Somewhere nestled in the North-eastern range of the mighty Himalayas, lie two serene regions by the name of Darjeeling and Sikkim. Their roads rest mostly untraveled and their beauty still fresh.
Every vista is breathtaking and pulls you back in time, when humanity was still in its dawn. The two lands have an inexplicable and intimate bond with Mother Nature; the latter has been very kind to them.
Over the years, the regions have promised an organic retreat to humankind. Every tour and travel operator in Darjeeling is working full-time to offer travel packages to people at the most competitive prices.
But, the truth is, buying happiness need not be a costly affair at all. It can be found in the most unexpected places, unlikely circumstances, and perhaps at unbelievable prices.Here is a list of the things you can do in the two hill stations, even when you have a shoestring travel budget. Hop on a ride, and enjoy!
Take a road trip around the city.
Because it’s mountain everywhere, your walk will be like a joy ride, full of ups and downs. Tread through the Victorian style buildings, and past the brimming marketplaces.
Hill cart road is an awesome place to be in Darjeeling. And, don’t forget the Mall Road. And about Sikkim, well, it’s ever full of greenery, and sometimes snow, too! Don’t you want to walk through that?
How about a Yak safari?
Okay, the animal is pretty slow. But, his pace will give you enough time to relish the entire land slowly. Ride on its back and let it carry you on an interesting, slow journey.
Don’t fret because this will not dent your wallet. However, you sure want to be careful about the animal. We are not sure what it can dent.
Try your hands at archery.
This is an age-old popular game in Sikkim. If you happen to visit the place during the season of harvest, you can surely participate in it.
Victory or no victory, to be a part of this adrenaline rushing game is sheer happiness, don’t you think? You could pass on your tales of bravery to the nest generation even.
Collect prayer flags.
If you thought the prayer flags fluttering everywhere are just for fun, think again. They are the harbingers of positivity that the wind carries.
They are the symbol of prosperity. In fact, each colour has a meaning. The white ones represent air and are believed to keep ego and pride away from the inhabitants.
The green flags symbolise water and keep away jealousy. The yellow ones represent earth and ward off passion and desire. Blue flags, on the other hand, stand for space, and filter our ignorance.
Red flags represent fire, and save humanity form greed. Last, but not the least, black prayer flags are believed to dismiss hatred amongst humans. Don’t you want to keep these flags as a souvenir?
Enjoy the Toy Train ride.
Well, this happens only in Darjeeling. The Toy Train runs on a narrow gauge, and has been tagged by the UNESCO as the world’s most extraordinary example of passenger railway in a hill station.
As you sit in it, you will be able to savour some awe inspiring places. Collect them in your mind and cherish later. And yes, tickets come for a very nominal price.
Eat momos and taste tea.
A trip to the Queen of Hills without tasting tea is only futile. Make sure you have a cup of the hot beverage in the morning and conclude your evening with another cup. Both the places are equally famous for their delicious momos as well.
Try a plateful with hot soup. Your tummy would be more than happy and your pocketbook will never be burnt. Can you show us a more affordable way of satiating hunger in the two hilly regions? Guess, no. So, when are you backpacking?
