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West Bengal

Observatory Hill

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map

January

-0.4 - 15.0 °C

February

0.8 - 16.0 °C

March

3.0 - 20.1 °C

April

5.8 - 22.3 °C

May

7.9 - 22.4 °C

June

10.3 - 22.5 °C

July

11.7 - 21.8 °C

August

12.1 - 22.8 °C

September

10.7 - 23.1 °C

October

7.4 - 22.7 °C

November

3.8 - 21.0 °C

December

1.0 - 17.8 °C


Major Airports :

Bagdogra International Airport (IXB), Bagdogra

Nearest Railway Station :

New Jalpaiguri Junction Railway Station (NJP)

Major Airports :

Bagdogra International Airport (IXB), Bagdogra

A divine abode

Perched atop Observatory Hill, the Mahakal Temple stands as a beacon of spiritual devotion. This ancient temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, exudes an aura of invincibility. It has interestingly been suggested that the very name “Darjeeling” might trace its origins to this sacred spot. In Sanskrit, the word "Durjay Ling", means "Shiva of invincible prowess, who rules the Himalayas." Similarly, since Observatory Hill was the original location of the Bhutia Busty Gompa, its monks may have given Darjeeling its name, calling their site Dorje-ling, or Place of Thunder.

 

Rising above Chowrasta square or the Mall as it is popularly known in Darjeeling, Observatory Hill is an elevated vantage point that offers breathtaking views of snow-clad peaks, including the majestic Mount Kanchenjunga.

Mountain Gazing

Stand on the hilltop and let your gaze sweep across the horizon. The snow-capped peaks seem close enough to touch. October to November offers the clearest views, but be patient—sometimes mist veils the mountains, revealing their grandeur only at opportune moments.

On clear days, visitors are treated to an awe-inspiring sight—the third-highest peak in the world, Mount Kanchenjunga, standing tall against the azure sky. Twelve other peaks, all soaring above 20,000 feet, complete this mesmerizing panorama.


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Out and About

Chowrasta and The Mall: These bustling centres surround Observatory Hill. Stroll along the Mall Road, collect souvenirs, and perhaps indulge in a pony ride.

Birch Hill (Jawahar Parbat): An offshoot from The Mall, Birch Hill houses the Raj Bhavan. The Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, where mountaineers hone their skills, lies nearby.

Windamere Hotel: Once a cozy boarding area for English and Scottish tea planters, the Windamere Hotel now welcomes travellers seeking colonial charm.

Observatory Hill opens up a connection to something greater. Ascend the hill, breathe in the crisp mountain air, and let the Himalayas whisper their timeless tales.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Observatory Hill is from April to June, when the weather is pleasant and clear for panoramic views of the mountains and Darjeeling.