Along with Bengal’s highest point, Sandakphu, several other parts of the state witnessed snowfall in the past two days, raising expectations of a white Christmas for tourists. Many tourists shared videos and images of the snow-covered landscapes from Sandakphu and other destinations that have received snowfall recently.
According to the Indian Meteorological Department, the drop in temperature in the elevated reaches of Darjeeling indicates a significant decline in temperature across the eastern states of the country in the coming days. In its latest regional weather bulletin, the weather forecasting agency has predicted rain or snowfall at a few places in Darjeeling until December 13.
Tourists in various parts of the Darjeeling district began rushing to the higher reaches as news of the season’s first snowfall in Sandakphu and Tonglu spread on Thursday.
Sandakphu, the highest point in West Bengal, is situated at a height of 11,930 feet on the Singalila ridge in the Himalayas. It offers a majestic view of the Everest, Makalu, Lhotse, and Kanchenjunga peaks.
Bengal’s Darjeeling town, often described as the queen of the hills, recorded a minimum temperature of 6.6 degrees Celsius and rainfall of 4.8 mm in the past 24 hours till Friday morning, according to the weather office.
Raj Basu, the Siliguri-based convenor of the Association for Conservation of Tourism, mentioned that hotels, transporters, and tour operators have started receiving inquiries from various parts of India after the news of the first snowfall in the Darjeeling hills. The first snowfall acts as a kickstart for the winter season for tourism in the region, encompassing north Bengal and Sikkim, he told PTI.
The snowfall in Darjeeling and other parts of West Bengal has sparked excitement among tourists, both local and from different parts of the country. The picturesque landscapes covered in a blanket of snow have encouraged tourists to plan their vacations and experience the chilly beauty of the region.
Not only does the snowfall attract tourists seeking a winter wonderland, but it also has a positive impact on the local economy. Hotels, homestays, and other accommodation providers witness a surge in bookings during this time. Local businesses, including restaurants, shops, and transport services, also benefit from the influx of tourists.
The charm of Darjeeling and its surrounding areas lies not only in its natural beauty but also in the unique experiences it offers. From sipping hot tea at the iconic tea gardens to exploring the rich cultural heritage of the region, tourists are drawn to the diverse offerings of this hill station.
The snowfall in Darjeeling and Sandakphu is a welcome sight for adventure enthusiasts as well. Trekkers and mountaineers find these snowy landscapes ideal for their expeditions, while nature lovers are captivated by the pristine beauty of the snow-covered mountains.
As the winter season progresses, the tourism industry in Darjeeling anticipates a steady flow of visitors. With the promise of more snowfall in the coming days, tourists are eagerly planning their trips to this enchanting region of West Bengal.
Whether it be witnessing the sunrise from Tiger Hill, visiting the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, or taking a ride on the iconic Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, visitors to Darjeeling can indulge in a range of experiences that cater to their interests.
With the season’s first snowfall enchanting tourists and locals alike, Darjeeling is poised to embrace a bustling winter tourism season. As the region transforms into a winter wonderland, tourists can look forward to creating unforgettable memories against the backdrop of snowy peaks and serene landscapes.
