Family Adventure in the Scenic Hills of Darjeeling

A Day of Serenity and Remembrance

Today was a day of profound reflection as we explored two significant landmarks in Darjeeling: the Peace Pagoda and the Gorkha War Memorial. Each site offered a unique perspective on peace, sacrifice, and the enduring spirit of this remarkable region. It’s days like these that remind me why I love to travel – to learn, to remember, and to connect with the stories of the places I visit.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Dreamland Hotel & Restaurant. It was conveniently located, and we were able to enjoy a mix of Indian and continental breakfast options to get us going for the day. Leela enjoyed her toast and jam, while Thomas and I savored some spicy aloo parathas. It wasn't the best meal we have had, but it was decent enough to fuel our adventures for the day.

Finding Inner Peace at the Peace Pagoda

Our first stop was the Peace Pagoda, a gleaming white structure that stands as a symbol of peace and unity. As we approached, the serene atmosphere was immediately palpable. The pagoda, also known as the Shanti Stupa, is one of over 70 such pagodas built around the world by the Japanese Buddhist Nipponzan Myohoji organization. Its purpose is to promote peace and harmony, welcoming people of all faiths to experience its calming presence.

The history of the Peace Pagoda is deeply intertwined with the vision of Nichidatsu Fujii, a Japanese Buddhist monk inspired by Mahatma Gandhi. Fujii Guruji, as he was known, laid the foundation stone in 1972, but the pagoda was inaugurated in 1992, after his death. This monument stands as a testament to his commitment to non-violence and world peace, especially after the bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki.

Peace Pagoda is a haven for those seeking inner peace and one of Darjeeling's most peaceful spots.

As we walked around the pagoda, we admired the four golden statues of Buddha, each facing a different direction. The intricate carvings on the walls depicted various stages of Gautama Buddha's life, offering a visual narrative of his teachings. Leela was fascinated by the statues, asking questions about Buddha and his message of peace. It was a wonderful opportunity to share some of my cultural heritage with her, explaining the significance of compassion and mindfulness.

The panoramic views from the hilltop were breathtaking. We could see the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas, including the majestic Kanchenjunga, creating a stunning backdrop for this spiritual sanctuary. The crisp mountain air and the quiet hum of chanting monks added to the sense of tranquility, making it easy to forget the hustle and bustle of everyday life.


Experience tranquility and breathtaking views at the Peace Pagoda in Darjeeling, a serene Buddhist temple promoting world peace.

After spending a couple of hours at the Peace Pagoda, soaking in the peaceful ambiance, we headed to Hotel Marvel International & Restaurant for lunch. The restaurant was conveniently located and offered a variety of dishes. The food was fine, but the service was great.

Honoring Bravery at the Gorkha War Memorial

Our next destination was the Gorkha War Memorial, located within the scenic Batasia Loop. This memorial commemorates the bravery and sacrifice of Gorkha soldiers who laid down their lives in service to India after its independence. As I have relatives who served in the army, this visit was especially moving for me.

The memorial features a striking 3-meter-high bronze statue of a Gorkha soldier, sculpted by Gautam Pal. The statue stands proudly, symbolizing the courage and dedication of these brave warriors. The central cenotaph bears the names of the fallen heroes, ensuring their memory lives on.

The Batasia Loop itself is a marvel of engineering, where the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway negotiates a circular track, descending 1,000 feet in altitude. The combination of historical significance and natural beauty makes this a must-visit destination in Darjeeling. We watched as the famous toy train chugged around the loop, its whistle echoing through the hills. Leela was thrilled to see the train, waving enthusiastically as it passed by.

The gardens surrounding the memorial were beautifully maintained, with seasonal and perennial flowers adding color and vibrancy to the serene environment. We took a leisurely stroll through the gardens, reading the plaques that detailed the history and sacrifices of the Gorkha regiments. It was a poignant reminder of the human cost of conflict and the importance of honoring those who serve.


A poignant tribute to Gorkha soldiers, offering panoramic Himalayan views within the scenic Batasia Loop near Darjeeling.

As the day drew to a close, we made a stop at Habeeb Mullick & Sons, a renowned antique shop in Darjeeling. Established in 1890, this shop is a treasure trove of artifacts, precious stones, and antique jewelry. The shop has been run by a Kashmiri family for generations, and stepping inside felt like entering a living museum.

I was particularly drawn to the antique jewelry, admiring the intricate designs and the stories they seemed to hold. Thomas, with his keen eye for detail, was fascinated by the collection of precious stones. Leela, of course, was captivated by everything, wanting to touch and explore every item in the shop. We ended up purchasing a small silver pendant for Leela, a memento of our visit to this unique and historic establishment.

For dinner, we decided to try Golden Tips Teattoria, known for its wide range of teas and delicious snacks. The teattoria had a cozy ambiance, and we enjoyed sampling different varieties of Darjeeling tea. Leela opted for a hot chocolate, while Thomas and I savored the rich flavors of masala chai and some local snacks. It was the perfect way to end a day filled with reflection and remembrance.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Dali Monastery and the Bengal Natural History Museum. I’m looking forward to exploring more of Darjeeling’s cultural and natural heritage, and sharing these experiences with my family.

I’m starting to feel like a local here, which is always my goal when traveling. It’s amazing how quickly a place can feel like home when you immerse yourself in its history, culture, and community.