The Darjeeling festival is all set begin from December 27, and will go on till December 31. It is expected that people from all over will come and attend. This tourism fest is being organised in joint collaboration with Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (GTA), State Tourism Department, and Information and Cultural Affairs Department in Darjeeling. A great step to perk up tourist interest in the hills.
The 104-day-long protest by people belonging to Gorkha sect had affected the state’s tourism. But the demand of having a separate state of Gorkhaland was cancelled on September 27. "In the backdrop of this, we are organising this festival to tell people that there is nothing to fear about, and that they are more than welcome to Darjeeling," added the minister.
GTA principal secretary Subrata Biswas said that it is a fact that economy in the hills mainly depends on tourism, which has taken a back seat because of the agitation. He also called Darjeeling and the view of snow-capped Kanchenjunga as "spectacularly beautiful destination." Apart from domestic tourists, foreigners also come here during this time of the year.
Providing more information on the same, Biswas said that during this fest, lesser-known destinations of Darjeeling will be promoted. The four venues are Darjeeling town, Kurseong, Kalimpong, and Mirik. He said that “local arts, dresses, and cuisines will be showcased at the festival to cater to different interests of tourists. Adventure sports like rafting, paragliding, hiking, and leisurely pastimes like bird watching will also find a mention in the promotional activities."
Let’s hope this fest turns out to be a great success and revives the economy, and tourism of Darjeeling back to normal.
Date of fest: 27th December to 31st December, 2017
Venues: Kurseong, Kalimpong, Mirik, and Darjeeling town
