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Did You Know You can Hear Banshee’s Wail at the Killarney National Park!

Did You Know You can Hear Banshee’s Wail at the Killarney National Park!

Sep 5, 2024

Last Updated on: Nov 18, 2024

What is a national park to you? For me, it is a place that brings together nature, history, culture, and outdoor pursuits. Killarney National Park, which has been recently in the news for all the good reasons, is not an exception, for sure!

Also, this national park in a 300-year-old town surely has many tales to tell. It is also related to Irish folklore, as you can hear “Banshee’s Wail” in this park.

Moreover, it’s great that woodpeckers have started breeding in the national park for the first time in centuries, and the spotted chicks of woodpeckers look the cutest.

Again, the release of four white-tailed eagle chicks in the national park grabbed much attention. Further, this is an endeavor to bring back the eagles, which were extinct in Ireland.

In addition, there has been a renewed interest in the park among locals thanks to the 100th anniversary of the “Elizabeth Rose” in September 2024¹.

This year, the Muckross Rowing Club and the Muckross Rowing Club Festival this year will celebrate the centenary of “Elizabeth Rose Killarney Six,” the first traditional racing boat to hit the Lakes of Killarney.

So, with all the focus now on Killarney National Park, let’s try to learn more about it.

Where Is The Killarney National Park?

Killarney National Park, the first national park in Ireland, is in County Kerry, southwest Ireland. Killarney town is beside County Kerry.

Further, with an extensive range of wildlife species, this park basks in exceptional ecological value. Moreover, spreading across 10,000 hectares, it has mountains, waterfalls, woodlands, and lakes.

How To Reach Killarney National Park

The cheapest way to reach Killarney National Park is to take a train to the Killarney railway station. Further, from the railway station, you must take just a 10-minute ride to the national park.

The N71 road is the main access point to the national park. However, you can also reach the park by bus or car.

Things You Cannot Miss At Killarney National Park

Killarney National Park is incomparable with its wilderness, and a large part of this national park has been unperturbed for hundreds of years. It is also home to some rare species, like red deer. In fact, the red deer herb currently residing in Killarney National Park is the last herd in Ireland.

Further, the national park has walking and hiking trails, such as the Dundag to Torc Path trail, Old Kenmare Road, and Mossy Woods.

Moreover, you can climb the Mangerton and Purple mountains to explore a beautiful vista of the park and its surrounding areas.

So, let’s discuss all the activities at Killarney National Park in detail.

Exploring The Wildlife In Killarney National Park

This UNESCO Biosphere Reserve (1981) is home to Reenadinna Woods and the hub of protected and rare flora. Moreover, it has many endangered and rare mammals, reptiles, and amphibian’s species.

Plants, Animals, And Other Creatures In Killarney National Park
Conserved Animals/Birds	Red Deer Herd Irish Cuckoo, and Eagle
Rare Species of Fauna	Native Kerry Cattle Herd Caddisfly Northern Emerald Dragonfly
Rare and Protected Flora	St. Patrick’s Cabbage Mountain Sorrel Greater Butterwort Green Spleenwort, and Blue-eyed Grass
Mammals	Red Deer Wolves Irish Hare Otter
Birds	White-tailed Sea Eagle Barn Owl Kingfisher Woodpecker
Amphibians	Smooth Newt
Reptiles	Viviparous Lizard
Other Fauna	Kerry Slug Freshwater Pearl Mussel Marsh Fritillary Atlantic Salmon

It is due to the vast presence of various plants and animals, Killarney National Park promotes responsible behaviors and activities during your outdoor pursuits. Further, you can visit the national park with dogs, but it is better to avoid bringing them to the park during breeding season.

Hiking In Killarney National Park

You will find many trails to cycle or walk in the national park. All the trails offer you the opportunity to explore the wildlife and unique geology of the national park. Here, I will briefly discuss three such hiking and walking trails, but there are plenty more.

Ross Island Mining Trail

How about visiting a 15th-century castle in its full architectural glory? The Ross Island mining trail will take you to Ross Castle. On this trail, you will also find the oldest known metal mine in Ireland. It is even the oldest in the entire Western Europe.

This 3 Km trail will take you around 1.5 hours to complete, and it is the most favorite trail for history lovers. The encampments, ruins, and mines tell the stories of human lives and the economy of a bygone era. You will even get to see some rare flora on this trail.

Knockreer Circular Walk

As the name suggests, the trail is circular, taking you to almost all accessible parts of the national park. You can walk or cycle on this trail to encounter the endangered red deer and enjoy the beauty of the MacGillycuddy Reeks and Lough Leane.

If you want to catch some refreshments, you will find Deenagh Lodge here. Some of the ascents in the hike are tricky, but the overall experience is wholesome, with good food and the company of nature.

Muckross House to Torc Waterfall Lake Loop

The Muckross House to Torc Waterfall Lake Loop trail is ideal for families. The trail is a little challenging. However, the panoramic vista of the Middle Lake and the view of the limestone cliffs make the effort worth it.

You can continue hiking through the woods and then take the stone steps to reach the woods down. Further, from the woods, you will get to behold the Torc Waterfall. Also, this 18m high waterfall is quite powerful.

An Encounter With History And Culture At The Killarney National Park Heritage Sites

Killarney National Park has many heritage sites that tell the tales of human history and life. Further, a trip to the park is incomplete without exploring these places.

Name Of The Heritage Sites	Things To Know
Muckross Abbey Graveyard	It has modern and old Irish graveyards. Also, it has the graves of 17th and 18th-century Gaelic poets, such as Geoffrey O’Donoghue, Eoghan Rua O’Suilleabhain, and Aodhagan O’Rathaille. Further, you will see the graves of many chieftains in the graveyard.
Killarney House and Gardens	It is the main visitor center for the park. Further, Formal Pleasure Gardens in the Killarney Gardens is the “longest Irish Herbaceous Border.” Also, the 1870 red brick building was the main seat of the Kenmare estate.
Ross Castle	It is a tower house made in the 15th century with some myths attached to it. O’Donoghues Mór built the castle, and people still believe that O’Donoghues Mór still sleeps under the lake water. It is said that here you can hear Banshee’s Wail. *
Muckross House and Gardens	It is one of the most prominent stately homes in Ireland. Moreover, the Tudor-style architecture of the mansion speaks of the affluent lifestyle of landowners in the 19th century.
Old Weir Bridge	It is a stone-made twin-arch bridge.
Derrycunnihy Church	This Roman Catholic church dates back to the late 19th century. Further, you can see barn owls and Lesser Horseshoe Bats near this church.
Brickeen Bridge	It has a pointed arch structure, and it’s an 18th-century bridge.
Innisfallen Island and Monastery	The monastery here dates back to 640 AD when it was built by St.Finian the Leper. Further, it was a place of immersive prayer and meditation for monks. Moreover, “The Annals of Innisfallen,” written by monks here, are important accounts of Irish history.

Along with these sites, Killarney National Park has another historic area called the “Ladies View.” This was Queen Victoria’s favorite place. Also, she was in love with the scenic beauty of the area.

*According to Irish folklore, Banshee is a spirit which appears as a woman and screams in a shrill voice. The appearance of Banshee is believed to bring the death summon for any of the family members.

Visiting The Habitats Of The Killarney National Park

As a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, this national park is full of waterbodies like ponds, lakes, rivers, and waterfalls. Further, there are heaths, bogs, rock formations, and grassland.

So, do you want a brief idea about the diverse habitats of the park? Then, check the table below.

Habitats	Highlights
Yew Woodland	Muckross Peninsula Reenadinna Wood and the Carboniferous reef and pavement of limestone Thick bryophytes blanket the limestone structures and especially the presence of “southern Atlantic liverwort Marchesinia mackaii used in labs Yew, Oak, Hazel, Alder, and Ash Trees
Wet Broadleaved Woodland	Carboniferous limestone structures near the lake Waterlogged landscape
Blanket Bog	Bog moss hummocks Crowberry, Heath Rush, and other species
Dry Broadleaved Woodland	Tomies Wood Glaisín na Marbh Woodland Tracks Upper Doogary Woodland Tracks Sessile Oak Trees Rowan Trees Birch Trees
Heath	Deer Grass Purple Moor Grass Tormentil
Mixed Woodland	Game Wood Rhododendron, Sycamore and Various Exclusive Species of Plants Portuguese Laurel Flowering Plants
Grassland	Rare Flora Species, such as Carnation Sedge, Creeping Bent, Marsh Violet, etc.
Waterfalls, Rivers and Streams	Muckross Lake Upper Lake Unique Invertebrate Species Drowned Vegetation
Wetlands, Ponds And Lakes	Devil’s Punch Bowl

Along with these habitats, you will find commercially established conifer plantations in the national park. You will find them on the slopes of the Muckross or Torc Mountain. These plantations have Scot pines, European larches, Sitka spruce, and many other varieties.

Does Killarney National Park Have Restaurants And Cafes?

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Yes, you can catch some quick bites and refreshments at Killarney National Park, which has quite a few restaurants and cafes. Further, each restaurant has a standout feature of its history or commitment to a special cause.

So, let’s know the names, their locations, and specialties.

Restaurant/Cafe	Location And Operating Hours	Specialties
Muckross House Garden Restaurant	Near Muckross House (“Adjacent to main car parks and entrance road”)	Baked salmon Cajon-style chicken breast Rainbow trout and sea-fresh cod duo (Also, gluten-free options, including various salads, are available here.)
Deenagh Lodge	It stands opposite St. Mary’s Cathedral on Port Road.	Apple tart with custard Coffee Sandwiches (It is operated by people with Down syndrome. Also, vegan and vegetarian options are available.)
Dinis Cottage	Dinis Island (Take the route via N71)	Homemade scones Apple pie Fresh sandwiches (It is more than 200 years old. Moreover, it has a Victorian charm.)
Ross Castle Garden Cafe	Ross Castle	Freshly ground barista coffee Cakes and pastries are also available.
Lord Brandon’s Cottage	Gap of Dunloe’s southern end	Coffee and snacks (An open-air cafe)

Along with the restaurants and cafes, there are also Muckross Traditional Farms where you will find delicious, sweet meat on these farms.

Further, you can arrange picnics at this national park, provided you do not leave any trace behind. However, BBQing and lighting campfires are not allowed in Killarney National Park.

Final Words Before You Set In For The Killarney National Park

Exploring the natural bounty and history at Killarney National Park is easy and safe, thanks to the available family facilities and first aid and emergency services.

Further, you can call 112 or 999 to avail yourself of emergency services. In addition, first-aid services are offered at Muckross House and Gardens and the Killarney National Park Visitor Centre.

Also, there are public toilets in the park. Moreover, for the children, there are changing facilities and playgrounds. So, it does not matter whether you are a solo traveler or you are traveling with your family and friends.

Moreover, Killarney National Park is the go-to destination for you to encounter one of the best bio reserves in the world, an account of human history, and the most fascinating landscapes.

So, if you are planning a trip to Ireland in late spring or early autumn, don’t forget to include Killarney National Park in your itinerary. Moreover, we would love to hear from you about the experience in the comment section below.

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Sibashree Bhattacharya

Meet Sibashree Bhattacharya, a travel enthusiast who has a decade-long experience in transcending virtual barriers with her words! Her deep love for travel is apparent from her travel escapades to the mountain, often taking her readers on a journey, her words acting as Portkey! Fun fact: Sibashree loves to dive deep into the history of the places she is about to visit, making her travels even more wholesome. If you were wondering how her articles are not short of time travel, this answers it!

Top 13+ Vegetarian Restaurants In Austin – Complete Guide

BY Barsha Nov 9, 2022

Are you planning a trip to Austin anytime soon? Or are you currently sitting at Austin? Whatever it is, if you are on the search for vegan or vegetarian food in Austin, then you have arrived at the right destination. Because we are here to help you find the best vegan and vegetarian restaurants located in Austin. Keep reading and stick around to find out all the places you can’t miss out on while visiting Austin. Top 13+ Vegetarian Restaurants In Austin - All That You Need To Know: There are so many vegetarian and vegan options in Austin - we would suggest that you stop searching for ‘vegetarian restaurants near me’ and instead just scroll down for the best results - from vegan-friendly options to vegetarian restaurants creating killer taste pallets, there’s so much to explore in Austin! For now, keep reading and scroll down to find out which eateries you must visit! 1. Casa de Luz: Opening hours:7 am - 8:30 pm (Daily)Website: casadeluzContact:512-476-2535Address:1701 Toomey Rd, Austin, 78704 If you are looking for ‘vegetarian restaurants Austin,’ then Case de Luz is one place you cannot miss out. Best known for its plant-based, organic food, this place is tucked away on this side street if you go west from Zilker Park. The best part? You have to pay just one price for dinner, lunch, or even breakfast to enjoy the house buffet! 2. Bouldin Creek Cafe: Opening hours:7 am - Midnight (Monday - Friday) 8 am - Midnight (Saturday & Sunday)Website: bouldincreekcafeContact:512-416-1601Address1900 S 1st St, Austin, 78704 If you are typing on Google ‘best vegetarian restaurants Austin,’ then stop right now check out the Bouldin Creek Cafe. After first opening inside a small shack located on South 1st street, the cafe has always attracted guests who have now become regulars. However, you won’t find a shack anymore - the cafe is now located inside a big building, and locals can’t get enough of the all-day breakfast, amongst other delicacies. 3. Bistro Vonish: Opening hours:4 pm - 8 pm (Tuesday - Thursday)Noon - 9 pm (Friday & Saturday)10 am -2 pm & 6 pm - 8 pm (Sunday)Website: bistrovonishContact:203-982-7762Address701 E 53rd St, Austin, 78751 Bistro Vonish is one of those restaurants with vegetarian food for groups that you will fall in love with immediately - the moment you reach this North Loop truck, there’s no turning back from all their produces! Artfully and elegantly plated vegan dishes such as the Peach Molasses Glazed Shitcakes, Dairy-Meat-free versions of Kolaches, Pizzas, and delicious Sunday Brunches. 4. Swad: Opening hours:11:30 am - 9:30 pm (Daily)Contact:512-997-7923Address9515 N Lamar Blvd, Austin, 78753-4188 Swad is a vegetarian restaurant located in Austin, that specializes in South Indian cuisine. If you decide to check this place out, it’s best to take a friend with you so that you guys can try out their special Thali, accompanied by their huge Lentil Dosas entirely filled up with paneer, potatoes, and other veggies. 5. Koriente: Opening hours:11 am - 9:30 pm (Sunday - Friday)Website: korienteContact:512-275-0852Address621 E 7th street, Austin, 78701 Koriente happens to be one of the few vegetarian restaurants located in Downtown Austin, a neighborhood not known for healthy food options. A beacon of hope for both vegetarians and vegans, you cannot miss out on Koriente’s Mixmix Bibimbop, bowls made of stir-fried protein and veggies, or even their sticky rice. 6. Mr. Natural: Opening hours:8 am - 8 pm (Monday - Saturday)Website:mrnatural austinContact:512-477-5228Address1901 E Cesar Chavez St, Austin, 78702 Are you currently sitting at a hotel in Austin, typing ‘best vegetarian restaurants near me?’ - then look no more! Check out Mr. Natural, a healthy cafeteria and fast-casual bakery with two different locations. The best part? You can find both vegan and vegetarian food, along with several options that are gluten-free. 7. Mother's Cafe & Garden: Opening hours:11:15 am - 10 pm (Monday - Friday)10 am - 10 pm (Saturday & Sunday)Website:motherscafeaustinContact:512-451-3994Address4215 Duval St, Austin, 78751-4341 On your quest to find the iconic vegetarian restaurants in Austin, you can’t miss out on the classic Hyde Park restaurant, Mother’s Cafe & Garden, even if the name doesn’t pop up on your ‘vegetarian friendly restaurants near me’ search. This cafe has been serving delectable plant-based dishes since the 1980s - you can’t miss out on their Artichoke Enchiladas or Mushroom Stroganoff. 8. BBQ Revolution: Opening hours:4 pm - Midnight (Thursday - Saturday)4 pm - 10 pm (Tuesday, Wednesday, & Sunday)Website:thebbqrevolutionContact:512-584-7659Address2421 Webberville Rd, Austin, 78702 Who said that Texas Barbecue is only meant for all meat lovers? BBQ Revolution proves every meat lover wrong by bringing vegetarian versions of barbeque - from No Bull Brisket to Tempeh Ribs and Smokey Curls, they have multiple options. Parked right outside Lost Well, BBQ Revolution is the friendly neighborhood food truck you were waiting for! 9. Conscious Cravings: Opening hours:11 am - 9 pm (Sunday - Thursday)11 am - 10 pm (Friday & Saturday)Website:consciouscravingsaustinContact:512-782-0546Address:1311 S 1st St, Austin, 78704 One of the best vegan friendly restaurants at Austin, Conscious Cravings, is a food truck specializing in creating 100% plant-based and fresh food. This practically means you will not find any food that’s fired. From wraps and salads with delicious fillings such as chimichurri seitan, blackened tofu (non-GMO), and spicy chickpeas, you will find so many healthy options here. 10. Beer Plant: Opening hours:5 pm - Midnight (Tuesday - Sunday)Website:thebeerplantContact:512-524-1800Address3110 Windsor Rd, Austin, 78703 Located at Tarrytown, Beer Plant is a gastropub that specializes in creating comforting vegan and plant-based food accompanied by craft beer. Instead of typing ‘restaurants with vegan options near me’ on Google, why don’t you check out Beer Plant? You will love their Crispy Buffalo Cauliflower, BBQ-Pulled Spaghetti Squash, and Hops ‘n’ Chips. Read Also: 12+ Best Restaurants In Belfast Maine – Reviews & Budget 11. Arlo's: Opening hours:Noon - 2 am (Daily)Website: arlostruck.comContact:512-840-1600Address900 Red River, Austin, 78702 Arlo’s is one restaurant ensuring that vegans living in Austin can end their nights with an indulgent, melty burger. Made from gluten-free bread, soy, seitan bac’n, and melted cheeze, these burgers are delectable. Arlo’s is your usual food truck, only it serves crazy vegan food - you can also try out their street tacos and chik’n sandwiches. 12. Counter Culture: Opening hours:11 am - 10 pm (Daily)Website:CountercultureaustinContact:512-524-1540Address:2337 E Cesar Chavez St, Austin, 78702 Counter Culture is an eastside diner specializing in creating vegan soul food and bold flavors such as Shredded Jackfruit BBQ, Philly Seitan served with Cashew Cheeze, and Spicy Pad Thai made from Kelp noodles. Don’t forget to check out their weekend brunch menu - you must try out their Tofu scrambles, Tempeh bacon, and Pancake plates. 13. The Vegan Nom: Opening hours:8 am - 2 pm & 5 pm - 9 pm (Tuesday - Saturday) 8 am - 2 pm (Sunday)Website:thevegannomContact:512-217-7257Address701 E 53rd St, Austin, 78751 Another food truck from North Loop, The Vegan Nom, recently launched another trailer located on the eastern side of Austin. From all-day breakfast tacos (created from tofu scramble, soyrizo, and tempeh bacon) to signature tacos such as the Vegan Jalisco and Vegan Del Rey, there are so many mouthwatering vegan options at The Vegan Nom. Read Also: Top 12 Perdido Key Restaurants – Reviews & Budget 14. Flower Child: Opening hours:11 am - 9 pm (Daily)Website: iamaflowerchildContact:512-777-2493Address11721 Rock Rose Ave, Domain NORTHSIDE, Austin, 78758 One of our favorite vegetarian restaurants in Austin, the Flower Child is famous for spreading their love for clean eating across the city with two locations - one at the Northside, and one Downtown. You will find healthy wraps, bowls, and salads dominating the menu, and you get the option even to add proteins! Our favorites? Forbidden Rice Bowls and Thai Cashew Quinoa. And It’s A Wrap! So now you have a fair idea about all the vegan and vegetarian restaurants located in Austin, what are you even waiting for? If you have enough days in hand, we would suggest checking out all the places we have mentioned above - in case you don’t have much time, then visit the place that most appeals to you! In the meantime, don’t forget to share your thoughts and experiences with vegan and vegetarian restaurants in the comments below. Read Also: Top 15 Restaurants In Colombia You Must Visit While Traveling Best Restaurants In Honduras To Visit While Traveling Best Pet Friendly Hotels Near Me In Florida City 10 Best Restaurants On Sanibel Island

Top 7 Best Places To Visit In Darjeeling – Travel Guide

BY Nabamita Jul 23, 2022

Welcome to the “Queen Of The Hills!” Darjeeling is one of the most beautiful hill stations in India. Hidden beneath the Lesser Himalayas, Darjeeling is an “abode of god.” Situated among the serenity of nature, it is a must places to visit in Darjeeling for some intoxicating time in nature’s lap. Travel Guide About Darjeeling NicknameThe Queen of the HillsDarjeeling Whole Area3149 sq.kmLanguage SpokenNepali, Hindi, and BengaliPopular Places to VisitBatasia Loop, Tinchuley, Darjeeling Rock Garden, Lepchajagat, Darjeeling Ropeway, Happy Valley Tea Estate, Tiger Hill, etc. Best Time to VisitApril-June to experience summer, October-January to experience winter. Popular Places to visit for couplesMirik, Love Road, Tiger Hill, Batasia Loop, Darjeeling Mall, Observatory Hill, Darjeeling Ropeway, Tea Gardens, Mahakal Temple, and Glenburn Estate. Top Religious Places Ghoom Monastery, St.Andrew’s Church, Dali Monastery, Dhirdham Temple, Aloobari Monastery, etc.Top Things To DoTrekking, Shopping, River Rafting, Toy Tain Ride, Visit the Tea Garden, Camping, Explore the wildlife and flora, Mountaineering, etc. Darjeeling: Why Even Go There? Darjeeling is one of the biggest tourist destinations in India. Its natural beauty, perfect climate, and captivating mountain view are a few of the reasons to visit here. Darjeeling is a part of West Bengal and is located at a height of 2134 meters. It is a proud possession of West Bengal Tourism. The exotic flora, fauna, and chilly weather are a few reasons why it is named the “Queen of the Hills.” It is a perfect abode for trekkers and mountaineers. The view of the Kanchenjunga is spectacular from here. This spectacular view is what attracts a lot of tourists year-round in Darjeeling. However, Darjeeling has a lot more to offer tourists. From Darjeeling, you have access to most other hill stations such as Gangtok, Kalimpong, and many more. There are great places to visit in Gangtok, and Darjeeling is your starting point for that. Here is a list of the best places to visit in Darjeeling. 1. Himalayan Mountaineering Institute And Darjeeling Zoo The Himalayan Mountaineering Institute of Darjeeling is one of the best in the country. It exhibits the mountaineering gears from the early days along with certain artifacts. The Institute was built here in honor of Tenzing Norgay, a Sherpa who accompanied Sir Edmund Hillary to climb Mt. Everest. They were the first to climb the tallest mountain in the world for the 1st time in 1953. All the mountaineering gear that the men used is also here in the Institute itself. There are souvenirs and a restaurant here on the premises for the tourists. Located beside the Institute on the same premises is the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park. Here you can experience the best wildlife Darjeeling has to offer. Here you will find a number of exotic animals such as the Siberian Tiger, snow leopard, goral, Tibetan wolf, Himalayan black bear, and red panda. Timings: 8:30 am to 4:30 pm in Summer & 8:30 am to 4:00 pm in Winter. 2. Darjeeling Ropeway Opened in 1968, known as the Rangeet Valley Passenger Cable Car; from here, you can have the best view of Darjeeling. This was the first cable car system ever built in India. From the beautiful Tea Gardens to the majestic peak of the Kanchenjunga and the dense forest beneath it. You will be able to experience everything Darjeeling has to offer at once. Timings: 10:00am to 4:00pm (Winter and Monsoon), 10:00am to 2:00pm (Summer and Autumn). 3. Happy Valley Tea Estate Enjoy the lush greenery and the sweet taste of Darjeeling Tea. This is a 150 years old Tea Estate, one of the best places to visit in Darjeeling. Although this is only the second oldest tea estate in Darjeeling, built in 1854, situated 2100 meters above sea level. Timings: Tuesday to Saturday- 8:00 am to 4:00 pm. 4. Senchal Lake And Wildlife Sanctuary This is one of the oldest wildlife sanctuaries in India, set up in the year 1915. Situated about 11 kms away from Darjeeling town, it is a must-visit place in Darjeeling. Senchal Lake, which is situated within the wildlife, has the most beautiful picturesque view. For nature lovers and photographers, this is an ideal place. Here you will find a number of wildlife such as leopards, rhesus monkeys, and Himalayan black bears. Along with that, here, you will see a wide variety of exotic birds. 5. Shrubbery Nightingale Park If you are someone who loves flowers and exotic flora, then you must visit Shrubbery Nightingale Park. Here you will find beautiful flowers along with a majestic view of the Kanchenjunga mountain. The park was totally destroyed during a massive earthquake in 1934; it was rebuilt to its former glory. It has pebblestone pathways, a musical fountain and benches to sit on. This park is among the best places to visit in Darjeeling. Timings: 8:00 am to 8:00 pm Blooming Seasons: October and November. 6. Dhirdham Temple Another gorgeous tourist attraction is the Dhirdham Temple; it is a Hindu temple in Nepalese style. This is located just below the Toy Train station. This temple was built by the King of Nepal, Purna Bahadur Pradhan, in the year 1936. The temple has the idol of Lord Shiva. The idol is of white color, and Shiva is represented to have various expressions with his third eye. This temple has the architectural design of the Pashupatinath Temple of Kathmandu. Aarti Timings: 8:00 am to 6:00 pm Note That: Inside the temple premises, cameras are not allowed. 7. Darjeeling Mall And Chowrasta At the heart of Darjeeling town are the Darjeeling Mall and the Chowrasta. This is one of the best places to visit in Darjeeling. It is the best places to hang out for both tourists and localities. Here you will find the best restaurants, shops, boutiques and cafes. This is a must-visit place in Darjeeling for anyone to visit. During the evening, you will find a lot of entertainment options here. Few of the best shops around here are Nathmulls Tea & Sunset Lounge, Curio Corner, Habeeb Mullick & Sons and the Jolly Arts & Bhutan Tibetan Art Shop. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): 1. What Are The Nearest Railway Station And Airport To Darjeeling? The nearest railway station to Darjeeling is Darjeeling Railway station and Siliguri Railway Station. And the nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport, located 70 km from Darjeeling. 2. What Is The Best Time To Plan A Holiday To Darjeeling? Depending on the season, you need to plan your trip here. If you are planning to visit during the summer for pleasant sightseeing you can visit from April-June.But if you are willing to experience the cold and with it wildlife, you can visit from October-December. 3. How Are The Accommodation Facilities For Tourists In Darjeeling? Darjeeling has a huge number of good quality accommodation facilities for tourists. No matter how you are traveling, big group, solo, as couple, or with family, there are options for all.From 5-star hotels to luxury resorts, pocket-friendly hotels, and even homestays, everything is present here in Darjeeling. Visit Now! Here I have pointed out the 7 best places in Darjeeling to visit, but there are more than 25 places to visit in Darjeeling, and Gangtok should be your next destination of choice. Darjeeling is a staple tourist destination for every Indian. It is the first place our parents took us to. It has a different emotion on my part. Read Also: Which Is The Best Time To Visit Auli? – Travel Guide Which Is The Largest Freshwater Lake In India? 10 Best Places To Visit In Sikkim

Traveling During Winter? Here Is A Winter Vacation Planning Checklist

BY Ankita Oct 13, 2023

Winter vacations come packed with numerous fun activities. If you like skiing, this is the best time for you. The season is cold, allowing you to wear the warm clothes you have stuck away for a long time. You get to enjoy the warm coffee and cozy evenings. You can also enjoy watching the starry sky at night as you keep warm around a fire. Those who love being outdoors during the winter have the opportunity to plan a fantastic winter vacation. A successful vacation begins with proper planning. So, develop a checklist and prioritize the important things. Part of planning is packing all the items you will need during your winter trip, and there are several things to remember. Here Are Ten Important Things For Winter Vacation This article will present ten must-have things for winter vacation. This checklist will allow you to plan your winter holiday and enjoy the experience. 1. Medicines Carrying your medicines is a vital thing when going on a winter vacation. It is cold, meaning you could get the flu. Carry an anti-fungal cream, a cold and cough syrup, a balm for the headache, and flu medicines. Because of the abrupt change in temperatures, you may experience various issues, hence the importance of being prepared for minor illnesses. It is also crucial to carry your menstrual pads and tablets. 2. Thermal Wears It is vital to carry high-quality thermal wear when going on a winter vacation. The thermals maintain the warmth in your body during severe temperature drops. They are must-haves when packing for winter travel. Remember, thermal wear protects the entire body. It is allowed if you feel you cannot wear more clothes over the thermals, and the thermal wear will keep you warm. 3. Winter Jacket Winter jackets are the most essential items for a winter holiday. The jacket forms an outer layer over your sweater or thermal wear, insulating you from the cold. A great winter jacket provides warmth throughout the trip. It is a vital addition to the packing checklist. So, choose down jackets or army-type jackets for more comfort. If you want a carry-on bag only, it will be wise to wear some bulkier items like the winter jacket. This will free up space for other things. Furthermore, if you wear bulky items like boots and coats, you can bring more layers in the bag to keep yourself warmer. 4. Shoes No matter the time of the year you are traveling, carrying several pairs of shoes can be challenging and takes up space in the bag. Especially when traveling in the winter, packing several boots will only take up most of the space in the bag. You are not going to spend the whole holiday indoors. That means you will need quality winter shoes for the vacation. Your holiday will involve walking around and traveling. So, pack winter shoes with warm socks to keep your feet warm. Wear high winter boots for more protection if snow is in your destination. Select a boot that works when working on the snow and a clear road. If you must pack several shoes, stuff them with gloves, hats, socks, and scarves to utilize the space inside. 5. Gloves and Socks Ensure your hands are warm throughout by wearing gloves. It is easy to ignore feet and hands essentials when packing for a winter vacation. If you don’t pack gloves and socks, you leave your hands and feet vulnerable to colds and infections. If you are going away with kids, ensure you carry woolen mittens to keep their tiny arms warm. By packing several gloves, hats, and scarves, you will change your daily looks without needing too much space in the bag. 6. Backpack Choosing a quality backpack or suitcase to keep your items is also essential. It should be light and enough to accommodate all your belongings. Choose a travel bag with several pockets to keep your things organized and categorized. It is advisable to avoid carrying a heavy load because managing it is tough, and you may miss the chance to have fun. Sometimes, you must pack bulky and thick items when traveling in cold weather. Fortunately, you can utilize packing cubes and compression bags to reduce the space hoarders in the luggage. These items can help maintain small luggage and keep your carry-on organized. 7. Sweaters A winter vacation packing list is not complete without packing sweaters. They are crucial because they provide warmth by adding protective layers to your thermal wear and jacket. If possible, it is better to carry a thick sweater for more warmth. 8. Thermo Flask Or Water Bottle Another crucial item on your packing checklist is a thermo flask or a water bottle. You will need to carry water or something warm like coffee in case there are no coffee shops in the area. Taking warm coffee, tea, or water in the flask will give you the warmth you need to relieve the cold. 9. Sunglasses Sunglasses may be an unlikely option for winter vacation, but they are also essential for packing. The morning sun and snow cause a reflection that could damage your eyes. Furthermore, just because the sun is not hot does not mean it doesn’t have UV rays. Therefore, sunglasses are essential items on the travel checklist. 10. Scarves And Caps Make sure your head and neck are well-protected from the cold. So, you need to pack some caps and scarves for this. Carry monkey caps since they provide warmth for the head and neck. Even though they may seem unattractive, these caps are the best to protect the whole head region from the cold. Ensure you also pack woolen scarves for the same purpose. Related: Must Pack Business Travel Packing List Along With Tips Enjoy Your Winter Vacation Going on a beach vacation during summer may be the easiest to pack. You only pack light-weight clothes, a swimsuit, and flip-flops, and you are good to go. However, packing for a winter vacation comes with some challenges. For starters, you must carry everything you need to keep yourself warm. You may also have a space problem because most winter clothes are bulky, and you must squeeze them in the carry-on. However, having a checklist is helpful since it helps you pack enough items in the bag. Read Also: Must Pack Business Travel Packing List Along With Tips Why Travel Trailers Are The New Vacation Norm

Did You Know You can Hear Banshee’s Wail at the Killarney National Park!