Batasia Loop and the Gorkha war memorial
The Batasia Loop lies about 5 km from Darjeeling, below Ghum. It was built in 1919 so the railway could lose height in a tight spiral instead of a steep gradient. The name is usually explained as the windy place. Inside the loop is a landscaped garden with a memorial to Gorkha soldiers of the Indian Army who have died in service since 1947.
Come early, when the light is soft and the mountain clear, or time your visit for a train passing on the loop. The joy ride stops here for about 10 minutes. Small stalls sell tea, woollens and souvenirs at the gate. On clear days Kangchenjunga rises directly behind the memorial, one of the best-framed views near Darjeeling.
Questions travellers ask
Good to know
Why was the Batasia Loop built?
It was built in 1919 to ease the gradient between Ghum, the highest point on the line, and Darjeeling. Instead of descending steeply, the track spirals around a small hill and crosses over itself, losing height gradually. It is one of the loops that let the 2 ft gauge railway climb from about 100 m at NJP to over 2,200 m at Ghum.
Can I see the toy train at Batasia Loop?
Yes. Joy ride trains between Darjeeling and Ghum pass several times a day and stop for about 10 minutes, and the daily NJP train passes too. Ask at the gate or check the IRCTC timetable for that day's services. Seeing a steam engine curve around the loop with Kangchenjunga behind is one of Darjeeling's classic photographs.
What is the war memorial at Batasia?
It is a memorial to Gorkha soldiers of the Indian Army who have lost their lives since Independence in 1947. A bronze statue of a soldier stands on a raised platform, with names and an eternal flame. Many Darjeeling families have served in the Gorkha regiments, so it is a place of real meaning locally. Please be respectful when taking photos.
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