The Teesta Tea & Tourism Festival, held in charming Darjeeling at the foothills of the Himalayas, is a collaborative effort by West Bengal Tourism, Darjeeling Gorkha Hill Council, Sikkim Tourism, and the Indian Government. It aims to boost tourism and celebrate the region's tea industry.
This annual event, usually held in November and December, showcases Darjeeling's prominence in black tea production and offers a plethora of entertainment, from cultural performances to modern dance forms. The festival's popularity extends to Sikkim, attracting renowned celebrities from the Northeast to entertain and engage with the local community.
Major Attractions of Teesta Tea and Tourism Festival
A very popular festival of Darjeeling, this event is nothing but 2 days of bliss. Check out some major attractions of this place that are reason enough for you to explore this event.
1. Jowre & Juhari Songs
The festival witnesses the presence of several artists from the Northeast and Nepal, singing folk songs like Jowre & Juhari. The folk songs are basically about spreading love and affection towards nature.
2. Rosia Songs
It is an old folk song type that is sung during the cultivation period. Since the Teesta Tea and Tourism Festival is also a festival that promotes cultivation, local talents can be seen singing and performing on this song.
3. Maruni Naach
This is a Nepali dance form that is performed in Darjeeling, India, and other countries of South Asia, such as Bhutan and Myanmar. It is mostly performed by women wearing traditional attire.
4. The Starry Show
Several big names of Bollywood also attend the festival and make it more impactful. Stars like Mahima Chaudhary (who also hails from the Northeast) and Zeenat Aman have attended the festival in the past.
5. Toy Train Ride
While you are here, there is no point in missing a tour in the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. It will be quite an adventurous experience.
6. Bungee Jumping
It is one of the most popular activities one can enjoy in Darjeeling.
How to Reach
Also referred to as the Queen of Himalayas, what Darjeeling has to offer is jaw-dropping beauty, and welcoming nature. And it is to explore its lush panoramic backdrops that tourists flock here in great numbers annually. It is located at an approximate distance of 1,515, 2,343, 615, and 2,560 km from Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bengaluru respectively. Here is how you can travel to Darjeeling by the following means of public transportation.
By Air
The closest airport is Bagdogra Airport which is just 95 kilometers away from the city center. There are also direct flights available from Guwahati, Kolkata, and Delhi. Once you reach the airport, you can easily take a bus, auto or taxi. It will take 2-3 hours to reach Darjeeling.
By Rail
New Jalpaiguri is the nearest railway station to Darjeeling. It is well-connected to the major cities of India like Guwahati, Delhi, Chennai, Bhuvneshwar, Bengaluru, and Kochi. You can also hire a private cab from New Jalpaiguri Railway Station to Darjeeling.
By Road
The hill station is well-linked with major nearby cities such as Gangtok, Kalimpong, and other regional areas. Also, you can enjoy a road trip from Guwahati to Darjeeling, which is just 500-520 kilometers away.
Conclusion
The Teesta Tea & Tourism Festival stands as a vibrant celebration of the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of the region, nestled amidst the picturesque landscapes of the Teesta Valley. Through its diverse array of activities, including tea tasting sessions, cultural performances, adventure sports, and guided tours of tea estates, the festival offers a unique opportunity for both locals and tourists to immerse themselves in the essence of Darjeeling's tea industry and scenic splendour. By showcasing the craftsmanship of tea cultivation and processing, as well as promoting local handicrafts and cuisine, the festival not only stimulates tourism but also fosters economic growth and cultural exchange within the community.
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Frequently Asked Questions Related to Teesta Tea & Tourism Festival
Q1. When is the Teesta Tea & Tourism Festival held each year?
A1: The Teesta Tea & Tourism Festival typically takes place during the peak tea harvesting season in Darjeeling, which is usually between October and November.
Q2: What activities can visitors expect to participate in during the festival?
A2. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of activities, including tea tasting sessions, guided tours of tea estates, cultural performances showcasing local music and dance, adventure sports such as river rafting and trekking, and opportunities to explore nearby attractions like monasteries and viewpoints.
Q3. Are there any special events or ceremonies held during the Teesta Tea & Tourism Festival?
A3. Yes, the festival often features special events such as the inauguration ceremony, tea auctions, traditional tea plucking demonstrations, and cultural showcases highlighting the diverse heritage of the region.
Q4. How can I get to the Teesta Tea & Tourism Festival?
A4. The festival is usually held in and around the Darjeeling district of West Bengal, India. Visitors can reach Darjeeling by road from nearby cities like Siliguri or by the iconic Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, also known as the "Toy Train." Additionally, there are regular bus and taxi services available from various parts of the region.
Q5. Is there accommodation available near the festival venue?
A5. Yes, there are numerous hotels, guesthouses, and homestays available in and around Darjeeling to accommodate festival attendees. It is advisable to book accommodation in advance, especially during the festival period, to ensure availability and secure preferred lodging options.
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