Mirik is under the development scheme as a hill resort. The place is famous for its tranquil surroundings, magnificent views, soothing climate and recreational activities. The town is centred on the Sumendu Lake, which is the prime attraction in Mirik. The dense forest of pine, cardamom and the orange captures the heart of any tourist, venturing this divine land of beauty.
Mirik is located 55 kms from Siliguri and is 1767 m above sea level. Being promoted as a New Hill Station, Mirik happens to be a small valley in Sing-lila hills region, about 50 Km from both Siliguri and Darjeeling.
Tourism in Mirik
There are not many tourist places in Mirik but the ones that are truly famous ones are known for their enthralling beauty. The Sumendu Lake is the major attraction of Mirik. The arch bridge across the lake is 80 ft. long. Boating and fishing are two of the most popular pastimes in the lake. Rameetay Dara is a viewpoint from where one can get a sweeping view of the plains and the mountains. Sunrise and sunset seen from this point remain to be unforgettable views in a lifetime. Deosi Dara is another high altitude observation point offering a panoramic view of the plains, the hills and the peaks. Rai Dhap is an ideal picnic spot in Mirik and also the source of drinking water for the whole of Mirik. Debi Sthan is the revered Hindu temple; the Singha Devi Mandir lies on the western bank of the lake. Helipad and Swiss Cottage is the hilltop helipad offering a panoramic view of Mirik and the Samendu Lake.
The town of Mirik is surrounded by some of the best teagardens of the region. Thurbo tea Estate is one of the best known and is situated only 2 km from Mirik. One can visit the factory to see tea being processed and also taste it in the traditional way. The tourists in Mirik are welcomed by perpetual sunshine, wild flowers, in delicate pinks and blues, a mesmerising alpine setting, and warm, shy smiles of a people disarmingly unaware of the more refined tensions.
Mirik also has lovely tea gardens, orange orchards and cardamom groves. Apart from these, the nurseries of Mirik showcase a good collection of orchids although there number is not quite large. Mirik monastery is a sacred place for the Buddhists of the region. Tibetan Buddhist Monastery, Donbosco Church, Tamang Buddhist Monastery, Thurbo Tea Garden and Factory, Homedara Siva Mandir, Orchid Nursery and Cardamom firm and Mirik Busty Orange Garden are some of the must visit places of Mirik.
Shopping in Mirik
Mirik is a great place for shoppers. There is almost every specimen of north Bengal in the markets of Mirik that a tourist can fall for. Mirik Bazaar Shopping Centre and Pasupati Market are the main market places of the town, offering everything, be it necessities or antique items.
Visiting Information on Mirik
The climate of Mirik is very pleasant and the temperature usually does not cross 30 degrees during the summers. However, the winters are very cold. Accommodation in Mirik is good and cheap with hotels concentrated along the periphery of the Mirik Lake. The hotels offer all the necessary amenities at affordable rates. Besides a government Tourist Lodge and Tourist cottages, there are private hotels as well. The Mirik Day Centre has a good restaurant.
The nearest airport to Mirik is Bagdogra, lying 55 kms away. Many jeeps and buses connect Mirik and Bagdogra. Mirik is connected by road with Siliguri, Kurseong and Darjeeling with the routes passing through long expanses of great scenic beauty. Mountains of Mirik are covered by Tea Estates. Broad guage railhead that is nearest to Mirik is New Jalpaiguri at a distance of 60km. The toy train station nearest to Mirik is Ghoom (41km), Kurseong (46km) and Darjeeling (49km).
Mirik is a great tourist destination and also an excursion spot from Darjeeling and Kurseong. This small town is slowly being developed into a lavish tourist region.
