Nestled in the serene hills of Darjeeling district, Mirik is a hidden gem that offers the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of popular tourist circuits. Located approximately 42 km from Dawaipani, Mirik is an ideal destination for a peaceful full-day trip—famous for its picturesque lake, pine forests, tea gardens, and peaceful surroundings.
Top Attractions at Mirik
Sumendu Lake (Mirik Lake)
The centerpiece of Mirik—a calm, man-made lake surrounded by pine forests and gardens.
Activities: Boating (₹100–200), horse riding along the lakeside trail, photography
Special Feature: An arched bridge connecting both banks; ideal for selfies
Travel Tip: Arrive before 11 AM to avoid crowds
Rameetay Dara Viewpoint
Distance: 1.5 km from the lake
Attractions: Panoramic views of Mt. Kanchenjunga on clear days
Tip: Ideal for morning or sunset visits
Bokar Ngedon Chokhor Ling Monastery
Distance: 2.5 km from lake area
Why Visit: Peaceful meditation site, prayer hall with beautiful murals
Entry: Free; donations welcome
Mirik Tea Gardens (Thurbo Tea Estate)
Location: Just outside Mirik on the Pashupati road
What to Do: Walk through tea trails, buy fresh Darjeeling tea
Factory Tour: Subject to permission; ask locals
Mirik Garden (Pine Forest Side)
Activity: Walk through pine canopy, local snack stalls, small zipline activities for kids
Tip: Great picnic spot under the shade
Food & Shopping in Mirik
Local Cuisine
Main Market Area: Try momos, thukpa, tea-based desserts, bamboo pickles.
Recommended Cafes:
- Norden Restaurant – Local and Tibetan food
- Sunflower Restaurant – Vegetarian meals with lake view
- Mirik Café Inn – Coffee and pastries
.jpg)
Shopping Tip: Handcrafted woolens, herbal oils, wooden souvenirs available in the lake market area.
Lesser-Known Beautiful Spots
Deosi Dara Viewpoint
Distance: 4 km from Mirik Lake
Valley view, fewer tourists, hidden gem for photography.
Swiss Cottage Area
Old colonial-era bungalows, scenic background for portraits.
Quiet walking trail for couples and elderly visitors.
Sai Mandir, Mirik
Clean, small temple surrounded by nature.
Entry: Free, peaceful ambience.
Orange Orchards (Seasonal)
Best Time: November to January
Orchard walk, taste fresh oranges, buy homemade jam.
Travel & Local Tips
Start Time
Leave Dawaipani by 7:30 AM to enjoy a full day
Travel Time
~2 hrs by car; best via Jorbunglow → Ghoom → Sukhiapokhri route
Transport
Use homestay-arranged private vehicle; shared taxis available from Darjeeling
Weather
Mild in summer, cool in winter, misty during monsoon (carry umbrella)
Mobile Network
Jio and BSNL work well; patchy Airtel signal
Border Shopping
Close proximity to Indo-Nepal border for spice shopping (Pashupati Market - 12 km)
Why Visit Mirik?
- Less crowded than Darjeeling
- Clean, walkable lakefront with boating and pony rides
- Photogenic pine forests and sunrise viewpoints
- Close proximity to Indo-Nepal border for shopping
Plan Your Mirik Adventure
A visit to Mirik Lake from Dawaipani is the perfect blend of serenity, light adventure, and local charm. Whether you're a solo traveler, couple, or family, this quaint hill destination offers a full day of rejuvenation without the tourist rush.
Plan your Mirik day trip with Rakhali Homestay, Dawaipani
We help with local transport and guided itineraries.