Batasia Loop

Darjeeling Batasia Loop is one of the major tourist spots of the Darjeeling Tourism Circuit. This point offers a fabulous view of the Kanchanjanga and the other snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas.

Tourists stop here to view the Himalayas as well as to click a few photos with the Kanchanjanga in the background. Binoculars are available here on hire for those who are interested in having a close view of the Himalayas and the surrounding area.

Batasia Loop, Darjeeling Overview ...

The Batasia loop is to be found roughly 5 km away from Darjeeling, located on a hilltop. This place is festooned as a garden through which the toy train passes in a loop pattern.

It is an enormous railway loop where the Toy Train makes a 360 Degree turn. The spiral railway formed to lower the slope of rising of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal, India.

At this point, the track spirals around over itself through a subway and over the top of the hill. It was commissioned in 1919. This loop structure gives a perfect crowd to the legendary toy train in Darjeeling.

One of the greatest spots to enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of Darjeeling town and the snow-covered peaks of the Eastern Himalayas, including the majestic Kanchenjunga, is here. Visitors spend time in the lovely garden, taking photos in various local traditional attires.

Batasia is a word that meaning “open space” or “airy space.” The total area, including the gardens and an approach bridge leading to the garden, is approximately 50,000 square feet. It has been grassed over and adorned with both seasonal and perennial flowers and plants.

Best time to visit Batasia Loop, Darjeeling...

The best time to visit Batasia Loop is generally around the months of October – November in autumn, December – January – February in winter, March – April in spring. However, tourists used to visit Darjeeling throughout whole year.

Location of Batasia Loop …

Batasia Loop lies on Hill Cart Road, halfway between Darjeeling and Ghoom. It is located 5 kilometers from Darjeeling town, just below Ghum. Most visitors opt to visit Batasia Loop on their way back from Tiger Hill top.

You may go to Batasia Loop in approximately 20 minutes by taking a taxi or cab from Darjeeling to Ghoom. And it’s only around 5-10 minutes’ walk from Ghoom.

Staying near Batasia Loop …

Staying near Batasia Loop – As Tiger Hill is close to Batasia Loop, many tourists prefer to stay on their first night. Moreover, the scenic beauty at Batasia Loop itself attracts to stay here.

Awesome Batasia Loop …

The Batasia Loop is one of the greatest spots in Darjeeling to obtain panoramic views of the city and the beautiful snow-covered peaks of Kanchenjunga and the Eastern Himalayas.

Take a toy train from Darjeeling or Ghoom that will cruise over this loop, honking its whistle the entire time. The train goes through a tunnel and stops for a few minutes here, enabling you to relax and take in the unrivaled beauty of the hill station from a magnificent flower garden. Take a stroll around the garden’s various walkways.

Take a stroll around the track and make your own loop. Visit the Eco Garden to learn about Darjeeling’s organic farming and plantations, as well as to see rhododendrons, silver firs, tea bushes, and rare plant species such as Ginkgo biloba.

The Batasia Loop was a British engineering project commissioned to counteract a steep fall that the toy train had to travel. The lovely Batasia Loop, which includes a renowned rail track and has served as a backdrop for numerous Bollywood film scenes.

Things to do in Batasia Loop …

Photography: Batasia Loop is a famous tourist site offering a variety of activities for guests. Photography in traditional costume is one of the most popular activities. Traditional costumes and clothing are available for hiring for photoshoots here. You may do it if you like, and snap pictures of the unforgettable moments.

Telescopic view: There are huge telescopes placed that may be rented for a fee. View the mountains and the town of Darjeeling via a telescope.

Shopping: Visit a neighbouring market for amazing souvenirs and gifts. Various showpieces and winter clothing are available at extremely affordable prices. Starting with hand-woven sweaters, caps, elegant coats, locally created handbags, bags, and other decorative things, and a whole lot more. During the tourist season, tiny stores are put up to sell woollen clothing, handicrafts, souvenirs, Darjeeling Tea, and other goods.

The Batasia Loop War Memorial …

The War Memorial is located in the heart of the Batasia Loop and was built to remember the sacrifice of Gorkha troops of the Indian Army who gave their lives following Indian independence in 1947.

There is a cenotaph and a Gorkha soldier statue. A 3-meter-high bronze monument of a Gorkha soldier stands within the loop as a war memorial. The Batasia Loop Memorial, which was officially opened in 1995, is an important milestone on the Batasia Loop.

The Spiral Railway …

The Batasia Loop, considered an engineering marvel, was built by the British and commissioned in 1919 because the toy train needed to be able to manage a steep slope.

As the toy train proceeds towards Darjeeling, there is a steep drop just after Ghoom, the highest railway station.

The toy train could not navigate such a steep fall of roughly 140 feet unless the gradient of the slope was reduced in some way.

It’s a fantastic experience to witness from one side of the garden that the toy train makes a complete loop while hooting its whistle and attempting to negotiate the spiral track with a double loop.

It completes the circle by wrapping itself around a large circular region and then crossing its own track through a hilltop tunnel.

There are also sitting places where you can take in the scenery.

The Eco Garden …

Organic farming and plantations are featured in this Batasia garden. The gardens are home to numerous rare and unknown species such as Rhododendrons, Silver Firs, and Ginkgo Biloba.

There are seating spaces to enjoy the views as you stand on one side of the garden. It has been grassed over and adorned with both seasonal and perennial flowers and plants.

The total area, including the gardens and an approach bridge leading to the garden, is approximately 50,000 square feet.

Tips to visit Batasia Loop…

When you visit Darjeeling during monsoons, do not plan for Batasia Loop. Since cloud covers whole area during monsoon and you may wind up seeing nothing.
Don’t forget to take phone number of car driver and Take a picture of registration number plate of the car you booked. As you will not recognize your car when you return to the parking lot.

More sightseeing in Darjeeling

FAQ about Batasia Loop ...

Can I visit the Batasia Loop throughout the year?

Yes, you can visit the Batasia Loop throughout the year. However, it is advisable to avoid the monsoon season (June to August) due to heavy rainfall, which may affect transportation and visibility.

Are there any entry fees for visiting the Batasia Loop?

Yes, there is a nominal entry fee for visiting the Batasia Loop. The fee contributes to the maintenance and preservation of the area.

Can I take photographs at the Batasia Loop?

Yes, photography is allowed at the Batasia Loop. Capture the breathtaking views and the architectural marvels, but do be considerate of other visitors and the surroundings.

Are there any nearby attractions to visit along with the Batasia Loop?

Yes, there are several nearby attractions to explore, including the Ghoom Monastery, Tiger Hill, and the Happy Valley Tea Estate. These attractions offer unique experiences and further insight into the region’s cultural and natural heritage.

How do I reach the Batasia Loop?

The Batasia Loop is easily accessible from Darjeeling town. From there, local transportation options like taxis and shared jeeps are available to reach the Batasia Loop, which is approximately 5 kilometers away.