Why the picturesque location of Mirik should top your travel wishlist
India hosts a number of scenic hill stations in almost each and every region of the country. These hill stations always remain crowded and hurly-burly with their visitors and this is the thing that some travelers don’t like about these destinations. Nowadays, people prefer to explore unexplored places, due to which the lesser explored places are coming into the spotlight. Here is one picturesque location named Mirik, which is situated near the famous hill station of Darjeeling in West Bengal.
Mirik is one of the most adorable destinations nestled in the core of emerging hills with serene lake negotiating across the town, which enhances the beauty of this hill town. Like Darjeeling, Mirik is also used to be a prominent destination for tourists since the British era in India. Elevated at an altitude of 4,905 feet, Mirik is a perfect spot for a day outing from Darjeeling. After the popularity of Darjeeling, Mirik observes huge tourists around the year. The most charming attraction of Mirik is the Bokar Monastery, which is settled at a height of 5,810 feet. Another feature that attracts the tourists in Mirik is its climate which remains pleasant almost throughout the year. The breeze in Mirik always makes you feel cool and fresh.
Apart from all this, tea estates around the town are one of the main attractions which enhance the beauty of Mirik. These estates act as a green shield which is encircling the town. Mirik comes on the list of lesser explored places because unlike Darjeeling, its beauty is still untouched and yet to explore.
This quaint hill town is situated just 49 km from the popular hill station, Darjeeling and 52 km from Bagdogra and New Jalpaiguri, which are the nearest airport and railhead respectively. So in terms of accessibility, Mirik is quite easy to reach.
Here are few must-visit places to visit in Mirik-
Sumendu Lake
If boating interests you then this place is a must for you. The lake is one of the major attractions of Mirik. One cannot opt for swimming, but boating is allowed there. Boating in the lake will be an amazing experience and gives you a scenic view of the town. The arched bridge constructed over the lake is another feature of the lake and the glimmering water through the bridge will amaze you. The lake is girded by Dhupi trees, and a beautiful garden is situated at the east shore of the lake. Himalayan peaks can also be seen during the boating or taking a stroll in the garden.
Bokar Monastery
Bokar Monastery is certainly the highest point of this town. Standing at an altitude of 5,310 feet, the monastery is a tiny structure that can be noticed from the lake as well. The view of the hill town from the monastery is probably the best. The monastery has a gold-plated statue of Buddha standing in the center which makes it a unique and popular one. It is one of most the notable monasteries for Buddhists in India. Mesmerising sunsets and sunrises can be watched from the monastery as the ideal locations are situated in the vicinity. If you are looking for more interesting monasteries to visit in Mirik and the Darjeeling area, check out our blog on 7 monasteries in Darjeeling that will disconnect you from the world.
Orange Orchards
During the time of full bloom, these orchards become one of the charming features of this tiny town. Mirik houses a number of orange orchards which make this town the largest supplier of oranges in entire West Bengal. The view from the orchards is astonishingly scenic that will take your breath away.
Tingling View Point
If you wish to have a panoramic view of tea estates at Mirik then Tingling View Point is probably the best spot. Apart from Mirik, other nearby villages can also be seen from the point. The tingling viewpoint is one of the spots that offers the best views of the town. The point often remains windy which makes the experience more enjoyable.
Apart from the above points and locations, there are other locations too where one can visit and spend quality time. Such spots are, Rai Dhap, Pashupati Nagar, Mirik Church also known as Don Bosco Church, Homedara Siva Mandir, Mirik Bazaar Shopping Center, Tamang Buddhist Monastery, and Cardamom firm. For more breathtaking views in Mirik and the Darjeeling area, check out Tiger Hill, Darjeeling.
You may either stay at Mirik to have the pure essence of the trip but if you are looking for a more comfortable stay with luxury amenities, then a day trip to Mirik would be perfect from Darjeeling. If you want to do more in the Darjeeling area, check out our blog on What to do in Darjeeling. When you plan your next trip to Mirik and Darjeeling, do stay at Sterling Darjeeling situated near Ghum Monastery and experience the best of Darjeeling.