Darjeeling

Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas in West Bengal, India, Darjeeling is a picturesque hill station renowned for its stunning natural beauty and the world-famous Darjeeling tea. Perched at an elevation of approximately 2,000 meters (6,700 feet), the town offers breathtaking panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, including the majestic Kanchenjunga, the third-highest mountain in the world. The cool, crisp mountain air and lush green landscapes dotted with tea gardens create an idyllic and tranquil atmosphere, attracting tourists from all over the globe.

Darjeeling's history is intertwined with the British colonial era, who developed it as a summer retreat and established tea plantations in the mid-19th century. The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a testament to this era, its narrow-gauge tracks winding through the hills, offering a charming and nostalgic journey. The town's colonial architecture, evident in some of its buildings and institutions, adds to its unique character. Beyond its natural beauty and tea, Darjeeling is also a melting pot of cultures, with a significant presence of Nepali, Lepcha, and Tibetan communities, contributing to its vibrant cultural tapestry.