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DARJEELING TRIP PLAN – A Complete Travel Guide with FAQs Answered

Darjeeling , Featured , West Bengal

Last Updated on: Dec 24, 2016  

About this blog: We have been exploring Darjeeling ever since we started travelling. We have also blogged about this place for long. This Darjeeling Travel Guide was written sometime back. We have now updated this Darjeeling travel guide with all the latest information and required to plan a Darjeeling trip. This guide might help you when you visit the “Queen of Hills” and make you plan a perfect Darjeeling tour.

Darjeeling, the quaint hill station located in the northern part of West Bengal is undoubtedly one of our favourite destinations of all times. To be honest, we can never get enough of Darjeeling . A land of breathtaking beauty surrounded by rolling green tea plantations along with the majestic Kanchenjunga ranges towering above the skyline has earned it the moniker of Queen of Hills .

The eternal beauty and the quaint Victorian charm of the place are enough to lure travellers and tourists alike. And the cherry on the top is the adorable Darjeeling toy train that whistles its way through the mountains. Which other hill stations have so many beauties rolled in one!

Darjeeling Trip Plan | About Darjeeling

Darjeeling is located at an altitude of about 6710 feet and is one of the most beautiful destinations in India. The name Darjeeling came from two Tibetan words ‘ dorje ’ meaning and ‘ ling ‘ meaning land. So Darjeeling literally means ‘the land of thunderbolt’.

Previous to its acquisition by the British East India Company in 1835, Darjeeling was a part of Sikkim (Sikkim was an independent kingdom then) and also of Nepal for a brief period of time.

During February 1829, a British Officer Caption Llyod spent a few days in Darjeeling. The place was then known as the “Old Gorkha Station of Darjeeling”. The place was nothing like what it is today. It was a deserted region with dense forests and mountains. Caption Llyod realized that Darjeeling can become a great sanatorium or health resort for the British officers.

What is the Best Time to Visit Darjeeling?

Usually, Darjeeling has two main peak seasons for tourists – March to May and October to November. This is the time when Darjeeling gets the maximum footfall of tourists. When you want to plan your Darjeeling trip, entirely depends on what you want to experience at Darjeeling. Here I would mention briefly about the seasons in Darjeeling.

March to May (Spring and Summer)

This is one of the best times to visit Darjeeling. The weather remains pleasantly cool. After all, one of the main reasons for planning a Darjeeling trip is to beat the summer heat in the plains. The sky also remains clear giving a clear view of the Kanchenjunga ranges. But this is also a peak tourist season and Darjeeling will be full of local tourists.

March and April is the spring season and also the blooming season of rhododendrons.

June to September (Monsoon)

Monsoon usually starts by mid-June and lasts until September. During the monsoon, there are chances of landslides and some of the roads might be closed due to rains. Darjeeling, however, looks immensely beautiful and romantic during the rains, though you won’t get any mountain views as the weather remains cloudy most of the time. Also, tourism is low at this time and you get to see an uncrowded and relatively serene Darjeeling.

Honestly, monsoon is one of our favourite times to visit Darjeeling . We get rooms at cheaper rates, the roads are empty and the mist and clouds that envelope the roads make Darjeeling completely mesmerizing.

October to November (Autumn)

Autumn is also a good time to visit Darjeeling. The weather remains pleasant, the nature is vibrant and the skies are clear. You would get great views of the snow-covered peaks during this time. Bur again, this is a peak season and Darjeeling will be full of tourists, both local and international.

December to February (Winter)

Winter in Darjeeling is extremely cold and the higher altitudes of experience snowfall in December. Tiger Hill, located only 11 km from Darjeeling also experiences snowfall during the winter. Darjeeling gets fewer tourists during this time. If you plan to visit Darjeeling during the winter, do carry woolens with you.

Winter is our favourite time for Darjeeling tour. We love to enjoy the winters of hill stations and Darjeeling never disappoints us in this matter. Also, Darjeeling oranges are quite famous and we get that during the wintertime.

Having said these, you cannot really predict the weather on the hills. At one time, it is sunny and bright and in the next moment, it can become cloudy and foggy.

How to Reach Darjeeling?

The nearest airport is the Bagdogra Airport and the nearest broad gauge railway station is New Jalpaiguri (NJP). I have mentioned broad-gauge railways because you can reach Darjeeling from NJP by the famous toy train.

From NJP, you will get both shared jeeps as well as rented vehicles to reach Darjeeling. From Bagdogra Airport, you will get rented cabs to reach Darjeeling. Shared jeeps are also available from Siliguri Main Bus Stand towards Darjeeling. Buses are also available from Siliguri towards Darjeeling, but I would recommend you to travel by the shared sumos instead of buses.

Pro Tip: If you are coming from abroad, you will need some sort of a visa that can be applied for online, or at the embassy. For example, The India evisa for Canada citizens is available online.

Best Places to visit in Darjeeling

• Batasia Loop and War Memorial
• Darjeeling Mall or Chowrasta
• The Darjeeling Zoo and HMI
• Rock Garden and Ganga Maya Park
• Japanese Temple and Peace Pagoda
• Happy Valley Tea Estate
• Observatory Hill and the Mahakal Temple
• Ghum Monastery
• Tenzing and Gombu Rocks
• Tibetan Refugee Self Help Centre

Darjeeling is a small hilly town, but there are a number of places to visit in Darjeeling that can be accessed by travelling a short distance. Darjeeling town is small, but Darjeeling district spans across 3,000 sq km. While there are a number of places to visit in Darjeeling and several attractions around the town, you can also visit Kurseong and Kalimpong, two other hill stations that are also quite beautiful and charming. Here I have discussed some of the must-visit tourist attractions in Darjeeling.

1. Tiger Hill

I personally feel that a Darjeeling trip can never be completed without watching the sunrise at Tiger Hill . Located at the highest point in Darjeeling at an altitude of 2,590 m, Tiger Hill is located about 11 km from Darjeeling town. If you visit Tiger Hill in the day, it is just another viewpoint and you will hardly see any tourist there. But early in the morning, the place is full of a long queue of cars and people waiting for the sun to rise. Tiger Hill is now internationally famous for its magnificent sunrise view above the Kanchenjunga and other eastern Himalayan ranges.

There is a watchtower at Tiger Hill from where you will get a sweeping view of the mountain ranges.  It is an amazing experience to see the first rays of sun falling on the snow-clad ranges of the Kanchenjunga and Everest. The sky gradually changes colour from golden yellow to orange as the sun rises up the horizon.

The best time to get clear views of sunrise is during autumn and winter. But the weather in Darjeeling can be quite unpredictable and a sudden cloud can totally obstruct the sunrise view. Even otherwise, Tiger Hill is a great place to visit in Darjeeling to soak in the Himalayan beauty.

2. Batasia Loop and War Memorial

Batasia Loop is located on the Hill Cart Road and is about 5 km from Darjeeling town and is one of the major attractions of your Darjeeling trip . The Batasia Loop is a gigantic railway loop where the Darjeeling toy train takes a 360-degree turn just after Ghum . You can get a panoramic view of the Kanchenjunga ranges and the entire landscape from here. There is a well-maintained eco-garden at Batasia Loop along with proper seating arrangements from where you can sit down and see the wonderful views.

The War Memorial is located at the centre of the Batasia Loop. The War Memorial was opened in 1995 to pay homage to the Gorkha soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the nation. Just in the middle, there is a 3-metre bronze statue of a Gorkha soldier paying homage. Outside the Batasia Loop, there is a small market area selling curios, bags, hats, and other decorative items. You can visit Batasia Loop after a trip to the Tiger Hill to watch the sunrise.

Timings: Everyday 5:00 AM to 8:00 PM

3. Darjeeling Mall or Chowrasta

Darjeeling Mall or Chowrasta is the centre of Darjeeling town and is the most happening place in the entire town. It is a flat piece of land converted into a pedestrian-only zone and no traffic is allowed at the Mall. There are seating arrangements around the Mall where you can relax and have a steaming hot cup of Darjeeling tea. A number of shops are located in the Mall area including tea bars, curio shop, book shops and more. You can stroll around the Mall leisurely or else simply sit on the bench and see Darjeeling come alive in front of you. Horse ride is also available around the Mall at a prefixed rate.

There are a few important places to visit around Darjeeling Mall. You can take a walk around the Mall Road and visit a few of the important and heritage places in Darjeeling. There is also an open-air auditorium and stage where many functions and cultural programmes take place. The Mall or Chowrasta is actually the social fabric of Darjeeling town.

4. Darjeeling Zoo and HMI

Darjeeling Zoo or Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park is one of the attractive places to visit in Darjeeling. Covering a vast area of 27 hectares, the zoo is the only specialized zoo for the conservation breeding programs of rare Himalayan species like the red panda, snow leopards, Tibetan wolf, Himalayan Black bear and other endangered species.

The Darjeeling Zoo is the largest high altitude zoo in India and covers an area of 67.5 acres at an average altitude of 7,000ft.

The Himalayan Mountain Institute or the HMI is said to be a pilgrimage for mountaineers and climbing enthusiast. It is also a must-visit place for all mountain lovers. It has a museum with mountaineering displays and many expedition artefacts. HMI is located in the same complex as the zoo and both of these can be visited together. Whenever we go for a Darjeeling trip, we make it a point to visit HMI. Just staring at the complex and reading its slogan “May you climb from peak to peak” gives us a feeling of happiness.

Timings: Everyday from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM in the summer and 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM in the winters.

5. Rock Garden and Ganga Maya Park

The Rock Garden and Ganga Maya Park are two beautiful parks located close to each other. The Rock Garden, located about 10 km from Darjeeling town is a terraced garden that has been cut through the rock and seating arrangements are made in between. The major attraction here is the cascading waterfall flowing down the rocks. The Rock Garden is also known as the Barbotey Rock Garden and was created by Darjeeling Gorkha Hill Council to boost tourism in Darjeeling.

Ganga Maya Park is about 3 km from Rock Garden and is more spread having a beautiful flower garden and fountains. There is a small lake in the park where tourists can enjoy boating.

6. Japanese Temple and Peace Pagoda

The Japanese Temple and Peace Pagoda is the symbol of peace and a place of tranquillity. It is located in the Jalapahar Hills about 10 minutes driving distance from Darjeeling town. The temple is also known as the Nipponzan Myohoji Buddhist Temple and was built in 1972 under Nichidatsu Fujii, a Buddhist Monk from Japan. Built in the traditional Japanese style, the temple has two storeys. The view from here is simply wonderful. You can see the Kanchenjunga peak from here.

The Peace Pagoda is located just beside the temple. The Japanese Peace Pagoda was built to bring people together from all castes and creeds for the purpose of world peace. You can occasionally hear Buddhist chants and prayer at the temple. The place is indeed full of serenity and you can feel it once you are there.

Timings: Everyday from 4:30 AM to 7 PM

Prayer timings are from 4.30 AM to 6.00 AM, and 4.30 PM to 6.30 PM

7. Happy Valley Tea Estate

How can your Darjeeling trip be complete without visiting a tea garden? Happy Valley Tea Estate is the best place where you can get a first-hand experience of tea gardens as well as how the tea leaves actually make way to your cup. The tea estate was established in 1854 and was known as the Wilson Tea Estate . Later the estate was renamed as Happy Valley Tea Estate. The estate covers an area of about 110 hectares and is one of the highest tea estates in West Bengal. Most of the tea bushes here are more than a century old!

Located below the Hill Cart Road, one of the best times to visit Happy Valley Tea Estate is during the plucking and processing season between March and October. During this time, an employee with take you around the tea factory and explain the process of withering, rolling, fermenting and drying and also explain how black, green and white tea is extracted from the same tea leaves. At the end of the tour, tea tasting is also offered. There is also a tea boutique from where you can but best quality Darjeeling Tea is grown at the estate.

Timings: The Tea estate and factory are open from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM from Tuesday to Saturday. The factory remains closed between November to February as tea plucking does not take place in winter.

8. Observatory Hill and the Mahakal Temple

The Observatory Hill and Mahakal Temple is located just behind the Mall. The Mahakal Temple is located at the summit of the Observatory Hill. As you walk around the Mall Road, you will see a flight of stairs leading up to the hill and the temple. It is believed that a Buddhist monastery named Dorjeling Monastery once stood at the place where the Mahakal Temple stands.

The original monastery was built in the year 1765 by the Lama Dorje Rinzing and it was destroyed in 1815 during the Gorkha invasion. Later the Mahakal Temple was built at the place and the monastery was rebuilt at about 1.5 km downhill from the Chowrasta.

At Mahakal Temple, you will not only hear the chants of Hindu prayers but will also hear the Buddhist monks reading scriptures. It is a beautiful communion of Hinduism and Buddhism, just as we saw at Bhaktapur Durbar Square in Nepal .

Timings: From sunrise to sunset.

9. Ghum Monastery

One of the most magnificent monasteries near Darjeeling is the Ghum Monastery , also known as the Yiga Choeling Monastery . Located at Ghum at an altitude of 7400 ft and 8 km from Darjeeling town, it is one of the oldest Tibetan monasteries to be built in Darjeeling area. The major attraction of the monastery is the 15 ft high statue of Maitreya Buddha or future Buddha.

It is believed that the clay to make the statue of the Buddha was brought all the way from Tibet. In front of the statue, there are two huge oil lamps that are kept burning all the time throughout the year. The monastery also houses a number of rare Buddhist manuscripts including a 108-volume Kangyur – The Tibetan Buddhist Gospel.

10. Tenzing and Gombu Rocks

The Tenzing Rock is a naturally formed huge rock in Darjeeling and is named after the famous Tenzing Norgay . The Gombu Rock stands just opposite to Tenzing Rock and is named after Nawang Gombu, the nephew of Tenzing Norgay who had scaled Mt Everest twice in 1963 and 1965. These rocks are used by the HMI for rock climbing training. The right face of Tenzing Rock is used for amateur climbers, so you can also give a try at rock climbing.

11. Tibetan Refugee Self Help Centre

The Tibetan Refugee Self Help Centre was established in 1959 for the rehabilitation of the Tibetans who had migrated to India after the Chinese invaded Tibet. In order to sustain, they adopted the principle of self-help.

The Tibetans make exquisite handicrafts, shawls, carpets, carved wooden and other items. If you visit there, you can see the Tibetan men and women working patiently on these handicrafts. There is an outlet from where you can buy these handicrafts. The Tibetan Refugee Centre is located on a hilltop that can be approached from Lebong Cart Road. There is also a small monastery at the complex. This is one of our favourite places to visit in Darjeeling trip.

Apart from these 11 fabulous places, you can visit the Shrubbery near the zoo and the Botanical garden near the Chowk Bazar.

Darjeeling Travel Guide | Darjeeling Sightseeing

You can go for Darjeeling sightseeing tours by getting a reserved car from Club side taxi Stand or Chowk Bazar. Usually, the cars offer 3 types of sightseeing tours – 3-point, 5-point and 7-point sightseeing tours.

• 3-point Tour: This is the early morning tour covering sunrise at Tiger Hill, Batasia Loop and Ghum Monastery.

Tentative Rate for reserved Taxi: Rs 1200.00 – 1500.00

• 5-point Tour: This includes Japanese Temple and Peace Pagoda, Lal Kuthi, Dhirdham Temple, Ava Art Gallery and Darjeeling Zoo. This takes about 3 hours

Tentative Rate of reserved car: Rs 1200.00 – 1500.00

• 7-point tour: This covers most of the famous attractions of Darjeeling like the Darjeeling Zoo and HMI, Darjeeling Ropeway, Tenzing and Gombu Rock, Happy Valley Tea Estate, Tibetan Refugee Centre, Lebong Race Course.

Tentative Rate of reserved car: Rs 1500.00 – 1700.00

You can also reserve a car and explore Darjeeling as per your choice. For more details of Darjeeling sightseeing and costs , please read our detailed post.

Darjeeling Toy Train

The Toy Train ride or Darjeeling Himalayan Railways is undoubtedly one of the major attractions of Darjeeling and should be a part of your Darjeeling tour. DHR is the first mountain railway in India opened in 1881 to connect Darjeeling with the plains in Siliguri. This mountain railways is said to be one of the best examples of mountain railways and definitely an outstanding engineering feat achieved during those times. The DHR has been accorded the UNESCO World Heritage site status.

If you have the time, the best way to experience the Darjeeling Toy Train is to take a ride from NJP to Darjeeling. It is a long ride almost taking a day, but the ride will be one of life kind of experience. If you do not wish to venture in this journey, you can take a toy train ride from Darjeeling to Ghum or Kurseong.

The best way is, however, to take the Darjeeling Toy Train Joy Ride . This is a 2-hour ride starting from Darjeeling Station to Ghum and back covering a distance of 14 km. The train stops at Batasia Loop. The fare for Darjeeling Joy Ride is between Rs 1000.00 to 1600.00 per head.

Darjeeling Tea

How can I probably not talk about Darjeeling Tea while writing about Darjeeling? There is almost no doubt that Darjeeling is one of the finest producers of tea in the world. There are a number of tea gardens and estates in Darjeeling district producing some of the finest qualities of tea. A packet of Darjeeling tea is one of the prized souvenirs of India that you can take home.

The cup is actually waiting for you. Take a sip and enjoy the aroma and taste of fresh and pure Darjeeling Tea. Well, that is enough of tea advertisements! Let me now tell you where you can have tea in Darjeeling. There are several outlets, tea lounges and tea bars from where you can taste Darjeeling Tea. Personally, our favourite is the Darjeeling tea at Nathmulls on Darjeeling Mall and Glenarys on Nehru Road. We also love the tea served by the roadside vendors.

Some of the best places to have tea during your Darjeeling trip are

• Nathmull’s Tea and Sunset Lounge
• House of Tea
• Golden Tips Tea Lounge
• Afternoon Tea at Windermere
• Happy Golden Cafe

You can buy your packet of tea from any of these places. But I would suggest you buy Darjeeling tea from places that would provide you with an invoice and not from any roadside stalls. Happy Valley Tea Estate is another good place to buy Darjeeling Tea.

Where to Stay in Darjeeling?

With time, Darjeeling town has faced a lot of constructions, many of which are unplanned. Quite obviously, these constructions include mainly hotel. Darjeeling has a number of hotels catering to all types of budgets and travellers. These include century-old heritage stays, homestays, hostels and hotels as well. Here I will name a few hotels in Darjeeling of various categories.

Luxury Hotels in Darjeeling

• Windermere (Best views of Kanchenjunga)
• Cedar Inn (Best views of Kanchenjunga)
• Mayfair Darjeeling
• Sinclairs Darjeeling

Mid Budget Hotels

• Little Tibet
• Central Nirvana (Best views of Kanchenjunga)
• Central Gleneagles Heritage Resort
• Hotel Shangrila
• Darjeeling Tourist Lodge (Best views of Kanchenjunga)

Budget Hotels in Darjeeling

• Classic Guest House (Best views of Kanchenjunga)
• Broadway Annexe
• Dekeling Hotel
• Hotel Capital
• Old Bellevue Hotel
• Pahari Soul Homestay (Best views of Kanchenjunga)
• Happy Valley Homestay
• Himalayan Inn

What are the Best Places to eat in Darjeeling Trip?

Darjeeling has a unique mixture of Bengali, Nepali and Tibetan population. This is reflected well in the food and cuisine of Darjeeling. Added to this is the English influence. So overall, food in Darjeeling is simply something that we can die for.

Delicious and crisp English breakfast is quite common in Darjeeling. Keventers and Glenarys are just the places to have a proper English breakfast. Bacon, sausages, omelettes, eggs with sunny side up, sandwiches along with fresh Darjeeling Tea – who can say no to such food? For the health-conscious, the oil can be a turn-off though.

Darjeeling is also famous for momos, thukpas and Tibetan and Nepali dishes. There are restaurants serving Indian and Continental cuisines. In short, you will not be disappointed in Darjeeling regarding food!

For detailed information, you can read our article on the best places to eat in Darjeeling .

How much does it cost to travel in Darjeeling?

Darjeeling can be quite easy on the pocket if you wish so. A typical cost of travelling in Darjeeling is given:

Sightseeing costs in Darjeeling by car are fixed. To reduce costs, you can share with other like-minded travellers. You can also walk around and explore Darjeeling on foot. We usually do that on our visits to Darjeeling. You can also hop on to the taxis that the locals use for commuting and visit from one point to the other, and then walk the remaining way.

Trekking permit at Sandakphu-Phalut will come at a fixed cost and so does guide and potter. Permit fee for Singalila National Park is only INR 100. You will get the details of the trek in our blog on Sandakphu Trek .

Shopping in Darjeeling Trip | Darjeeling Travel Guide

Darjeeling, like most of the hill stations, is a shopper’s paradise. And one of my favourite thing to do in Darjeeling trip is window shopping! These days, you will get almost everything in Darjeeling town. However, you would probably want to buy Darjeeling Tea, antiques and jewellery, handicrafts and curio, woolen from Darjeeling.

Some of the popular handicraft items that you can buy from Darjeeling includes Tibetan masks, Thangkas, Khukris (curved Gorkha knives having decorative handles), curios and traditional jewelleries and showpieces. Stoles, woollen sweaters, jackets, caps and pashmina shawls are also widely sold.

There are many old shops and boutique shops at either side of the Nehru Road leading up to the Mall.  Nepal Curio House is one of our favourite places to hunt curio items, masks and thangkas. A Biswa Bangla outlet has also opened at Nehru Road that sells Bengal handicraft items. Another place that I would like to mention is Das Studio . You will get photography items and some old and rare photographs of Darjeeling and the mountains here. Check out the old Darjeeling postcards here.

Darjeeling Mall is also dotted with a number of shops. I would like to mention about Oxford Book Stores, Habeeb Mullick & Sons (one of the best places for curios), Golden Tips and Nathmull’s at Chowrasta.

Mall Road has temporary shops with hawkers selling woollen and dress items. Bargain well when buying from these markets.

Chowk Bazar at lower Darjeeling is a bustling market where you can get any types of household items, clothing items, bags, footwear, grocery and spices. It is infact the local market of Darjeeling town. Prices are relatively cheaper at Chowk Bazar, but I cannot guarantee the quality for items like dresses, shoes and bags.

If you want to buy authentic Tibetan handicrafts, then you should head towards the Tibetan Refugee Self Help Centre off the Lebong Cart Road. You will get handmade Tibetan carpets, scarves, clothes, handicrafts, thangkas and many more made by the local artisans.

Day trips from Darjeeling | Darjeeling Travel Guide

You can make day trips from Darjeeling to Mirik (known for Mirik Lake) and Kurseong. We recommend to hire a car from Chowk Bazar or Club side taxi Stand to visit these places.

You can also take a day trip to Takdah , Tinchuley and Lamahatta from Darjeeling.

Darjeeling is also the nearest town to Maneybhanjan, the base camp of Sandakphu trek.

Darjeeling Trip – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs answered)

Bagdogra is the nearest airport to Darjeeling. It is around 68km and takes about 3 to 3.5 hours to reach Darjeeling.

Yes, Darjeeling is quite safe for tourists and travellers. In the last few years, there had been a few agitations when Darjeeling had come to a stop. But now, Darjeeling is quite safe to travel. Do take an informed decision before your Darjeeling trip or travelling to any place.

Darjeeling is quite famous for mountains and the views of Kanchenjunga, third highest mountain of the world and tea gardens. Darjeeling tea is known all over the world. Also, Darjeeling Himalayan Railways (toy train) is an UNESCO World Heritage Site. Sunrise at Tiger Hill is also a major attraction.

The name ‘Darjeeling’ came from the Tibetan words, ‘dorje’ meaning thunderbolt (originally the scepter of Indra) and ‘ling’ a place or land. Thus Darjeeling is popularly known as ‘The land of the thunderbolt’.

Nepali, Bengali, Hindi and English are widely spoken in Darjeeling. Nepali is spoken by more than 70% of the population in Darjeeling, Kurseong and Mirik and is the main language in the hills, followed by Bengali.

Darjeeling has two main peak seasons for tourists – March to May and October to November. Usually these months are the best time to visit Darjeeling as the climate is at its best during this time and is perfect for outdoor activities.

Since the last couple of years, Darjeeling has witnessed snowfall in the months of December. But that is also for a few days. You will see snowfall at Sandakphu for sure.

Yes, it is advised to carry woolen clothes even during the summer. At least a windproof jacket should be taken. The weather is highly unpredictable in Darjeeling. If it rains, the weather suddenly becomes very chilly.

2-3 days are good enough for a leisurely Darjeeling trip covering the main attractions. Usually, a trip to Darjeeling and Gangtok is done together. In that case, 7-8 days are good enough for both the destinations.

Darjeeling is a sleepy little hill town. While there are bars and pubs in Darjeeling, but the town usually sleeps by 11 pm.

Yes, there are sufficient ATMs in Darjeeling. There is an SBI ATM at Darjeeling Mall. Also, most of the shops accept debit and credit cards these days.

Darjeeling is famous for its tea and you can buy Darjeeling Tea as souvenirs. You can also buy local handicraft items like Tibetan masks, paintings, thangkas, local jewellery items, woolens like shawls, pashminas and stoles, Khukris and other curio items. Authentic handmade carpets, wooden items and woollen items are available at Tibetan Refugee Self Help Centre.

Golden Tips and Nathmulls are some of the best places to buy authentic Darjeeling tea. Both shops are located at the Mall. You can also buy Darjeeling Tea from Happy Valley Tea Estate. It is recommended not to buy tea from road-side shops unless you are absolutely sure about the quality.

Other Resources on Darjeeling

• 12 Best Places to Eat in Darjeeling
• Darjeeling Mall and a Heritage Walk around the Mall Road
• Darjeeling Zoo – A Photostory
• Movies shot in Darjeeling
• Darjeeling Himalayan Railways
• Darjeeling in Monsoons
• Rangaroon – Experience Tea Tourism near Darjeeling
• Singtom Tea Estate and Resort – Tea Tourism in Darjeeling
• A Brief History of Darjeeling

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Hey! we’re Agni & Amrita.

We have been travelling together since the last 15 years and writing independent and personal travel content since 2014. Travel is one of the best teachers and through this blog, we aim to share our experiences and travel tips. We encourage you to travel more and see the world through your eyes and not through filtered templates.

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42 Comments

We guess we made a huge mistake by not going to Rock Garden! The waterfalls looks so beautiful!

I must say your photographs are too good, I have been to many places in north India, but east is still untouched. I would love to be there soon..

Thanks for a marvelous posting! I really enjoyed reading it, this post is very interesting and informative. Thanks for sharing…

I must say you have done a great job in highlighting the beauty of Darjeeling. Well Done and Keep it up

Thank you so much.

Wow! Such a wonderful and beautiful pictures, very detail & informative article. Thanks for sharing your wonderful experience with fellow travelers. Your valuable information’s will help us to plan our tour more properly. I must say you have done a great job in highlighting the beauty of Darjeeling & have justified the tag “The Queen of Hills” for Darjeeling. The pictures you have shared will definitely inspire every travelers heart to plan a Darjeeling Tour and to witness the mesmerizing beauty in the lap of Himalayas. Hope soon I could cover this mesmerizing destination with the help of your detailed knowledge.

it is a helpful and informative blog, I really appreciate the work you have done, you explained everything in such an amazing and simple way, Darjeeling is one of the most beautiful hill stations. thank you for sharing this amazing information with us.

You forgot to mention Aloobari monostry and Jalapahar, St Paul

Will include it in the next update for sure. Thank you for mentioning it.

This was amazing.. trust me Thankyou

Thank you so much!

Wonderful post! This article is really helpful for travelers. I heard about Darjeeling that is a beautiful place in India. I am planning to go to Darjeeling this December. can I see snowfall in December, and what can I do with my family in Darjeeling.

Hi Akansha! Thank you for your comment. Yes, Darjeeling is quite beautiful, but you will probably not get snowfall in Darjeeling itself. You might have to go to Sandakphu. And yes, you can travel with your parents to Darjeeling.

Thank you, thank you. You made my travel to Darjeeling and easy thing to plan. May I suggest you also add Summit Hermon hotel in your lists of budget friendly hotels for amazing Kanchenjunga views? They have family rooms with terrace. I can share pictures if you like. 🙂

Thank you Tanvi for your lovely comment. We will definitely include Summit Hermon Hotel in the list of hotels in the next update.

Nice blog author. your information is so useful. thank you.

Since childhood I’ve witnessed the gradual change in climate, education, culture, society, economy, politics and religions, and recently a bit of business. And when I take the flight retrospectively in introspective mood,I feel sad to land back momentarily. But when I see the flood of tourists with a lot of excitement and sunny faces and the depiction of Darjeeling, my aesthetic sense gets rejuvenated. Salute to the blog writer for the concern shown for sanitation and request to the upcoming tourists not to litter. Welcome for further minute details.

Thank you so much for the comment. Would love to discuss with you about Darjeeling more if given a chance. Do keep in touch!

Please advise the name of budgeted and good hotel for senior citizens family of 68 years where the car drops at hotel gate and its room are within 1st floor and has good restaurant and which 3-5 minutes walking distance from Mall. Thanks for your effective and blog

Thank you for stopping by our blog. There are a few good hotels near the Mall area which you can consider – Seven Seas near Keventers, The Bellevue on the Mall Road, Hotel Sunflower on the Mall, Dekeling Hotel. You can also consider staying at Darjeeling Tourist Lodge. Its about 7-8 mins walk from Mall, but is quite good.

Many Thank you..TO show the beauty of Darjeeling..This was Amazing..Keep it up

You have made Darjeeling more beautiful from your precise perceptive.

Thank you so much for your kind words. Darjeeling is always beautiful to us.

THANK YOU SO MUCH 🌎❤️

That’s an amazing article

Dear Sir/Mam,

I want to catch the 10am flight from Bagdogra. What is the earliest transport in the morning from Darjeeling?

Thanking you Kaushik Mandal

It is better to book a car for your journey from Darjeeling to Bagdogra.

i was planning to stay at Darjeeling for December for at least a month. i was thinking of renting a house since i have work from home option. Wanted to check is it possible to do so ? how much is the rent ? and do we have steady internet ? Would you be kind to respond to the above if you know about it ?

Hello Haneefa! Well, I do not have much information about renting a house in Darjeeling. But I am sure you will get one. You can check out Classic Guest House or airbnb for the same. At Darjeeeling, you will get a steady internet. No issues with that. Hope this helps. 🙂

This is so beautiful! You make me wanna go Darjeeling all the more. Just checking, is Darjeeling safe for solo travelers? Also where’s the best place to stay for female solo travelers? And from NJP to Darjeeling what’s the best mode of transportation for one person?

Hello Ashini! Thank you for stopping by! Darjeeling is quite safe for solo travellers. The best mode of transportation from NJP to Darjeeling for one is to take a shared jeep. otherwise you can reach Tenzing Norgay Bus Stand at Siliguri and take a bus to Darjeeling. You will also get shared cabs from there. If you want a bit more comfort, you can check wizzride as well. Revolver is a good place to stay in Darjeeling for solo travellers. Pahari Soul Homestay is also good. There are a few backpackers hostel in Darjeeling as well. You can check them as well!

Hi.You blog is very useful.I’m planning to visit Darjeeling in first week of July from Southern India. So we are preferring to take flight to bagdogra…i want to know does weather condition affect our flight timings?.is it better to take train?

Thanks for reading our blog. Flight to Bagdogra is fine.

I want to visit darjeeling and want to know about darjeeling before visit with my family.

Please let us kniow if you have any specific queries. We will be happy to answer.

Thank you very much for sharing the interesting information, I read it completely. Good you explained everything in detail it has been a great help.

Superb Information On Darjeeling Travel Guide Thanks For Sharing Keep It Up.

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Top Things to Do in Darjeeling – A complete Travel Guide

The scenic and popular hill station of Darjeeling is the highlight of West Bengal and one of the oldest mountain settlements in India. With sprawling tea gardens, unparalleled views of the Kanchenjunga Peak, and a colourful local culture, Darjeeling makes for a memorable travel experience.

Table of Contents

Places to visit in darjeeling.

• Places to visit nearby
• Places to eat in Darjeeling

How to reach

• Best time to visit

What is Darjeeling famous for?

Places to stay in darjeeling, things to do in darjeeling.

Darjeeling tourism is not just about ancient structures and nature spots. To truly experience the beauty of this hill town, you have to engage in different activities, apart from exploring the popular tourist attractions. 

• Try white water rafting. This activity is not limited to the Upper Himalayas and Darjeeling’s Teesta River proves it. It is the most exciting outdoor sport you can enjoy in Darjeeling. The ride goes through a series of rapids on the upper reaches of the Teesta and ranges from easy to pro-level. The extreme levels are only for professionals and avoid rafting tours during the monsoon.
• A Darjeeling tour is incomplete without a ride on the popular toy train. The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway is a narrow-gauge mountain train that circles the town at a slow pace and offers stunning views of the landscape.
• Experience the Darjeeling Ropeway, India’s first cable-car system, built-in in 1968. The ride starts at North Point in Singamari and ends at Singla Bazaar, giving you uninterrupted views of the hills, valleys, tea gardens, waterfalls, and Kanchenjunga from 7000ft.
• Shop for local art and crafts, and trinkets from Mall Road. It is the busiest and most commercial part of the town with a host of dining and leisure options. 

With a host of tourist places, there’s always something for every kind of traveller. Here are some of the top-rated places for a wholesome sightseeing trip. 

1. Ghoom Monastery

• Timings – 9AM-6PM 
• Entry Fee – Free, Camera – INR 10, Video shoot – INR 50
• Time Required – 1-2hours

2. Japanese Peace Pagoda

• Timings – 4AM-7PM
• Entry Fee – Free

3. Batasia Loop

• Timings – 5AM-8PM
• Entry Fee – INR 15

4. Padmaja Naidu Zoological Park

• Timings – Summers: 8AM – 4PM, Winters: 8AM – 4PM (Thursday closed)
• Entry Fee – INR 20 per person, INR 10 for the camera.
• Time Required – 4-5 hours

5. Happy Valley Tea Estate

• Timings – 8 AM – 4 PM (Tuesday – Saturday), Closed from November to February
• Entry Fee – Free. Guided Tours- INR 50-75
• Time Required – 2-3 hours

6. Tiger Hill

• Timings – 4AM-6PM
• Entry Fee – None. Separate fees for parking and observatory tower.

7. Nightingale Park

• Timings – 7AM-8PM
• Entry Fee – INR 10 per adult
• Time Required – 2 hours

Places to visit near by

Apart from the popular tourist places, there are many offbeat places in Darjeeling to see and explore. Include these other scenic hill stations near Darjeeling in your trip plan – 

1. Tinchuley 

• Timings – 24 hours
• Entry Fee – None

2. Singalila National Park 

• Timings – 6 AM – 7 PM, Closed from 16 June to 15 September
• Entry Fee – INR 100, Camera INR 100, Video camera INR 500
• Time Required – 3-4 hours

3. Kalimpong 

• Timings – None
• Time Required – 1-2 days

4. Seven Sister Waterfall River 

• Timings – 8AM-5PM
• Time Required – 1-2 hours

Places to eat

Despite being in West Bengal, Darjeeling food is a canvas of its own. Different local communities, immigrants, and earlier colonial residents have influenced the local cuisine that you find today. 

Sample the local flavours at some of these best restaurants in Darjeeling – 

• Kunga Restaurant
• The Locals – Authentic Nepali Cuisine
• The Patio Restaurant
• Nanking Restaurant
• Shangri-La Restaurant and Bar
• Gatty’s Café
• Glenary’s Bakery, Restaurant & Pub
• Magnolia Restaurant

How to Plan a Trip to Darjeeling

There is no railway station in Darjeeling owing to its steep terrain. The nearest railway station is in New Jalpaiguri, which is well-connected to the rest of West Bengal and other neighbouring states. There are frequent trains from all major cities in India like Delhi , Kolkata, Mumbai , Bangalore , Hyderabad, Chennai, etc. From New Jalpaiguri, you can rent a car to reach the town.

Darjeeling is well-connected to neighbouring states and major cities and towns of West Bengal by NH 110 and NH 55. There are regular state-run and private buses to Darjeeling from Kolkata, Haldia, Asansol, Malda, Siliguri, New Jalpaiguri, Kalimpong, and Kurseong. You can also book an outstation cab or rent a car from any of these places to reach Darjeeling . 

There is no flight service in Darjeeling. The nearest airport is in Siliguri at Bagdogra Aiport, 43KM away from Darjeeling. You can fly to Bagdogra from anywhere in West Bengal or other major towns/cities in India. There are regular flights from Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Chennai, Ahmedabad, Guwahati, etc. to Bagdogra. From Bagdogra, you can book an airport taxi to reach Darjeeling by road. 

Best time to visit Darjeeling

Darjeeling experiences classic mountain weather. The summers are warm and pleasant while winters are extremely chilly with occasional snowfall and cold waves. The best season to visit this hill station is summer when the temperature is comfortable enough to explore the outdoors. The rainy season is also best to avoid since heavy rainfall can cause landslides. Typically, March is the best month to visit.

About Darjeeling

It is often called the Queen of Hills for its natural beauty and deep-seated heritage, historical and cultural. Darjeeling lies in the Lesser Himalayas on the Darjeeling-Jalapahar Range, which originates in the south from the Ghum district, and rises to an elevation of 6700 ft.

Check out this handy tour guide to experience all the treasures of this Himalayan town.

With its long history and breathtaking nature, there are a host of famous places that appeal to its visitors. The region is synonymous with the best teas in the world since the colonial days . The entire district boasts numerous tea gardens cultivating different varieties of teas, including some rare and unique blends that are only found here, which are exported to different parts of the world. Apart from that, Darjeeling boasts the best views of the Kanchenjunga , the third-highest mountain in the world, one of the oldest narrow-gauge mountain railways which are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage.

[Also Read: #60DaysOfSummer – Tea Plantations in Darjeeling ]

To make your vacation complete and memorable, find a stay at some of the best places here. Here are some of the best hotels that can make your trip special – 

• Mayfair Darjeeling 
• Central Gleneagles Heritage Resort 
• Ging Tea House
• Muscatel Himalayan Resort 
• Dekeling Resort 
• Burdwan Palace 

Experience the  beauty of Darjeeling  by booking a car rental to take you to all these places with a  local driver . Install Savaari cab booking app  for  offers  and  discounts  on outstation rentals.  

Last Updated on January 30, 2024 by Swati Deol

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Darjeeling travel blog – a few beautiful offbeat places

During the last Christmas holiday, we spent a week at Darjeeling. But our focus was to base at Queen of Hills and go around a few offbeat locations at a driving distance from Darjeeling. We also hoped to witness snowfall in Darjeeling in the back of the mind.

The Padatik Express (12377) reached NJP station before 9 am. We hopped in our car in the next 15 minutes and zoomed towards Darjeeling. Mr Pratish Pradan, who drives a perfectly maintained WagonR was the chauffeur for our trip. One may reach him at 7908669452 to avail of his service. We stayed in Camellia House – a private three-bedroom apartment booked from Airbnb. Or may call Noel directly at 6364004650.

Blog Contents

8.30 am – The following day, we got up late, but it was still dark outside. An irritating faint knocking sound on the window did wake me. I reluctantly moved the curtains and what I saw outside made me rub my eyes. It’s snowing! The snowflakes were knocking against the glass panes.

With uncontrollable excitement, we decided the venture to Chowrasta. Foggy weather conditions and low visibility forced most people to stay indoors, barring a few excited tourists like us from the plains who flocked the hills to witness the snowfall. The temperature was 3°C and, thankfully, was not windy. We did experience snowfall earlier, but it was a lifetime experience for kids – their first snowfall.

I was awestruck to see that still there is a long queue out Kev’s for breakfast. Adverse weather did not allow us to stay out for long; we had to come back after spending a couple of hours. The rest of the day was lazing on the couch, watching online streaming and enjoying our favourite poison. We had Darjeeling offbeat locations travel plans the following days. But not sure about the feasibility in the present climatic conditions.

Darjeeling – The known and unknown food joints

Lepchajagat

6.00 am – The alarm goes off. What torture during holidays! The room is freezing outside the electric blanket. Saw the first glimpse of sunlight on the peak. An SMS flashing on the screen “Sir Ji, weather is clear. Be ready at 8.30”. I was about to ignore the alarm, then suddenly remembered our driver would honk in the next 90 minutes. Better wake up, make the kids ready and all set to a great day ahead. Around 9 am, after completing our banana pancake in breakfast, it is time we hit the road. Excited to think of the memories we are going to make today.

Lepchajagat is 18 km from Darjeeling, at an altitude of 6959 feet. As the name suggests, the place was once predominantly a settlement by the Lepcha tribe. Today the tiny hamlet is significantly a reserve forest area filled with thick oak, firs and rhododendron trees. The offbeat forest is 45 minutes driving from Darjeeling.

During fog, the forest has romanticism and suspense in the air. The peace and serene tranquillity of the forest is a reason for its popularity. While we were exploring the forest, the kids were so spellbound with the beauty that they sat quietly at a vantage point and gazed curiously through the fog to spot the chirping of birds or buzzing sound of crickets.

One can stay at the West Bengal Forest Department Corporation (WBFDC) Lodge or numerous local roadside homestays with basic accommodations. Room tariff ranges from INR 1000 to INR 3500 per night.

On our way to Mirik, the lush emerald green tea estate makes the journey more pleasant while inhaling the rustic smell from the fresh cutting. Gopaldhara Tea Estate , located in offbeat Mirik valley, is one of the highest tea estates in Darjeeling. Established in 1861, the present proprietors have owned it since 1955. At its highest, the garden reaches 2100 meters elevation, higher than any other tea garden in the Darjeeling area. The next call was a mandatory photo stop and introduced kids to the tea leaves.

Mirik is popularly known for its lakes and mountains – a place to feel Nainital and Munnar. The top attraction of Mirik is the lake, with a garden on one side of its bank and tall trees on the other. An arching footbridge connected both the banks. A beeline of parked cars outside the garden and a plethora of food stalls and hawkers spoils the tranquillity of the place.

Tabakoshi is 6 km ahead of Mirik and a sleepy hamlet on the banks of the Rangbhang river at an altitude of 3800 feet. The hamlet gets its name from two Nepali words, tamba meaning copper and koshi meaning river, which is also an extension of the Gopaldhara tea estate. The Rangbhang river flows by this little village.

The approaching roads are in a sorry state, a word of caution for the travellers with back pain. Many local drivers discourage to travel due to road conditions. Stay either at local homestays and farmhouses or can opt for riverside camping. Daily tariff ranges from INR 1200 to INR 3500.

Phew! what a day was it today. The last part of the journey did have a toll on us. Already made up my mind that I will wake up late tomorrow.

7.00 am – I was still running around the pine trees amidst the thick fog in my dreams. I can hear a distant ringing sound. Gradually the sound became prominent, and then someone pushed me from behind. Oh! Wait that is my wife asking me to answer the ringing phone. Our driver on the other side reminded us to call that he would be picking us up in the next hour. He might have heard me speaking about waking up late today.

Kurseong is 30 km away from Darjeeling. Kurseong in the local Lepcha language translates to ‘The Land of White Orchids’. We grabbed quick bites at Margaret’s Hope before heading to Makaibari Tea Estate.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Souvik Bhattacharya (@thegoodfoodbro)

Makaibari Tea Estate

The Makaibari Tea Estate is one of the most popular and recognized Darjeeling tea estates globally. Established in 1859 and considered the first tea plant factory in India. The well-maintained winding roads within the estate took us to the estate’s highest point. As far as the eye can see, an endless tea garden along with mountain slopes. The view is tranquil, and the silence is only broken occasionally by passing traffic.

Dow Hill and Death Road

Dow Hill was the most anticipated destination on the trip, where there is no shortage of paranormal rumours and stories. Hence the area is labelled as haunted! The road between the Dow Hill and the forest office, locals named it the Death Road . Here, the locals often report a blood-curdling account of a young headless boy walking on the road and disappearing into the woods.

Time for the reality check. The natural beauty of Dow Hill will be a feast for the eyes. One will find mesmerizing green environment, winding roads, lush green forests and sunlight peeping through dense forest. Fewer tourists go to this offbeat Darjeeling location due to rumours surrounding the place; hence the pristine beauty of the pine forest is untouched, and the roads are clean. Even the kids hiked through the dense pine forest while we sat on the traffic-free road for a fun time. It feels sad to hear such baseless rumours in today’s age.

There are several budget-friendly hotels, a few expensive resorts, and even homestays in Kurseong or the primary market area as per one’s budget.

7.30 am – The new year’s morning always comes with a hangover. The last night we discussed our Dow Hill experiences and past eerie feelings with countless favourite drinks until midnight. But today, it’s a new day, a new morning and a new year. We wanted to keep this relaxed by exploring orange orchards in offbeat Sittong from Darjeeling.

Sittong is a Lepcha village famous for its Darjeeling oranges , reportedly of the best quality. Every house in Sittong has a garden, and every garden has orange trees. The whole village turns yellow between December and January. Unfortunately, only a few gardens allow tourist entry to protect the harvest against an inflated ticket price of INR 50. Orchards prohibit the plucking of oranges. In our case, the orchard owner guided us through the walk and plucked a handful of oranges for us. Oh yes, the craze is real; the oranges are so sweet!

Ahaldara is about a kilometre from Sittong. The location is a hilltop, and one has to walk up around 500 metres to reach the viewpoint. Ahaldara offers a 360-degree view of the surrounding area. On a clear day, Mt Kanchenjunga will be visible along with valleys, tea plantations and the Teesta river. Huts on the hilltop of offbeat Darjeeling have night stay arrangements and witness the spectacular sunrise at Ahaldara.

Kachenjunga from Darjeeling

The final morning is always the saddest moment on a trip. After a series of poor weather, the day was bright and sunny. Never saw Kanchenjunga from Darjeeling. This morning my luck favoured; she was visible! The mountain range view was not as clear as Pelling, but the eternal classic view from the mall road completed my trip. I could not ask for a better ending.

How to reach Darjeeling

By Air: The airport nearest to Darjeeling is about 70 kilometres away in Bagdogra. You can hire a shared taxi or a private vehicle to Darjeeling from the airport.

By Train: The nearest railway station to Darjeeling is about 75 kilometres away in New Jalpaiguri in Siliguri. The station is well-connected to major cities like Kolkata and New Delhi. From New Jalpaiguri, one can take a taxi to Darjeeling or go to Siliguri Bus Station and catch a state-run bus.

Toy Train: Train leaves New Jalpaiguri at 10 am and reaches Darjeeling via Kurseong at 5.20 pm.

By Road/Self-Drive: Tourists rolling in from nearby places like Siliguri, Kalimpong and Kolkata prefer to drive to Darjeeling. The roads are not well-maintained, parking will be a challenge in Darjeeling unless the accommodation has private parking.

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Darjeeling Tour – 3D/2N

3 days / 2 nights.

This Darjeeling Tour takes you to an enchanting hill town cradled in the Himalayan foothills of India’s West Bengal, fondly retains its legacy as a summer retreat for the British Raj elite. With the grandeur of the majestic Mt. Kanchenjunga – one of the world’s highest peaks – as its eternal backdrop, it’s no wonder that Darjeeling is affectionately hailed as the ‘Queen of the Hills.’

Home to the endearing narrow-gauge Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, fondly known as the “Toy Train,” which was masterfully constructed back in 1881, this town remains steeped in rich history. Beyond its natural allure and colonial charm, Darjeeling serves as a cultural melting pot, with vibrant communities cohabitating harmoniously. This cultural amalgamation is palpable in the town’s architecture, festivals, and notably, its cuisine. Darjeeling is globally celebrated for its unique black tea, grown on emerald plantations that stipple the rolling hills around the town. The hill town is also a paradise for shoppers. The bustling bazaars offer everything from Tibetan handicrafts and hand-woven textiles to exquisite silverware and locally made woolens.

Please note: This itinerary can be personalized according to individual preferences and time constraints.

Included & Excluded

Pick up and drop of to and from Bagdogra Airport/NJP

2 nights accommodation in Darjeeling

Sightseeing in Darjeeling

Lunch during your stay in Darjeeling

Personal expenses

Entry fees to parks and zoo

Any other service not mentioned in Service Includes

Day 1: NJP Railway Station / Bagdogra Airport to Darjeeling

Day 2: full day exploration of darjeeling, day 3: darjeeling to bagdogra/njp railway station, photos/videos gallery, packing list, terms & conditions, booking policy.

• Consumption of alcohol during this tour is strictly prohibited
• While it is our endeavor to provide you the best experience, and cover as many species of Birds/Wildlife as possible, we cannot guarantee the sighting of any specific species or species count.
• By signing up for this tour, the participant expressly indicates having read and understood the Itinerary, tour inclusions, tour exclusions, and cancellation policy.
• While we promise to take the best care of our guests, and ensure we follow all safety guidelines, we continue to operate in nature. Sudden change in weather, change of route to ensure we are keeping your safety as our highest priority cannot be predicted and planned ahead.
• You agree to sign our terms and conditions before you sign up for our trips.

Cancellation Policy

• Cancellation before 60 days of the tour departure date – 100% refund.
• Cancellation before 30 days of the tour departure date – 50% refund
• Cancellation within 15 days of the tour departure date – No refund.

Altitude Sickness

Altitude Mountain Sickness is an illness as an effect of high altitude resulting in a rapid change in air pressure (air gets thinner) and oxygen level (less oxygen to breathe). These are a group of symptoms that arise while walking at a high altitude (more than 2,500m above sea level) without properly acclimatizing the body. The point to be noted is that AMS can occur to anyone, even those with great physical fitness as it depends upon several factors. The most prominent factors are how much elevation you are gaining in what period of time, the place where you live, and the altitude there. Previous records of Altitude Sickness can also determine if you will get AMS.

The symptoms of acute mountain sickness generally appear within hours of moving to higher altitudes. They vary depending on the severity of your condition.

• Shortness of Breath
• Sleep Disturbance
• Loss of Appetite
• Trouble in walking

If taken care of, Altitude Sickness can be prevented. Following prevention measures for AMS-

• Walk slowly with adequate rest.
• Keep your body hydrated.
• Avoid alcoholic beverages and tobacco-related products.
• Do not gain more than 500 meters.
• Inform the guide immediately if you feel even the smallest symptoms.
• Acclimatize well at lower altitudes
• Sleep at a lower altitude than you have been.
• YodaTreks offers a range of trekking experiences suitable for all levels of trekkers. From beginner-friendly trails like Sandakhphu to more advanced adventures such as the Annapurna Circuit, we’ve got you covered. We also offer custom treks tailored to your interests and group sizes.

Absolutely! We have specially curated family trips to Meghalaya and Sikkim that offer a blend of mild adventure and cultural experiences, perfect for family members of all ages.

Sustainability is at the core of our operations. We adhere to eco-friendly practices throughout our treks, ensuring minimal impact on the environment.

While it’s beneficial, it’s not necessary for most of our treks. We offer beginner treks that are perfect for those who are new to trekking. However, for more challenging routes, prior trekking experience is recommended.

Absolutely! We provide custom and bespoke trekking experiences tailored to your interests, whether you’re looking for a more challenging adventure or a laid-back scenic route. Just reach out to us, and we’ll arrange it for you.

All our guides are local experts who are well-acquainted with the trekking routes and the culture of the region. They are trained in first aid and emergency response to ensure a safe trekking experience.

 Our packages typically include accommodation, meals, guide services, and transportation. However, what’s included may vary depending on the trek. Please refer to the specific itinerary page for details.

Our cancellation policy varies by trek and will be specified in your booking confirmation. We recommend reading it carefully before making any payments.

Booking a trek is simple. You can book directly through our website, or if you have more specific questions, feel free to call us or fill out the contact form on the itinerary page.

es, we do. A portion of our profits goes to MyPragati , an initiative aimed at providing education and mentorship to a village community of 92 families. Your trek with us also contributes to this noble cause.

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Our Support and Sales team is available to answer your queries

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• Lower Aloobari Busty, Darjeeling, West Bengal, 734101

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• 10 Darjeeling Travel Tips To Make Your Trip Hassle-Free And Fun

21 Oct 2021

A beautiful town in the state of West Bengal, Darjeeling sits at the Himalayan foothills and is a famous tourist destination with its attractive tea gardens, panoramic views, and the evergreen plantation. Surrounded by a mesmerizing backdrop of one of the world’s highest peaks, Kanchenjunga mountain, it invites its visitors to witness magnificent sceneries and adventurous trekking experience. However, for a fun getaway to this magical town, we have listed some important Darjeeling travel tips and suggestions which may benefit you on your visit.

10 Important Tips For Darjeeling

Here, go through the effortless suggestions and tips which would help your getaway to the mystic town of Darjeeling hassle-free and recreational. It includes minor details and suggestion like where to stay in Darjeeling, or even what to pack for getting the best mountainous views

1. Do Your Research And Planning

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There are certain things to know before going to Darjeeling. Hence, do your research on various places and activities which are listed on your itinerary. By doing so, you will reduce the chances of sudden obstacles and requirements. The rules and regulations of religious places, requirements in camp sides and local regularities must be kept in mind on your trip. Make sure you are well aware of which area in the town is restricted and protected. By gaining such simple information and research, you would have no hassle in planning an amazing trip to Darjeeling.

Must Read: 7 Glorifying Churches In Darjeeling That Will Undoubtedly Impress You

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2. Carry Your Travel Documents

Make sure to carry a hard copy as well as a soft copy of your tour confirmation vouchers in their original format. It makes your hotel check-in and cab transfers hassle free. It is also suggested that you keep a detailed itinerary of your trip with yourself, to get a detailed guide for your daily tasks and activities. Anything that is not mentioned in the itinerary would be considered excluded. For live support, call TravelTriangle (+91-120-454-5612)

Suggested Read: 20 Darjeeling Food Dishes That You Must Try To Know This City’s Heart!

3. Keep A Track On The Weather Forecast

Summer in Darjeeling begins from the month of May and lasts up to the month of July. The temperature during this time remains between 11°C to 19°C. A lot of tourists visit this place in the month of May. On the other hand, October to March face winters in Darjeeling. During this time, the temperature stays between 7 to 5 degrees Celsius. It is suggested that you make sure to check the weather forecast before you have a trip to Darjeeling.

Suggested Read: 20 Things To Do In Darjeeling That You Won’t Find In Any Travel Guide!

4. Go Through The Hotel Ratings

It is important to go through the detailed information, amenities, and ratings before you opt for booking any hotel and decide where to stay in Darjeeling. Request your travel agent to customize your package in case you demand any add-ons, such as extra blankets, heaters, refreshments or meals. Alongside, you are planning to have a trip with children or elder people, then you can ask your travel agent to book a hotel in the lower altitudes. The cancellation charges will be borne by you if you wish you the demand an accommodation change.

Suggested Read: 26 Scenic Tourist Places In Darjeeling

5. Don’t Forget Your Identity Proof

Carry government authorized identification proofs as you will need the same at hotels or resorts for checking in. Make notes to keep a count of how many identification proofs you’re carrying with yourself and make sure to include your Aadhar card, Pan card, and Voter’s ID card to the list. Always carry a hard copy and soft copy of these proofs while traveling. Identity proof is some major travel essentials while you plan on visiting anywhere around the world. Hence, do not forget to keep them with you.

Suggested Read: Paragliding In Darjeeling: A Guide To Help You Have An Experience Of A Lifetime!

6. Pack According To The Weather

Darjeeling could be a bit challenging for those who despise cold weather. Hence, another one of the Darjeeling travel tips is that you ensure you carry warm clothes with you during your visit. Whereas summers are a matter of sweaters, and full trousers in Darjeeling, in winter you’re required to wear heavy jackets and warm pants. If you plan on going for a trek in your Darjeeling trip, then do not forget to carry some vital items. Rubber soled shoes, torches, batteries, trekking sticks, quick food, water, toilet paper, and mosquito repellents come first in the list.

7. Keep A Medical Kit Handy

One of the most important suggestions in the Darjeeling safe travel tips is to carry a medical kit with yourself. Carry the necessary medicines and medical equipment for dealing with emergencies. Painkillers, bandages, antiseptic creams or liquids, balm, and crocin is some suggestions. A sudden change in temperature, fatigue, or rocky treks could sometimes be a little too much for the body to endure. Hence, a medical kit is not only a necessity but a rescuer at the times of emergencies.

Suggested Read: 13 Honeymoon Places In Gangtok And Darjeeling For Your Romantic Trip

8. Carry Cash and Coins As A Backup

Darjeeling does offer contemporary, modern-day facilities to its visitors. However, there are still some areas which lack the same. Hence, do not rely on ATMs and plastic money for monetary purposes. Make sure that you carry enough cash with yourself or exchange your currency with the authorized currency in advance. This is a necessity especially while visiting a remote area where it is hard to get access to an ATM. In that way, your payments would be hassle-free and would not cause any unnecessary obstacles. This is one of the most vital Darjeeling travel tips that you must consider.

9. Respect Local Laws And Ethics

Be adaptable and respectful to the friendly environment of Darjeeling and you’ll receive the same in return. Don’t be arrogant or rude while asking questions to the locals, and reflect well-mannered etiquettes. Always ask people before taking a picture of them. Avoid late night drives or outings for safety issues and darkness. Keep detailed information of your driver and make sure that he follows the planned itinerary of your trip.

Suggested Read: Darjeeling Nightlife: Enjoy A Laidback Evening In These 7 Places On Your Vacation

10. Try Local Delicacies

Darjeeling, along with being home to beautiful viewpoints, also holds a reputation for offering some of the best dishes. So last but definitely not the least, feast on the local cuisine which is available all around the town. Inquire the vendor, or the waiters and ask them about each food item so that you can make your food choice accordingly. Kwati, Sekuwa, Aaloo Gobhi, Pork Curry, Kheer, and Keema are some of the many famous food items in Darjeeling.

Further Read: Darjeeling Markets: For An Ultimate Trip Down The Vibrant Streets Of This Land

These were the effortless and simple Darjeeling travel tips which add to give you a trouble-free, easy holiday. So waste no more time in second thoughts and plan a memorable trip to Darjeeling with TravelTriangle . Witness what the magical town has in store for you and share your amazing travel experience with us after returning.

Disclaimer:  TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Please Note:  Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Darjeeling Travel Tips

How many days do you need in Darjeeling?

2 to 3 days are enough to explore Darjeeling. One can extend the trip to around 5 days and explore other attractions too near Darjeeling.

What is the best time to travel to Darjeeling?

April to June during the summers and October to December during the winters are the best months to plan a trip to Darjeeling.

Is Darjeeling safe for tourists?

Yes, Darjeeling is safe for tourists but one should avoid wandering alone during late night in the city.

What should I wear in Darjeeling?

One can carry light cotton clothes if they are visiting Darjeeling in summers while jackets and pullovers if they are headed to the city during the winter season.

How much is a taxi from Bagdogra to Darjeeling?

The taxi fare from Bagdogra to Darjeeling begins at around INR 2000 and it might be higher during the peak season.

Is Ola available in Darjeeling?

No, Ola isn’t available in Darjeeling yet.

How much time does it take from Siliguri to Darjeeling?

It takes around 2.5 to 3 hours to reach Darjeeling from Siliguri.

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Embark on an unforgettable journey to the mesmerizing hills of Darjeeling with Darjeeling Yatra . Our carefully crafted tour packages are designed to cater to all your travel needs and preferences, offering you a unique opportunity to explore the majestic beauty of the Himalayas. From breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountains to serene tea gardens, bustling local markets, and charming colonial architecture, our tours will take you on a journey through the vibrant culture and scenic landscapes of Darjeeling. So, whether you're a solo traveler, a family, or a group of friends, come and experience the magic of Darjeeling with us. Explore our tour packages now and get ready to create memories that will last a lifetime.

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Which language is mostly spoken in Darjeeling?

90% of people in Darjeeling speak Nepali even though the Nepali-speaking segment of West Bengal makes up just 1.2 percent.

What are the most famous foods in Darjeeling?

Some of the most famous foods in Darjeeling are- Momo, Thukpa, Traditional Nepalese Thali, Sael Rotis, Aloo Dum, and more.

What are the most popular tourist attractions in Darjeeling?

With Darjeeling Yatra, these are the following attractions in Darjeeling- Tiger Hill, Batasia Loop, Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, Nightingale Park, Darjeeling Rock Garden, Japanese Peace Pagoda, etc.

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HILL STATIONS

Darjeeling: A Quick and Handy Travel Guide

Devika Khosla

Last updated: Apr 7, 2022

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Losar: In the month of February, Darjeeling celebrates the Tibetan New Year known as Losar. The famous ‘Cham’ masked dance is performed on the eve of the festival that is marked by celebrations and prayer for the beginning of a bright and prosperous new year.

Mount Kangchenjunga: There is no sight better than the sun glowing on the mighty Kangchenjunga peak. Darjeeling Ropeway: A selfie with views of the Himalayan expanse from the Darjeeling Ropeway at a height of 2,134 metres as a backdrop. Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park: Capture the beauty of endangered Himalayan animals like the snow leopard and Tibetan wolf at Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park.

Hello: Namaste What is your name?: Tapaaiiko naam ke ho? How are you?: Tapaaii lai kasto cha? Do you speak English?: Ke tapain English bolnuhunchha? Help!: Sahayao garnus

The song sequence of Kasto Mazza from the Vidya Balan, Sanjay Dutt and Saif Ali Khan starrer Pareneeta was shot on Darjeeling’s toy train.

Police Assistance: 100 Fire & Medical Help: 108 Tourist Bureau: 0354 2254102

At the foothills of the Himalayas, Darjeeling stands proudly. A backpacker’s delight and a honeymooner’s dream, Darjeeling is an unembellished canvas of natural beauty. Alluring visitors with its sprawling expanse of green set against the white of majestic snow-capped peaks, Darjeeling’s panoramas are captivating in every way. It only takes one visit to the ‘queen of the hills’ to fall in love! 

Don’t leave Darjeeling before you:

Ghoom Monastery: With prayer flags fluttering around its premises, the Ghoom Monastery houses a towering 15-feet high statue of the Maitreya Buddha. Amongst the oldest monasteries in Darjeeling, Ghoom also houses old Buddhist manuscripts. 

Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park: Most noted for being the only zoo in India to foster a conservation programme for endangered species of animals including red pandas, snow leopards and the Tibetan wolf, Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park spans over 67 acres. The largest high altitude zoo in India, the zoo is home to fauna and flora unique to the Himalayan region. 

Japanese Peace Pagoda: Situated on Jalapahar Hill at a height of over 28 metres, the Peace Pagoda in Darjeeling is also known as the Nipponzan Myohoji Buddhist Temple. The premises of the Japanese Peace Pagoda are equally serene as is the interior of the temple, which showcases the four forms of Lord Buddha.

Mahakal Temple: At the summit of Observatory Hill, the Mahakal Temple is where Buddhism and Hinduism come together. This is where the original Bhutia Busty monastery was located and where the Mahakal Temple stands now. The sound of monks and priests chanting fills the air as you climb about a 100 steps to get to the temple. While admiring the colourful prayer flags that guide the way, beware of greedy monkeys around you!

Darjeeling Mall, Chowrasta:  The heart and soul of Darjeeling town, the Darjeeling Mall, Chowrasta is a meeting and recreational point for locals and tourists alike. The hustle and bustle is undeniable with shops and restaurants lining the street. Benches along the periphery offer great vantage points to admire the surrounding scenery.

Read More:  Top 5 Places to Visit in Darjeeling

See the sun rise from Tiger Hill: Well before the crack of dawn, make your way to Tiger Hill to see one of the most spectacular sun rises possible. Atop the Tiger Hill summit at 2,600 metres, find a spot and wait for the spectacle of when the horizon turns shades of crimson as the sun’s rays fall on the mighty Mount Kangchenjunga peak. A sight to behold!

Take a joy ride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway: Take a fairy-tale ride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, aptly nicknamed the ‘toy train’, which covers a 78-kilometre stretch with 13 stations between Darjeeling and Siliguri. Dating back to 1881, the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999. The beauty of the mountainous terrain that the journey covers is breath-taking! 

Feast of views from the Darjeeling Ropeway: For unmatched views of Darjeeling and its alpine surroundings, the Darjeeling Ropeway offers vistas and views that are befitting of postcards. The first cable car system in India, the 45-minute ropeway ride runs from Singamari to Singla Bazar. 

Tour a Tea Factory: When in tea country, make the most of it by visiting a tea factory. Not just any ordinary tea, Darjeeling tea is often termed the ‘champagne of teas’! Visit Darjeeling’s many tea estates including Glenburn, Makabari and Happy Valley to see the process of tea growing and plucking and while there, sample some of the region’s finest brews. 

Climb away at the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute (HMI) : Founded by mountaineer Tenzing Norgay who climbed Mt. Everest with Sir Edmund Hillary in 1953, at HMI you will find mountaineering records of major expeditions undertaken. There is also an Everest Museum with historical facts and equipment on display. Be adventurous and take a rock-climbing session!

Read More:  5 Reasons Why North East India is the Best Honeymoon Destination

Momos : Steamed or fried and stuffed with meat or vegetables, momos are the most popular snack to be had in Darjeeling. Essentially dumplings made of flour, get your plate at most small and big eateries in town. 

Thukpa : A popular Tibetan dish, Thukpa is a wholesome hot noodle soup served with eggs, meat and vegetables. Served piping hot, it is a delicious meal in itself. 

Dalle : If your taste buds fancy something spicy, then treat them to Dalle. A pickle made with red chillies tempered in mustard oil, salt and spices, this spicy accompaniment is usually served with momos. 

When to Go:

October to March: The monsoon season ends in October and makes way for the onset of winter from mid-November to February. The average high temperature is 10C and it is common for it to go below 0C at night. 

April to June: These are the relatively warmer months in Darjeeling with temperatures going up to 25C in May and June. The days are filled with sunshine and the nights are cool. 

July to September: Monsoons in Darjeeling are usually during July and August when rain falls incessantly. Fog and mist engulf most of Darjeeling, making it grey and gloomy. 

Getting There:

By Air: The closest airport to Darjeeling is at Bagdogra, which is about 95 kilometres away. It’s about a three-hour drive to get from the Bagdogra Airport to Darjeeling town.

By Road: Luxury and standard buses between Darjeeling run to and from Kolkata and Siliguri. Private taxis are also easily available. 

By Train: New Jalpaiguri is the closest railhead to Darjeeling. At a distance of 88 kilometres, you can travel by road or take the toy tran into get to Darjeeling. Driving in to Darjeeling takes three hours whereas the toy train takes a little more than seven hours.

Getting Around: 

Both public and private transportation is available in Darjeeling. The most economical mode of travel is a shared jeep or taxi.

What to Pack:

Darjeeling always has a nip in the air so be well clothed for all seasons!

• An umbrella and raincoat for the monsoons
• Full sleeved cotton tops and a lightweight jacket for the summer
• Woollens, thermals and a heavyweight jacket for the winter
• Motion sickness medicine if you tend to get car sick on winding roads 

The magnificence of the Himalayas is unparalleled and Darjeeling offers glimpses that are simply spectacular! A holiday in Darjeeling is exactly what your mind, body and soul need to reset and restart.

Read More:  Top 10 Romantic Holidays In India

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Devika’s always going ‘somewhere’. Obsessive foodie, spa junkie, animal lover, mountain goat and global citizen. That’s her story.

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DIPANKAR KAR | on 09 October 2018

nice article, keep up the good work.

SANDEEP | on 12 May 2018

Nice post...! most needed tips and guides...thanks for sharing..the pictures are amazing....Loved it.....I like those colourful small flags that hangs through out the mountain regions of Nepal.....The gong and the bell sounds from the monasteries and the breezy wind flow by you will surely lift your spirit to the next level.  

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Darjeeling Travel Blog Know what's happening in the hills

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• Wear face masks while traveling. 
• If any passenger shows symptoms, the health authorities at Bagdogra Airport will take a decision on quarantining the passenger on a case to case basis. 
• Download the Aarogya Setu App. 
• Download and fill up the declaration form using the 'Sandhane App' developed by the Health and Family Welfare Department of West Bengal. 
• As of now, Covid-19 tests are not mandatory for Darjeeling and Kalimpong, so you need not carry a test report showing Covid-negative test. However, depending on symptoms, a tourist may be asked to undergo Covid test. 
• At all public places in Darjeeling and Kalimpong, you will be required to wear face masks and maintain proper social distancing. 
• At most public places, a thermal scanning would be done for fever / body temperature detection. For example in Darjeeling Zoo & HMI, before the main entry gate, you need to walk through a check point and wait for few seconds where automatic thermal scanning is done. 

Updates: September 2020

Updates: august 2020, updates: july 2020, updates: june 2020, updates: march 2020.

• Inner Line Permits (ILP) for foreign nationals... this means no foreigners including Bhutanese will be able to enter any part of Sikkim at present. 
• Permits for Nathula Pass... since Nathula Pass is a corridor to Tibet of China, nobody would be allowed to visit the pass until further notice. 

Updates: February 2020

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Darjeeling Holiday Tour & Travel Packages

Get Best of Darjeeling Tour Packages at North Bengal Tourism at reasonable prices. Get the authentic flavour of Himalayas in our Darjeeling tour itinerary that covers the most attractive places of Darjeeling. Visit the foothills of Himalayas with our darjeeling tour packages and get a mesmerizing view of Mt. Kanchenjunga. We offer tailor-made Darjeeling Holiday Tour Plan that suits the budget of every client. The tourist spots covered in each of our Darjeeling tour packages is carefully planned and handpicked by our tour experts. Plan a customized Darjeeling Tour Package with North Bengal Tourism to get the finest experience of holidaying at Darjeeling.

Darjeeling Holiday Packages: Frequently Asked Questions (F.A.Q)

If you want to explore Darjeeling, the "Queen of Hills" and are looking for an affordable yet the best Darjeeling Tour Packages , North Bengal Tourism is here to help you out. Our vast range of customizable Darjeeling Holiday Packages suits every kind of traveler. Be it a small Darjeeling trip with your family and friends or a long trip with your loved one; always get the best travel experience with North Bengal Tourism. Now, in order to help you spend a worry-free holiday in Darjeeling, we have gathered some of the most frequently asked questions (F.A.Q) and tried to answer them one by one.

A. Darjeeling can be visited at any time of the year depending on your preferences. If you want a clear sky with a jaw-dropping view of Mount Kanchenjunga, visit Darjeeling during summer or spring. However, if you want to see Darjeeling as the less crowded destination, visit Darjeeling during the months of July to September. Nonetheless, whenever you go to Darjeeling, you will always be accompanied by breathtaking mountains, hilly terrains, a bunch of sightseeing places and lush green tea gardens.

A. As Darjeeling is the most popular hill station of the entire North East India, reaching Darjeeling is not a difficult task.

• By Air: The nearest airport of Darjeeling is Bagdogra which is approximately 70 km wy from Darjeeling.
• By Train: The nearest railway station of Darjeeling is New Jalpaiguri Junction. This railway station is 72 km away from the town and is nicely connected with other major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bengaluru, etc.
• By Toy Train: Darjeeling Himalayan Railway runs a famous toy train from Siliguri to Darjeeling. It usually takes 7 hours of journey time while you can enjoy all the scenic attractions of these hilly roads.
• By Road: Darjeeling is easily accessible by road and it usually takes around 3 hours to reach Darjeeling from Siliguri.

A. Being one of the most popular tourist destinations in India, Darjeeling is replete plenty of sightseeing places. Some of them are:

• Tiger Hill: Tiger Hill is a famous viewpoint of Darjeeling. It is quite popular for offering a mesmerizing sunrise over the snow-peaked Mount Kanchenjunga.
• Batasia Loop: One of the most visited tourist places of Darjeeling, Batasia loop is quite popular for its spiral railway track and the War Memorial.
• Ghoom Monastery: One of the largest monasteries in Darjeeling, Ghoom Monastery is a century-old architecture full of serenity and natural beauty.
• Happy Valley Tea Estate: A perfect place to enjoy the tranquility of nature, Happy Valley Tea Estate is located on the slopes of the Darjeeling. Spanning over a massive 430 acres, your Darjeeling Holiday is incomplete without visiting here.
• Himalayan Mountaineering Institute: Himalayan Mountaineering Institute is yet another fascinating place to visit in Darjeeling. Built-in the memory of Tenzing Norgay, here you can see the gears used by Norgay on his first expedition to the Mount Everest.
• Tibetan Refugee Centre: Tibetan Refugee Self Help Centre is a perfect place to get closer to the tradition, culture, and history of Tibetan People. Moreover, here you can witness many handicrafts made by these Tibetan People.
• Japanese Temple: Built in the style of Japanese architecture, Japanese Temple is yet another attraction of Darjeeling.
• Peace Pagoda: Just a little away from the Japanese Temple, Peace Pagoda is a place worth adding in your Darjeeling Tour Packages. View a gold Buddha statue in a round-shaped white architecture.
• Himalayan Zoological Park: Visit this fascinating Zoological Park to see some of the unique wild animals such as Red Panda, Snow Leopard and many more.

A. Like any other Hill station of Himalaya, there are plenty of foods available to taste in Darjeeling during your trip. Some of them are:

• Momo: Came from a Tibetan Origin, Momo is a delicious dish and quite popular food among the local people of Darjeeling. It is usually served as steamed or fried with a bowl of soup.
• Thukpa: Tukpa is a tasty Tibetan food. It is a noodle soup mixed with meats or vegetables.
• Darjeeling Tea: Your Darjeeling Trip will stay incomplete if you don't taste the world-famous Darjeeling tea. Enjoy the snow-peaked Mount Kanchenjunga while sipping a cup of hot Darjeeling tea.
• Dalle: Dalle is a kind of pickle made with red chili, mustard oil, spices, and salt. The local people of Darjeeling usually eat it with Momo.
• Sael Roti: Made with rice paste and then deep-fried, Sael is a kind of delicious roti. During the time of the festive season, have it with the famous Darjeeling Tea.

A. As Darjeeling is full of surprises, there are plenty of things or activities you can do in Darjeeling with our Darjeeling Gangtok Tour Packages.

• Enjoy a Toy Train Ride: Darjeeling is quite renowned for its Toy Train. Its Darjeeling Himalayan Railway is UNESCO's World Heritage Site. So, take a ride in a Toy Train to explore the hilly terrains of Darjeeling.
• Witness Sunrise from Tiger Hill: Wake up early to witness a breathtaking sunrise over the snow-clad Mount Kanchenjunga.
• River Rafting in Teesta: Indulge yourself in an intense outdoor activity called river rafting. Have a thrilling experience of a lifetime.
• Rock Climbing: Test your strength and endurance while trying Rock Climbing at Tenzing Rock and Gombu Rock.
• Shopping: Shop different kinds of artifacts, carpets, leather jackets, coats and jewelry from the Tibetan Self Help Center. Buy sweaters, caps, and scarves from the famous Bhutia Market.
• Trekking: Trek through the yet unexplored hilly terrains of Darjeeling. Trek at Sandakphu, the highest point of West Bengal.
• Photography: Photograph Darjeeling's fascinating places and architectures to make your Darjeeling trip memorable.

A. Darjeeling is famous for plenty of reasons. But some of them are- Darjeeling's world-famous tea, world's third-highest peak Mount Kanchenjunga and Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

A. At least 5 days or 7 days are enough to explore the entire Darjeeling. With our Darjeeling Sikkim Holiday Packages, you can easily cover most of the tourist places of Darjeeling. Choose our Darjeeling Pelling Tour Package for 5 days to explore Darjeeling as well as Sikkim's Pelling. Moreover, you can also opt for our 7 Days Darjeeling Gangtok Holiday Packages to explore Darjeeling and as well as Sikkim's capital city Gangtok.

A. Darjeeling is quite safe to visit, as compared to other touristy places in India. The crime rate of Darjeeling is quite low and the local people are too friendly. Still, it is always advisable to stay alert.

A. Darjeeling becomes a little cooler in night. Hence, it is advisable to carry woolen sweaters, shawls or jackets. Furthermore, with shoes and sneakers, wear a pair of socks as the evening of Darjeeling is going to be cold.

A. The route from Siliguri to Darjeeling is a hilly drive of approximately 70 km with plenty of curves. The road is in good condition and you are going to love these 3 hours of the thrilling journey.

A. Situated at an elevation of just 6, 700ft, snowfall does not usually occur in Darjeeling. But, if you are lucky enough and plan your Darjeeling tour during the months of December to February, there is a chance to see the Mall Road and even Chow Rasta covered with snow.

A. No, you don't need a passport to visit Darjeeling as it is a district of Indian state West Bengal. Indian and Nepalese people can easily take a trip to Darjeeling without a passport.

A. Yes, all our Darjeeling holiday and tour packages are customizable. Hence you can change your Darjeeling Tour Itinerary as per your taste and requirements. Be it a 4 Days Darjeeling Tour Package or an 8 days Darjeeling Holiday Package; change it the way you want to have your Darjeeling trip.