Mirik is a lovely getaway located at the Himalayan Hills. Tourists visit Mirik for a sojourn or as a one day trip from Darjeeling. Situated on the south western side of Darjeeling it is surrounded by the Singalila Mountains of the Himalayan range. It is a popular destination during the summertime in West Bengal as people want to beat the heat during the humid summer in Bengal. This hill resort is situated at an altitude of 1767 meters and is at a distance of 49 kilometers from Darjeeling. For people who find Darjeeling crowded often prefer Mirik Himalayas as a getaway because of its peaceful atmosphere.
Major attractions in Mirik
The main attraction in Mirik is the Samendu Lake nestled in the hills. It never freezes and looks beautiful covering 1.25 kilometers. Enthusiastic tourists often find the boat ride in the lake very refreshing. You can either hire a small boat permitting only 2 people or a large one allowing more than 2 to enjoy the reflection of Kanchenjunga on the waters. There is a bridge over the lake which runs for 3.5kilometers joining either side of the lake flanked by rich forest covered in Cryptomaria-Japanica trees. The hiking trail within the forest is befitting for adventurous tourists.
One of the premier attractions of the Himalayan range in this region is the Kanchenjunga Mountain with its snow capped white peak which is clearly visible from atop the Ramitedwara hill. If you are staying at Mirik then climbing the hill to witness the golden peak of Kanchenjunga during sunrise and sunset will be unmatched experiences.
An observatory point can also be found at Deoshidwara from where you can view the spectacular town in all its glory. Mirik produces the best variety of oranges in Darjeeling which is exported. You can see the plantation as well. Nepal’s Pashupati Nagar is only 11 kilometers from Mirik and tourists love to visit the town and its market where you can get a wide variety of products at the lowest price.
How to reach Mirik
There is a helipad in Mirik and you can go on a helicopter ride for a bird’s eye view of the small but beautiful hill station. Apart from that, several government and private buses are available from Darjeeling to reach Mirik. You can avail the NBSTC buses at regular intervals from 8 in the morning to 2.15 in the afternoon. Besides, travel packages are offered by DCHC/WB Toursim during the peak season, when price for bus ride is 180 INR per passenger. For private buses the prices vary between 150 and 225 INR. Apart from these options, you can also travel in shuttle jeeps and private cars to arrive at this charming hill station. Enroute to Mirik from Darjeeling you will spot beautifully trimmed tea gardens on either side of the winding road. It is a breathtaking sight especially when it rains and the fogs settle on the streets.
Accommodation in Mirik
Accommodation in Mirik is hassle free because of the presence of several hotels and even Mirik Tourist Lodge maintained by West Bengal government. If you are visiting during the peak season, making prior reservation is advised.