Latest news with #British-era
India.com
11 hours ago
- India.com
Harry Potter Vibes? These Darjeeling Legends Feel Straight Out Of A Fantasy Movie
When the first light of dawn touches the rolling hills of Darjeeling, something ancient stirs. The lush tea gardens glow emerald, the toy train's whistle carries on the crisp air, and if you listen closely, you might hear stories whispered by the wind—tales of yogis, warriors, and even creatures that hide beyond snow-capped peaks. Most visitors flock to Tiger Hill for sunrise or ride the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. But Darjeeling's true magic lies in its myths—those hidden stories woven into every corner of this hill station. Let's step off the beaten path and follow the trails where legends still live. What makes Darjeeling more than just a view of Kanchenjunga? It's not just the height or the scent of first-flush tea. It's the collision of cultures—Tibetan monasteries and colonial bungalows, Hindu temples and Buddhist stupas. It's a place where British-era rail tracks cross ancient mountain passes, where every stone seems to hold a secret. Unlike busy markets or crowded viewpoints, Darjeeling's legends unfold in silence, in moments between train whistles and clinking teacups. Here, the mundane slips away, and the border between history and myth grows thin. 1. Ghoom Monastery – Home of the Snow Lion Perched just above Darjeeling, the Yiga Choeling Gompa is said to guard the pass with the roar of the mythical Snow Lion. Monks whisper that at dawn you can glimpse its shadow dancing on prayer flags. Inside, the giant Maitreya Buddha smiles as if he knows the monastery's oldest secret: centuries ago, a lama tamed a malevolent spirit of the mountains and bound it here forever. 2. Batasia Loop – Where Love Echoes in the Wind This spiral rail track offers panoramic views of Darjeeling town and Kanchenjunga. But locals say it also holds a tragic love story. Two young train drivers, divided by caste, worked here in the 1920s. Forbidden to marry, they vowed their love at midnight beneath the loop's arch. It is said that on clear nights, if you listen closely, you can hear their laughter mingling with the steam whistle. 3. Observatory Hill – The Seat of the Mahakal Above the Mall lies a cluster of shrines dedicated to Shiva as Mahakal, the Lord of Time. This site was once the stronghold of the Lepcha people, who called it 'Dorje Ling' or 'Thunderbolt Commune.' Legend tells of a Lepcha priest who vanquished a demon that shook the very hills with its tantrums. Today, pilgrims light butter lamps in honor of that ancient victory. 4. Lloyd's Botanical Gardens – The Whispering Ferns These manicured gardens were established by the British botanist William Lloyd. What most tourists miss are the stone markers deep among rhododendrons. They commemorate local healers who once foraged rare plants here. An old tale claims that anyone who gathers the ghost orchid at twilight will be granted a single healing wish—if they can find their way back without a guide. 5. Cab Ride to Mirik – The Lake of Tears Mirik Lake, framed by pines and cardamom farms, seems serene. Yet, its name translates to 'mirror of tears.' Centuries ago, a queen wept here for her lost lover, a prince who vanished on a dragon's back. Even now, some say the water shimmers red at dusk, as though soaked by her sorrow. 6. Tinchuley – The Valley of the Invisible Yeti A two-hour drive north lies the hamlet of Tinchuley, where trekking paths wind through bamboo forests. Local guides speak of footprints in the mist—hulking, three-toed tracks that vanish at creek crossings. They say the Yeti is a guardian of the forest, appearing only to those who respect the land. 7. Happy Valley Tea Estate – The Ghost of the Planter This estate dates back to 1854. Workers claim that at moonrise, the ghost of the original British planter strolls the rows of tea bushes, inspecting the leaves. Some say he's still searching for the 'perfect harvest' that was lost when he vanished without a trace during a storm. Why follow Darjeeling's myths instead of just its landmarks? Because these stories give the hills a heartbeat. They remind us that travel is more than photos—it's a conversation with time itself. Each legend you uncover connects you to the people who have called these mountains home for centuries. Practical Tips: How to Discover Darjeeling's Legends Rise before sunrise. Catch the toy train at Darjeeling Railway Station and ride to Ghoom. The early hours are when whispers feel loudest. Talk to locals. Taxi drivers, tea pickers, and monastery caretakers each have a favorite tale. They'll share it best over a cup of masala chai. Pack light layers. Hill weather changes fast. A warm scarf and a flashlight help you explore gardens and shrines as dusk falls. Respect sacred spaces. Remove shoes at temples, heed monks' requests, and walk softly—these places are alive with reverence. The Hidden Economy of Legends: Why This Journey Matters When you explore beyond the Mall Road and Tiger Hill, you support family-run homestays in Beltangadi, roadside stalls in Lebong, and tea estates in Happy Valley. You ease pressure on crowded spots like Chowrasta and give value to villages that preserve these stories. In short, your footsteps ensure that Darjeeling's myths continue to live, whispered by every leaf and stone. So what's holding you back? A winding hillside? That's part of the charm. A forgotten shrine? That's where the magic hides. Darjeeling doesn't just offer tea or mountain views. It invites you into its legends. And while the toy train puffs through emerald hills, somewhere not far off, an old monk chants a blessing over a hidden shrine. A breeze stirs the prayer flags, and a story waits to be heard. Not for a selfie. Not for a for the journey. Final Thought Don't just visit Darjeeling. Wander into its stories. The next time you see the Kanchenjunga glow at dawn, don't just snap a picture—pause, breathe, and listen. Because history doesn't shout. It whispers. And here, in these mist-kissed hills, every whisper is a door to another time.
News18
15 hours ago
- News18
The British-Era Reason Why Nainital's Mall Road Closes For 2 Hours Daily Even Today
Last Updated: Since the 1960s, vehicle movement on Mall Road is restricted for two hours daily to preserve its heritage and tourist appeal The iconic Mall Road, which defines Nainital, the lake city of Uttarakhand, is not just a road but a symbol of the town's colonial legacy, British-era planning, and evolving culture. Running alongside the lake, this picturesque stretch connects Tallital to Mallital and remains one of the most recognisable spots in the city. But have you ever wondered why this road was built by the British? And why is it still closed to vehicles for two hours each evening? Why Was Mall Road Built? The construction of Mall Road began in 1845 and was completed a year later, in 1846, under the commissionership of G.T. Lushington. At that time, Nainital was being developed as the 'summer capital' of the British administration in Kumaon. British officers, fleeing the heat of the plains, wanted a scenic walkway beside the lake for leisure, to stroll, ride horses, and socialise. This vision laid the foundation for what we now know as Mall Road. A Symbol of Prestige and Power According to Professor Ajay Rawat, a noted historian from Nainital, Mall Road was more than a convenience; it was a status symbol. Lined with British clubs, hotels, and restaurants, the road quickly became the hub of colonial social life. Interestingly, while most hill stations restricted Indian entry to such exclusive areas, Nainital's Mall Road allowed locals to access the area, a rare exception granted due to the support offered by some residents to the British during the 1857 revolt. This access was considered a mark of 'respect' by the British for the loyalty of certain locals. In contrast to other colonial towns where Indians were barred from elite spaces, the people of Nainital were permitted to walk on Mall Road freely, a significant gesture for that time. By 1856, the headquarters of the Kumaon Commissionerate shifted from Almora to Nainital, enhancing the town's administrative importance. In 1858, the establishment of India's first Methodist Church on Mall Road further cemented its religious and historical relevance. Evening Road Closure Even today, Mall Road remains central to the charm of Nainital. To preserve its heritage and offer tourists a peaceful experience, vehicular movement is restricted every evening for two hours. This tradition began in the 1960s, under the leadership of them union minister Govind Ballabh Pant, who promoted limited vehicle access. Since then, the road has remained a vital link between Nainital's colonial past and its vibrant present. view comments First Published: July 22, 2025, 15:03 IST Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
The Hindu
2 days ago
- The Hindu
Eco-tourism infrastructure gets a boost with two more eco huts getting ready in Pachamalai hills
The Forest Department has enhanced eco-tourism infrastructure in the lush green and serene Pachamalai, falling under the Tiruchi Forest Division near Thuraiyur, which has been attracting nature lovers and tourists. The infrastructure enhancements have been carried out under the Tamil Nadu Innovation Initiatives (TANII) 2024-25 with an allocation of ₹1.1 crore. Two eco huts have been constructed at Top Sengattupatti atop the Pachamalai as part of the department's ongoing eco-tourism infrastructure enhancement, said a senior official. The eco huts have been provided with double cots, a separate dining place, restroom, and a verandah for visitors to enjoy the verdant environment on the hills. A British-era bungalow has been renovated as part of this initiative and made ready to accommodate tourists. The eco huts and the revamped British bungalow would be thrown open to the visitors soon, the official said. A part of the Eastern ghats, the scenic Pachamalai, which comes under the Thuraiyur Forest Range, is endowed with thick forest areas, ridges and valleys. It is home to various animal and bird species besides butterflies. A study undertaken by the Forest Department in December 2024 recorded as many as 126 butterfly species and a healthy butterfly population in the hill region. The hilly terrain has the popular Koraiyar and Mangalam waterfalls besides dedicated trekking routes at Sholamathi, Kalaimman Koil, and Kuthirai Paathai for the trekkers and adventure lovers. Amenities at waterfalls The officials said bathing facilities had been improved at the Koraiyar falls. This includes construction of safe access steps and provision of safety rails for secure bathing in the stream. Safety measures have also been put in place at Mangalam falls. All these developments complement the existing two tree top accommodations which were established in 2015 to promote eco-tourism at Pachamalai.
The Hindu
2 days ago
- The Hindu
Eco-tourism infrastructure gets a boost with two more eco huts getting ready in Tamil Nadu's Pachamalai hills
The Forest Department has enhanced eco-tourism infrastructure in the lush green and serene Pachamalai, falling under the Tiruchi Forest Division near Thuraiyur, which has been attracting nature lovers and tourists. The infrastructure enhancements have been carried out under the Tamil Nadu Innovation Initiatives (TANII) 2024-25 with an allocation of ₹1.1 crore. Two eco huts have been constructed at Top Sengattupatti atop the Pachamalai as part of the department's ongoing eco-tourism infrastructure enhancement, said a senior official. The eco huts have been provided with double cots, a separate dining place, restroom, and a verandah for visitors to enjoy the verdant environment on the hills. A British-era bungalow has been renovated as part of this initiative and made ready to accommodate tourists. The eco huts and the revamped British bungalow would be thrown open to the visitors soon, the official said. A part of the Eastern ghats, the scenic Pachamalai, which comes under the Thuraiyur Forest Range, is endowed with thick forest areas, ridges and valleys. It is home to various animal and bird species besides butterflies. A study undertaken by the Forest Department in December 2024 recorded as many as 126 butterfly species and a healthy butterfly population in the hill region. The hilly terrain has the popular Koraiyar and Mangalam waterfalls besides dedicated trekking routes at Sholamathi, Kalaimman Koil, and Kuthirai Paathai for the trekkers and adventure lovers. Amenities at waterfalls The officials said bathing facilities had been improved at the Koraiyar falls. This includes construction of safe access steps and provision of safety rails for secure bathing in the stream. Safety measures have also been put in place at Mangalam falls. All these developments complement the existing two tree top accommodations which were established in 2015 to promote eco-tourism at Pachamalai.
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Business Standard
2 days ago
- Business
- Business Standard
Chhattisgarh passes Jan Vishwas Bill, boosts ease of doing business
With the passage of the Bill , Chhattisgarh emerges as the second state to decriminalise offences following Madhya Pradesh which passed this legislation back in December last year R Krishna Das Raipur Listen to This Article In a major step towards creating a business-friendly environment, the Chhattisgarh Legislative Assembly on Friday passed the Jan Vishwas Bill marking a key step towards improving ease of doing business and living in the state. With the passage of the Bill, Chhattisgarh emerges as the second state to decriminalise offences following Madhya Pradesh which passed this legislation back in December last year. The Bill aims to decriminalise minor technical violations by citizens and business owners — many of which stemmed from outdated British-era laws. Offences committed under the newly introduced bill will attract monetary penalties instead of criminal charges. It
