Its name synonymous for many with tea, beautiful Darjeeling (pop. 132,000) is located in the far northeastern state of West Bengal, in the lap of the soaring Kanchan Junga mountains (lesser Himalayas). Founded in the early 19th century by the British starting with an army depot and sanitorium (thanks to its pleasant climate, more temperate than the regions below), the "Queen of the Hills" subsequently saw the establishment of plantations growing the black tea which became one of the world's most popular. Amazingly blessed with emerald greenery all year round, it's especially striking in the spring when the red and white rhododendrons bloom all over, and In my opinion its climate, blissful ambiance, pretty Victorian as well as neo-Tudor and Gothic architecture, and smiling people makes this India's most friendly and welcoming hill station for holidaymakers, especially nature lovers. Here are some highlights of a visit to Darjeeling.

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