The beautiful town of Darjeeling set in the Eastern Himalayas is a nature lover’s abode. Its cool mountain air, panoramic views of snow-capped mountains and green valley’s make it the best place to escape the hustles of the city life. Whether it is the picturesque sunrises or the calm walks amidst tea estates, all activities in Darjeeling make you closer to nature. Be it adventure or silent contemplation, this hill station has got it all. 

A Darjeeling – Gangtok tour offers you the colonial charm and the natural beauty of Darjeeling and the vibrant culture and serene landscape of Gangtok. They are a perfect combination of a place that a traveler should visit to find some peace and adventure. When your heart beats for nature then here are the top 10 things you cannot afford to miss in Darjeeling. 

Here are the 10 Best Things to Do in Darjeeling for Nature Lovers 

1. Watch the Sunrise at Tiger Hill 

The view of the sunrise at the Tiger Hill is one of the most captivating experiences in Darjeeling. In the early mornings, tourists pour here, bundled up in blankets, to be the first to see the golden rays touching the Mount Kanchenjunga. Even Mount Everest is visible on a really clear day. This is a soul-stirring experience, more so when one is fond of the silence and the grandeur of Himalayan mornings as the colors of the sky and the mountains keep changing. 

2. Visit Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park 

It is a high-altitude zoo that focuses on conservation of rare Himalayan species such as the snow leopard, red panda, and Himalayan wolf. The zoo is educational and pleasant, surrounded as it is by natural forest. It is a peaceful experience to walk its shaded paths and watch animals in their semi-natural surroundings to enjoy mountain wildlife. It is popular with families, kids, and people who care about sustainable travel experiences. 

3. Explore Happy Valley Tea Estate 

Darjeeling is famous all over the world because of its fragrant tea, and Happy Valley Tea Estate is a great opportunity to witness the very origin of it. A guided tour through here will allow you to watch the process of tea-making and communicate with local laborers. The green tea plantations, which cover the hilly terrain, offer excellent photography. Not just a visual feast, it is an opportunity to gain some knowledge and have a fresh cup of tea at the source. 

4. Relax at Batasia Loop 

Batasia Loop is a picturesque railway loop, which permits the toy train to execute a beautiful spiral turn down the hills. The uniqueness lies in the fact that in the center of the loop, there is a well-landscaped garden, where a war memorial is located. The place provides a wide view of Darjeeling and the mountains around. It could be either watching the train pass by or just sitting on a bench and feeling the breeze, it is a quiet area to relax. 

5. Ride the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway 

A journey on the heritage toy train is a journey into the past. The train provides a continuous view of green valleys, woods and mist-covered mountains as it climbs through them and small villages. The low speed gives you the opportunity to absorb all the details of the landscape. It is not only a ride, but a journey that one will never forget, through nature and nostalgia. 

6. Visit Rock Garden and Ganga Maya Park 

These two attractions are just a bit out of the main town and they provide the best escape to nature. The Rock Garden overflows with terraced gardens, cascades and stone-steps hewn out of the hillside. Ganga Maya Park is only a stone throw away and has a small stream and boating facilities. Both are quiet, beautiful and ideal for a lazy half day outing outside the hustle and bustle. 

7. Walk through Lloyd’s Botanical Garden 

It is a little-known gemstones walk ideal for a leisurely, conscious stroll. Covering an area of 40 acres, the garden contains rare Himalayan plants, colorful flowers, tall trees and exotic orchids. It is also an excellent photographing spot or a spot to sit and relax in the shade and listen to the birds and the rustling leaves. It is a well-kept secret of Darjeeling for plant lovers and people who want to spend some time alone. 

8. Trek to Observatory Hill 

It is a brief yet worthy climb to the Observatory Hill which is a holy place to both the Hindus and the Buddhists. It is marked by colorful prayer flags and the top provides a panoramic view of the town and the mountains. The hill has some small shrines and emits a religious and peaceful atmosphere. It is a perfect spot to do some thinking, meditate or simply admire the beauty that surrounds you. 

9. Visit Senchal Lake and Wildlife Sanctuary 

Located slightly outside the tourist radar, Senchal Lake is a serene place that is enveloped in dense forest cover. It is a water reservoir and has picnic sites which are quiet. The Senchal Wildlife Sanctuary, with a variety of birds and wild animals, is located nearby. It is particularly attractive to bird watchers and to people who like non-commercial tourism destinations. 

10. Discover Tinchuley Village 

Tinchuley is a small village located 30 minutes away of Darjeeling and is eco-conscious. It is surrounded by forests, orange orchards and tea gardens and has spectacular views of the Himalayas and an experience of the rural mountain life. Organic farm stays, nature trails and stays with local families are also available to the visitors. It is an excellent option when one wants to relax and re-unite with nature. 

Conclusion 

Whether it is panoramic sunrises, tea gardens, quiet treks or calm lakes, Darjeeling has unlimited ways to offer you an experience closer to nature. Every single place on this list reminds about the untouched beauty and the serene nature of this region. And if you are one of those people who cannot get enough of greenery, misty hills and fresh mountain air, Darjeeling will seem like home. 

To maximize your experience of this trip, you should opt Darjeeling – Gangtok tour package which will allow you to visit both these hill stations in a relaxed and convenient manner. The combination of the two provides a healthy mix of picturesque beauty, culture and serenity- thus an ideal holiday destination to all nature lovers.