Laxman Siddh is a famous temple about 12 kms away from Dehradun. People visit this temple in large numbers, especially on Sundays.

Santala Devi Temple: Santala Devi Temple is situated at a distance of 15 kms from Dehradun. A place of religious and cultural significance, the temple draws people from far and near places.


Asan Barrage Water Sports Resort: Asan Barrage Water Sports Resort has been developed by Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam in 1994. Also known as Dhalipur Lake, this resort is situated on Chandigarh - Shimla highway. Here you can enjoy water sports like water skiing, rowing, kayaking, boating, canoeing etc. During the winters you can see large number of avian species, especially migratory birds here.

Rajaji National Park: Established in 1966, the Rajaji National Park spreads over an area of 820 sq. kms. Set in a lush green valley of Shivalik ranges, the park houses a wide range of floral and faunal species including 23 species of mammals and 315 bird species.

Rishikesh: Often referred to as the 'place of sages', Rishikesh is a spiritual town, located 24 kms away from Haridwar. In addition to a pilgrimage destination, Rishikesh is also an ideal destination for people who are interested in yoga and meditation. For adventure seekers Rishikesh offers adventure options like trekking and rafting. Major tourist attractions of Rishikesh include the Triveni Ghat, Laxman Jhoola, Raghunath Temple, Ashrams and Yoga Centres.

Mussoorie: A famous hill station of north India, Mussoorie is located at a distance of 34 kms from Dehradun. Popularly known as the 'Queen of Hill Stations', Mussoorie has the attractions, namely Camel's back road, Mussoorie Lake, Gun hill, Kempty Fall and Vinod Mountain Quail Sanctuary.

Haridwar: One of the major pilgrimage centres of India, Haridwar is situated at a distance of 45 kms from Dehradun. Hardiwar is the gateway to Chardham (four pilgrimage destinations) of Uttarakhand and has the tourist attractions like Har ki Pauri ghats, Mansa Devi Temple, Daksha Mahadev Temple and Bharat Mata Temple.

Manali - A Quaint Hill Town in Himachal

Quick Facts
Situated in: Himachal Pradesh.
Major Attractions: Hadimba Temple, Tibetan Monastery, Manali Club House and Mountaineering Institute
Suitable Time To Visit: November to March.

Manali, Himachal Pradesh

Manali is a quaint hill town, located 40 kms north of Kullu Valley. Perched 1928 m, above the sea level, Manali is a perfect destination for discerning travellers and adventure seekers. Earlier, Manali was a village called ‘Dana Agha’, even today traces of that period can be found in the town.

Set along the banks of Beas River, Manali abounds with natural gifts like beautiful landscape, pine and deodar forests, snow-capped peaks, steep cliffs, rolling valleys, adventure and mystery. Besides these, the lush meadows of wild flowers and fragrant fruit orchard in full bloom, add more charm to the hill resort.

Manali can be easily reached by road, bus services to important cities of North India are available. Kullu Airport is the nearest airport, while Shimla and Chandigarh are nearest railheads. Accommodations in all range are available, from five star to budget hotels.


Major Attractions in Manali
Hadimba Temple: Hadimba Temple also called Dhungri Temple has historic as well as archaeological importance. One can reach this temple on foot or by hiring cars or taxis that ply along the Bipasha and take you to the temple gate. Dedicated to goddess Hadimba, the temple was built by Maharaja Bahadur Singh in 1553. The 27 metre high temple is made of wood and has four-tiered pagoda type roof and the well-decorated front gate which comprises the images and symbols.

Tibetan Monastery: Tibetan Monastery is another major attraction of the town. The monastery has a good collection of Tibetan paintings and handicrafts.

Gadhan Takechokling Gumfa: Located next to Tibetan Monastery, Gadhan Takechokling Gumfa was constructed in 1969. The cave has an idol of Shakyamuni.

Manali Mountaineering Institute: Manali Mountaineering Institute offers basic and advance training courses for adventure sports like mountaineering, trekking, skiing and plenty of water sports. Skiing and trekking equipments can be hired here by advance booking.

Manali Club House: Manali Club House lies 2 km from the main town on the left bank of Manalsu Nallah. Around the Club House there are fine spots for picnic, where you can pass a good time. Cultural events are also organized in the auditorium of Club House.

Manu Temple: Just 3 kms from the main market in Old Manali, there is a temple dedicated to Manu Rishi, the creator of human race on the earth.

Solang Valley (13 km): Solang Valley is situated between Solang village and Beas Kund. The picturesque valley has some fine ski slopes, where you can undertake the adventure sports. For adventure seekers there is also a Ski lift here for skiing training. The winter skiing festival is also organized at Solang Valley.

Rahala Waterfalls (16 kms): Rahala Water Falls is located 16 kms away on way to Rohtang Pass. The water fall is famous as a picnic spot.

Rohtang Pass (51 kms): Rohtang Pass is situated on Keylong - Leh Highway at an altitude of 3,979 mts. A gateway to Lahaul, Spiti, Pangi and Leh Valley, Rohtang Pass remains open from during summers, from June to October. From Rohtang Pass you can enjoy spectacular view of glaciers, peaks and the Chandra River flowing down in the Lahaul valley. Close to Rohtang Pass are the twin peaks of Geypan.

Adventure in Manali: Adventure seekers can enjoy adventure sports like jeep safari, mountaineering and snow skiing

Darjeeling

Quick Facts
Situated in: West Bengal
Also Known As: Queen of Hill Stations
Major Attractions: Ghoom Monastery, Dhirdham Temple, Tiger Hills, Bhutia Busti, Observatory Hill, Zoological Garden, Natural History Museum
Suitable Time to Visit: March to May and September to November

Darjeeling, one of the most popular hill stations of India and the world alike is situated in West Bengal. The hill station is about 680 km from the state capital city Kolkata, 80 km from Siliguri and 150 km from Kishanganj in Bihar. Located at a height of 2,134 metres above the sea level, close to the Indo-Nepal and Indo-Bhutan borders, Darjeeling draws discerning travellers, honeymooners and adventure seekers from across the globe.

Nature has blessed Darjeeling with unmatched beauty and one can experience the nature at its best here. Flanked by snow capped Himalayan mountain ranges, Darjeeling abounds with fresh invigorating hill air, lush green tea plantations, exciting trekking trails, spectacular sunrise and sunset views, rich and varied fauna. Besides, the live hearted locals welcome visitors with their open arms and offer warm hospitality.

As Darjeeling is located at very high altitude so the climate remains cold most of year, especially during winters when the temperature falls below 0 degree. Temperatures in summer remain in the range of 15-20 degrees. Don’t forget to carry sufficient warm clothes to prevent yourself from the chilly weather.

Besides being a famous hill station, Darjeeling offers excellent shopping opportunities.
Darjeeling is a nice place to buy decorative items, thangkas, brass statues, religious objects, jewellery, wood carving, woven fabrics and carpets. Main shopping areas are Chowrasta and Nehru Road.

Bagdogda Airport (100 km) is the nearest airport, served by several flights from Delhi and Kolkata. From the airport, taxis are available for Darjeeling. New Jalpaiguri Railway Station at a distance of 90 km is the major railhead close to Darjeeling. The toy train connects New Jalpaiguri with Darjeeling, the journey takes approximately 8 hours. Jeep services are available to Darjeeling from Silguri and New Jalpaiguri at regular intervals.

Plenty of accommodation options are available in Darjeeling. There are several good hotels, lodges and guest houses in the budget and mid-range categories.

Major Attractions in Darjeeling
Ghoom Monastery: Any trip to Darjeeling usually begins with the Ghoom Monastery. Set at an altitude of 2,410 mtrs, Ghoom offers magnificent views of Darjeeling town. Ghoom Monastery has collection of rare handwritten Buddhist manuscripts and it also houses a massive statue of Maitreya Buddha.

Dhirdham Temple: Situated in the heart of Darjeeling town, Dhirdham Temple attracts tourists in large number. The temple is known for its architecture which is similar to the famous Pashupatinath Temple of Kathmandu.

Tiger Hills: Perched at an elevation of 2,590 metres above the sea level, Tiger Hills offers splendid views of the sunrise. Tourists throng the Tiger Hill in early morning to have a glimpse of the spectacular sunrise. From the hills, one can also enjoy breathtaking views of snow-capped Mt. Kanchenjunga.

Bhutia Busti: Bhutia Busti is a beautiful Gompa (monastery) located at the backdrop of the Mt. Kanchenjunga. The tastefully decorated Gompa has a fine collection of Buddhist texts in its library. A branch of the Nyingmapa sect's Phodang Monastery in Sikkim, the Gompa also has a copy of the Tibetan Book of the Dead in its library.

Observatory Hill: The Observatory Hill offers magnificent views of Mt. Kanchenjunga and the beautiful landscape below. On the hill there are some temples and monasteries, which deserve a visit.

Zoological Garden: Zoological Garden is situated on the outskirts of Darjeeling. The zoo houses some rare varieties of Himalayan flora and fauna species, including the Siberian Tigers. The rare Red Panda is another attraction of the zoo. One can see Snow Leopards, Great Grey Birds and Snow Yaks in the zoo.

Natural History Museum: A must visit place in Darjeeling, the Natural History Museum has an impressive collection of over 4,300 specimen. The museum has a rich collection of fauna found in the Himalayas and in West Bengal region. Visitors can see a fine collection of butterflies, estaurine crocodile and mineral forms of various stones.