The Himalayan Mountaineering Institute in Darjeeling is one of the oldest mountaineering institutes. This institute was also set up to commemorate Tenzing Norgay Sherpa and Sir Edmund Hillary’s conquest of Everest. It was an initiative of Jawahar Lal Nehru, India’s first Prime Minister. Himalayan Mountaineering Institute regularly organizes many mountaineering courses on different levels like adventure, basic and advanced. The picturesque location of this Darjeeling mountaineering institute makes it a must-visit tourist destination. This institute is covered by the splendid peak of Kanchenjunga. Hence, visiting this place will give you an insightful mountaineering experience and enhance your travel experience.
History of Himalayan Mountaineering Institute
This institute was established on 4th November 1954, and it was set up after Tenzing Norgay Sherpa and Sir Edmund Hillary conquered the highest peak in the world, Mount Everest, in 1953. The main aim of setting up the institute was to encourage mountaineering as a sport in India.
Location: Jawahar Parbat in Darjeeling, West Bengal
Himalayan Mountaineering Institute Entry Fee: INR 40 per person + additional charges for camera
Timing of Himalayan Mountaineering Institute: 9:00 am to 1:00 pm and 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm
Closed on: Every Tuesday and during off season
Major Highlights of Himalayan Mountaineering Institute
Museum
This Himalayan Mountaineering Institute Darjeeling attracts thousands of tourists, mountaineers, and researchers annually. Apart from the development of mountaineering sports, it is also known for preserving the art and culture that you can see in its museum. Mountaineering History, Mount Everest Expedition and Panorama of Himalayan Life are three museum sections. While exploring the museum, you can admire the backdrop of the majestic Kanchenjunga.
Library
Himalayan Mountaineering Institute of Darjeeling has a well-stocked library. This enticing book hub is home to 2,800 books on various subjects. However, you can find mainly books on Mountaineering, travel, geology, exploration, and flora here.
Auditorium
The auditorium of this Himalayan Mountaineering Institute is one of the most fascinating elements. It can accommodate 225 students at a time and display short sports films, lectures, and demonstrations.
Souvenir Shop
There is a souvenir shop that holds mementoes for students and visitors. You can shop from here at subsidized prices and buy these products as gifts for your loved ones.
Best Time to Visit Himalayan Mountaineering Institute
You can visit this institute throughout the year. However, You need to cross-check the opening hours and date. It is closed on Tuesday and off-season, so check out the details. Summer and winter are the best season to plan your trip to this institute of Darjeeling. During this season, the climate condition is favorable and pleasant for sightseeing. At the same time, the Monsoon season brings heavy rain that may disturb the sightseeing plan and make hiking challenging.
How to Reach Himalayan Mountaineering Institute
This institute of Darjeeling is located in Birch Hill Park. It is around a 30–minutes car ride away from Jawahar Road. You can rent a car, taxi, or mini bus to reach there. After parking your vehicle, you will need to walk for 5 minutes.
This institute is one of the must-visit places in this hill station of West Bengal. However, you can explore the nearby tourist attractions and craft your travel stories by booking your tour with our fully customizable Darjeeling tour packages.
