Shrubbery Nightingale Park

With Darjeeling, the Shrubbery Nightingale Park is a charming open space that is perfect for relaxing and admiring the breathtaking vista of the Himalayan peaks covered with snow. The park is around 10 minutes walk from the Mall area, one of Darjeeling’s most popular tourist spots. Stunning pine trees may be seen on one side of the park when strolling about, and gorgeous snow-capped mountains can be seen on the other. It became Sir Thomas Tartan’s bungalow’s private patio during the British colonial era in India. Although it was completely destroyed by an earthquake in 1934, it was rebuilt and reopened to the public. The paths throughout the park were crisscrossed with one another following the redesign. It appears stunning at first. Across the park, near the boundary wall, is a place where seating is available. All of the benches have hoods to provide shade, allowing people to use them comfortably during periods of intense heat or precipitation. The variety of colors in the sun shades adds to the surrounding area’s charm. A circular area in the middle of the park is designated for cultural events. People gather around the stage to watch the shows.

Attraction

Darjeeling’s Shrubbery Nightingale Park is well-known for its tranquil atmosphere and expansive vistas of the surrounding hills and the towering Kanchenjunga range. With its well-kept flower beds, lawns, bushes, and trees, the park is wonderfully designed and a wonderful place to take a leisurely stroll or just unwind and take in the scenery. The park comes to life in the evenings with a musical fountain show that features coordinated water displays and vibrant lighting, making for a great visual experience. Cultural events showcasing regional dances and music are sometimes staged in the park, providing guests with an insight into the customs and culture of Darjeeling. Shrubbery Nightingale Park is a serene haven for people wishing to relax and take in the beauty of nature because of its serene surroundings.

History

The history of Darjeeling, India’s Shrubbery Nightingale Park, dates back to the British colonial era. When it was first built, British citizens used it as a private garden to unwind and take in the area’s lovely scenery and temperature. Following India’s 1947 declaration of independence, the park deteriorated and was overrun by flora. To restore the park, local officials started a major rehabilitation project in the early 2000s. In order to improve the park’s accessibility and appeal to tourists, this makeover includes mowed grass, flower beds, and walkways. Shrubbery Nightingale Park is currently a well-liked vacation spot because of its tranquil setting and breathtaking views of the Kanchenjunga mountain range. A Shiva temple, an assortment of flora, a musical fountain, and an area for cultural events—specifically, traditional Nepali music and dance—are all present in the park. The name of the park alludes to the nightingales who historically called the area home. Photographers love this serene place for leisure and photography.

Inside/Outside Views

Shrubbery Nightingale Park is approached by a tastefully modest gate that is frequently adorned with regional floral arrangements or little placards wishing them a happy visit. The park feels far and peaceful because of the towering trees and abundant vegetation that encircles it. The immaculate lawns and garden spaces, which are frequently bordered with a variety of shrubs and flowering plants, are visible from the outside.

Visitors are welcomed with a variety of superbly tended lawns, walkways, and flower beds as soon as they enter the park. The park’s layout features meandering walkways that pass through many zones, each of which features a diverse range of flora, including both native and foreign varieties. Benches are positioned thoughtfully throughout the park to offer spots to relax and take in the scenery. The park is more peaceful in areas where there is a tiny pond or other water feature. The park is especially charming in the evening when it is illuminated with ornamental lights, which makes it the ideal place for a leisurely stroll or to just sit and unwind. In addition, the park provides breathtaking views of the nearby hills and, on clear days, the Kanchenjunga mountain range in the distance.

How to Reach

By Air: Bagdogra, 90 K.M. (via NH 110) away from Darjeeling, is the nearest airport connected by flights from major cities like Kolkata, Delhi, and Guwahati.

By Train: Apart from Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Station (88 K.M. from New Jalpaiguri Railway Station), the two closest railway stations are Siliguri and New Jalpaiguri. These railway stations have direct railway connections with Kolkata, Delhi, Guwahati, and other major cities of India.

By Road: The major access to Darjeeling by road is via Siliguri, 77 K.M. (via NH 55), which is connected to all the major cities of India. Bus service is available from Tenzing Norgay Bus Stand, Siliguri. Smaller vehicles are also available on seat-sharing/ hire from airport, railway station, motor syndicates / police motor stand. Facility of Pre-paid taxi stand from NJP Railway station & Bagdogra airport can also be availed. The four routes that one can opt from Siliguri to reach Darjeeling are: i) Tindharia – Kurseong route ii) Dudhiya – Mirik route iii) Rohini route iv) Pankhabari.

FAQ

Que-01: Is this place safe to visit?

Ans: Yes, this place is safe.

Que-02: Is photography allowed here?

Ans: Yes, photography is allowed.

Que-03: Is the park suitable for children and elderly visitors?

Ans: Yes, The park is suitable for visitors of all ages. However, some paths may be uneven or slightly steep, so it’s advisable to take caution when visiting with elderly people or young children.

Que-04: Are there any facilities in the park?

Ans: The park has benches for resting and some shaded areas. However, facilities like restrooms or food stalls may be limited, so plan accordingly.