Mirik is a beautiful and less-explored place situated in the Darjeeling Hills. The town, with its serene ambience and breathtaking natural beauty, is a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.Located at 1767 metres above sea level, Mirik enjoys a pleasant climate and scenic beauty. The town is celebrated for its beautiful tea gardens, vibrant fruit orchards, and the enchanting Sumendu Lake, making it a perfect destination for relaxation, adventure and recreation. The locals believe the lake hides treasures that have not been discovered yet, adding a sense of intrigue for visitors.
Mirik Overview
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Mirik is located in Darjeeling, West Bengal, India, and the name Mirik has been derived from the Lepcha word Mir-Yok, which means ‘place burnt by fire’. This beautiful town is located at an altitude of 1767 metres above sea level and is famous for its natural beauty, pleasant climate and cultural significance. The focal point of Mirik is the Sumendu Lake, which is located amidst tea gardens, orange groves, and beautiful scenery. Due to its temperate climate, Mirik is an ideal place to visit during the hot months of the year, and tourists flock to the place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.
Also Read: Offbeat Places Near Mirik
Mirik Lake History
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Mirik’s evolution into a popular tourist spot started in 1969 when the West Bengal Tourism Department purchased marshy land from the Thurbo tea estate. This grand plan was to transform the area into a beautiful tourist attraction centre. Construction started in 1974, and in April 1979, former Chief Minister Jyoti Basu opened the Sumendu Lake and the Day Centre. This was the start of the tourism industry in Mirik. The place, once a small town, soon turned into a tourist destination, and the town of Krishnanagar expanded with many hotels and restaurants to accommodate the tourists. Today, Sumendu Lake is one of the most beautiful examples of this transformation.
Best Mirik Tourist Spots
Make sure to explore these exceptional local spots in and around Mirik. Set aside time to visit these destinations and enhance your trip to Mirik, Darjeeling. Each Mirik tourist spot offers a unique experience that will make your visit memorable.
1. Bokar Monastery
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Bokar Monastery, located at the hilltop of Mirik, is not only a place of worship but also a vantage point to view the hills around. This monastery is one of the most important places for practising the Karma Kagyu school of Tibetan Buddhism. Kyabje Bokar Rinpoche founded it, and it is a monastery for monks and a hermitage for lay people. The general setting and the recitation of prayers offer a calm setting that attracts people seeking solace and meditation. The prayer halls are decorated splendidly, and the statue of Lord Buddha is magnificent, and one should not miss it.
Days Needed: 1 day
Entry Fee: Free entry
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2. Orange Orchards
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The climate of Mirik is very suitable for cultivating juicy and sweet oranges. The orange trees here are a sight to behold, especially when they are bearing fruits during the harvest season. Walking through the groves, one can see how much effort is put into growing these citrus gems. The orchards not only beautify the area around Mirik but also help many farmers of the region earn their living. Tourists can also purchase oranges and other citrus fruits harvested directly from the trees, which are perfect for consumption. The sight of the trees being orange in colour against the green background is really fascinating.
Days Needed: 1 day
Entry Fee: 20 INR
3. Tea Gardens
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The town of Mirik is located amidst tea gardens that yield some of the best teas in the region. These tea gardens allow visitors to see how the tender leaves are plucked and processed into the tea consumed globally. The large gardens are proof of the town’s history in tea production, with many gardens established during British rule. A guided tour through the gardens is not only informative but also a feast for the eyes; as far as one can see, there are rows of tea bushes in well-ordered lines. Getting to taste freshly brewed tea is an added bonus.
Days Needed: 1-2 day(s)
Entry Fee: From 50 to 10 INR
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4. Devi Sthan
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The Devi Sthan is a temple of the Singha Devi goddess located on the western side of the Sumendu Lake. This is a religious shrine, and people go there to pray and seek the blessings of the gods. The temple’s environment is calm and quiet, which, combined with the religious purpose of the place, provides a good opportunity for a break. The environment is green, and the sounds that are heard are soothing, making the environment to be very calm. It is also a place where people pray and seek peace in the beautiful environment of Mirik for both the residents and visitors.
Days Needed: 1 day
Entry Fee: Free entry
Mirik Resorts
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Mirik, nestled in the serene hills of Darjeeling, offers a range of charming resorts that provide a perfect retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. These resorts, surrounded by lush greenery and stunning landscapes, offer comfortable accommodations and breathtaking views of the hills and valleys. Many feature cosy rooms with modern amenities and dining options serving local and international cuisine. Guests can enjoy leisurely walks in the beautiful gardens, take in the fresh mountain air, and unwind with various recreational activities. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, Mirik’s resorts provide a tranquil haven for an unforgettable stay.
- Famous Mirik Resorts: Amaira Resort & Farms, Mount Queens Hill Resort & Spa, Lakeview Villa, Swiss Cottage, Sungava Resort and more
- Tariff: INR 2500 onwards
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Mirik Sightseeing Itinerary
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Day 1:
- Morning: You can go boating and take a nature walk around Sumendu Lake early in the morning.
- Afternoon: Visit Bokar Monastery for the spiritual touch and view.
- Evening: It is recommended to go to Tingling View Point to watch the sunset.
Day 2:
- Morning: Rameetay Dara is also a good place to visit for the view and pictures.
- Afternoon: Go to the orange groves and have some of the fruits.
- Evening: Take a break and rest at your resort. The environment is calm and peaceful.
Tips:
- Weather: Mirik can be cool, so bring warm clothing, especially in the evenings.
- Transport: Consider hiring a local cab or driver for convenience, as public transport may be limited.
- Local Cuisine: Don’t miss out on local Tibetan and Nepali dishes.
- Cash and Local ATM: While many places accept cards, carrying some cash is a good idea as smaller shops or eateries might not have card facilities.
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- Local Etiquette: Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting religious sites and monasteries. Dress modestly and follow any specific guidelines or rules at these places.
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Mirik is one of the most beautiful and historic places to visit, spend your vacation, and enjoy its natural beauty. From boating in Sumendu Lake to meditating in Bokar Monastery and watching nature’s beauty, Mirik has such magic that it will never disappoint you. If you plan a trip to Darjeeling, do not miss out on Mirik for a brilliant experience and a quiet vacation.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Mirik
When is the best time to visit Mirik?
The best season to visit Mirik is during the summer months of March to June and during the autumn season from September to December.
What are the ways to get to Mirik?
Mirik is well connected by road from Siliguri which is 52 km away and from Darjeeling which is 49 km away. The nearest airport is Bagdogra and the nearest railhead is New Jalpaiguri.
Are there any adventurous activities in Mirik?
Yes, visitors are allowed to go boating in the Sumendu Lake and horse riding around the lake. The scenic walks and viewpoints also provide good opportunities for photo shooting and enjoying nature.
What sort of accommodations are there in Mirik?
Mirik has many options for staying in that includes resorts, hotels, guest houses, and homestays. Majority of the accommodations are found in the Krishnanagar region.
Is it possible to visit tea gardens in Mirik?
Yes, Mirik is surrounded by many tea gardens like Thurbo, Soureni, and Gopaldhara which produce the famous Darjeeling tea. Some of these gardens include tour and tasting services.
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