Darjeeling Travel: 5 Best Historical Places In The Queen of Hills

5 Best Historical Places To Visit In Darjeeling

1 Mall Road

Mall Road is historically significant, having been established during the British colonial period. Mall Road leads you through a peaceful walk offering spectacular views of Mount Kanchenjunga. This area was developed during British rule as a social hub, and even today, it retains its old-world charm with tea shops, bookstores, and iconic British-style benches. This destination is popular for its serene atmosphere, shopping, cafes, and various tourist attractions.

2. Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (Toy Train)

One of the most iconic landmarks in Darjeeling is the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, also known as the Toy Train. Established in 1881, this narrow-gauge railway is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The train chugs along steep mountain tracks, offering mesmerising views of the surrounding tea estates and snow-capped peaks. The railway was a remarkable feat of engineering during the British colonial era and remains a symbol of Darjeeling’s historical charm. Taking a ride on the Toy Train is like travelling back in time, making it a must-do experience for history enthusiasts.

3. St. Andrew’s Church

St. Andrew's Church, a historic Anglican church, is situated on Mall Road in the town of Darjeeling, West Bengal. According to the Darjeeling District, Government of West Bengal portal, “Built to accommodate about 200 people, the interior of St. Andrews remains much as it was nearly 170 years ago. Having withstood multiple earthquakes over the years, the church is perhaps not in picture perfect condition today, but its overall charm remains wholly intact.” It is one of Darjeeling’s oldest and most historic religious sites. The church is a beautiful example of colonial architecture. The serene atmosphere of the church and its picturesque location make it a peaceful retreat for visitors interested in both history and spirituality.

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4. Lloyd Botanical Garden

“Lloyd’s Botanical Garden was established in 1878 when 40 acres (160,000 m2) of land was acquired at Darjeeling to form a botanic garden as a distant annexe of the Calcutta Botanical Garden. The land was provided by William Lloyd, in whose name the botanical garden has been named”, according to the Darjeeling district, Government of West Bengal portal. The garden also offers a glimpse into the botanical explorations that took place during the British era, making it a historically significant location.

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5. Bhutia Busti Monastery

Bhutia Busty Monastery, also known as Karma Dorjee Chyoling Monastery, is the oldest Buddhist monastery associated with the Red Sect of Buddhist Lamas. Renowned for its traditional Tibetan-style architecture, it boasts beautiful murals and houses a treasured collection of ancient Buddhist manuscripts. The monastery features stunning artwork that beautifully portrays the life and teachings of Buddha, offering a serene atmosphere for meditation, as highlighted by TripAdvisor. It also represents the town’s cultural diversity and historical significance.

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Image credit: Freepik and Wikipedia