DAY 9: DARJEELING SIGHTSEEING
The second last day starts very early. Get- up around 3:45 AM for a short trip to Tiger Hill to enjoy a memorable sunrise view (subject to clear weather), 11 km away. On your way back, visit the other attractions including Ghoom Monastry, War Memorial and Batasia Loop. Later, back to the hotel for breakfast. Post breakfast, continue with sightseeing including Padmaja Naidu Zoological Park, Himalayan Mountaineering Institute (Closed on Thursday), Ropeway, Tibetan Refugee Self Help Center (Closed on Sunday), Tea Estate, Natural History Museum (Sunday Closed) and Peace Pagoda.
Those visiting Darjeeling must not miss sunrise views from Tiger hill over the Kanchendzonga Peak. When the first rays of the rising sun sheds light on the Peak, the view looks extremely beautiful. The hill is amidst lush greenery of thick oak forests, forming a beautiful sight for the on-looker. The morning sun looks like an orange-colored ball that rises from behind the hills.
Peace Pagoda, opened in November 1992, is an important attraction here and is placed on the slopes of Jalaphar hill. This sacred site showcases the 4 avatars of Lord Buddha. The tallest free-standing structure in the town, this pagoda has 2 lion models on the either sides of the wall on the lower level. The huge Buddha statues are golden in color and are carved in the walls. As you climb the stairs and reach the top, enjoy nice views of the surroundings. Take Parikrama around the huge dome-like structure and spot Buddha statues in various postures.
Enjoy wonderful views of the verdant tea plantations and snow-covered peaks while aboard the Cable Ride that takes you to the beautiful Rangit Valley from Darjeeling. Take a walk in the lush tea gardens of Darjeeling while the fresh aroma fills your nostrils.
Placed inside the well-maintained garden at Batasia Loop, the Gorkha War Memorial is a tribute to the Gorkha soldiers who sacrificed their lives in battles. Batasia Loop also offers toy train ride that passes around the loop and offers a 360 degree view of the landscape from a high point. The evening is free. Stay overnight.