|
Introduction 
Darjeeling popularly known as
the "Queens of Hill Stations" offers a picturesque view of
the Himalayan panorama. It is a superlative combination of
fern-filled valleys, snow-capped peaks and tea-scented air.
Darjeeling is famous for tea gardens, magnificent view of the
Himalayas, Kanchenjunga peak, beautiful valleys, trekking to high
altitude and famous toy train. As it is Darjeeling attracts
botanists, ornithologists, adventurers, photographers and
holidaymakers alike. With its array of scenic wonders and a rich
folk culture, Darjeeling has something for everyone.
History
The name Darjeeling is a
composition of 'dorje' meaning 'thunderbolt' and 'ling' meaning
'place' ... 'the Land of Thunderbolt'. Until the beginning of the 18th
century the Darjeeling belonged to the rajas of Sikkim. In
1780 they lost Darjeeling to Gurkhas. A series of wars were fought
between the Gurkhas and East India Company, eventually leading to
the defeat of the Gurkhas. Campbell (from British) built the
district and laid the foundation of the, now multi-million dollar
tea industry in 1841. Now after freedom Darjeeling had developed a
lot and numerous tea gardens had been established. Since the
formation of the Darjeeling Gorkha Hill Council in 1988 the hill
areas fall under its jurisdiction. It has elected Councillors and
they have the authority in managing certain affairs of the hill like
education, tourism, health etc. Its beauty attracts the tourist from
all over the world.
Festival
The festivals which are celebrated in
Darjeeling are :- Lepcha/Bhutia
New Year's Day :-
It is celebrated in the 1st week of January during Makar
Sankranti when the colorful fairs are held along the Teest River.
Losar Tibetan New Year's Day :-
It is celebrated in February. Colorful Tibetan folk-dances are
staged in monasteries on this day.
Durga Puja/Dussehra :-
Goddess Durga is worshipped and beautiful images of her are
immersed in the water after taking them in colorful processions.
Best Season
Best season
to visit Darjeeling is between March to May and September
to November. Bring light woolen clothing during summer
and heavy woolens in winter.
Travel
Links of Darjeeling 
|
|
Destination Darjeeling
Bhutia Busty Gompa
Lloyd Botanical
Gardens |
|
