Family Adventure in the Scenic Hills of Darjeeling

A Walk on the Wild Side

Today was a day of exploring the unique wildlife and the inspiring world of mountaineering, something I was very excited about. It was a blend of nature and history, perfect for both Leela's curious mind and our adventurous hearts. I always feel a sense of coming home whenever I am in India, and sharing this feeling with my family is something I cherish deeply.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Frank Ross Cafe. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the promise of South Indian snacks filled the air. It's a cozy little place, run by a family that also owns the adjacent pharmacy. The cafe had a simple charm, with its green marble-topped tables and cane chairs. Thomas enjoyed a club sandwich, while Leela opted for her usual cornflakes. I, of course, went straight for the dosas, reminiscing about the flavors of my childhood in Nashik. It was the perfect start to a day filled with exploration.


Discover the flavors of Darjeeling at Frank Ross Cafe, your go-to spot for fast food and local delicacies in Chauk Bazaar.

With our bellies full, we set off to the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, also known as the Darjeeling Zoo. The crisp mountain air was invigorating as we walked towards the entrance. Nestled at an altitude of over 7,000 feet, the zoo is India's largest high-altitude zoo. I was eager to see the animals, especially the red pandas and snow leopards, species unique to this region.


Discover rare Himalayan wildlife at India's highest zoo, a leading conservation center for snow leopards and red pandas.

As we entered, Leela's eyes widened with excitement. The zoo is thoughtfully laid out, with winding paths that lead you through different habitats. The first animals we encountered were the Tibetan wolves, their thick fur coats making them look like majestic creatures of the mountains. Leela was fascinated, asking Thomas a barrage of questions about their habitat and behavior.

Next, we made our way to the snow leopard enclosure. These elusive cats are a sight to behold, their smoky grey coats blending seamlessly with the rocky terrain. We were lucky enough to spot one lounging on a rock, its piercing blue eyes scanning the surroundings. I remember reading about snow leopards in my childhood, but seeing one in person was an entirely different experience.

The highlight of the zoo, without a doubt, was the red panda enclosure. These adorable creatures, with their reddish-brown fur and bushy tails, are incredibly charming. Leela was particularly smitten, giggling as she watched them munch on bamboo leaves. I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe at the incredible biodiversity of the Himalayas.

The mountains are calling and I must go.

After spending a couple of hours at the zoo, we walked over to the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute (HMI), which is located within the same complex. The HMI was established in 1954 in memory of Tenzing Norgay, who, along with Sir Edmund Hillary, conquered Mount Everest. It is a place that celebrates the spirit of adventure and the indomitable human will.


Explore mountaineering history at the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute in Darjeeling, offering stunning views and a glimpse into the world of climbing.

Our first stop was the HMI Museum, which showcases the history of mountaineering in the Himalayas. Leela was captivated by the exhibits, which included mountaineering equipment, photographs, and stories of famous expeditions. Thomas, with his background in physics, was particularly interested in the technical aspects of mountaineering, explaining to Leela the principles behind the ropes, ice axes, and crampons.

We learned about Tenzing Norgay's incredible journey, from his humble beginnings as a porter to his historic ascent of Everest. His story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the human spirit. The museum also highlighted the challenges and risks involved in mountaineering, reminding us of the immense respect these mountains command.

After the museum, we decided to try the treetop rope course. Leela, initially hesitant, quickly warmed up to the challenge, encouraged by Thomas's enthusiastic support. Watching her navigate the ropes and obstacles, I felt a surge of pride. It was wonderful to see her embrace the spirit of adventure.

By lunchtime, we were all quite hungry. We headed to Magnolia Restaurant at the Mayfair Hill Resort for lunch. The restaurant has a cozy ambiance, with both indoor and outdoor seating. We opted for the outdoor seating, which offered stunning views of the surrounding hills. The weather was perfect, with a gentle breeze and clear skies.


Experience the flavors of India and China at Magnolia Restaurant in Darjeeling's Mayfair Hotel amidst breathtaking mountain views.

Magnolia offers a multi-cuisine menu, and we decided to try a mix of Indian and Continental dishes. Leela ordered a simple pasta, while Thomas and I shared a butter chicken and some naan. The food was delicious, and the service was impeccable. It was a relaxing and enjoyable meal, a perfect interlude in our day of exploration.

In the late afternoon, we visited Nathmull's Tea Shop, a Darjeeling institution. Established in 1931, Nathmull's is one of the oldest and most respected tea merchants in Darjeeling. I wanted to buy some authentic Darjeeling tea to take back home to Heidelberg.


Explore the aromatic world of Darjeeling tea at Nathmull's Tea Shop, where tradition meets flavor in every cup.

The shop was a treasure trove of teas, with shelves lined with jars and packets of different varieties. The staff was incredibly knowledgeable, guiding us through the nuances of each tea. I learned about the different flushes, the importance of the terroir, and the art of brewing the perfect cup. I finally settled on a selection of first flush and second flush teas, as well as some fragrant masala chai for Thomas.

Before dinner, we squeezed in some time for shopping. Darjeeling is known for its woolens, and Leela was keen on getting a warm sweater. We strolled through the local markets, bargaining for a colorful, hand-knitted sweater for her. The markets were bustling with activity, a vibrant mix of locals and tourists.

For dinner, we decided to try Penang Restaurant, known for its Chinese and Nepali cuisine. The restaurant had a charming atmosphere, with wood-paneled walls and soft lighting. We ordered a mix of dishes, including momos, thukpa, and chili chicken noodles. The food was flavorful and comforting, a perfect end to a busy day.


Discover authentic Nepalese cuisine at Penang Restaurant in Darjeeling - where flavor meets breathtaking views.

As we walked back to the Ramada by Wyndham Darjeeling Gandhi Road, the town was quiet and peaceful. The stars were out, and the air was crisp and cool. Leela, tired but happy, was fast asleep in Thomas's arms. I felt a deep sense of contentment. Today had been a wonderful blend of nature, history, and culture, a perfect day in Darjeeling.


Experience comfort and convenience at Ramada by Wyndham Darjeeling, a perfect base for your Himalayan adventures, with modern amenities and breathtaking views.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Lloyd Botanical Garden and Shrubbery Nightingale Park, hoping for more scenic views and tranquil moments. I am particularly looking forward to the botanical garden, as I have heard it has a fascinating collection of Himalayan flora. Until then, goodnight from Darjeeling!