Mirik Darjeeling Tour and Travel Guide 2024 Bengal Tourism

Mirik Darjeeling: The tranquil village of Mirik is situated amidst lush green tea plantations at 1495 meters above sea level. The name “Mirik” originates from the Lepcha word “mir-yok”, meaning “place burnt by fire.” Its serene environment, with year-round favorable weather and picturesque views, has established Mirik as a major destination in travellers’ itineraries.

Distance From Darjeeling Is Approx. 40km Via Rishi Rd
Google Map: Mirik

Located 40 kilometers from Darjeeling, Mirik first appeared on the tourist radar in 1950, yet it remains undiscovered by many. The pristine surroundings of Mirik are refreshing, evoking a feeling of peace and tranquility.

To explore Mirik effortlessly, opt for North Bengal Guide’s affordable package, which includes convenient amenities like transportation, accommodation, meals, and personalized sightseeing tours.

Places To Visit In Mirik

Located midway between Siliguri and Darjeeling, near the Nepal border, Mirik is a serene hill station and honeymoon destination, famous for its iconic landmark, Sumendu Lake. The main features of this picturesque destination are as follows:

Sumendu Lake (Mirik Jill):

Located in the heart of Mirik, this tranquil spring extends for about half a kilometer.
Against the backdrop of the majestic Khangchendzonga Range and surrounded by oak and chestnut forests, it offers a picturesque setting.
Explore the surroundings of the lake, with a garden on one side and pine trees on the other, connected by the picturesque Indreni Bridge (Rainbow Bridge).

Recreational activities:

Enjoy various activities like pony rides, boating, fishing, and picnics at the lakeside.
Take a leisurely paddle boat ride for a refreshing experience while enjoying the serene atmosphere.

Natural Beauty and Reflection:

On clear days, see the stunning reflection of Mount Kanchenjunga in the lake, which adds to its scenic beauty.

Mirik’s journey:

Passing through lush green tea plantations, Japanese cypress forests, and winding roads, the journey to Mirik is a captivating experience in itself.
Witness the picturesque change of vegetation from orange groves to cardamom plantations, before reaching the quiet village of Mirik.

Rest amidst nature:

Soak in the rich aroma of the tea gardens while relaxing near the iconic Sumendu Lake.
Escaping the hustle and bustle of city life, Mirik is an ideal destination for a weekend getaway, surrounded by pleasant weather throughout the year.

Mirik’s charm lies in its tranquil pace of life, offering an ideal escape amidst the bounty of nature. The mesmerizing charm of Sumendu Lake complemented by the backdrop of Mount Kanchenjunga and lush green tea plantations, continues to fascinate travelers seeking peace and natural beauty.

Activities to Do in Mirik

During your holiday in Mirik, indulge in a plethora of outdoor activities. Explore the most popular activities the town has to offer:

Shopping at Pashupati Market:
- Mirik boasts its own market for groceries, while the neighboring Pashupati Market offers a glimpse into local life.
- Discover a variety of items including perfumes, antiques, clothes, and more.
Visit Bokar Monastery and Don Bosco Church:
- Explore religious sites such as the Bokar Monastery, showcasing Buddhist architectural brilliance.
- Admire outdoor paintings and ornate stupas. Don’t miss the serene atmosphere of Don Bosco Church, just 1.5 kilometers from the town center.
Enjoy Horse Riding and Boating:
- Experience the joy of boating on Sumendu Lake amidst a pine forest backdrop.
- Embark on horseback riding adventures near Mirik Lake and across the footbridge spanning the lake.

How to Reach Mirik

By Road: Conveniently accessible by road, Mirik is well-connected by buses and taxis from nearby major cities such as Siliguri, Darjeeling, and Kurseong.
By Rail: The nearest railway station is NJP, approximately 54 kilometers away. Hire a cab for onward travel.
By Flight: Bagdogra Airport, located 45 kilometers from Mirik, serves as the nearest air link with regular flights from major cities.

Accommodation in Mirik

Mirik offers a range of lodging options including hotels and homestays, predominantly situated in the southern part of Sumendu Lake.
Hotels provide amenities like WiFi, parking, restaurant, room service, bar, front desk, and laundry facilities.
Homestays offer modern conveniences for a memorable stay amidst local hospitality.

Best Time to Visit Mirik

While Mirik welcomes tourists year-round, the best time to visit is during summer (March to June) when temperatures range between 20 to 25 degrees Celsius, ideal for outdoor activities.
Monsoon (end of June) brings heavy showers leading to muddy roads and potential landslides, making it less favorable for travel.
Winter (November to February) witnesses cooler temperatures, dropping as low as 1 degree Celsius, offering a different charm to explore the town.

Sightseeing Places in Darjeeling

Discover the scenic wonders surrounding Darjeeling with these captivating destinations:

Kalimpong:

Nestled at the foothills of the mighty Himalayas, Kalimpong is a serene hill station offering tranquility amidst breathtaking vistas.

Mirik:

Explore the sleepy hamlet of Mirik, surrounded by lush tea gardens at an altitude of 1495 meters, offering a picturesque retreat.

Kurseong:

This bustling hill town, known for its daunting beauty, captivates travelers with its charm and scenic allure.

Lava

Situated 34 kilometers east of Kalimpong, Lava is a small hamlet renowned for its pristine beauty and tranquil ambiance.

Lolegaon:

Tucked away in the Himalayan Ridge at an altitude of 1675 meters, Lolegaon, also known as Kaffer village, offers serene surroundings and stunning views.

Kolakham:

Perched at an altitude of 6100 feet, Kolakham offers panoramic views of the Eastern Himalayas, making it a charming village retreat.

Changey Falls:

Located 14 kilometers from Lava, Changey Falls offers a breathtaking view of Mt. Khangchendzongha, surrounded by natural beauty.

Neora Valley National Park:

Established in 1986 at an altitude of 3200 meters, Neora Valley National Park is a haven for nature lovers, boasting diverse flora and fauna.

Charkhole:

Nestled in the Eastern Himalayas at an altitude of 5000 feet, Charkhole offers a tranquil valley retreat, away from the hustle and bustle.

Sandakphu:

Known as the ‘mountain of poisonous plants,’ Sandakphu offers stunning views of the Himalayas, including the Himalayan Cobra Lilies.

Silery Gaon:

Set amidst pine forests at an altitude of 6000 feet, Silery Gaon offers picturesque views of the Himalayan landscape, ideal for nature lovers.

Ichchegaon:

Nestled at an altitude of 5800 feet amid mystical pine forests, Ichchegaon offers a serene retreat for travelers seeking solitude.

Pedong:

Located 20 kilometers east of Kalimpong, Pedong is one of the oldest towns in the region, offering a glimpse into its rich history and stunning landscapes.

Manebhanjan:

Situated on the fringe of Singalila National Park, Manebhanjan offers adventure and scenic beauty at the border of India and Nepal.

Sonada:

A quaint town on National Highway 55, Sonada offers a peaceful stopover amidst picturesque surroundings.

Rohini:

Located 66 kilometers from Darjeeling, Rohini boasts greenery and natural beauty, offering a serene escape from the hustle and bustle.

Sukna:

Perched on the foothills of the Himalayas, Sukna serves as a gateway between Siliguri and Darjeeling, offering scenic views and forested landscapes.

Rishikhola:

Situated along the banks of River Reshi, Rishikhola is a quaint riverside village offering tranquility and natural beauty at the border of West Bengal and Sikkim.

Siliguri:

Located on the banks of River Mahanadi, Siliguri serves as a bustling hub and gateway to the Eastern Himalayas, offering diverse attractions and amenities.

Rongtong:

This small hamlet nestled amidst nature offers greenery and aesthetic pleasure, providing a serene retreat for travelers seeking tranquility.

Ramdhura:

Surrounded by pine forests and clouds, Ramdhura has emerged as an enchanting tourist destination offering stunning views, just 15 kilometers away.

Chota Mangwa:

Perched amidst orange orchards overlooking Mt. Kanchenjunga, Chota Mangwa offers a serene retreat amidst natural beauty.

Bara Mangwa:

A quaint village in the Darjeeling district, Bara Mangwa offers stunning views of the Kalimpong hills, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers.

Lamahatta:

Set amidst pine forests with views of the Himalayan range, Lamahatta offers a picturesque village retreat at an altitude of 5000 feet.

Latpanchar:

Perched at the highest point of the Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary, Latpanchar offers mesmerizing views and abundant wildlife, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts.

Tinchuley:

Situated at an altitude of 5800 feet, Tinchuley offers panoramic views and a quaint mountain village experience, just 3 kilometers above Takdha.

Lepchajagat:

At an altitude of 6956 feet, Lepchajagat is a picturesque hamlet located 19 kilometers from Darjeeling, offering stunning views and tranquility amidst nature’s beauty.