Mirik is one of the most charming Hill Stations of North Bengal after Darjeeling. It lies at an elevation of 4,905 feet and gets its name from the Lepcha words Mir-Yok which means ‘place burnt by fire’.
The climate in Mirik remains pleasant through out the year. The maximum temperature during summer reaches around 30°C and the minimum comes down to around 15°C. During winter the lowest temperature comes down to around 2°C. But the daytime temperature remains comfortably cool even in winter with a maximum of around 13°C. Like Darjeeling, Mirik also used to be a favourite of the British during their days in India. Now, with its charming landscapes of Alpine trees and the lash green tea gardens coupled with the beautiful lake and the unique shopping experiences makes Mirik a traveller’s delight.
The main attractions of Mirik are:
SUMENDU LAKE
The Sumendu Lake, popularly known as Mirik lake is about 1.25 km long and the major attraction of Mirik. The lake allows no one to escape the enchanting embrace of the quiet caress received by every tourist-turned-admirer. Boating in the lake is an opportunity every one coming to Mirik looks forward to. There is an arched bridge over the lake and a large ground where the tourists can opt for feeding the fish or go for horse riding.
BOKAR MONASTERY
Polularly known as the Mirik monastery, it was founded in 1986. The seat of the Venerable Kyabje Bokar Rinpoche, the monastery belongs to the Kagyud order. I is one of the few monasteries in India which have retained its traditional beliefs and environment from the very beginning.
TINGLING VIEW POINT / KAWLY DARA VIEWPOINT
Through this view point one can not only view the panoramic carpeted tea plantation, but also a sweeping view of the plains as well as the snow capped mountains. The sunrise and sunset from here is a visual delight.