Batasia Loop is a beautiful railway loop located in Darjeeling, West Bengal, India. It is a popular tourist attraction and is known for its breathtaking views of the Himalayan mountains and the Darjeeling town. In this post, we will discuss the history, features, and importance of the Batasia Loop.
History of Batasia Loop:
The Batasia Loop was constructed in 1919 as part of the
Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, also known as the 'Toy Train.' The railway was
built between 1879 and 1881 to connect the town of Siliguri to Darjeeling,
which is located at an altitude of 6,710 feet. The Batasia Loop was built to overcome
the steep gradient between Ghum and Darjeeling. The loop is approximately 5 km
away from Darjeeling.
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Features of Batasia Loop:
The Batasia Loop is a railway loop that forms a figure-eight shape. The loop has a length of around 100 meters and a radius of 50 feet. It is located on a hilltop, and the track spirals around a beautiful garden. The garden is well-maintained and is home to several varieties of flowers, trees, and shrubs.
- War Memorial
At the center of the loop, there is a War Memorial dedicated
to the Gorkha soldiers who sacrificed their lives in various wars. The memorial
was constructed in 1995, and it is a major attraction of the Batasia Loop.
The memorial was constructed in 1995 to commemorate the brave soldiers who lost their lives during various wars. The memorial is surrounded by a beautiful garden, which is well-maintained and offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the town. Visitors can pay their respects to the soldiers by laying wreaths and flowers at the memorial.
2. Local handcrafted stalls
The Batasia Loop is also known for its local handcrafted items. These stalls offer a variety of handcrafted items such as shawls, scarves, hats, and bags. The local artisans use traditional techniques to create these beautiful items, which are made from high-quality materials such as wool, silk, and cotton. Visitors can purchase these unique and authentic items as souvenirs of their trip to Darjeeling.
3. Binoculars Point
The Binoculars Points at Batasia Loop offer an unparalleled view of the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas. Visitors can rent binoculars to get a closer look at the stunning scenery. The Binoculars Points are situated at a height of 7,000 feet and provide a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains. From here, visitors can see the Kanchenjunga, which is the third-highest peak in the world, as well as other famous peaks such as the Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu.
4. Colorful Garden
The Batasia Loop in Darjeeling is not only famous for its
railway track but also for its beautiful garden and park. Located at an
altitude of 7,000 feet above sea level, the garden inside Batasia Loop is a
popular attraction for visitors.
The garden is spread over an area of approximately 50,000
square feet and is beautifully landscaped with a variety of colorful flowers,
shrubs, and trees. The garden is designed in a circular shape around the
railway track, which creates a unique and picturesque view for visitors. The
park also has several benches where visitors can sit and enjoy the scenic
beauty of the place.
One of the main attractions of the garden is the War
Memorial located in the center of the park. The memorial was built to
commemorate the bravery of the Gorkha soldiers who sacrificed their lives for
the country in various wars. The memorial is surrounded by a circular platform,
which offers a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Apart from the War Memorial, the garden also has a small
pond with colorful fishes and a small waterfall that adds to the beauty of the
place. The garden is well-maintained by the local authorities and is open to
visitors throughout the year.
Really, the garden inside Batasia Loop Darjeeling is a delightful
addition to the already scenic and picturesque railway track. It is a great
place to relax, unwind and soak in the beauty of the surrounding Himalayan
landscape.
The Importance of Batasia Loop:
The Batasia Loop is an engineering marvel and an important part of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and attracts thousands of tourists every year. The loop offers a panoramic view of the Himalayan mountain range and the Darjeeling town. Tourists can also see the iconic Kanchenjunga Mountain from the loop on clear days.
The Batasia Loop is also significant for its historical
importance. The War Memorial at the center of the loop is a reminder of the
brave Gorkha soldiers who fought in various wars, including World War I and
World War II. The memorial is a tribute to their sacrifice and bravery.
Visiting Batasia Loop:
To visit Batasia Loop, one can take a ride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway from Darjeeling or Ghum. The train ride is a unique experience and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Once at the loop, visitors can explore the garden, take pictures with the War Memorial, and enjoy the panoramic views of the Himalayan mountain range and the Darjeeling town.
Best Time to visit Darjeeling Batasia Loop
The best time to visit Batasia Loop in Darjeeling is between
the months of October to December and March to May. During these months, the
weather is pleasant, and the skies are clear, making it the perfect time to
enjoy the stunning views of the Himalayas from the Binoculars Points.
It is important to note that due to its popularity, Batasia
Loop can get crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons. So, visitors
should plan their visit accordingly and try to avoid visiting during weekends
or holidays if possible. Additionally, it is advisable to carry warm clothing
as the temperature at the loop can get quite chilly, even during the daytime
Ticket Fee
As for the ticket price and time for a visit, entry to Batasia Loop is Rs 15. However, visitors will need to pay a nominal fee of around INR 10-20 to rent binoculars at the Binoculars Points. The loop is open from 5 am to 8 pm, and visitors can visit at any time during these hours. However, it is recommended to visit during the daytime when the views are clearer and more visible.
In conclusion, Darjeeling Batasia Loop is a remarkable feat of engineering and a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Darjeeling. This narrow-gauge railway line offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, as well as a unique opportunity to experience the rich history and culture of the region. The Batasia Loop is a particular highlight, with its spiral track and stunning Himalayan vistas. Whether you're a train enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply looking for a memorable adventure, a ride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway and the Batasia Loop is an experience not to be missed. So pack your bags, book your tickets, and get ready for an unforgettable journey through one of India's most enchanting landscapes!
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