This
new Hill Resort, Mirik, is increasing becoming popular day by
day among the tourists. It is situated at an altitude of about
1750 metres or 5800 ft. and has a population of about 20,000.
The climate is pleasant throughout the year.
Mirik is an excellent picnic spot, and Kanchenjunga is visible.
The climate is congenially cool and tourists can have a pleasant
sight seeing. The 335 acre site for the new tourist-resort is
shaped like a tiny valley. Within the valley, there is a level
stretch of five acres, rare in the hills of Darjeeling. Along
the west of this flat ground, there is a natural lake formation
fed with perennial springs and rain water. Now, that the water
here is impounded by construction of a weir, there is a 1.25 km
long Sumendu Lake. The level stretch forms eastern bank of the
lake, the western bank being hill-slopes covered by rich forest
of about ten thousand "Cryptomaria japanica" trees.
Now Mirik receives day as well as long or short stay visitors.
A garden has been laid our on the eastern bank, a 3.5 km circular
foot walk has been completed, and there is foot bridge over the
lake. Nature lovers may spend a day or two at Mirik profitable.
They can walk around the lake or along the numerous walks in the
heavily forested ridges on the western bank; view of sunrise or
sunset from "Rameetay Dara" which means "Entertainment
Hill" would all go to make a fine holiday. Visitors may enjoy
the orange trees at Soureni, a short distance from Mirik. One
will notice labourers carrying huge baskets ("Doko"
- local dialect) on their back with the help of "Namlo"
or rope woven to carry load on the back which rests on the head,loaded
with fresh oranges and they are really juicy, not like those you
get in the plains. It will be a refreshing experience.
For rest and food, the "Day-Centre" at the eastern
bank has a comfortable lounge. Tea, coffee and snacks are available
throughout the day. Visitors may also lunch here. Boating, fishing,
beautification and overnight accommodation etc. are available
and ready for the visitors. There are several moderately priced
hotels to stay overnight near the lake.
