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Darjeeling, the Queen of
Hill Stations, is set amidst incomparable beauty. A panoramic view of
Kanchenjunga massif, the highest point of the peak at 8595 metres
(third highest in the world) is the major charm of this hill town,
founded by the British. It is surrounded by tea gardens and forests
of fern and bamboo and many coniferous trees. The toy train brings
tourists from Siliguri to Darjeeling. The Mall is Darjeeling’s
popular commercial street. It is lined with Tibetans selling
handknitted sweaters and other souveniers.
The area in and around is
indeed a treasure chest of interesting destinations. It has much to
offer for trekkers and adventure lovers. The Himalayan Mountaineering
Institute is training the budding mountaineers.
The summer months April
to June, and October and November in autumn are the best months for
trekking. Spring time has the added advantage of a wide variety of
rhododendrons. Autumn has spectacularly l clear views. After
December, expect cold and occasional snowfalls. A raincoat is a must
as rain is a common occurrence.
Itineraries of treks
around Darjeeling can be planned according to the number of days
available but circular treks, commencing from and ending at
Darjeeling are the most popular ones. Any route may be selected but
Sandakphoo is the most common destination. Manaybhanjan, 26
kilometres from Darjeeling can be walked to or reached by bus or
taxi.
The first day’s walk
to Gonglu, 11 kilometres, is fairly steep. It zig zags all the way
with a bungalow for a night halt and a water point. Second day’s
trek of 26 kilometres initially passes through bamboo thickets with
many ascents and descents. The steep climb begins from Nalpokhri
which would take at least three hours. The mountain views en route
are excellent.
All though the trek the
Kanchenjunga massif plays hide and seek. At an altitude of 3636
metres Sandakphoo affords some remarkable view of Mount Everest as
well. There are two tourist bungalows although many trekkers prefer
to bring their own tents. A small dhaba serves simples
vegetarian meals, much relished at such a height. Walks around
Sandakphoo ae very refreshing and rewarding as far as the views are
concerned.
On a clear day the
Everest is visible along with Lhotse and Makalu. The Kanchenjunga has
a cluster of high peaks in is periphery and the following peaks can
be distinguished. Kumbhakarna, Rathong, Fork, Frey, Kabru group,
Pandim, Nansingh and Siniolchu.
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