Darjeeling
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Darjeeling the dream land of the East, it has been a popular hill station since
the British period. The tourist flow to this place has been increasing day by
day. Due to the proximity with three international borders, this place is
strategically very important. 

Darjeeling is surrounded by lofty mountains. Except for the monsoon months and
if weather is clear then the Kanchenjunga peak can be seen. Down below in the
valley flow the rivers swollen by rain water or melting snow. Darjeeling is a
fascinating place rich in natural beauty and surrounded by the Buddhist
monasteries. Its beauty surpasses any other hill station.

Darjeeling has some of the lovely tea plantations (estates) in the country. One
can visit these plantations and watch tea being processed. Darjeeling is a
place where one feels as if being in the lap of mother nature.Due to the vast
and abundance of natural splendour Darjeeling is called queens of hill
stations. Darjeeling is also a trekkers paradise and the Gorkha hill council
has provided ample trekking facilities for the adventure loving people.

The toy train coming from Siliguri is some thing which is liked by the elders
and the children equally. The real fun in coming to Darjeeling is on the toy
train. It takes six to seven hours to cover a distance of 82 kms and the slow
speed gives you enough time to watch and appreciate the beauty which nature has
provided it. This train passes through the Forests, waterfalls, over deep
valleys and through the mountains and tunnels. 

TREKKING: 
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One of the famous trekking route taken by the trekkers is that of the
Darjeeling-Sandakphu / Phalut trek. This trekking route is best during the
months of April, May, October and November. As during these seasons the
visibility is clear and the weather is also hospitable. For trekking on this
route one does not have to carry much luggage as the Gorkha Hill Council has
provided trekkers hut and other facilities all along the route. But it is
advisable to carry your own sleeping bags. On this route the trekker must be
prepared for all kinds of weather and high altitude mountain sickness. The trek
passes through low areas and very high ridges so temperature varies a lot be
prepared for all types of weather. There surroundings may be very attractive
but there are some areas which have long stretches without any water, so carry
water with yourself. Regular meals are available. Guides and porters can also
be arranged.

Phalut is also called the view point of the Himalayas and is one of the most
important & famous treks in the region. The trek starts with a small bus trip
to Manaybhanjang. From here the trek passes through the mountains to Sandakphu.
From here you can proceed further up or you can return via Rimbik then to
Darjeeling by Bus. One can also take a short cut and not go to Ohalut. From
Sandakphu backtrek to Bikhay Bhanjang and cut across to Rimbik. But keep in
mind that this trek is a difficult one with no water or food in between. 


