The Batasia loop situated almost 5 km away from the town is a gigantic railway loop where the Toy Train makes a 360 Degree turn. Located on a hill top, this is a garden like place through which the toy train passes in a loop-like pattern. This loop like structure plays a perfect host to the famous toy train in Darjeeling. From the Batasia Loop one can get a panoramic view of Darjeeling town with the Kanchenjunga and other snowy mountains in the back - drop. A beautiful garden has been laid for the visitors to spend time in the area. The average altitude of the place is around 2250 meters above the sea level.
At the centre of the Batasia Loop is the War Memorial. This was opened in 1995 to commemorate the Gorkha soldiers of the Darjeeling Hills who sacrificed their lives in various wars after India's independence. A war memorial within the loop has a 3 meter high bronze statue of a Gorkha soldier. From the Batasia Loop you can get a spectacular view of Darjeeling town with the Kanchenjunga and other snowy mountains in the back-drop. Batastia means airy space or open area.
As you stand on one side of the garden and see the toy train making a complete loop while hooting its whistle along the way and trying to negotiate the spiral track with a double loop, it's a fabulous experience. There are seating areas as well to enjoy the views. The entire area along with the gardens and an approach bridge that leads to the garden is about 50,000 square feet. It has been covered with grass and beautified with both seasonal and perennial flowers and shrubs. There is also a well furbished market where visitors can buy locally made purses, bags and other decorative items. Batasia Loop is a must visit place while you are planning a trip to Darjeeling.
Batasia Loop Entry Fee, Timings
The timings of Batasia Loop is from 6 am to 5 pm. It remains open 7 days in a week even during Sunday. You need to pay 20 rupees per person of entry fee at the entrance of Batasia Loop. However, those who have purchased the tickets of toy train do not need to buy the entry ticket. The toy train has around 10 to 15 minutes of halt here so that the passengers can enjoy the scenic beauty Batasia Loop has to offer. For 50 rupees, you can enjoy the view of Darjeeling town through telescope.
How to reach Batasia Loop
From the main town of Darjeeling, this magnificent tourist site is around 5 km driving distance away. By a car or taxi, it will be a journey of just 20 minutes from Darjeeling to reach here. Batasia Loop is located at a distance of 72km from NJP which is well connected with the other parts of India. From NJP one can hire local taxis to reach up to Batasia Loop. Bagdogra Airport is the nearest airport of Batasia Loop. One can also get hired taxis from Bagdogra to reach Batasia Loop once they land at Bagdogra Airport.
Best Time to Visit Batasia Loop
One can visit this tourist site at any time of the year. However, to get a cloudless view of the Himalayan Peaks, especially Kanchenjunga, the months of summer are considered to be the best time. The well-planned Darjeeling Tour Packages from North Bengal Tourism let you explore Batasia Loop as well as other tourist places with ease.