About Lebong Racecourse
Lebong Racecourse is claimed to be the smallest and highest horse-racing track in the world — a tight oval at 1,740m on the hillside below Darjeeling town, built by the British Raj in 1885. The track is squeezed into a narrow north-facing slope and the altitude and gradient mean that racing here is as much about the horses' lung capacity as their legs. During World War II the racecourse was requisitioned as an emergency airstrip and supplies were flown in from Bagdogra. Racing resumed after the war and continues today, with meetings in October–November drawing crowds from across the Darjeeling hills. Outside race days — which is most of the year — the oval track and surrounding hillside are a pleasant colonial-era walk, with the original Raj-era grandstand still intact.
Why go to Lebong Racecourse
World's smallest and highest racecourse — still active
Built 1885, converted to an airstrip in WWII, returned to racing afterward. The Victorian-era grandstand and the tight oval are extraordinary period pieces still in use.
Victorian-era grandstand — Raj architecture still in its original context
The original 1885 grandstand retains its period ironwork, tiered wooden seating and covered viewing terrace. Unlike most Darjeeling Raj-era buildings now converted to hotels or schools, the grandstand is seen where it belongs — beside a working racetrack.
Hillside position with tea estate and valley views
The racecourse is built on a north-facing slope below Darjeeling town, and a walk around the oval perimeter gives open views over the Balason valley and the distant Teesta plains. The race circuit and the landscape complement each other.
How to reach Lebong Racecourse from Darjeeling
Taxi from Darjeeling (10 min, ₹200–300). On foot it is a 20-minute walk downhill from the bazaar; uphill return is steeper.
Best time to visit Lebong Racecourse
October–November for the race meetings — this is when Lebong comes alive, the grandstand fills and you see the track used as it was designed. The rest of the year the site is quiet: a morning walk around the oval gives the heritage architecture and the valley views without crowds. The grandstand is most photogenic in October–November when race flags are up.
Time of dayRace days are afternoon events. For a quiet heritage walk, morning is best.
Things we always tell our guests about Lebong Racecourse
- Race meeting dates vary — check with We Care Holidays or the Darjeeling Tourism office for the current year's schedule.
- The Victorian grandstand is the most photogenic element — it is in fair condition and open on race days.
- Combine with Senchal Lake (10 min further by taxi) for an efficient half-day circuit.
Lebong Racecourse — your questions answered
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