Chamong Chiabari

Wednesday, 18 March 2020

Discover nature’s beauty and serenity at Darjeeling

Chamong Chiabari March 18, 2020 0 Comments

Lying within the lesser ranges of Eastern Himalayas, Darjeeling is among the most-visited hill stations in India. With a high altitude of 2,042 meters above sea level, the picturesque town offers stunning panoramic views. Snow-capped Himalayan peaks in the backdrop, lush green hills covered with rows of tea plantations, and the majestic Kanchenjunga – the leading five star hotels in Darjeeling offer all these and much more.

During the British rule of India, Darjeeling was favoured by many officials as a summer retreat. The high altitude and cool climate provided respite from the warm temperatures in other parts of the country. Later, the British introduced tea cultivation to the region. The high altitude, cool climate and optimum rainfall received make this region ideal for tea cultivation. Today, Darjeeling is one of the largest tea-producing regions in the world. Five star hotels in Darjeeling overlook the bright tea gardens from their windows.

For many tourists who visit Darjeeling, it is their chance to experience tea tourism for the first time. They get a chance to stay at large tea estate resorts, where they can indulge in a relaxing and peaceful stay amidst adjoining tea gardens. While staying at tea estate in Darjeeling, guests take part in tea plucking activity, talk to the local tea workers, and even visit a commercial tea factory. There are also five star hotels in Darjeeling who offer complimentary tea tasting sessions for their guests where a collection of the most unique blends of teas is presented.

Any stay at Darjeeling is incomplete without a visit to the Tiger Hill. One should reach the spot well before dawn to watch the captivating sight of the sun rising from behind the Kanchenjunga Range. As the sun rises, the sky changes colours from dark grey to a vibrant red and orange. If the skies are clear with no clouds, one can even catch a glimpse of Mt. Everest.

The ‘Toy Train’ ride is also something that shall not be missed while in Darjeeling. Officially known as the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Route, this narrow-gauge railway line running from New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The toy train, especially the one run by steam engine, is undoubtedly one of the highlights in Darjeeling.

Other popular attractions include the Ghoom Monastery, Japanese Peace Pagoda and the Darjeeling Himalayan Zoo.

Be it five star hotels in Darjeeling or quaint little resorts, the charm of this hill station comes from its lush scenery. The tranquil nature and gorgeous panoramic views are a source of utter joy and delight.

Monday, 24 February 2020

4 Places in India for Tea Tourism

Chamong Chiabari February 24, 2020 tea tourism in Darjeeling , 0 Comments

India is a land of tea lovers. We cannot start our day without our favourite cup of chai. So it shall come as no surprise that India is among the leading producers of tea worldwide. Tea tourism in Darjeeling is popular among both local tourists and foreign travellers. From the Himalayas in the north to the Nilgiris in the south, lush green tea plantations can be found in many places in the country. This widespread practice of tea cultivation is perhaps what makes tea tourism in India so popular.

First and foremost, tea tourism involves a pleasant stay at a tea estate. The room you’re staying in will be surrounded by adjoining tea gardens, offering picturesque views of the hill slopes. When staying at a tea estate resort, guests can also witness the process of commercial tea production and partake in tea tasting sessions.

The most popular tea tourism destinations in India are:

Darjeeling

Tea tourism in Darjeeling perhaps gets such high tourist attention because of the history associated with Darjeeling Tea. Lying within the lesser ranges of Eastern Himalayas, Darjeeling is located in the northern tip of West Bengal. It is most known for its panoramic views of the snow-capped Kanchenjunga. The hill slopes here are covered in vast expanses of tea plantations. Tea cultivation in Darjeeling was started by the British in early 1850s, and there are many tea estates in the region which date back to the colonial period. Darjeeling Tea is one of the finest blends of tea in the world, with a direct approval from the Queen of England herself. It is also known as the ‘Champagne of Teas’ due to its strong muscatel flavour. Tea estate resorts in Darjeeling offer a view of lush tea gardens on one side, and snow-capped mountains on the other side.

Assam

With more than 800 tea estates, Assam is easily the world's largest tea producing region. Tea is grown on both sides of the Brahmaputra River Valley. Assam has some of the oldest tea estates in India. Jorhat, a small tea-growing district, is famously known as the ‘Tea Capital of the World’. With innumerable tea plantations in the region, Jorhat is one of the best options for tea tourism in Assam. Enjoy a relaxed time surrounded by sprawling tea estates.

Munnar

Munnar, located in the Western Ghats in Kerala, is one of the most picturesque hill stations in India. If tea tourism in Darjeeling is for the international tourists, then the tea gardens of Munnar are meant for local tourists to experience tea tourism in budget. With hill slopes covered in rows upon rows of lush green tea plantations, Munnar paints a pretty scenic picture. The resorts here offer a charming view of tea gardens from every room.

Palampur

Located in the Kangra Valley of Himachal Pradesh, Palampur is home to several privately owned tea estates. The snow-clad peaks of Dhauladhar Range can be seen overlooking the bright green tea plantations here. Palampur is known as the ‘Tea Capital of North India’. It is undoubtedly one of the most scenic destinations.

Wednesday, 25 December 2019

Top 5 getaway spots in West Bengal

Chamong Chiabari December 25, 2019 5 star hotel darjeeling , 5 star hotels in Darjeeling 0 Comments

From tea-covered hill slopes to dense mangrove forests, West Bengal has a lot many tourist destinations. From pristine sea beaches to ancient majestic forts, there is plenty to see here.

Some of the best tourism destinations in West Bengal are:

Darjeeling

Darjeeling is often referred to as the “Queen of Hills”. It is known for its spectacular views of lush green tea plantations with the snow-capped Himalayan peaks standing atop like a crown. From 5 star hotels in Darjeeling to luxury tea estate resorts, there are plenty of options for accommodation in this charming hill station. Enjoy the lovely views of Kanchenjunga and vast expanses of tea gardens. The high altitude ensures a cool climate all round the year, making it a popular tourist spot. From breathtaking view points to old monasteries, Darjeeling offers quite a few interesting sights.

Dooars

Dooars Valley is located in the Jalpaiguri district of Northern Bengal. Lying just south of the Himalayan foothills, several large tea estates are found in this region. The lush greenery of Dooars makes it a popular getaway destination. In addition to the scenic beauty, Dooars is also home to many dense forests and a rich variety of wildlife. The region has multiple wildlife sanctuaries such as Gorumara National Park, Jaldapara National Park, Buxa Tiger Reserve, and more.

Digha

Digha is the most visited holiday destination in West Bengal. This quaint little seaside town is perfect for a weekend getaway. Located on the shores of Bay of Bengal, Digha offers pristine sea beaches and scenic natural views. The place enjoys tremendous popularity among tourists at all time of the year.

Mandarmani

Just an hour’s drive away from Digha, Mandarmani is one more seaside resort town. For those who do not like the crowded beaches of Digha, Mandarmani offers the perfect retreat. It is ideal for a quiet and relaxed getaway. Tourists can also have the chance to witness red crabs on the beach here. Mandarmani is among the most popular getaways near Kolkata.

Kalimpong

Overlooking the Teesta River Valley, Kalimpong is one of the most picturesque hill stations. The region was part of the Bhutanese Empire before it came under the British rule. It is home to many ancient Buddhist monasteries and old churches. This quaint little town is still considered an offbeat destination. Tourists will not find high-end accommodation like 5 star hotels in Darjeeling; but there are plenty of well-maintained hotels and resorts in Kalimpong. The lush scenic beauty adds to the peace and tranquillity of this place. The hill station is also well-known for its local market of orchids.

Wednesday, 27 November 2019

10 Things to Know About Darjeeling Tea

Chamong Chiabari November 27, 2019 tea tourism , 0 Comments

Darjeeling, located in West Bengal, has an elevation of 2042 meters above sea level. The hill slopes are covered in vast expanses of tea plantations all around. Darjeeling Tea is grown at an altitude ranging from 750 to 2000 meters. It is among the highest elevation grown teas in the world.
Darjeeling Tea is one of the most popular brews of tea in the world. It is known as the 'Champagne of Teas' due to its strong muscatel flavour. Tea tourism in Darjeeling is very popular due to the worldwide fame of Darjeeling Tea.
Robert Fortune, a spy for the British East India Company, smuggled the Chinese tea plant Camellia sinensis sinensis in 1851. That is how tea cultivation in Darjeeling was started. Today 150 years later, the same variety of tea still grows in these Himalayan slopes.
Darjeeling Tea is a GI tagged product. Only teas that are grown in Darjeeling and Kalimpong districts can be sold as Darjeeling Tea. This only serves to make the tea gardens in Darjeeling more alluring, boosting tea tourism in the region.
Darjeeling Tea, primarily the black tea variety, is produced in the traditional orthodox method. The leaves are hand-plucked and hand-processed. This is what makes it one of the highest priced teas in the world.
Tea in Darjeeling is grown in three distinct seasons: spring, summer, and autumn. The tea leaves are picked during these particular seasons and categorized into First Flush, Second Flush and Autumnal Flush respectively. Each Flush or season produces teas with distinct flavour and taste.
The best time for tea tourism in Darjeeling is to plan a trip during one of the Flush seasons. This gives tourists a chance to witness tea plucking in the gardens and maybe even do it themselves. Visiting a tea garden and talking to the local tea workers is a wonderful opportunity for any tourist.
Spring in Darjeeling lasts from late February to mid-April. After a cold chilly winter, new tender shoots can be seen growing on the tea shrubs with its delicate, fragile and grey-green sheen on the tea leaves. The distinctive feature of Darjeeling First Flush Tea is a fragrant floral aroma. The tea liquor is characterized by a light translucent colour and a mild astringent flavour that impart a lively character to the tea.
The production of Darjeeling Second Flush Tea takes place between May to June. The tea leaves are luscious, moist and juicy. They are characterized by an alluring turquoise, purplish bloom and a touch of shimmering shiny apex (buds). The tea leaves are more vivid in its colour and appearance than that of spring. Summer season is when the famous muscatel flavour becomes pronounced. The Darjeeling Second Flush is infused with tea leaves of bright copper or purplish tinge and a muscatel aroma.
Darjeeling Autumn Flush is infused with tea leaves that have a golden coppery hue with an aromatic and fresh fragrance. The liquor has a light brownish tinge or gentle copper glow. The tea imparts a delicate, yet a silvery and glimmering character.

For those who want to have an authentic tea tourism experience in Darjeeling, planning a trip during one of the Flush seasons is most ideal.

Monday, 30 September 2019

The special charm of Darjeeling and its Tea

Chamong Chiabari September 30, 2019 tea tourism in Darjeeling , 0 Comments

With an elevation of 2,042 meters above sea level, Darjeeling is regarded as the “Queen of Hills” when it comes to Eastern Himalayas. It is one of the most popular hill stations in India. Darjeeling is famous for two things – enchanting panoramic views and the premium blend of Darjeeling Tea. This picturesque hill station offers an amazing view of snow-capped Kanchenjunga range and lush green tea-covered hill slopes.

Tea tourism in Darjeeling has gained quite a popularity in this side of the mountains. Since the time of British rule in India, Darjeeling has always been a top choice as a holiday destination. British officials, not used to the extreme heat in this country, would visit the hills here for a respite from extreme temperatures. It was some time during the early 1800s when commercial tea production was introduced in the region for the first time. Today, Darjeeling Tea is considered to be one of the finest blends of tea in this world. Many tea connoisseurs also refer to it as the “Champagne of Teas”.

Darjeeling is home to plenty of tea gardens. There are several tea estates found here in the region, some of them more than 100 years old. Many of these estates offer accommodations for the tourists; a cosy bungalow nestled between their tea gardens. Guests can bask in the serene views of snow-clad Himalayan peaks, while also enjoying a blissful stay amidst lush green tea plantations. These bungalows are usually built in a colonial architecture style, with contemporary interiors and modern amenities. Typically, these tea estates are located in secluded parts of the town, so guests can experience complete peace and tranquillity.

Tea tourism in Darjeeling almost always involves a luxurious stay in a bungalow located inside a tea estate. Guests get a chance to witness the entire process of tea production. They can take part in tea plucking activity, get a chance to talk to local tea workers, and also visit the tea factory. Hotels and resorts that offer tea tourism to their guests also provide a complimentary tea tasting session. A unique collection of an assortment of teas is presented during such sessions.

After the exotic flavoured Tea, Darjeeling is most known for its famous Toy Train ride. Running between New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling every day, this narrow gauge railway line is officially known as the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Route. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The train starts from a height of about 328 feet at New Jalpaiguri and climbs up to an altitude of 7,218 feet at Darjeeling. For tourists who are visiting Darjeeling, this Toy Train ride is one of the highlights of the trip.

Another key attraction is witnessing the early morning sunrise at Tiger Hill. The spot is known for the breathtaking views of the entire Kanchenjunga range. As the sun rises from behind the snow-clad peaks, the sky turns into a multi-hued canvas of reds and oranges.

With its mesmerizing tea gardens and breathtaking mountain views, a trip to Darjeeling promises to be memorable and full of cherished memories.

Friday, 30 August 2019

Get the best Tea Tourism experience at Darjeeling

Chamong Chiabari August 30, 2019 tea tourism , tea tourism in Darjeeling 0 Comments

Darjeeling is a Himalayan town located in the northern tip of West Bengal, lying just below the state of Sikkim. With an elevation of 2,042 meters above sea level, Darjeeling is considered to be one of the top hill stations in India. A favorite among many tourists, the town is known for its spectacular panoramic views. Darjeeling has been a popular spot since the days of the British rule in India, when officials would visit here to get a respite from the heat in other parts of this country.

Darjeeling offers a splendid view of the snow-capped Kanchenjunga. Vast expanses of tea plantations form a green blanket over the hill slopes in this region. The world-famous blend of Darjeeling Tea is exclusively grown in this part of the Himalayas. As such, there is a high demand for tea tourism in Darjeeling. It is one the largest tea-producing regions in the world.

Tea cultivation in Darjeeling goes back to almost a hundred years. It was introduced by the British sometime during the early 1800s. The high altitude and the optimum rainfall received by the region were primary factors that made Darjeeling perfectly suited for tea cultivation. Today, Darjeeling Tea has gained a reputation for being one of the finest brews of tea in the world. It is widely regarded as the ‘Champagne of Teas’ due to its strong muscatel flavor. This worldwide popularity of Darjeeling Tea has made this hill station favorite for a tea tourism experience. Guests can have a chance to enjoy a luxurious stay at a bungalow in a tea estate, right in the lap of nature.

Teatourism in Darjeeling is still a very new concept. Similar to a trip to the vineyards of Europe, guests have the chance to stay at a tea estate and can witness the entire process of tea production, from cultivation of tea bushes to picking tea leaves to manufacturing of the tea in a factory. India is a major tea-producing country in the world. Some of the other regions where you can have a tea tourism experience in India include Assam, Munnar, Nilgiris, Palampur, and more.

Darjeeling and its surrounding region are home to plenty of small and big tea estates. These sprawling properties have cozy guest bungalows to offer accommodation to tourists. Guests can enjoy breathtaking scenic views of snow-clad mountain peaks on one side, and lush green tea gardens on the other side. The rooms boast of traditional architecture with contemporary interiors, and are equipped with all the modern amenities. Most of these tea estates have been in the tea production business for many years now. Owing to the growing popularity of tea tourism in Darjeeling, they have just recently opened their gates for the tourists.

A large number of tea estates in Darjeeling are typically located outside the touristy areas of the town. Hence, guests can enjoy a quiet and peaceful stay away from the rush of crowds. They can go for pleasant walks around the adjoining tea gardens, get a chance to talk to the local tea workers and learn more about the types of teas grown. Some estates also offer a complimentary tea tasting session for their guests. Tea tourism in Darjeeling is a one-of-a-kind memorable experience.

Monday, 29 July 2019

When is the best time to visit Darjeeling? And how to reach?

Chamong Chiabari July 29, 2019 5 star hotel darjeeling , 5 star hotels in Darjeeling 0 Comments

Darjeeling, the Queen of Hills, is located in the lap of Eastern Himalayas at an elevation of 2,042 meters above sea level. Surrounded by a lush green cover of tea plantations, misty clouds float over the hill tops here. Known for the most eye-pleasing panoramic views, Darjeeling offers a majestic view of the Kanchenjunga. The snow-clad mountain peaks in the far horizon and the green cover of tea gardens dotted with old Buddhist monasteries paint a pretty picture. Darjeeling is one of the most popular hill stations in India. Tourists can find 5 star hotels in Darjeeling or luxurious tea estate resorts for a memorable stay at this picturesque hill town. Tourism in Darjeeling forms an integral part of the economy in this region.

When is the best time to visit?

Thanks to its higher altitude, Darjeeling enjoys a pleasant climate all year round. The summer months are peak tourist season. March to June is vacation time in most schools, and families come here to get some respite from the sweltering heat of the city. The skies are a clear blue, interrupted by puffy white clouds floating in the air. The sun sparkles over the snow-clad mountain peaks, and lush green surroundings of tea plantations make up a mesmerizing view. Darjeeling in summer also sees a wide variety of orchids, rhododendrons and other flowers in full bloom that make these hills look alive. 5 star hotels in Darjeeling go through full capacity during the summer months, and thus, advance bookings are recommended.

Once the monsoon is over and before winter sets in, from September-end to mid-December is also a great time to visit Darjeeling. Post the rains, the hills look fresh and livelier. Different kinds of flowers grow abundantly in the region. The crowd of tourists is comparatively less and you can easily find rooms in hotels and resorts.

If you want to experience snowfall, winter is the perfect time to visit Darjeeling. Temperatures drop really low, sometimes going even below zero. White snow lies like a blanket over these hills, making breathtaking picture. Many 5 star hotels in Darjeeling receive bookings from tourists during the winter season who want to witness snowfall in the mountains.

How to reach Darjeeling?

Darjeeling does not have a broad gauge railway station or an airport. New Jalpaiguri (NJP) is the closest railway station, about 75 km away from the hill town. Once you reach NJP, private or shared taxis, shared jeeps, state or Volvo bus and rented cars are easily available that take you to Darjeeling. The road journey takes about 3 hours, and the twists and turns of the curved road offer some mesmerizing views.

Another way to reach Darjeeling from NJP is via Toy Train ride. This is a narrow gauge railway line that’s about 2 feet wide. This route, covering a distance of 88 km, is the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway line. It is a UNESCO world heritage site. The toy train ride from NJP to Darjeeling takes almost 7 hours. The train passes through some picturesque hills and valleys.

If you’re travelling by air, Darjeeling is closest to the Bagdogra Airport which is officially known as the Tenzing Norgay International Airport. Located about 68 km from the hill station, it takes around 3 hours to reach the town.

Monday, 5 November 2018

The top Tea Tourism Destinations in India

Chamong Chiabari November 05, 2018 resorts in darjeeling , tea tourism 0 Comments

India is one of the largest producers of tea in the world, second only to China. Tea cultivation was introduced in India around the early 1800s by the British East India Company. Today, India is one of the leading exporters of tea in the world. Darjeeling Tea and Assam Tea are grown exclusively only in India, and known for their unique taste and flavor.

The concept of tea tourism is relatively new in India. It can be best explained as the eastern counterpart to Europe’s famous wine tourism. Similar to how tourists get a chance to live in the vineyard estates and witness the steps of wine making, tea tourism also encourages tourists to enjoy a stay in tea estate resorts. They may participate in the tea plucking activity, visit a tea factory, and witness the different methods of commercial tea processing. Complimentary tea tasting sessions are also provided.

The various tea plantations in Assam, Darjeeling and Munnar enjoy a great deal of tourist appeal. Some of the tea estates in these tea-producing regions are more than a few centuries old. They attract a fair share of visitors all round the year.

Some of the best destinations in India are:

Assam

Assam is the single largest tea-growing region in the world. The tea plantations can be found on on either side of the Brahmaputra River. Assam tea is known for its characteristic malty flavor and strong bright color. The state has more than 800 tea estates in the region. A tea festival is held every year in November in Jorhat – a district located in central of the Brahmaputra valley, often referred to as the "Tea Capital of the World". Tourists can enjoy a memorable getaway surrounded by the lush greenery of tea plantations.

Darjeeling

Tea tourism in Darjeeling is quite an attraction. Built on the hilly slopes of Himalayas, the tea plantations of Darjeeling paint a stunning picture against the backdrop of snow-clad mountain peaks. Darjeeling Tea is golden or amber in color and has a unique delicate flavor. The brew is often referred to as “Champagne of Teas” because of its “muscatel” taste. Darjeeling has many tea estate resorts where they can enjoy a quite retreat away from the city life. Enjpy the serene view of Himalayas while sipping a warm cup of tea!

Munnar

A popular hill station in Kerala, Munnar welcomes all tourists with a spectacular view of miles upon miles of tea plantations surrounding the valley. Teas of this region have a medium fragrance and obtain golden liquor with an orange tinge. Munnar is home to some of the largest tea producing estates. Tourists get an excellent chance to stroll through the tea gardens while enjoying the scenic mountain views.

Nilgiri Mountains

The Nilgiri district in Tamil Nadu is known for its deliciously fragrant and exquisitely aromatic tea. The brisk liquor and elegant flavor of Nilgiri tea is contributed by the rainfall and atmospheric condition of the region. The tea brews to golden yellow liquor with high tones of delicate floral notes. The combination of fragrance and briskness makes Nilgiri Tea a truly unique flavor.

Friday, 5 October 2018

Top 5 Reasons to Visit Darjeeling.

Chamong Chiabari October 05, 2018 luxury resorts in Darjeeling , tea bungalow Darjeeling 0 Comments

The jaw-dropping emerald hill station of Darjeeling is nestled in the North Eastern part of India. This amazing hill station sits at 2590 meters above sea level. It has a fair share of the world’s largest mountain ranges as it is located on the Lower Himalayas. It is bordered by Nepal, Bhutan, and Sikkim. This is why this place has an amazing blend of high-land culture. Apart from the glorious mountain peaks, it is also known for tea. The aromatic Darjeeling tea has worldwide followers. This region has plenty to offer.

Here are the top 5 reasons why you should visit Darjeeling:

· Himalayas, Himalayas, and Himalayas: The breathtaking panorama view is the main USP of most of the luxury resorts in Darjeeling. Darjeeling is known for the picturesque views of the famous snow-capped Kanchenjunga Mountains. Standing tall at a staggering height of 8,598 meters, Kanchenjunga is India’s highest and the world’s third highest peak. Tiger Hills is the best place to get amazing views of the Kanchenjunga. Tiger Hill is also famous for sunrise. It is a paradise for photographers looking for a perfect snap of the sunrise.

· A Paradise for Tea Lovers: A holiday to Darjeeling is incomplete without a cup of hot steaming Darjeeling tea. A distinct flavor and an addictive aroma of Darjeeling tea is internationally acclaimed. The vast emerald field of tea plantation is a delight to the eyes. Ample greenery amidst Himalayan Ranges is enough to captivate one’s soul. The tea bungalow Darjeeling gives an opportunity to enjoy tea tourism like never before.

· Delicious Food: Darjeeling was a sweetheart among the British during the old days of colonial rule. Darjeeling still hasn’t lost its colonial charm. The bungalows and the food is a clear indication of that fact. The famous cucumber sandwich with chips is a wonderful way to start your day. Hot soups and dishes such as steamed momo, thaipo, and thukpa are some of the best local delicacies.

· Ideal for Adventure: All thanks to the steep slope and elevation, Darjeeling plays host to innumerable trekking expeditions throughout the year. There is no ending to the adventure. Fishing, camp-fire nights, ropeway ride, jeep safari, wildlife, or mountain sports, this place has it all.

· Pleasant Weather: If looking for a peaceful retreat in the lap of nature away from the maddening rush of city life, Darjeeling is the place to be. The weather is another factor behind the immense popularity of this hill station. The weather remains very pleasant throughout the entire year. This place offers a much needed respite from the unbearable city heat during summer.

Darjeeling is a leading tourist destination in India. Nowhere else on Earth, one can find so many things at one place. Reaching Darjeeling is not a tough task as it has excellent connectivity. New Jalpaiguri is the nearest railway station while Baghdogra is the nearest airport. A fun-filled toy train ride from Siliguri to Darjeeling is a favorite among tourists.