Perched at 2134 m directly opposite the Kanchenjunga, peaks of himalayas, the Darjeeling hills at 8586 m, is the world's third highest mountain and India's tallest peak of himalayas. The road rises steadily to Kurseong where wisps of cool air affirm an undeniably Himalayan setting. Road and train track follow each other for the remaining 60 kms past the Jorebangla crossing and the Batasia loops to the bustling railway terminus.

The earliest Everest expeditions started their journey from Darjeeling. A profusion of alpine blossoms and orchids can be found on the leisurely trips to the neighboring lakes at Senchal and Mirik and the Lebong racecourse, which is the highest in the world. This was also the home of the late Tenzing Norgay and has since 1954 housed the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute where he trained a generation of mountaineers. The sunrise over Kanchenjunga as seen from Tiger Hill nearby, is also a great draw. On clear days, Everest is visible as well. Down to the Teesta and up on the other side is Kalimpong, 67 km away and the main stopover point on the proposed trade route to Lhasa. Along the river, the road ascends once again to Gangtok, 88 km away coursing some very fine water runs. The direct road to Bagdogra is 125 km.

Trekkers to Darjeeling cannot resist a stopover in Sikkim. As in other parts of the Himalayas, the scale of its altitude and the distinct character of its seasons make Sikkim an all-year destination. Low altitude treks in winter and higher level excursions in spring, summer and autumn, when the snowline recedes, are possible. The conventional trekking periods are March - May before the monsoon, and after the rains in late September-mid-December.

For foreigners, travel formalities have now been further simplified. For sightseeing and trekking, and for visits to Gangtok, Rumtek, Phodong and Pemayangtse monasteries, permits can be obtained for periods upto 15 days from a number of designated offices including Indian missions overseas, immigration officers at the main metro airports, Bagdogra, Gangtok and other convenient points including the Sikkim tourism office in Delhi. Likewise, for trekking in the currently permitted Dzongri area of west Sikkim groups of 4-20 persons may obtain 15 day permits.

Indian nationals can visit the areas inside the inner line with permits which can be obtained in advance. Each season in Sikkim is distinct. The periods for outdoor excursions are several. March to May is the best season for flowers. Then on till September, the monsoon moves in with thick mists and heavy rain. The onset of autumn imparts an enduring clarity to the distant views until late December, when snow starts falling in the upper valleys. Meanwhile, the life cycle carries on, adapting to the changing colors of the landscape. In many ways, this deep seated harmony with nature is a special characteristic of Sikkim going back to the origin of its earliest inhabitants, the Lepchas. In its monasteries, picturesquely dotted across the state, lie the religious and cultural strengths of the friendly Sikkimese.

In Darjeeling, Tiger hills is the highest point, from where one can have a pleasant view of the Kanchenjunga peaks. Also the other peaks of the eastern Himalayas can be seen like the Sight of Mount Everest, which gives to the eye an interesting view. The first rays of the sun rise on the tigers hills looks like as the hills have been covered by the molten gold, this scene touches the heart and none could wish to turn off his or her eyes from that fabulous view even for a second. To have a look of sunrise daily a large number of people reach over there. Tiger hills can be reached by trekking and also jeep facility is available there.

GETTING THERE:
The nearest airstrip to Darjeeling and Sikkim is Bagdogra in North Bengal. Bagdogra is 124 kms and a 5 hours drive from Gangtok. Flights from Calcutta, Delhi and the north east connect this sector. The nearest railhead is Siliguri -114 km and New Jalpaiguri - 125 km connecting Calcutta, Delhi, Guwahati and other important cities in India, to Sikkim and Darjeeling.
Gangtok is connected by road to Darjeeling Kalimpong and Siliguri. These places are well connected with other destinations in India.

TREKKING ROUTES: Treks in the Darjeeling area join up with the feeder Sikkim valleys of the Rangit river adjoining the Singalia ridge. Kanchenjunga is the prominent feature, its subsidiary peaks spread alongside with distant Everest also in view. Medium or strenuous grade trekking trips can be undertaken using Darjeeling as a convenient departure point. Darjeeling-Batasi-Tonglu-Sandakphu -- This is a 6-7 day moderate trek from Maneshanjang which is 26 km by road from Darjeeling. Ideal for views along a standard trail. The route is famed for its view of Kanchenjunga, Mt. Everest and rhododendrons from Phalut and Sandakphu. Darjeeling / Gangtok - Pemayangtse - Yoksam - Dzongri -- 6 days exhilarating trek with exclusive views of the brilliant Dzongri sunset over Kanchenjunga.

BEST SEASON :
The most rewarding season for travelling through Darjeeling and Sikkim is between May to October. The winters are very cold and the region is swamped by fog. The rainy season make trekking unsafe. Plan your trip well in advance and enquire about the weather conditions before setting out.

The monsoon in the Teesta valley is heavy, lasting from early June till mid September for Sikkim and Darjeeling. For this reason, winter treks are recommended, beginning with October though the period from April to end May is also preferred.