Dear Darjeeling
Amidst the mist-kissed hills, where echoes of laughter blend with the whispers of history, A wall tells stories—etched in colors bold, in faces timeless and free. The old man’s eyes hold the wisdom of the mountains, The young maiden’s gaze, a silent song of tradition. A woman’s laughter spills into the street, golden ornaments swaying like echoes of joy. Beside them, the toy train waits, frozen in time— A symbol of journeys, of nostalgia, of endless motion. And among it all, travelers pause— Some capturing moments, some simply passing by— All becoming, in some way, part of the mural’s tale.
For the people of Darjeeling, the toy train is not just a heritage attraction—it’s woven into their daily lives. Schoolchildren have grown up watching it puff past their classrooms, traders have relied on it to transport goods, and locals often measure their day by the familiar whistle echoing through the valleys. Even today, as modern transportation takes over, the sight of the train steaming past the Batasia Loop or gliding through the heart of the town remains an enduring symbol of home.
The toy train is deeply embedded in Darjeeling’s identity. From Bollywood films to postcards and souvenirs, its image represents the romance of slow travel and the nostalgia of a bygone era. It is a storyteller in itself—each journey a celebration of the region’s colonial history, diverse communities, and breathtaking landscapes.
Despite modern influences, Darjeeling retains its old-world charm. Life moves at its own pace here—neither too fast nor too slow, just enough to savor each moment. The mountains, the people, the traditions, and the ever-present tea culture weave a story of a town that is not just a destination but a way of life.
The dogs of Darjeeling are more than just strays—they are the quiet guardians of the hills. You’ll find them lounging in front of tea stalls, keeping an eye on their human companions, or stationed at scenic viewpoints as if they, too, are admiring the view of Kanchenjunga. Some have been unofficially adopted by shopkeepers and locals, while others simply roam free, belonging to the mountains, the streets, and the kindness of strangers.
There’s something about the children of Darjeeling—their hearts are as warm as the tea their families brew. They wave at passing travelers, eager to share a smile. Some lend a helping hand to their elders in market stalls, while others stand in awe outside a bakery, watching fresh cakes being decorated. Their innocence is untouched by the rush of modernity, their joy found in the smallest of things—a piece of candy, a borrowed cycle ride, a snowfall that turns their town into a white wonderland.
As my journey through the misty hills of Darjeeling comes to an end, I leave with a heart full of memories—of toy trains winding through emerald slopes, of warm laughter shared over cups of Darjeeling tea, and of the quiet charm that lingers in every street, every sunrise, and every kind stranger’s smile. The echoes of this beautiful town will stay with me long after I have left, like the lingering aroma of fresh-brewed tea. For now, it’s a goodbye—but in my heart, I know Darjeeling is not a place one visits just once. It’s a feeling, a rhythm, a story waiting to be relived again. Until next time, dear Darjeeling.
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Arko,
Wonderful. This is the first word came to my mind after sailing through your Darjeeling story. The storytelling is fresh with 3 sub stories into one umbrella. Nice… Waiting for the next one from you.
Asadharon hoyeche
Excellent photography
Beautifully penned, for a person sitting far away from this place the vivid description of Darjeeling gives you a near live account of one more day in the lives of the people of Darjeeling.. the pictures too back up the writing..well done Arko.. looking forward to more in future..
Arko, your journey through Darjeeling is beautifully captured in both words and images. The way you weave the town’s timeless charm with its vibrant history and people is mesmerizing. From the nostalgia of the toy train to the warmth of the children’s smiles, your writing invites us into the heart of Darjeeling. Looking forward to your next write up!