Amazing Facts about Batasia Loop - "Where Toy Train Meets Scenic Splendor - A Marvelous Railway Spiral in Darjeeling."
Batasia Loop, situated in Darjeeling, India, is a renowned tourist attraction that serves as a railway loop connecting Darjeeling to Siliguri. This engineering masterpiece helps the toy train climb an uphill gradient of 140 feet within a 3-kilometer stretch. The loop offers awe-inspiring views of the Himalayan mountains, including the third-highest peak in the world, Mount Kanchenjunga.
The place features a stunning garden, a war memorial, and a small temple paying homage to the Gorkha soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the country. Known as one of the world's most scenic railway loops, Batasia draws tourists worldwide to appreciate the panoramic views and capture some stunning photographs. It is also a popular spot for locals to unwind and relish the serene beauty of the surroundings.
The entry fee for this tourist place is subject to change. Still, according to recent information, the approximate entry fee per person is around Rs. 15. However, confirming the current entry fee from the appropriate authorities or tourist information center is recommended before visiting the attraction.
The History of Batasia Loop
It is an excellent part of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, built in 1919 during the British colonial period. Its purpose was to connect Darjeeling with the rest of India. The loop was constructed as a solution to the problem of the steep gradient of the mountain, which made the journey uncomfortable for passengers. Franklin Prestage, the consulting engineer for the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, proposed the idea of the loop, and H. F. Stephens, a British civil engineer, designed it.
The British built it during World War I, providing employment opportunities for many locals. The project took two years to complete, and it was inaugurated in 1919, quickly becoming a famous tourist attraction due to its breathtaking views of the Himalayas. In 1999, a war memorial was erected in the center of the loop to honor the Gorkha soldiers who gave their lives. The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway and the loop are now recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites and are visited by tourists worldwide.
Ideal Time to Visit​
April to june
Ideal Duration​
1-2 Hours
How to Reach
By Road: To get to Batasia Loop by road, you'll need to start your journey in Darjeeling town in West Bengal, India. From there, you can take a taxi or shared jeep and head towards Ghoom railway station, about 7 km away. Once you arrive in Ghoom, take the Hill Cart Road towards Siliguri and continue for around 5 km. Batasia is located on this road, and you can spot it from a distance.
You can ask your driver to drop you off at the Loop, or if you prefer, get off at Ghoom station and walk to Batasia - it's only a 10-15 minute walk away. The road leading up to Batasia Loop is incredibly scenic and provides breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, making the journey to the Loop a delightful experience.
By Train: New Jalpaiguri (NJP) Railway Station.
By Air: Bagdogra Airport.
Distance from Nearest Railway Station / Airport
68 km from nearest railway station NJP and 65 km from nearest airport Bagdogra airport.
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Location of Batasia Loop
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FAQs.
1. What is the Batasia Loop in Darjeeling?
The Loop is a famous railway loop in Darjeeling, India. It's a scenic marvel on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas and the town below.
2. How to reach Batasia Loop?
Batasia is easily accessible from Darjeeling town. You can reach there by taxi, toy train, or a short walk from the Darjeeling Mall Road.
3. What is the significance of Batasia Loop?
This loop was constructed to reduce the steep gradient of the railway track. It's also a war memorial commemorating Gurkha soldiers who sacrificed their lives in various wars.
4. What can I expect at Batasia Loop?
Visitors can expect a circular platform with a stunning garden, a central War Memorial, a charming toy train passing through, and breathtaking panoramic views of Kanchenjunga and Darjeeling town.
5. Is there an entry fee for Batasia Loop?
Yes, there is a nominal entry fee to visit Batasia Loop, and it's well worth it for the mesmerizing views and historical significance it offers.
