Trekking in Darjeeling is
an experience which no lover of nature should miss. It takes
one to places from where one can feel the proximity of the
stars and is still in its premival majesty. It brings one
face to face with the snow-capped mountains with the sublime
grandeur of the Himalayas.
The
region abounds in rhododendrons, magnolias, primulas, orchids
and ferns of numerous varieties. About six hundred species
of birds inhabit the emerald green forests on the slopes of
the mountains.
The hilly destinations of Darjeeling is blessed with well
defined forest trails along the Nepalese border that afford
views of Kanchenjunga
and glimpses of Everest,
Lhotse and Makalu. Just like the geographical location the
climate of Darjeeling is also pretty similar to that of
Nepal.
It is said that trekking in India originated in Darjeeling.
Infact, the first organised trekking route in India was
established here along the Singalila range. The Sandakphu
trek begins in Darjeeling and proceeds through Maneybhanjyang,
Tonglu, Sandakphu and ends in Phalut. The alluring natural
beauty is replete with countless varieties of rhododendrons,
magnolias, orchids and wild flowers. The dense forests,
the verdant meadows, the savage mass of Mt. Everest, the
everlasting beauty of Kanchenjunga, the rugged Lhotse or
the mysterious Makalu - all in one sweeping glance, present
an experience that can never be equaled.
Darjeeling
has perhaps one of the most spectacular treks to offer,
along the beauty of its magnificent hills. The 'Singalila
Trek' as popularly known, enables one to discover the passion
of the Himalayan region some of which is unmarred by humans.
SEASON FOR TREKKING IN DARJEELING
There are basically two trekking seasons for trekking in
Darjeeling. The first one begins early or mid of March and
closes around first week of June. One has to be always prepared
for occasional showers, which is very refreshing. The flowers
in bloom compensate the summer haze. The post-monsoon season
brings clear days in the months of October and November
with warm temperatures, especially in the valley region.
The daytime temperatures in the Darjeeling drop to 0°C in
December and January, although trekking from lodge to lodge
still makes the trek interesting and enjoyable. Still the
best time to trek in Darjeeling is the spring season when
days are longer and flowers are in full bloom. Among the
major and relatively easy trails of Darjeeling are Sandakphu
and Phalut, providing magnificent views of the Himalayan
ranges.
