Family Adventure in the Scenic Hills of Darjeeling

Farewell, Darjeeling!

As our Darjeeling adventure draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible experiences we've shared as a family. Today was all about soaking in the last bits of this magical place, from soaring high above tea gardens to discovering hidden culinary treasures and quirky thrift store finds. It's amazing how a place can weave its way into your heart, leaving you with memories to cherish long after you've left.

The day began, as most of our days in Darjeeling did, with the quest for the perfect breakfast. We decided to try the Hot Stimulating Cafe. I'd read about its unassuming exterior and the stunning views it offered, and I was eager to experience it myself. The cafe was indeed a cozy little place, a simple tin shack with a triangular roof that exuded a magnetic charm. As we stepped inside, a fluffy cat greeted us, adding to the homely atmosphere. The walls flaunted large windows, showcasing a scintillating scenic view. We ordered coffee, cheese omelets, and, of course, momos. The momos, a local favorite known as Thukpa, were served piping hot and were the perfect way to start our day.

Sometimes the most memorable experiences are found in the simplest of places.

After breakfast, we headed to the Darjeeling Rangeet Valley Passenger Ropeway. I was excited, but also a little nervous, as I am not the biggest fan of heights. However, I knew Leela would absolutely love it, and Thomas was keen to capture the panoramic views. The ropeway, also known as the Rangeet Valley Passenger Cable Car, promised a breathtaking experience with views of tea gardens, waterfalls, and the majestic Kanchenjunga. The line was quite long. We waited patiently, chatting and taking in the scenery. Finally, we boarded one of the sixteen cars that travel between North Point in Darjeeling and Singla on the banks of the Ramman River.

As we ascended, the views were simply spectacular. Lush green tea gardens stretched out below us like emerald carpets, and the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas stood tall in the distance. Leela was ecstatic, pointing out waterfalls and exclaiming at the tiny houses below. Thomas, of course, was in his element, snapping photos from every angle. Even I, despite my initial apprehension, couldn't help but be mesmerized by the beauty. The 5 km ride felt smooth and stable, making it enjoyable for all of us. At Singla Bazaar, we took in the views of the mountains and valleys. I could spot different species of birds and wildlife with telescopes. It was easy to see why the Darjeeling Rangeet Valley Passenger Ropeway is a must-visit attraction.

For lunch, we ventured to Unique Family Restaurant. This restaurant offers both Chinese and Indian dishes. We decided to try a mix of both, ordering momos, dumplings, and some Indian-style chicken. The staff was friendly, and the atmosphere was relaxed, perfect for a family meal. Leela especially enjoyed the momos, declaring them the best she'd had so far on the trip. Thomas and I appreciated the flavorful Indian dishes, a comforting reminder of my roots. It was a satisfying and heartwarming meal, a perfect interlude in our day of exploration.

In the afternoon, I wanted to do something a little different. I had heard about the Darjeeling Thrift Store. As someone who appreciates vintage finds and sustainable fashion, I was intrigued. Plus, I thought it would be fun to hunt for some unique souvenirs that weren't the typical tourist fare. The store was located in the bustling Chauk Bazaar. It was a treasure trove of vintage apparel, retro accessories, and sustainable fashion. I loved browsing through the racks, discovering pieces that told stories of Darjeeling's rich heritage. Leela, surprisingly, was also into it, picking out colorful scarves and quirky jewelry. Thomas, ever the supportive husband, helped us sift through the piles, offering his (sometimes questionable) fashion advice. I ended up finding a beautiful vintage shawl with intricate embroidery. Leela found a cute bunny soft toy. It was a fun and memorable experience, a chance to connect with the local culture and find some truly special keepsakes.

As evening approached, we decided to have our final Darjeeling dinner at Soaltee Restaurant. This restaurant is one of the oldest and well-known restaurants in Darjeeling, known for its juicy momos. We ordered a variety of momos – chicken, pork, and mutton – and some flavorful fried rice and noodles. The momos were indeed juicy and delicious, living up to their reputation. The restaurant had a pretty atmosphere. It was a fitting end to our culinary adventures in Darjeeling. As we savored our meal, we reminisced about our favorite moments from the trip – the sunrise at Tiger Hill, the serenity of the monasteries, the beauty of the tea gardens, and the warmth of the people.

Our time in Darjeeling has been more than just a vacation; it's been a journey of discovery, connection, and rejuvenation. As an Indian expat living in Germany, returning to my roots and sharing this experience with my family has been incredibly special. Darjeeling has a way of capturing your heart, of reminding you of the simple joys in life. The blend of cultures, the stunning landscapes, and the delicious food create an unforgettable tapestry of experiences. It's a place I know we'll carry with us, a reminder of the beauty and richness of India. While there aren't any specific local events today, the charm of Darjeeling is enough to keep us entertained.

Tomorrow, we leave Darjeeling and head back to Kolkata for our flight back to Germany. It's always bittersweet to say goodbye to a place you've grown to love, but I know we'll be back someday. Until then, I'll cherish the memories we've made and continue to share our adventures with you all.

As we prepare to leave, I am filled with gratitude for this incredible experience. Darjeeling, you have been a dream.