The mesmerizing hill station of Mirik is located in the forested Singalila mountain ridge at an altitude of 5,800 ft between Siliguri and Darjeeling in the state of West Bengal. Surrounded by lush tea estates, orange orchards & cardamom plantations, Mirik is a wonderful place for unwinding. The views of Mount Kanchenjunga, the third largest peak in the world and other Himalayan mountains from here are just stunning.
Attractions
Following are some of the major attractions here which you may not like to miss:
1. Lake Sumendu
Visit the tranquil, man-made Lake Sumendu for a relaxing time. The lake is about 1.25 km long and covered by a forested ridge. In the middle of the lake is a floating fountain surrounded by a pretty flower garden. An arching footbridge called Indreni Pool or Rainbow Bridge runs 80 ft over the lake. Activities for the visitors include boating and fishing. One can also walk or ride a pony around the lake.
2. Rameetay Dara Viewpoint
Rameetay Dara Viewpoint giving spectacular views of the plains and mountains is a place not to be missed. Heart stopping views of the rising and setting sun can be had from here.
3. Deosi Dara Viewpoint
Deosi Dara is another viewpoint where one can get magnificent views of the plains and Himalayan Mountains.
4. Kawlay Dara Viewpoint
Gorgeous views of the rising and setting sun can be had from Kawlay Dara Viewpoint. Fascinating views of the plains and snow capped mountains can also be had from here.
5. Tingling Viewpoint
Tingling Viewpoint offers superb views of the lush green tea gardens.
6. Rai Dhap
Rai Dhap is a pleasant spot for picnicking. There is a small lake here which supplies drinking water to Mirik.
7. Debi Sthan Temple
Devi Sthan Temple or Singha Devi Mandir is on the western bank of Lake Sumendu.
8. Bokar Monastery
Bokar Monastery, on the way to Rameetay Dara, is a well known Buddhist meditation center.
9. Bunkulung (Jayanti Nagar)
Bunkulung is an agricultural village on the Siliguri Mirik Highway near the River Balasan, where ecotourism is being promoted. Home stay facilities are available here. Horse riding and outdoor games can be arranged for those inclined for exercise. Visit Phuguri Tea Garden and Gayabari Tea Estate to watch live tea processing.
10. Pasupati Nagar Border Market
Pasupati Nagar border market deals in clothes, electronic and household goods. It is situated on the Siliguri Mirik Highway.
11. Thurbo Tea Garden & Factory
Guided tour of the Thurbo Tea Garden & Factory is available for visitors. One can get here interesting details of how tea is grown and processed.
12. Other Places
Other charming places to see in Mirik include the Tibetan Buddhist Monastery, Donbosco Church, Mirik Bazaar shopping center, Tamang Buddhist Monastery, Homedara Siva Mandir and Mirik Busty Orange Garden.
Quick Facts
Location: Mirik is located in the forested Singalila mountain ridge between Siliguri and Darjeeling, in the state of West Bengal (India) at a distance of 55 km from Siliguri.
Altitude: Mirik lies at an altitude of 5,800 ft (1,768 m)
Climate: Mirik is blessed with a salubrious, temperate climate experiencing pleasant summers and chilly winters. The maximum recorded summer temperature is 29 °C and maximum winter temperature is 13 °C. Average annual rainfall is 279.4 cm. Wear light woolen and tropical clothing in summer and heavy woolen clothing in winter.
Best time to travel: March to May and September to November is the best time to visit Mirik.
Accommodation: Hotels, lodges, tourist hostels, Swiss cottages and motels are available.
Getting There
By Flight: The closest airport to Mirik is Bagdogra at 55 km. One can take a bus or taxi from here to reach Mirik.
By Train: The nearest railway stations to Mirik are Ghoom at a distance of 41 km, Darjeeling at a distance of 49 km, Siliguri at a distance of 52 km and New Jalpaiguri (NJP) at a distance of 60 km. Buses and taxis ply from these places to Mirik.
By Road: Siliguri, Darjeeling and Kurseong are well connected with Mirik by an all weather metal road. The distance from Mirik to Siliguri is about 55 km and to Darjeeling about 50 km. Buses and taxis are available from Siliguri and Darjeeling to Mirik.
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