Batasia Loop is a famous railway loop located in Darjeeling, West Bengal. It is situated near Ghoom railway station, India's highest railway station. It is a historical loop constructed in 1919 to allow the toy train to climb the steep gradient of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR). The circle is situated at the top of the hill and has a spiral design, making it one of India's most scenic railway loops.
The Batasia Loop is surrounded by lush green hills and tea gardens, which make it a popular tourist destination. The war memorial at the centre also enhances the view of the loop. The monument is dedicated to the Gorkha soldiers who died in World War I and II. The memorial is made of white marble, surrounded by gardens and a pond.
The Batasia Loop is also a great spot for bird-watching. The loop is home to various migratory and local birds, including Himalayan pheasants, hill partridges, laughing thrushes, and cuckoos.
The Batasia Loop is one of the most popular attractions near Darjeeling. Visitors can also explore nearby attractions such as the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, Tiger Hill, Observatory Hill, Victoria Falls, and the Rock Garden.
Batasia Loop is a part of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, also known as the "Toy Train." You can ride on this UNESCO World Heritage Site and enjoy the scenic beauty of the Himalayan mountains and tea gardens.
Tiger Hill is a popular tourist destination near Batasia Loop in Darjeeling. It is known for its breathtaking sunrise views over the Kanchenjunga, the third-highest peak in the world. You can witness the beautiful play of colours as the sun rises and illuminates the snow-capped mountains.
Ghoom Monastery is situated near Batasia Loop and is one of the oldest Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in Darjeeling. It houses a large statue of Maitreya Buddha and offers a serene ambience for meditation and prayer. You can also experience the soothing sounds of Buddhist chants during the prayer sessions.
Darjeeling Mall Road:
The Mall Road in Darjeeling is a bustling street with shops, cafes, and restaurants. It offers a vibrant atmosphere and is a great place for shopping, tasting local cuisine, and enjoying the views of the surrounding hills.
Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park is located near Batasia Loop and is a must-visit for nature and wildlife enthusiasts. It is renowned for its conservation efforts and houses a variety of Himalayan fauna, including the rare snow leopard, red panda, and Tibetan wolf.
The Japanese Peace Pagoda is a serene Buddhist temple situated near Batasia Loop. It was built to promote world peace and offers panoramic views of the mountains and the town of Darjeeling. You can walk peacefully around the pagoda and soak in the tranquil atmosphere.
Rock Garden:
The Rock Garden, also known as Barbotey Rock Garden, is located near Batasia Loop. It is a beautifully landscaped garden with terraced lawns, waterfalls, and rock sculptures. You can relax amidst the natural beauty, enjoy the cascading streams, and click memorable pictures.