Batasay Loop
Batasia Loop : A Must-See for Tourists in Darjeeling
Batasia Loop is a celebrated engineering marvel and scenic attraction on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, about 5km from Darjeeling town, just below Ghoom station. Offering stunning 360-degree panoramic views, including the majestic Mount Kanchenjunga and the surrounding Eastern Himalayan peaks, it’s a highlight for any visitor to the region.
What Makes Batasia Loop Special?
- Engineering Marvel: Opened in 1919, Batasia Loop was specifically designed to help the narrow-gauge toy train overcome a steep descent by making a spiral track, where the train completes a full 360-degree turn and crosses over itself via a tunnel. This feat reduces the gradient for the train and offers tourists an exhilarating ride[3][6][5].
- **War Memorial**: At the center lies a beautiful garden and the Gorkha War Memorial, a moving 3-meter-high bronze statue. Dedicated in 1995, it honors the Gorkha soldiers of Darjeeling who lost their lives fighting for India since its independence[1][4][7][8].
- **Natural Beauty**: The loop is set amidst lush gardens spread over 50,000 square feet, adorned with seasonal and perennial flowers, shrubs, and manicured lawns, providing a tranquil spot to relax, stroll, and soak in the stunning mountain views[4][9][8].
- **360-Degree Views**: Besides the awesome engineering and historical significance, Batasia Loop offers one of the best vantage points to witness the snowy Kanchenjunga range and the rolling hills surrounding Darjeeling town—a favorite spot for photographers and nature lovers[4][7][5].
### Tips for Tourists
- **Getting There**: You can get to Batasia Loop by boarding the toy train (Darjeeling Himalayan Railway) from Darjeeling station, or by road—approximately a 15–20-minute taxi or bus drive along National Highway 110 (Hill Cart Road)[2][4][10].
- **Opening Hours & Entry Fee**: The site is open daily, typically from 6am to 5pm. Entry fee is ₹20 per person (free for toy train ticket holders)[4][8].
- **Best Time to Visit**: Plan your visit during early mornings, especially between March–May and September–November, for clear skies and fewer crowds[10].
- **Photography & Shopping**: There’s a local market by the loop offering woollens, handicrafts, and souvenirs. The garden and toy train are favorite photo spots—don’t forget your camera!
- **Amenities**: There are seating areas in the garden, an eco-garden with rare plant species, war memorial plaques, and nearby refreshment stalls serving quick snacks and tea[4][9][10].
**Batasia Loop is a unique blend of natural beauty, history, and ingenious railway engineering. It’s a tranquil yet vibrant part of Darjeeling that every traveler should experience—both for the breathtaking views and the cultural significance of the site.**
Citations:
[1] Batasia Loop & Gorkha War Memorial https://darjeeling.gov.in/tourist-place/batasia-loop-gorkha-war-memorial/
[2] Batasia Loop Darjeeling https://www.darjeeling-tourism.com/darj_000017.htm
[3] Batasia Loop https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Batasia_Loop
[4] Batasia Loop - Spiral Railway & War Memorial in Darjeeling https://northbengaltourism.com/batasia-loop/
[5] Batasia Loop | Darjeeling - What to Expect | Timings | Tips https://www.makemytrip.com/tripideas/attractions/batasia-loop
[6] Explore Darjeeling Batasia Loop – Elgin Hotels & Resorts https://www.elginhotels.com/batasia-loop-darjeeling/
[7] Batasia Loop and War Memorial - Darjeeling | Kalimpong https://darjeelingkalimpongtourism.com/places/india/west-bengal/destination-darjeeling/batasia-loop-and-war-memorial/
[8] Batasia Loop Darjeeling | Entry Fee, History, Timing https://kanchenjungaholidays.com/destinations/batasia-loop
[9] A complete guide to Batasia Loop in Darjeeling - Anutri Hill Resort https://anutrihill.com/a-complete-guide-to-batasia-loop-in-darjeeling-anutri-hill-resort/
[10] Batasia Loop, Darjeeling: How To Reach, Best Time & Tips https://www.thrillophilia.com/attractions/batasia-loop
[11] BATASIA LOOP (2025) All You Need to Know BEFORE ... https://www.tripadvisor.in/Attraction_Review-g304557-d6211920-Reviews-Batasia_Loop-Darjeeling_Darjeeling_District_West_Bengal.html
[12] History in Batasia Loop - Darjeeling - Kiomoi Travel https://www.kiomoi.com/attractions/batasia-loop-in-darjeeling/history-537
[13] Batasia Loop & War Memorial- Detailed Tour and Travel Guide https://darjeelingyatra.com/batasia-loop
[14] Batasia Loop in Darjeeling Travel Guide & Tips - Trip Advice, Things ... https://traveltriangle.com/west-bengal-tourism/darjeeling/places-to-visit/batasia-loop/tips
[15] Batasia Loop in Darjeeling https://www.marinetoalpine.com/batasia-loop-darjeeling.php
[16] Batasia Loop https://www.exoticmiles.com/attractions/batasia-loop/
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