tourist places in darjeeling town

DARJEELING TRIP PLAN – A Complete Travel Guide with FAQs Answered

Darjeeling , Featured , West Bengal

Last Updated on: Feb 10, 2023  

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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Agni Amrita

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42 comments.

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

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.

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.

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.

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!

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. 🙂

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.

That’s an amazing article

THANK YOU SO MUCH 🌎❤️

You have made Darjeeling more beautiful from your precise perceptive.

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

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

Thank you so much!

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.

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!

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

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.

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.

This was amazing.. trust me Thankyou

You forgot to mention Aloobari monostry and Jalapahar, St Paul

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

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.

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.

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.

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

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..

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

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Places to Visit in Darjeeling

• West Bengal
• Places To Visit

Tourist Places to Visit in Darjeeling

Here are some of the best places to visit in darjeeling:.

Darjeeling Himalayan Railway

Top Experiences To Do in Tiger Hill

Batasia Loop

Top Experiences To Do in Batasia Loop

Sandakphu Trek

Top Experiences To Do in Sandakphu Trek

Darjeeling Rangit Valley Ropeway

Himalayan Mountaineering Institute

Top Experiences To Do in Himalayan Mountaineering Institute

Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park

Top Experiences To Do in Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park

Peace pagoda.

Top Experiences To Do in Peace Pagoda

Ghum Monastery

Rock Garden Darjeeling

A serene masterpiece nestled amidst hills. Crafted with rocks, waterfalls, and flowers, offering tranquility, breathtaking views, and a harmonious blend of nature and artistry.

Nightingale Park

Singalila National Park

Best of Manali

St. Andrew’S Church

Top Experiences To Do in St. Andrew’S Church

Happy Valley Tea Estate

Observatory Hill

Best of Sikkim

Bengal Natural History Museum

A great place for the patrons of history and nature, Bengal natural History Museum is one of the most prominent museums you can find in the region. This unique museum is dedicated to the rich wildlife or biodiversity of the region and its history. The museum is divided into two large sections, and features different sub-sections where specimens of a variety of avifauna and fauna that are found in the region. The museum claims to have specimens of 820 bird species on display here, which is quite impressive for any nature lover taking a tour of the museum. Location: Darjeeling – Jorethang Road, Darjeeling Timing: 8 am to 7:30 pm

Mahakal Mandir

Tenzing Rock

Best of Gangtok

If you love being outdoors and surround yourself with the freshness and calm of nature, Dooars is the most ideal place for you to visit when you are in Darjeeling. Dooars is a place that defines ‘pristine nature’ with its untainted, lush green landscapes. It is a vast region of floodplains that encompasses tea gardens, hill slopes, undulating meadows, tropical forests, and ethnic villages. The place is ideal for nature photography, wildlife exploration, and nature stay. The natural beauty of the region and the variety of experiences it has on offer make Dooars one of the most fascinating places to visit in Darjeeling.

Bhutia Busty Monastery

Dali Monastery

Best of Shillong

Neora Valley National Park

The city’s Mall Market, this is the heart of Darjeeling, both literally and symbolically. Being the main market area, this is the most bustling part of the city frequented by locals and tourists alike. Chowrasta literally translates to four-way. Whether you want to let the sun warm you on a cold morning or you want to catch a crimson sky during sunset, Chowrasta is the place to be. A number of hotels, restaurants, and shops are available here so you can be assured of spending an eventful evening at Chowrasta. From relishing delicacies to shopping for souvenirs, there are a number of activities to try here. Location: The Mall, Darjeeling Timing: 10 am to 9 pm

Best of Bhutan

Ghoom Monastery

Ghoom Monastery is one of the oldest and well-known Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in Darjeeling, West Bengal. It is also known as Yiga Choeling Monastery, which is the largest monastery in Ghoom. The monastery was constructed in 1850 by Sokpo Sherab Gyatso, the famous monk and the Mongolian astrologer. 

Top Experiences To Do in Ghoom Monastery

Tibetan refugee center.

Explore the heartwarming tale of resilience at the Tibetan Refugee Center! Nestled in a serene corner of Darjeeling, this centre stands as a testament to the indomitable spirit of the Tibetan people. Witness traditional handicrafts and vibrant cultural displays that showcase their heritage. Embrace the warmth of Tibetan hospitality and support their community through your visit. Delve into a meaningful journey of compassion and understanding as you learn about their struggles, triumphs, and the preservation of their rich traditions. The Tibetan Refugee Center invites you to be a part of their inspiring story. Visit now and leave with a heart full of admiration.

Top Experiences To Do in Tibetan Refugee Center

Kalimpong science centre.

Kalimpong Science Centre, also known as Kalimpong Science City, is close to Deolo Hill in Kalimpong, West Bengal. It is a centre that provides valuable information about science and technology. 

Best of Pelling

Tibetan Refugee Self Help Center

This is essentially a rehabilitation centre for the Tibetan refugees, but since the place gives an opportunity to indulge in a shopping experience, it has also emerged as a popular site among tourists. This help center was initially established with an objective to make the Tibetan community in Darjeeling self-dependent by offering them opportunity to earn money. The place now offers a wide range of handicrafts including wooden articles, exquisite shawls, leather jackets, and much more that will tickle your fancy. In fact, these products are exported to 36 countries all over the world. Apart from being a place for shopping, it is also a good place to learn about Tibetan refugees living in India. Location: Havelock Villa, Gandhi Road, Darjeeling Timing: 9 am to 4:30 pm

Kala Pokhri Lake

Kala Pokhri Lake, tucked away in the hills of Darjeeling, is a lovely spot for nature lovers and adventurers. This beautiful lake sits high up at around 3,000 meters (9,842 feet), giving you amazing views of the Himalayan peaks, including the famous Kanchenjunga.

The lake's clear waters reflect the sky's colors, making for stunning sights, especially during sunrise and sunset. Surrounded by forests full of rhododendrons and pine trees, it's a great place to spot birds and other wildlife.

Gairibas, Darjeeling

Gairibas, nestled amidst the serene landscapes of Darjeeling in the Indian state of West Bengal, exudes an ethereal charm that beckons travelers seeking solace in nature's embrace. Situated at an altitude of approximately 2,500 meters (8,202 feet), this quaint hamlet offers a tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Best of Arunachal Pradesh

Gopaldhara Tea Estate

Gopal Dhara Tea Estate, nestled in the verdant hills of Darjeeling, is a haven for tea enthusiasts seeking the finest brews. Established in the late 19th century, this historic estate spans acres of lush tea gardens, where meticulously cultivated tea bushes thrive in the region's unique microclimate. Renowned for producing some of the world's most exquisite Darjeeling tea, Gopal Dhara embodies the essence of craftsmanship and tradition. Visitors can explore the estate, witness the tea-making process firsthand, and indulge in aromatic tastings amid breathtaking scenery. Gopal Dhara Tea Estate stands as a testament to Darjeeling's legacy of premium tea production.

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3 nights and 4 days are perfect to enjoy the mountainside beauty of Darjeeling along with its Toy Train, viewpoints, national parks, and the mall road. In this time, you can also explore a range of North-Eastern cuisines and shop for beautiful local artworks.

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The Top 19 Things to Do in Darjeeling, India

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Darjeeling, at the base of the Eastern Himalayas in West Bengal, is a scenic hill station with a turbulent history. Before being developed by the British in the mid-19th century, it was part of the kingdom of Sikkim and was also temporarily ruled by invading Gorkhas from Nepal. Darjeeling quickly grew into a popular summer retreat for the British and they soon discovered that the climate was perfect for growing tea, their favorite brew.

Not surprisingly, Darjeeling is one of the top tourist places in West Bengal . You'll quickly notice that the culture there is very different though. The town is home to many immigrants from surrounding countries such as Nepal, Tibet and Bhutan. Nepali, not Hindi or Bengali, is the main language spoken. These top things to do in Darjeeling incorporate the area's distinctive heritage.

Ride the Himalayan Mountain Railway Toy Train

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Apart from tea, the other thing that Darjeeling is famous for is its historic toy train. The Darjeeeling Himalayan Railway was completed by the British in 1881 and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It runs all the way from the lower reaches of the mountains to Darjeeling town. The full journey takes nearly a whole day. However, shorter joy rides are possible. The most popular of these is from Darjeeling to Ghoom via Batasia Loop. The train stops for 10 minutes at Batasia Loop, where there's a lookout and war memorial dedicated to Gorkha soldiers from Darjeeling. It also stops for 30 minutes at Ghoom, where there's a railway museum.

Tour the Tea Gardens

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More than 80 tea gardens carpet the hills around Darjeeling and any trip there wouldn't be complete without visiting a few. As you leave Darjeeling town, you'll come across gardens everywhere and can stop at any that appeal. Most will allow you to take a stroll around. Many sell teas too.

• Happy Valley Tea Estate is the most famous tea garden. It's only five minutes from town, making it invariably visited by tourists. The estate has a long history dating back to 1850 and grows among the finest organic teas in the region. For an additional 50 rupees, you can get dressed up in a traditional Nepali outfit and pose in the tea gardens.
• Badamtam Tea Estate, about 15 minutes north of Darjeeling town, is notable for having a towering Buddha statue presiding over its tea bushes.
• An hour and a half south of Darjeeling, you'll find some outstanding tea gardens near Kurseong. These include Makaibari Tea Estate (which produces some of the rarest and most expensive tea in the world), Castleton (which actually has a castle of sorts and has been owned by Kolkata royalty) and sprawling Ambootia Tea Estate (their organic Darjeeling black tea is highly regarded).

If you're flying into Bagdogra Airport and driving to Darjeeling, you may also want to drop into Nuxalbari Tea Estate. This commendable tea estate is only 15 minutes from the airport. It's owned and run by women, and is the first large tea estate in India to produce " Certified Elephant Friendly Tea ". Elephants are free to pass through the tea gardens!

Learn How Tea Is Processed

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Witnessing, and even participating in, the tea harvesting process is a big attraction from March to November. Some of the bigger tea estates offer guided tours of their factories. Happy Valley Tea Estate, closest to town, is the best place to go. You'll get a full demonstration of how the leaves are plucked, oxidized, segregated and processed. Fascinating! The guided tea tours are conducted regularly from 9.30 a.m. to 4.30 p.m. daily and cost 100 rupees.

Makaibari Tea Estate is another recommended place to learn about tea processing. Their tea factory tour is well-organized and insightful, and there are samples for tasting. The cost is 20 rupees. They also have a pioneering homestay scheme , whereby you can stay overnight in the village with a family of tea pluckers and join them in their morning work for an immersive experience.

Stay on a Tea Estate

Ging Tea House

Want to escape the hustle of Darjeeling town? Estate owners have embraced tea tourism by converting their tea planter bungalows into exclusive guest accommodations. Check out these top places to stay on tea plantations in India for our pick of them. They're not cheap though, so be prepared to splurge!

Alternatively, Rainbow Valley Resort on Kalej Valley Tea Estate, 50 minutes south of Darjeeling, is a popular budget option. Wooden cottages cost about 3,500 rupees per night for a double. Tathagata Farm is part of an experiential organic tea farming community 45 minutes northeast of Darjeeling. It provides an authentic local experience, with village walks and day hikes. Guest accommodations consist of cottages and luxury tents. Rates start from about 4,000 rupees per night.

Meander Along the British-Era Mall

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Similar to other hill stations in India that were settled by the British, Darjeeling has a Mall Road that runs through the town. It stems off from one end of pedestrianized Chowrasta Square, the local hangout spot at the center of town, and connects to another end of it after doing a big loop around Observatory Hill. The shady, forested road is dotted with important historical buildings dating back to the British Raj era and has numerous viewpoints, including one to Mount Kanchenjunga. The whole walk can be completed in about 20 minutes. If you're not feeling energetic or fit, you can hire a pony for a couple hundred rupees. Chowrasta Square is a fantastic place for people-watching, so do sit and enjoy the atmosphere for a while too.

See Where Hindu and Buddhist Faiths Coexist

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Take a detour off Mall Road up to the remarkable Mahakal temple complex on Observatory Hill. This site was previously home to a Buddhist monastery, built by Lama Dorjey Rinzing in 1765. Apparently, he also built the Mahakal temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, in 1782 after three Shiva lingas (symbols of Lord Shiva) manifested themselves there. Unfortunately, the monastery was plundered by invading Gorkhas from Nepal in 1815. However, the temple still remains, evocatively surrounded by Buddhist prayer flags and prayer wheels. Don't be surprised to see a Hindu priest and Buddhist monk praying alongside each other. Nearby, are a few other temples and a sacred cave. Plus, lots of monkeys. Avoid carrying food because they may make a lunge for it!

Soak Up the Views with Tea at Sunset Lounge

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Where else to spend sunset than at the Sunset Lounge at Chowrasta Square. This tea bar belongs to Nathmulls , a prominent Darjeeling tea merchant, and is attached to their tea shop. As is to be expected, the variety of teas available is extensive. If you're finding it difficult to choose, the owner will give suggestions. Or, have a tea tasting session (600 rupees for two people). It consists of six teas — three black, two green, and one white. Pastries and cakes, made from the bakery on the premises, are delicious to eat with it. There's also free wireless Internet. Nathmulls sells all kinds of tea accessories, as well as tea, which make great gifts for tea-lovers.

Step Back in Time at the Windamere Hotel

Windamere Hotel, Darjeeling

Want to get a feel for how Darjeeling was during the time of British rule in India? Windamere Hotel on Observatory Hill is the place. Some may say it's lost in a time warp, while others will find it delightfully quirky. The hotel was constructed as a boarding house for British planters in the 1880s and not much has changed there in over a century, including the vintage furniture and old-fashioned customs. The hotel prides itself on serving formal meals (there's no room service) in the dining hall, with set times for children and adults. Guests are requested to dress appropriately for dinner — no nightgowns, pajamas, or "short pants"! The highlight is the traditional afternoon high tea, presented by waitresses dressed as tea maids from the 1930s. You're guaranteed to meet some engaging people there. Rates start from 13,500 rupees per night for a double, inclusive of all meals.

Gaze at Mount Kanchenjunga

If the weather is expected to be clear, most tourists head up to Tiger Hill early in the morning to watch the sunrise over the snowy peaks of iconic Mount Kanchenjunga (the highest mountain in India and third highest in the world). The best months to do this are from mid October to December, and March to April. Unfortunately, notoriously unpredictable mist or fog may ruin the show though. The cold temperature and waking hour also deter some people from going.

Depending on the time of year, you'll need to leave your hotel by around 3 a.m. to 4 a.m. to beat the massive crowd. Otherwise, you may be stuck in the convoy of cars, and fail to get a spot at the Observatory Tower and Deck. Ticket prices range from 30 to 50 rupees, depending on the floor. Don't worry too much if you miss the spectacle, as Mount Kanchenjunga can be seen from many locations around Darjeeling town.

Marvel Over the Buddhist Monasteries

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The prevalence of Buddhist monasteries in and around Darjeeling are reflective of the region's predominant religion, Buddhism. Their bright murals, gigantic golden statues, and pervasively peaceful vibes make them captivating places to visit. Bhutia Busty Monastery is closest to town. It sits downhill from Chowrasta Square and was built there in the 19th century, after being relocated from Observatory Hill where the Mahakal temple is.

There are many more monasteries around Ghoom. These include Yiga Choeling Monastery (the first Tibetan Buddhist monastery to be built in the region), Guru Monastery (you can attend morning worship from 5.30 a.m. to 7.30 a.m. when returning from Tiger Hill), and Samten Choeling Gompa (with the largest Buddha statue in West Bengal). Dali Monastery, formally known as Druk Sangag Choeling Monastery, is also a must-visit between Ghoom and Darjeeling.

Join in the Prayer for World Peace

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The Japanese Peace Pagoda is another calm and compelling attraction between Ghoom and Darjeeling. It's one of many peace pagodas erected worldwide under the guidance of Japanese Buddhist monk Nichidatsu Fujii, in response to the brutal atomic attack on Hiroshima and Nagasaki at the end of World War II. The monk was a close associate of Mahatma Gandhi, and strong supporter of unity and non-violence. The pagoda has striking gold statues of Lord Buddha in various postures and artwork depicting his life. A small Japanese temple sits not far from it. Upstairs in the prayer hall, prayers for world peace take place in the morning from 4.30 a.m. to 6 a.m. and afternoon from 4.30 p.m. to 6 p.m. Visitors are invited to join in and play a drum if they wish. 

Watch Rugs Being Woven

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The Tibetan Refuge Self Help Center on West Lebong Cart Road is an insightful place to watch the traditional art of rug weaving. This center was established in 1959 to support the Tibetans who fled their homeland after occupation by China. It provided them with an outlet where they could produce and sell Tibetan handicrafts to generate an income. The workshops aren't as productive as they once were because most of the refugees have aged. However, various handcrafts are still sold on the premises, including rugs. You can even design your own rug or choose from the catalog. Visitors can also see an educational exhibition of old photos and documents dedicated to the Tibetan cause. The center is closed on Sundays.

Feast on Momos

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Along with the culture, the cuisine in Darjeeling is strongly influenced by Tibet and Nepal. Momos, the quintessential mountain soul food, are everywhere. However, the curiously-named Hot Stimulating Cafe on the way to the zoo dishes up some of the best momos in India (although they're vegetarian only). This simple cafe is actually one of the best places to chill out in Darjeeling, as its rear deck provides a marvelous view over the valley and tea gardens. Devour the momos with local tumba (millet and wheat beer). You can even learn how to make momos, as informal cooking classes are conducted! The cafe is open daily from early morning until evening.

Explore the Local Market

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Hit up Darjeeling's indispensable Chowk Bazaar (also known as Lower Bazaar) for a real local market experience. It's situated to the south of town, downhill off Hill Cart Road, and is where the town's residents go to buy pretty much everything at bargain prices. Its lanes are filled with an assortment of products including wholesale spices, tea, vegetables, meat, Buddhist artifacts, masks, household items, shoes, textiles, rugs, and caps. The market is open daily, except Thursdays, from early morning until night. Weekends are especially busy, as vendors bring in bulk produce from surrounding villages to sell. Be prepared for crowds and chaos!

Spot the Shy Red Panda and Other Rare Animals

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Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoo is one of the best in India and a top attraction for families in Darjeeling. This high-altitude zoo was established in 1958 to help conserve and breed endangered native Himalayan animals such as the snow leopard, Himalayan wolf, and red panda (which Mozilla's Firefox Internet browser is said to have been named after). It also has bears, birds, panthers, deer and reptiles. Notably, many animals are kept in a protected open area, so it's like observing them in the wild.

In addition, there's a museum with a variety of stuffed animals and birds. The zoo is situated to the north of town, about a 20 minute walk from Chowrasta via Lebong Cart Road. It's open daily from 8.30 a.m. to 4.30 p.m., except Thursdays. Allow a couple of hours to see everything. Tickets cost 60 rupees for Indians and 100 rupees for foreigners. An additional camera fee is payable.

Learn About Mountaineering and Try Rock Climbing

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Behind the zoo, the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute was founded and by the late Tenzing Norgay, who conquered Mount Everest with Sir Edmund Hillary in 1953. Its museum is an inimitable repository of information about climbing Mount Everest and other major mountain expeditions undertaken. It can be visited in conjunction with the zoo, as tickets cover both. The institute is also a functioning mountaineering training center that offers mountaineering courses for all levels and fun rock climbing sessions. There's an indoor rock wall that costs 30 rupees to climb. Otherwise, the more strenuous outdoor rock climbing happens at Tenzing Norgay Rock, on the northern outskirts of Darjeeling.

Experience the Thrill of Paragliding

Thrill-seekers will be happy to know that paragliding is possible in Darjeeling. Off Road Adventure started the activity there in 2006. Blue Dragon Adventure and Travel also does paragliding and is recommended. Flights typically launch from Saint Paul School near Jalapahar, about a 10 minute drive above Darjeeling town, and land at Lebong Ground. You'll get an amazing bird's-eye view of the town, tea gardens and mountain peaks. Paragliding is dependent on wind conditions and only takes place from October to April. Tandem flights are offered for those who aren't experienced. Expect to pay 3,500 rupees per person for 15 to 30 minutes, based on the conditions.

Enjoy the Great Outdoors

In addition to the walking opportunities around town, Darjeeling is close to some popular hiking and trekking trails that can be covered in a day or longer. If you want to hike independently, ascending the Tiger Hill summit is a good option. Take Tenzing Norgay Road from Chowrasta or Gandhi Road. Otherwise, day hikes to Tonglu or Tumling villages have rewarding views of Mount Kanchenjunga. These hikes start two or three hours from Darjeeling. Adventures Unlimited , Blue Dragon Adventure, Off Road Adventure, and Ashmita Trek and Tours are reputable companies that conduct the hikes with transport and guides.

If you'd prefer a multi-day trek, try the trek to Sandakphu at the summit of the Singalila mountain range. It can be completed in four or five days, and you don't need to be super fit if you're used to walking. The views, flora and fauna are superb. For an added challenge, continue on to Phalut from Sandakphu (or drive to Sandakphu and start trekking from there). The above companies, as well as Tenzing Norgay Adventures , all provide trekking packages of different lengths.

Be a "Day Tripper" at Revolver

Are you a fan of The Beatles, the wildly famous English rock band from the 1960s? You'll feel right at home at Revolver. This characterful budget guesthouse is themed on the band, with each of its five rooms named after one of the Fab Four (plus manager Brian Epstein). Naturally, the owners are mad about The Beatles. They've filled the guesthouse with Beatles memorabilia such as photos, posters, and stamps. They also sell Beatles souvenirs, including mugs and coasters. Guests are welcome to play the Washburn acoustic guitar in the restaurant. Even the restaurant's menu is decorated with Beatles trivia. The healthy specialty Naga food is a treat! Rates start from 1,400 rupees per night for a double room.

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Top 27 Places to visit in Darjeeling, Explore the Beautiful Hills of Darjeeling

Top 10 things to do when traveling to shimla: shimla travel guide, the ultimate paris travel guidelines for first timers | top attractions & things to do.

In the country of colour, chaos and glamour, there is a scenic hill station with the aroma of tea in the air on the foot of the Himalayas. Darjeeling is much more than just a hill station. It is the heaven for mountain climbers, with a beautiful climate for the seekers of natural splendid.

History, UNESCO sites and a mix of different religions all on the foot of the world’s largest mountain range is one of the sought-after destinations that attracts over 45,0000 tourists per year. Here is my Top 27 Places to visit in & from Darjeeling : a travel guide to India for the first timer.

WHAT IS COVERED IN THIS ARTICLE?

Places to visit in & from Darjeeling

1. soak in the beauty of tiger hill.

To start, this is probably the one on every Darjeeling visitor’s list. Situated 11km away from Darjeeling, it offers a clear view of sunrise on the Kanchenjunga. The heavenly feeling of feeling the sun rays on your face in the chilly morning with the snow-covered range of mountains standing with pride in your sight is simply enthralling.

You can rent cars or taxis to reach. But, if you are booking a self- driving zoom car , you have to get a permit. If you go to tiger hill on peak season, taxi drivers will insist you reach the summit by 4:15 AM to avoid a long queue of people.

Entry Fee: INR-60 per person

Timing: Sunrise (4:15-4:45 depending on the season)

2 . Viewpoints for The Sleeping Buddha

Kanchenjunga often referred to as the sleeping Buddha is best observed from Tiger Hill . From the uppermost tier of Tiger Hill, you get a clear view of sunrise which will mesmerize you.

Kanchenjunga can be seen from all over Darjeeling including all of its four peaks: the Kanchenjunga central, Kanchenjunga west, Kanchenjunga main, Kanchenjunga south. The best views of both the Kanchenjunga and Mt. Everest is visible clearly in the Sandakphu to Phalut trek.

3. Exploring the Amazing Animals of Darjeeling Zoo

The Darjeeling Zoo , named after Padmaja Naidu, is a unique attraction being an excellent location for alpine animals. It specializes in rescuing and breeding snow leopard, red panda, Himalayan wolves.

You will find different species of snakes in this Zoological Park as well. Did you know that this is also the centre for India’s Red Panda program that has been successfully keeping this threatened species alive? The park has a naturally good spot as a high-altitude habitat for animals on an elevation of 7000ft.

Entry Fee: The park will charge you 20 INR as an entry fee.

Timings: 8:30 AM-4:30 PM

Main attractions: Red Panda, Goral, Tahr, Black Leopard, Snow Leopard, Markhor, Blue Sheep

4. Unlock the Wonders at The Rock Garden

The ride to Darjeeling Rock Garden will captivate your senses and will be carved into your memory for a long time. The Rock Garden has located 10 km from the main Hill Cart Road on Bloomfield Road and is also named Barbotey Park.

The road consists of sharp turns and hairpin bends as the road goes down from the elevated surface. The rock garden is named so because of its natural roads made of rock, and there is Chunnu Summer Falls to add to that beauty. You will find yourself in a treat as you get 3km further down in the Ganga Maiya Valley.

Entry Fee: Separately, each park will charge INR 60 per person

Timings:  10:00 AM to 4:00 AM (Ganga Maya Park) 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Rock Garden)

Main Attractions: Chunnu waterfall, traditional dance by the tribals during peak season, the rock covered roads

5. Ganga Maiya Park Darjeeling

Ganga Maiya Park is one of the best places to visit in Darjeeling which is a new addition to the already scenic valley. It is three kilometres further down below the Rock Garden. The main points of attracts in the park in the beautiful waterfall, its crystal-clear water and the panoramic view attract a lot of tourists.

The Ganga Maiya Park is mostly dedicated to creating a space for the locals to showcase the traditional dances and entertain the visitors. It is open to tourists from 10 AM to 4 PM. It will take you around 45 minutes to an hour to roam around this park and the peak time for visiting is 12 PM to 2 PM.

Opening Hours: 10 AM to 4 PM

Entry Fee: 10 INR for Indians and 50 INR for foreigners

6. Himalayan Mountaineering Institute (HMI)

Himalayan Mountaineering Institute is a legacy of its own. It was one of the first and elegant mountaineering institutes established in 1954 after Tenzing Norgay’s ascent to Mt. Everest with Edmund Hillary.

It is funded by India’s state and central government and is one of the best places to learn mountaineering. Along with the Zoological Park, it is located in the western part of Birch Hill. Swiss-style architecture, a museum filled with mountaineering artefacts, small souvenir shops, and tea parlours will make you feel enchanted.

Entry Fee:  INR 60

Timings: 9 AM to 5 PM

Main Attractions: Museum with mountaineering artefacts

7. Discover the Unique and Exciting Shopping Experience at Darjeeling Mall

The chowrasta of the main Darjeeling will give you a glance at the lifestyle of the locals. It’s an open area used by the English for the promenade. The four streets, Dr Zakir Hussain Road, Nehru Road, Mall Road east and west, meet up here.

You can find a market of small local shops on Nehru market, old and heritage shops in the mall area for antique and modern unique items.

Main attractions: Eating places like Keventar’s, Dekevas, shopping centres, century-old antique shops, local street markets

8. Observatory hill:

Observatory hill is the endpoint for your walk in the Chowrasta Mall. Observatory Hill is known for snow-clad mountains and as a viewpoint for Kanchenjunga on clear days. Previously, Bhutia Busti Monastery is located in this place. The path to the main viewpoint or summit starts at the eastern mall road.

Colourful prayer flags and chiming bells will welcome you along the way. Co-existence of Hindu priests and Buddhist lamas is a sight to praise. There is a Mahakal Temple (temple of the Hindu god Shiva) at the end of the summit. The panoramic view at the end and the beautiful road makes this spot perfect for viewing Kanchenjunga and evening walks.

Timing: 7 A.M to 7 PM.

No entry fees

9. Dali Monastery:

Drukpa Kagyupa Monastery is at an altitude of 7000ft. Between Darjeeling and Ghoom. It’s a must-visit place in Darjeeling. Visit the Dali Gompa built by  Kyabje Thuksey Rimpoche in 1971. More than 200 Tibetan Buddhists of the Drukchen sect stay at Dali Gompa.

At the entrance of the Prayer Hall, you will see a giant Buddha statue. The chanting of monks and the use of Tibetan drums with the chanting will make you feel tranquillity and peace. Dali Monastery is definitely one of the places to visit in Darjeeling on the way to Batasia loop.

Timing: 7 AM to 5 PM

10. Ghoom Monastery and Batasia Loop

On the track of the toy train from Darjeeling to Ghoom, the train stops at these two places. Sunrise and sunset are the best times to visit the Monastery; the Buddist Monastery, the colourful bunting banners beside the road reflecting the red and orange rays of sunshine will mesmerize you beyond your imagination.

Along the train track on the way back, you can visit the wonder of mechanical engineering meeting the natural splendour. Batasia means a beautified garden that surrounds airy space and the loop just below the Ghoom Station. This location’s beauty will transport you to a peaceful place.

Ghoom Monastery timings: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Charges: INR 60 for carrying cameras, otherwise free entry

11. Darjeeling Ropeway:

Darjeeling Cable car is India’s first cable car service. It was started its journey in 1968; currently, the cable car runs from Singamari to Tukvar. The starting station Singamari with an altitude of 7,000ft.

It is 3kms away from Darjeeling Chowkbazar. The whole ropeway course is further spread than Tukvar, and the last station is Sigla Bazar, with an altitude of 800ft.

Cable Car fare: INR 190 per adult and 100 for child

Main attractions: Visiting the scenic view of the Himalayas from a birds view at an elevated altitude.

12. Mirik Lake:

The Sumendu Lake at Mirik, Darjeeling or Mirik Lake, has crystal blue Coloured water.  If there is a clear sky and the sun is out, you can see the Kanchenjunga from here. The breezy lakeside in the hill station is a prominent place for taking walks.

The lake itself is 16.19 ha or 1.25 km long. And the maximum depth of the water is 7.92m. There is a beautiful arched white footbridge 24.38 m long and is a perfect place to do photoshoots. There are no entry fees for this, but the horse rides are charged.

1 3. Peace Pagoda, Darjeeling

Darjeeling Peace Pagoda is one of the Peace Pagodas built to serve as a focal point for people of all races and creeds in their quest for world peace. It is in the Indian state of West Bengal, in the town of Darjeeling.

It, like the majority of the other Peace Pagodas, was built under the supervision of Nichidatsu Fujii, a Japanese Buddhist monk and the founder of the Nipponzan-Myhji Buddhist Order.

Address: 27H5+2HQ, West Point, Darjeeling, West Bengal

Entrance: Free

14. Singalila National Park:

Located along the Singalila ridge, Singalila National Park is home to endangered red pandas and one of the most beautiful Himalayan forests. The trek route to Sandakphu runs within Singalila National Park and the park is well known for it.

Singalila National Park is also home to mammals and birds like the black panther, leopard, barking deer, yellow-throated marten, and blood pheasant. The place is a paradise for bird watching having more than 300 species of birds.

15. Nightingale Shrubbery:

The private courtyard of Sir Thomas Tartan’s bungalow was redesigned after the 1934’s earthquake and made public as Nightingale Shrubbery. The public spot for visiting snow clas mountains along the beautiful walkway is a memorable place to visit in Darjeeling.

The crisscrossed paths of the park look lovely at the outset, and you can also see the range of Himalayas as snow covers the park in Winter. It’s a great place to enjoy snow battle for kids in the winter.

Timing:  9AM to 5 PM

16. Happy Valley Tea Estate:

The Happy Valley tea estate is very close to the mall road, and it takes about 20 minutes on foot. Going on a trip to Darjeeling and not visiting a tea estate is not imaginable. Happy Valley is one of the biggest tea gardens and also showcases the whole process of use of equipment and retailing.

The retail outlet also gives you the option to purchase a variety of tea leaves. It’s a must-visit place in Darjeeling which will help you experience sensory and olfactory experiences.

Timing: Open from 9 AM to 4:30 PM

Fee for Factory Visit: INR 150 per person

Things to Do in Darjeeling:

There are plenty of amazing and adventurous things to do in Darjeeling. The area is very close to Sandakphu, the Teesta River, and home to old architectural places, natural adventurous roads offering a lot of activities to the tourists.

17. River Rafting in Teesta:

River Rafting is one of the most fun activities to enjoy with friends. Teesta has various rapids, pumping your adrenaline and there are experiences for grade 1 to grade 4 offering one of the best river rafting experiences in India. River rafting in.

Experience 4-5 rapids along the 7km of the rafting stretch. Along with offering thrill to adrenaline junkies the risk level is a little high. Grade 4 is only for trained rafters and previous ones are enjoyable with a rafter on board.

18. Sandakphu Trek:

Sandakphu trek is a moderately difficult trek to climb 12,000ft but the external weather can make it challenging. Sandakphu is considered a mesmerizing wonderland for trekkers. The trek enthusiasts, explorers and hikers will find this trek easy-going while beginners may take a little time to acclimatize to the change.

 Offers the best panoramic view of Mt. Everest and Kanchenjunga. Sandakphu trek is life-changing and should be experienced once in a lifetime. Make a checklist of trek poles, warm clothing, and medications prior to the trek. Also, don’t forget to exercise regularly to have a fit body for the trek.

Best time to Trek:  April to May, October to November

19. Mountaineering at HMI:

The mountaineering Institute at Darjeeling offers courses learn mountaineering basic courses, advanced courses and adventure courses. Anybody can enrol for the basic course where all basics of rock, snow and ice climbing are taught.

There is short 3 to 5-day special courses offered for tourists as well. There are final treks to complete the curses. Both the basic and advanced courses are of 28 days. If you want to escape to the mountains while learning something fruitful, try enrolling on the courses at HMI.

Time of the Courses: March, April, May, September

20. Exploring Dooars Tea Garden:

One of the things never to miss in Darjeeling is taking a tour of the Dooars tea garden . You have to rent a car from Darjeeling and move south towards Latagiri, Jalpaiguri to see the sprawling beauty of the tea gardens. Buy some Darjeeling tea as a souvenir and smell the aroma as you drive down green blossoming tea gardens.

21. Buy Woolens at Bhutia Market:

Walk down to Chowk Bazar, Nehru Road where you will visit a lot of stores for woollen goods . Bhutia markets are temporary stalls set up next to Nathmull. Go on a shopping spree to find sweaters, gloves, woollen caps, and jackets at reasonable and high-quality wool. In the Bhutia market, you can also find other goods like seasonal tea leves, Churpi and small souvenir shops.

22. Relish Thupka & Momos:

Mountain and momos are a combination of love.Thupka and momos these two dishes from Tibetan descent are a must-try for Darjeeling goers. Momos are an Indian variation of dumplings made from chicken, or beef or pork and vegetables.

Some of the best places to try momos in Darjeeling are Kunga Restaurant, Nepali Everest Momo, Dekevas, and Hasty-Tasty. Thupka is a noodle dish with a warm broth of meat and vegetables and will warm your soul.

Places to visit near Darjeeling:

West Bengal’s district of Darjeeling has hidden gems near its places because of the hill ranges, natural abundance and rustic beauty. If you are planning a visit near Darjeeling, you should visit these places. Here are the top 5 places that you can merge into your tour package near Darjeeling.

23. Nathula Pass:

Nathula Pass is a pleasantly surprising alluring passway, Nathula Pass is one of the surreal experiences someone can have. Drive through Nathula Pass to go to Gangtok. Gangtok, the capital of Sikim. is a beautiful place for mountain lovers.

The best time to visit Nathula pass is from March to October. It takes around 6 hours to drive through the pass. You will need a permit to travel through Nathula Pass, offering a prismatic view of the Himalayan mountains through Nathula Pass. If you plan a Darjeeling-Gangtok trip together keep aside 6 to 7 days for the trip alone

Top Attractions : Staircase to Indo-china border, Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir, Mandakini Waterfalls

Distance from Darjeeling: 150Km

24. Kalimpong:

Kalimpong, 51.3 km east of Darjeeling is a hill station known for Buddhist monasteries, Durpin Dara hills, and Tibetan handicrafts. Book a cab from Darjeeling and the trip will take you two and half hours more or less. Extend your stay one or two days if you want to visit Kalimpong.

Kalimpong is situated on the ridge that connects two hills of Durpin Dara. The Deolo hill, Zhang Dhok Polari Monasteryand Teesta river are must-visit while you stay in Kalimpong. There are also temples of Hanuman and Lord Radha Krishna in Kalimpong.

Top Attractions: Durpin Dara hills & monastery, Deolo hill, Pine View Nursery

Distance from Darjeeling: 51km

25. Karseong:

Karseong will definitely take your breath away if you want a short duration of extension to your Darjeeling to stay. Just 30 km south of Darjeeling town, Karseong is often referred to as the land of white orchids. Temples, gompas, museums and apart from Nurseries the view is also worth the visit.

The most famous attractions in Karseong are Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Museum, Tea Gardens, Ambosia Shiv Mandir, Eagle’s Crag and forest museum. You can easily have a trip to Darjeeling-Kalimpong-Karseong if you have a week in your hand.

Top Attractions: Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Museum, Eagle’s Crag, Castleton Tea estate

Distance from Darjeeling:30km

26. Lataguri:

Lataguri is located on the outskirts of the Gourmara National Park. Enjoy your stay in Lataguri with natural wildlife safaris, and a murti river visit and enjoy an amazing time in the forest. Lataguri is 114km from Darjeeling through Peshak road and you can cover the distance within three and a half hours by car.

Go for safari visits in observatory and morning jeep safaris to explore nature in West Bengal at its best. The most Highlighting attractions in Lataguri are Gorumara National Park, Medhla tower, Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary and Jayanti Mahakal Caves.

Top Attractions: Gorumara safari, Chapramari Sanctuary

27. South Sikkim:

A Sikkim tour with Gangtok and Darjeeling takes you around 6 to 7 days. South Sikkim is surrounded by majestic mountains and forests and the enchanting beauty of Sikkim will surely mesmerize you. South Sikkim has places of Buddhist worshipers, ropeways, and tea gardens. Places to visit in South Sikkim are Namchi, Ravangla, Borong, Char Dham, Tendong Hill, Tami tea garden etc.

Top Attractions: Namchi, Tami Tea Garden, Buddha Park

Distance from Darjeeling (to Namchi): 45km

Things To Do Before Going to Darjeeling

If you are coming to Darjeeling from outside India, please check if you need a visa. Most foreign tourists except citizens of Maldives require Indian visas.

Almost 113 countries can apply for Indian visas online from the official website also Have you arranged travel insurance for your trip to India? Protect yourself against the unexpected by reading  How to Buy t he Best Travel Insurance: A beginners’ guide  or requesting a quote from  Safetywing .

Planning An Itinerary:

Especially if you are planning on visiting Darjeeling, creating an efficient itinerary is very important to visit and enjoy most places in and out of Darjeeling.

Here is a useful 5-day itinerary if you are visiting the beautiful hill station from Kolkata.

Day1: Sightseeing in the Chowrasta and Darjeeling Mal

Take the train to NJP from Kolkata and sightseeing in the Darjeeling mal, Mahakal Temple and the market in the Chowrasta Mall.

Day 2: TIger Hill, Batasia Loop, 7-point Sightseeing

Visit sunrise at Tiger hill early in the morning and then take the toy train ride to Ghoom monastery and Batasia Loop. For the rest of the day, you can visit the 7-point attraction that is famous in most of the. It will make sure the visit of HMI and Zoological Park, the Happy Valley tea estate, the Racecourse.

Day 3: Trip to Mirik

Take a trip to Mirik, visit Mirik Lake, ride boats and sightseeing in the beautiful scenic crystal-clear lake.

Day 4: Rock Garden & Ganga Maiya Park

Take the Darjeeling Joy ride if you wish and take a trip to Darjeeling Rock Garden and Ganga Maiya Park thereafter.

Day5: Trip to Kalimpong and Sightseeing

The Number of Days & Best Time to Visit Darjeeling:

Anywhere between 3 to 7 days is good enough to visit popular sites and experience scenic beauty. For those who want to experience snow, the summer months of April to June or the dry winter months of October to December are the finest times to visit Darjeeling.

Budget Planning Darjeeling trip:

While planning a Darjeeling trip, you have to remember the accommodation, transport, food costs, and additional costs for sightseeing and shopping. Accommodation in the main town of Darjeeling costs you around INR-1000 per night per person, at its lowest.

Considering you stay at least five days; you will have to keep a budget around INR-5500 to INR- 6000. Some of the nearby attractions are walkable. You can walk around mal road, Chowrasta, and the markets.

For going to tourist attractions such as tiger hill, Darjeeling Zoo, Rock Garden, Ghoom Monastery, and Mirik Lake you will need to rent a car. Public transport services are not that trustable. Renting a car will cost around INR-10 per km. You can put aside INR-5000 to 6000 INR for transport including train tickets.

For food Indian restaurants, small places, and other bakeries and Tibetan restaurants are available. The food cost will be around INR-2000 at least for each person. So, the minimum cost adds up to 12000 to 15000 INR per person. If you include more nearby tourist attractions like Kalimpong and Kurseong it may go up a bit. But this is the rough estimate.

Tips to remember before travelling to Darjeeling:

Before travelling to Darjeeling, there is this whole situation of planning the perfect holiday. And, if you are solo travelling or planner for your group, here are few things you might consider.

• Researching hotel ratings: According to your stay duration and budget choose hotels with sufficient number of impressions and good review.
• Carry Cash: While being away carrying a little extra cash than initially planned is a no-brainer yet this is for foreigners. Remind to carry indian currency because ther you may not get an exchange agency.
• Respect Local Ethics: There might be some traditions that you are not used to or local ethics unseen before. Try to go local and enjoy the process.
• Carry medicine kit : For most people it takes a bit of time to acclimatize in the mountains. Carry basic medicine for vomiting, motion sickness, indigestion, cuts and other medicines your intake.

Accommodation In Darjeeling:

In the main Darjeeling town, you will find plenty of accommodation options, from cheap hotels to luxury resorts. There are hotels, staycation resorts, Airbnb, which you can book in advance. Here are some recommended places to stay according to your budget.

Some recommended medium-budget hotels are Pradhan Cottage, and Hotel Tower View. And few luxury heritage hotels in Darjeeling are Elgin Hotels, Darjeeling, Sterling Darjeeling, and Omega Residency.

Budget hotels:

Pradhan Cottage

Hotel Tower View

Omega Residency

Luxury hotels:

Elgin Hotels and resorts

Sterling Darjeeling

Hotel Himalayan Retreat

Kolkata To Darjeeling Travel Routes:

1. kolkata to bagdogra:.

The best route to get to Darjeeling is travelling through domestic flights. You will get cheap flights as low as INR 1681 if you book in advance. The Bagdogra Airport is in Siliguri, which means you have to get to the Central Bus Terminal of Siliguri to catch buses for Darjeeling or rent private cars.

Every day, you will find trains running from either Howrah, Kolkata or Sealdah Station to New Jalpaiguri Station. Padatik Express, New Jalpaiguri Shatabdi Special, Howrah GHY Special, KOAA HDB special trains are available throughout the week. Still, only Saraighat SF special is available every day of the week from Howrah station.

The train fare is around 2000 to 3000 INR. For example, the Satabdi Special costs you about 2200 INR, including taxes.

After you land at Kolkata airport, you can book an Uber cab through the online app or find taxis that cost you around 300INR to the Howrah Station. And, after arriving in NJP, you have to rent a car or get public buses from Siliguri Central Bus Terminal to reach Darjeeling. The rented cars cost around 2000 INR.

Best Eateries and Halal Foods to Try in Darjeeling

Darjeeling will offer you a mix of Tibetan, Nepalese, international and Bengali Cuisine. Some must-try halal foods at Darjeeling are:

• Momos (chicken, vegetarian)
• Chicken Thukpa, Wai wai
• Nepali Thali
• Dalle or hot chilli pickles
• Shaphale, Tibetan bread with meat stuffing
• Churpee (local cheese) with niguru
• Darjeeling Tea
• Some snacks like momo, dalle, churpee are widely available in small stalls and established restaurants. Here are the few recommended and renowned restaurants if you want to try :
• Keventar’s for English breakfast, baked items and Darjeeling tea at
• Dekevas for Tibetan specialities like momos, shaphale, thupka
• Penang Restuarant for Nepali thali

If you plan to go to Darjeeling, this guide will help you with all the information to chalk out the best plan.

Here is some recommendation for heritage restaurants in Darjeeling:

Glenary’s:

Being a name of its own since the British colonial time, Glenary’s is an institution of its own. Wood furniture, British architectural ambience makes its a spectacular spot for snacks, drinks and bakeries. The bakery serves delicious english breakfast, and other great snacks like pizza, sandwiches etc. The great interior with a wide array of alcoholic drinks makes it a great place to hang out and enjoy the nightlife in Darjeeling India.

Kunga Restaurant:

Kunga serves quality and quantity at a good price and is known for the amazing Tibetan and Nepalese food it has in Darjeeling. Kunga restaurant is a traditional heritage place serving tasty momos, thupka, noodles, thenthuk. These are the recommended food to must-try in Kunga. Though you may have to wait in the queue during pick-hours the foods are well worth it.

Keventer’s:

Keventar is a signature culinary destination in Darjeeling serving English breakfast, baked goods, meat platters, hot chocolate and tasty non-veg platters. The place is a must-try for breakfast, brunch and early evening snacking especially the non-veg platter with sausages, salamis, and poached eggs, with big portions for two people. They also have a rooftop set up. Sip a cup of hot tea or chocolate with an English breakfast at Keventer’s.

These were just three of the iconic hotels of Darjeeling. They are quite infamous for the legacy they have created. But other than these you can find a lot of Indian restaurants, quaint hotels, restaurants, and bars like Shangri-La, and Patio. Some honourable mentions are Lunar restaurant, Park restaurants, and Lazeez affair. Also, there are plenty of street food stalls near mall road for you to try out.

Frequently Asked questions ( FAQ’s)

How to book darjeeling toy train ride.

Darjeeling toy train joyrides can be book from the Indian railway website , or you can go there a little early in the morning to secure them to ride later in the day. The Darjeeling heritage toy train ride is the best travel option for Ghoom Monastery and the Batasia Loop.

How to Tour Darjeeling in Three Days?

On day one, you can start by going to the Darjeeling Zoo and the mountaineering Institute. From there, you can visit the Rock Garden and Ganga Maiya Valley in the afternoon and roam around the mall in the evening.

How much does the Darjeeling trip cost?

Darjeeling trip generally costs around INR 12000 to 15000 just for Darjeeling per head. If you add other places to visit near Darjeeling Gangtok, Sikkim the cost may go up to 28,000 to 30,000 INR for 5 days. Darjeeling trip is generally cheaper if you visit in the off seasons like November. For travel agencies in India, the cost may be a little higher and there are a lot of packages offered by local companies which you can check out for a rough estimate.

Which is the best time to visit Darjeeling?

The best time to visit Darjeeling is during the summer months as the temperature is in a comfortable range of 20 to 25 degrees Celsius. April to June are the best months for visiting Darjeeling for tourism and trekking as well. November is off-season but trekkers do go at that time to experience great trekking.

What is famous in Darjeeling for shopping?

Near mall road and Jaharlal Nehru road Darjeeling is famous for shops having various local goods and souvenirs to carry back home. Darjeeling tea and woolen goods are two of the best items to carry back home. Exotic tibetan items, handcarfted items and keychains are some of the best famous items in Darjeeling to go shopping for.

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Your article on Darjeeling is a gem! I loved how you captured the essence of this charming destination with vivid descriptions and practical tips. It’s evident that you have a deep appreciation for Darjeeling, and your passion shines through your writing. Keep up the great work!

Your post about Darjeeling on The Simple Travel was fantastic! I loved how you highlighted the unique aspects of the region, such as the tea plantations and the stunning views from Tiger Hill. Your personal anecdotes and experiences added a really nice touch to the post and made me feel like I was right there with you.

I appreciate the practical tips you provided, such as the best time to visit and the various transportation options available. Your post has definitely inspired me to plan a trip to Darjeeling in the near future.

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Spread in ribbons over a steep mountain ridge, surrounded by emerald-green tea plantations and towered over by majestic Khangchendzonga, Darjeeling is the definitive Indian hill station and, for many, West Bengal’s premier destination. When you aren’t gazing open-mouthed at Khangchendzonga (Great Five-Peaked Sbow Fortress – at 28,169 ft (8598m) it's the world’s third-highest mountain), you can visit Buddhist monasteries, see colonial-era architecture and take a ride on the 140-year-old steam-billowing Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. The adventurous can arrange a trek to Singalila Ridge or ride a mountain bike around the hills. Meanwhile, the steep and winding bazaars at the foot of the town bustle with an array of Himalayan products and people from across Sikkim, Bhutan, Nepal and Tibet. And when energies start to flag, a good, steaming Darjeeling brew is never far away.

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Darjeeling Himalayan Railway

The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, known affectionately as the toy train, made its first journey along its precipice-topping, 2ft-wide tracks in 1881 and…

Singalila National Park

Singalila National Park covers the Indian side of the scenic Singalila Ridge, the Darjeeling region's finest trekking area, along the India–Nepal border…

Observatory Hill

The hill rising above Chowrasta is home to several much-visited temples, approached through a flurry of colourful prayer flags and hanging bells. The main…

Himalayan Mountaineering Institute

Within the zoo precinct, the prestigious HMI was founded in 1954 and has provided training for some of India’s leading mountaineers. Its fascinating…

Tibetan Refugee Self-Help Centre

Established in 1959, this refugee centre includes a Tibetan Buddhist temple, workshops producing carpets, woodcarvings, wool and woollen items, plus a…

Japanese Peace Pagoda

Perched on a hillside 2km south of the town centre, the gleaming white, 28m-high Peace Pagoda is one of more than 70 pagodas built around the world by the…

Yiga Choeling Gompa

Yiga Choeling Gompa, the Darjeeling area's most famous monastery, founded in 1850, houses up to 40 monks of the Gelugpa school. The serene temple has…

Himalayan Tibet Museum

This well-thought-out museum (one large room) is a good, colourful introduction to Tibet and its culture. The attractive displays introduce the Dalai Lama…

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Sep 20, 2010 • 4 min read

If you have ever balked at the notion of a long Indian road trip with small children – but nevertheless longed to get back to the good old days of the…

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Darjeeling Himalayan Railway / Toy Train

#2 of 28 Places to Visit in Darjeeling

The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, also known as the Toy Train, is a 2 feet narrow-gauge railway based on zig zag and loop line technology that runs between Siliguri and Darjeeling in the Indian state of West Bengal. The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway is the first and still the most outstanding example of a hill passenger railway and among the top Darjeeling Tourist Places. Built between 1879 & 1881, the narrow gauge Darjeeling Himalayan Railway was designed as an extension of the North Bengal State Railway. Running up to a height of over 7,000 feet, the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway is one of the oldest and highest railway lines in the world. The Toy Train begins its journey from Siliguri and reaches Darjeeling after covering a distance of 78 km and crossing 13 stations on its way, including Ghoom, the highest station in India. The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage, still operates with the original steam engines and it attracts tourists not only from India .....

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Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park

#3 of 28 Places to Visit in Darjeeling

At a distance of 3 km from Darjeeling Railway Station, Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park is a zoo situated in the beautiful hill town of Darjeeling, West Bengal. Popularly called as Darjeeling Zoo, it is one of the best zoo parks in India and among the must visit Darjeeling Tourist Places. The zoo was formerly known as Himalayan Zoological Park and was established in 1958 as a joint venture of Government of India and Government of West Bengal. The park was renamed in 1975 when Indira Gandhi, the Prime Minister of India, visited the park and dedicated it to the memory of Padmaja Naidu, who was also a poet and daughter of the famous freedom fighter Sarojini Naidu. Situated at an altitude of 7,000 feet, this is the largest high altitude zoo in India. Spread over an area of 67.56 acre, Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park is the only specialized Zoo in the country and is the first recipient of the International award of 'The Earth Heroes 2014'. This zoo park is internationally .....

Tiger Hill Sunrise Observatory

#4 of 28 Places to Visit in Darjeeling

At a distance of 11 km from Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Station, Tiger Hill is a sunrise viewpoint in Darjeeling. It is the highest point in Darjeeling and among the most picturesque places to visit in Darjeeling. Tiger Hill stands at an altitude of 2,590 m overlooking the spur of the snow-capped mountain ranges of the Eastern Himalayas. It is one of the two points in India from where you can capture the entire panorama between Mount Everest and Kanchenjunga on a sunny morning. The first rays of the sun shoot ahead and shed light upon the twin peaks of Kanchenjunga painting it pink, and then bathing it in a beautiful orange colour, which is an amazing thing to experience. An observation deck is built on top of the Tiger Hill to cater to hundreds of tourists who visit every day. On a clear day the summit of Tiger Hill commands the view of Kurseong Town to its south-west along with plains of North Bengal and number of major rivers like Teesta, Mahanadi, Balasun and Mechi meanders .....

Batasia Loop

#5 of 28 Places to Visit in Darjeeling

At a distance of 4 km from Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, Batasia Loop is a railway loop in Darjeeling of West Bengal. Situated below the Ghoom station, it is one of the mesmerizing places to visit in Darjeeling. Batasia Loop was built in 1919 as an engineering requirement to lower the gradient of ascent of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. At this point, the track spirals around over itself through a tunnel and over a hilltop. After Ghoom (the highest railway station), there is a sharp fall as the toy train moves towards Darjeeling. There was no way a narrow gauge toy train could navigate the drastic fall of about 100 feet to the gradient of the slope. So, a large circular area was built for the loop to make the slope gentle. Batasia means airy space. The Loop serves a vital purpose for the toy train but is also an attraction in itself. The loop goes around a garden. The mountain garden is beautified with fresh green grass, seasonal and perennial flowers and shrubs. There .....

Peace Pagoda & Japanese Temple

#6 of 28 Places to Visit in Darjeeling

At a distance of 2.5 km from Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, Darjeeling Peace Pagoda is a Buddhist stupa situated on the slopes of the Jalapahar hill in Darjeeling. It is one of more than 70 pagodas built around the world by the Japanese Buddhist Nipponzan Myohoji organization and among the most popular attractions in Darjeeling. The foundation stone of the pagoda was laid in 1972 by Nichidatsu Fuji, a Buddhist monk from Japan and founder of the Nipponzan-Myohoji Buddhist Order. Inaugurated in 1992, the pagoda was designed by M. Ohka. Being the tallest structure in Darjeeling with a height of 28.5 meters, it is open to people of all faith and is purposely made to propagate peace and prosperity in the world. Peace Pagoda houses four shining and gold-polished statues of Buddha. Also, the walls of the temple have eight sandstone carvings which depict different stories from the different stages of Gautama Buddha's life. Known for its tranquility, Peace Pagoda offers breathtaking .....

Observatory Hill & Mahakal Temple

#7 of 28 Places to Visit in Darjeeling

At a distance of 2 km from Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Station, Observatory Hill is a hill top located near Chowrasta Square in the dreamy hill town of Darjeeling. It is one of the great places to visit in Darjeeling and among the popular viewpoints in Darjeeling. The hill is encircled at the bottom of the Mall Road. The Observatory Hill is one of the oldest sites of attraction in Darjeeling and also has historical and religious significance. Built in 1765 CE by Lama Dorje-Rinzing, the Bhutia Busty Monastery, the oldest monastery in Darjeeling, was first located on Observatory Hill. The monastery was sacked by a Gorkha invasion in 1815 and it was rebuilt and shifted to its present location at Bhutia Busty in 1879. The hill is famous for its magnificent views of Kanchendzonga and the ancient temple dedicated to Mahakal or Lord Shiva. There is a white chorten or a Tibetan memorial shrine next to the Mahakal Temple, which has the relics of Dorje Lama who was the caretaker of .....

Darjeeling Rangeet Valley Passenger Ropeway

#8 of 28 Places to Visit in Darjeeling

At a distance of 4 km from Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, Darjeeling Rangeet Valley Passenger Ropeway is a passenger ropeway located in Darjeeling town of West Bengal. Also known as Darjeeling Ropeway, it is one of Asia's longest Passenger Ropeways and also the first Passenger Ropeway in India. Darjeeling Ropeway was started in 1968 by the Forest Development Corporation of West Bengal. It was initially set up to cater to the tea gardens at the valleys below which did not otherwise have an easy access. Starting with just one cable car, now it was upgraded to 16 cable cars each having a capacity of six persons. It was closed in 2003 after four tourists died when the cable broken causing two cars to fell down the hill. Later it was re-opened with many safety measures in 2012. Darjeeling Ropeway operates between the North Point in the town of Darjeeling and Singla on the banks of the Ramman River. From an elevation of 7000 feet in Darjeeling's North Point, this ropeway descends .....

Bengal Natural History Museum

#9 of 28 Places to Visit in Darjeeling

At a distance of 3 km from Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, Bengal Natural History Museum is a museum situated in Darjeeling town of West Bengal. Located inside Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park complex, it is one of the best places to visit in Darjeeling. The Bengal Natural History Museum was established in 1903 at the behest of the then Governor General of India Mr. George Nathaniel Curzon. Established as a small museum within the premises of the Lloyd Botanical Garden, it provides visitors with a wonderful view of rich flora and fauna of Darjeeling and its surrounding areas. However, due to the growing visitors and increasing collection, the museum was shifted to its current location in the year 1915, and the Bengal Natural History Museum was officially formed in the year 1923. Initially the museum was run by Bengal Natural Museum Society from 1923 to 1976 and later it was handed over to the Forest Department of West Bengal. The Bengal Natural History Museum is a visual .....

Bhutia Busty Monastery

#10 of 28 Places to Visit in Darjeeling

At a distance of 2 km from Darjeeling Railway Station, Bhutia Busty Monastery or Karmaa Dorjee Cheoling Monastery is a Buddhist monastery located in Bhutia Busty area of Darjeeling, West Bengal. It is one of the popular and oldest Buddhist monasteries in Darjeeling and among the top places to visit in Darjeeling. This monastery was earlier located in Observatory Hill where the Mahakal Temple stands today. It was originally built there by the Lama Dorje Rinzing in 1761 CE. According to history, the monastery was completely ravaged during Gorkha invasion in 1851 CE and was rebuilt in 1861 CE. But due to many disturbances, it had to be shifted to its present location in the year 1879. However, the monastery in the new location was also destroyed by an earthquake in 1934 CE, after which it was restored and reconstructed by the King of Sikkim. The present structure is stunning and has been built in a traditional Tibetan style with Sikkimese influence. The monastery belongs to .....

Dali Monastery

#11 of 28 Places to Visit in Darjeeling

At a distance of 2.5 km from Darjeeling Railway Station, Dali Monastery is a Buddhist monastery located in Dali area of Darjeeling. Also known as Druk Sangag Choling Monastery, it is one of the biggest monasteries in West Bengal and also among the famous places to visit in Darjeeling. Dali Monastery is one of the most prominent monasteries of the Kargyupa sect, built by Kyabje Thuksey Rinpoche in 1971. The gompa was inaugurated by His Holiness Dalai Lama in 1993, where he gave 3 days of religious teachings. The monastery is known for preserving the age old culture and tradition of the Tibetan monks. It serves as the headquarters and the residence for Drukchen Rinpoche the XII, who is the supreme leader of the Kargyupa sect. Perched on a steep hill, the monastery was built in the traditional Tibetan style. The colors used in the walls are bright and bold which depicts the life and teachings of Lord Buddha. It is home to around 210 monks who came to live here from the Himalayan .....

Lloyd's Botanical Garden

#12 of 28 Places to Visit in Darjeeling

At a distance of 1 km from Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Station, Lloyd's Botanical Garden or Darjeeling Botanical Garden is a beautiful garden located in the beautiful hill town of Darjeeling. The garden is among the oldest botanical gardens in Darjeeling and also one of the popular tourist places in Darjeeling. Established in 1878 CE, the garden was named after William Lloyd, who provided the required land for it. The garden was built in reference to the Calcutta Botanical Garden. The basic motive of Lloyd's Botanical Garden is to preserve the native floral species of Darjeeling Himalayan hill region, Sikkim and its neighboring regions. Located at an altitude of almost 1800 meters, the garden has terraced lands, rolling slopes, tall trees and lush green bushes mixed with grass. Sprawling over an area of 40 acres, the Lloyd Botanical Garden preserves some of the most exotic and endangered species of plants. It has several species of bamboo, oak, magnolia, arisaema, cotoneaster, .....

Chowrasta Or Darjeeling Mall

#13 of 28 Places to Visit in Darjeeling

At a distance of 1 km from Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Station, Darjeeling Mall or Chowrasta is located at the heart of Darjeeling town. It is considered as the hub for all type of activities in Darjeeling and also among the best places to visit in Darjeeling. The word 'Chow' means four and 'Rasta' stands for roads, essentially means that the Mall is where four roads meet. Located on top of Nehru Road, This flat piece of circular land is the major shopping area and center for commercial activities. In olden days, this was the place where the Europeans came for their evening walks. Today, the locals as well as the tourists come here to lounge and relax. In a clear day, one can also have a magnificent view of the Kanchenjunga from here. There are benches all along the Mall Road for people to sit and enjoy the views over a cup of Darjeeling tea. Also, there are some of the old and heritage stores lined up and countless vendors selling artifacts, woollens and various figurines .....

#1 of 28 Places to Visit in Darjeeling

At a distance of 35 km from Kurseong, 44 km from Darjeeling, 50 km from Siliguri, 100 km from Kalimpong, 130 km from Pelling, 147 km from Gangtok, 517 km from Guwahati and 591 km from Kolkata, Mirik is a small hill town located in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal. Situated at an altitude of 4,905 feet, Mirik is one of the popular tourist places in West Bengal and among the best places to visit near Darjeeling. Nestled in the serene hills of Darjeeling district, Mirik is known for its pleasant climate, natural beauty and easy accessibility. The name Mirik comes from two Lepcha words Mir-Yok which means 'place burnt by fire'. The town is dominated by the large Sumendu Lake or Mirik Lake. The southern part of the lake is the tourist town where almost all the hotels are located while the northern part of the lake is more local and in the Northernmost fringe is the crowded Mirik market. Like Darjeeling, Mirik also used to be ..... Distance (From Darjeeling): 44 Kms Trip Duration (From Darjeeling - Including Travel): Full Day .....

Teesta Valley Tea Estate

#14 of 28 Places to Visit in Darjeeling

At a distance of 32 km from Darjeeling, and 51 km from Kalimpong, Teesta Valley Tea Estate is a vast tea garden in Rangli Rangliot Tehsil of Darjeeling district in West Bengal, India. This is one of the popular tea estates in West Bengal and among the top places to experience Darjeeling Tourism. Teesta Valley Tea Estate derives its name from mighty river Teesta. Established in the year 1841, it is one of the oldest tea gardens in Darjeeling and one of the gold medal winner for the production of the world's finest tea. Spread over an area of 850 hectare, the tea garden is situated in the cold sunny slopes with a widened stretching of almost 2500 to 6500 feet above from the sea level, with selected China tea bushes highly planted with infinite care. These fertile slopes are blessed by cool mists, bright sunshine and crisp winds of the Kanchenjunga, where the legendary flavor of pure Darjeeling tea was conceived. This beautiful tea garden is capable to amuse the visitors by its .....

Singalila National Park

#15 of 28 Places to Visit in Darjeeling

At a distance of 36 km from Darjeeling, Singalila National Park is a reserved forest area at the Singalila ridge in Darjeeling district of West Bengal. Situated at an altitude between 7900 feet to 12000 feet, it is the highest National Park in West Bengal and among the popular places to visit in Darjeeling. The park was declared as a wildlife sanctuary in 1986, and got national park status in 1992. The park derives its name from the Singalila spur, which runs through the park, descending from Mount Kanchenjunga in the north and running south to the northern fringe of the Gangetic Plains. The park makes the border line with Nepal to the west and Sikkim to the North. The two highest peaks of West Bengal, Sandakphu (3630 m) and Phalut (3600 m) are located inside the park and the region had long been used as the trekking route from Maneybhanjang to Sandakphu and Phalut. The park has an area of 78.60 Sq.km with mixed vegetation of Magnolia, Rhododendron, Oak, Pine Hemlock, Silver .....

Shrubbery Nightingale Park

#16 of 28 Places to Visit in Darjeeling

At a distance of 2.5 km from Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, Shrubbery Nightingale Park is a beautiful public park situated at Richmond Hill area of Darjeeling in the state of West Bengal. Lies between Himalayan Mountaineering Institute and Chowrasta, it is one of the beautiful places to visit in Darjeeling. Formerly known as 'The Shrubbery', this park was the private courtyard of Sir Thomas Tartan's Bungalow and a meeting place for English women during the British Raj. The park was destroyed during a devastating earthquake in the year 1934. It was rebuilt and began to be used as a famous Bollywood movie shooting spot during 1950's and 60's. However, with passing time the park was neglected due to the growing tension in Darjeeling hills. It was opened for the public again in 2011 after re-designing of the park with walkways and sitting benches. The park is said to be in oval shape and is slightly at an elevated level. The park is adorned with pine and many other tall trees. It .....

Sandakphu & Phalut Trek

#17 of 28 Places to Visit in Darjeeling

At a distance of 83 km from Darjeeling, Sandakfu or Sandakphu is the highest peak of West Bengal situated on the border of West Bengal of India and Nepal. Sandakphu is one of the wonderful places to experience Darjeeling Tourism and also among the best trekking places in Eastern Himalayas. Situated at an altitude of 11,941 feet, Sandakphu is the summit or the highest point in Singalila range. Sandakphu means 'Height of the Poison Plant' derives its name from the poisonous plants that grow near the top. Popularly known as 'Trekkers Wonderland', the Sandakphu trek route goes all along the Singalila range and the border of India and Nepal. Also known as Singalila trek, it is considered as the highest trek in West Bengal. A trek to Sandakphu is actually considered a soft or a light trek in trekker's world. However the altitude, weather conditions and various other factors do require that take adequate preparations, particularly first time trekkers. The Sandakphu trek starts from .....

Old Ghoom Monastery / Yiga Choeling Monastery

#18 of 28 Places to Visit in Darjeeling

At a distance of 1 km from Ghoom Railway Station and 6 km from Darjeeling, Old Ghoom Monastery, also known as Yiga Choeling Monastery, is a Buddhist monastery situated at Ghoom near the beautiful hill town of Darjeeling. It is one of the oldest and most popular Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in the region of Darjeeling and also one of the must visit places in Darjeeling. Yiga Choeling Monastery was established in 1850 CE by the Mongolian astrologer and monk Sokpo Sherab Gyatso, who was the head of the monastery until 1905 CE. The Monastery belongs to Gelugpa or the Yellow Hat sect. This is the first ever Tibetan Buddhist monastery to be built in the Darjeeling region. During the Chinese occupation of 1959 in Tibet many high ranking monks fled to India and took refuge in this monastery. The monastery is known for its 15 feet high statue of Maitreya Buddha or Gyalwa Shampa, which means the Buddha of the future or the Coming Buddha. This statue was created during the tenure of .....

Barbotey Rock Garden

#19 of 28 Places to Visit in Darjeeling

At a distance of 6 km from Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, Barbotey Rock Garden is a beautiful garden situated at Chunnu Summer Falls in the Darjeeling town of West Bengal. It is one of the magnificent places to visit in Darjeeling. Barbotey Rock Garden was constructed by the Gorkha Hill Council Tourism Department and was inaugurated by the GNLF supremo, Mr. Subhash Ghising. It is popularly called as Rock Garden as the entire garden area has been created by cutting rocks at different levels and making terraced seating arrangements. It was created to introduce a special attraction for tourists a little outside the town area so that the visitors have an added incentive to come to the hill town. There are sharp hairpin bends on the way and the gradient of the road is very steep. However the view of Darjeeling's landscape and the mountain range from the road is unparalleled. It is a multi-level garden, terraced around a natural fall called Chunnu Summer Falls. The garden offers .....

Happy Valley Tea Estate

#20 of 28 Places to Visit in Darjeeling

At a distance of 2.5 km from Darjeeling Railway Station, Happy Valley Tea Estate is a vast tea garden located in Darjeeling town of West Bengal. This is the second oldest tea estate in Darjeeling after Steinthal Tea Estate and also one of the popular places to experience Darjeeling Tourism. Spread over an area of 177 hectares, Happy Valley Tea Garden was established by Mr. David Wilson in the year 1854, which was then known as Wilson Tea Estate. In 1903, the estate was taken over by an Indian, Tarapada Banerjee, an aristocrat from Hooghly. Later Banerjee bought the Windsor Tea Estate nearby in 1929 and merged the two estates under the name of Happy Valley Tea Estate. Since 2008, the tea estate has been under the ownership of Sanjay Bansal. Today, over 1500 people worked in the tea estate. Located in the vicinity of Darjeeling town, it is one of the major tourist attractions in Darjeeling. It also has a museum and has a factory. Situated at an altitude of 2,100 m, Happy Valley .....

Magdhog Yolmowa Monastery

#21 of 28 Places to Visit in Darjeeling

At a distance of 4 km from Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, Magdhog Yolmowa Monastery is a Buddhist monastery located on the Old Military Road in Darjeeling town of West Bengal. Popularly known as Aloobari Monastery, it is one of the oldest Buddhist monasteries in Darjeeling and also among the must visit Tourist Places in Darjeeling. The monastery was built in 1914 AD under the supervision of Sri Sangay Lama, a highly revered religious head of the Yolmowa - a small ethnic group hailing from north-east of Nepal and who later settled in Darjeeling. The construction of the monastery was coincided with the beginning of the First World War. The name Mag-Dhog means warding off the war and the monastery was dedicated for world peace. The monastery has several idols of Lord Buddha and Padmasambhava. The paintings on the walls are said to be done with the help of herbs and grass - an amazing work of art. Each painting depicts a story or teaching about life. The monastery also preserves .....

Dhirdham Temple

#22 of 28 Places to Visit in Darjeeling

At a distance of 100 m from Darjeeling Railway Station, Dhirdham Temple is the most popular Hindu shrine located in Darjeeling town of West Bengal. It is one of the oldest temples in Darjeeling and among the beautiful Places to visit in Darjeeling. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Dhirdham Temple was built by Purna Bahadur Pradhan, the king of Nepal, in 1939. Situated just below the Toy Train Station, the temple was designed by the Gorkhali architect Beg Raj Sakya. Dhirdham Temple appears as a multi-layered pagoda from outside and resembles the Pashupatinath Temple of Katmandu in architecture. The roof of the temple is influenced by Tibetan monasteries. The temple looks phenomenal in its Tibetan Style structure painted in vivid colours like red, yellow and white. It has a white coloured statue of Lord Shiva near the entrance. This idol symbolises Pancha Bakram Trinetram, which is a depiction of five varied facial expressions of Lord Shiva and His supremely powerful third eye. One .....

Senchal Lake & Wildlife Sanctuary

#23 of 28 Places to Visit in Darjeeling

At a distance of 10 km from Darjeeling, Senchal Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected sanctuary in Darjeeling district of West Bengal, India. It is one of the oldest wildlife sanctuaries of India and among the popular places to experience Darjeeling Tourism. Covers an area of 38.6 Sq. km, Senchal Wildlife Sanctuary was set up in 1915 CE and is the south east extension of Singalila National Park. The elevation ranges from 1,500 to 2,600 m. High-altitude animals like barking deer, wild pig, Himalayan black bear, leopard, jungle cat, common rhesus monkey, Assam macaque, Himalayan flying squirrel, etc. are found in their natural habitats. The sanctuary is also rich in bird life. Senchal wildlife sanctuary is a perfect combination of both man-made and natural jungles. The forest has different kinds of trees and plantation including oak, pines and birch. There are over 350 types of flowering plants in this area including Rhodendrons and Orchids. There are several villages surrounding .....

Neora Valley National Park

#24 of 28 Places to Visit in Darjeeling

At a distance of 81 km from Darjeeling, Neora Valley National Park is a protected wildlife sanctuary located in Kalimpong district of West Bengal. It is one of the richest biological zones in the entire Eastern India and also one of the prominent places to visit in Darjeeling. Spread over an area of 88 sq. km, Neora Valley National Park was established in 1986 CE. The National Park enjoys the distinction of being situated over one of the oldest Reserve Forests in India. With an elevation of 10,600 feet, Rachela Pass is the highest point of this park, where it forms a boundary with Sikkim in the North and Bhutan in the North East. The forests of Jalpaiguri form its southern boundary connecting it with Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary and the Gorumara National Park. The name Neora Valley is given after the river Neora flowing through it and is the main source of water for Kalimpong town. Neora Valley National Park is situated in the foothill of the Himalayas, so it has craggy inaccessible .....

Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary

#25 of 28 Places to Visit in Darjeeling

At a distance of 97 km from Darjeeling, Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the foothills of Eastern Himalayas of Jalpaiguri district. Situated close to Gorumara National Park, it is one of the best wildlife sanctuaries in West Bengal and among the popular tourist places near Darjeeling. Covered with an area of 96 Sq.km, Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary was established in 1998. The name Chapramari derives from 'Chapra' means a variety of small fish and 'Mari' means abundant. According to history, in 1895, the area was declared as a reserve forest under the Indian Forest Act. Then, the Government of India declared it as a National Wildlife Sanctuary in 1998. The main attraction of the sanctuary is the elephants that are found here in large numbers. The place is also home to various other animals like Gaur, Wild boar, Leopards, Royal Bengal Tiger, Himalayan Langoor, deer, reptiles etc. Also regarded as a bird watchers paradise as one can spot variety of birds like Peafowl, .....

Jhandi Dara Sunrise Point

#26 of 28 Places to Visit in Darjeeling

At a distance of 31 km from Kalimpong, 52 km from Lava and 70 km from Darjeeling, Jhandi Dara is a beautiful viewpoint located at Lolegaon near Kalimpong. Known for its spectacular view of Sunrise, it is one of the best places to visit in Darjeeling. Jhandi Dara Sunrise Point offers beautiful vistas of the sun rising behind the snowcapped mountain peaks. Watching the sky lighting up, changing colors from dark blue to fiery orange is memorable from here. Tourists can also enjoy the views of dense green Sal and Pine Trees spread all over the hilltop with the Kanchenjunga as a majestic backdrop. Boasting of lush and mountainous environs, the Jhandi Dara Sunrise Point offers ample opportunities for capturing really amazing photographs, especially at the time of sunrise. Besides, the viewpoint is a perfect retreat for nature lovers and birdwatchers. The location of Jhandi Dara Viewpoint is very unique as one can see the Plains of Dooars, Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Kanchenjunga and .....

St. Andrew's Church

#27 of 28 Places to Visit in Darjeeling

At a distance of 1.5 km from Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Station, St. Andrew's Church is an old Anglican Church located at the Mall Road in Darjeeling town of West Bengal. It is one of the most beautiful structure in Darjeeling and also one of the popular pilgrimage places to visit in Darjeeling. Named after the patron saint of Scotland St. Andrew, the foundation stone of the church was laid by the British in 1843 CE and was completed in 1844. The church was badly damaged by an earthquake and had to be rebuilt in the year 1873. The early worshippers of this church included many Scottish soldiers and tea planters living in the Darjeeling Hill area. The church is able to accommodate the congregation of about 200 persons. The church was built in Gothic Style of architecture which is one of the signature styles of British architecture. The origin of this architecture is believed to date back to 12th century AD. Some of its characteristics include the pointed arch, the ribbed .....

Tibetan Refugee Self Help Centre

#28 of 28 Places to Visit in Darjeeling

At a distance of 5 km from Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Station, Tibetan Refugee Self Help Centre is a rehabilitation center for the Tibetan refugees in the beautiful hill town of Darjeeling, West Bengal. It is one of the prominent landmarks of Darjeeling and also one of the best places to visit in Darjeeling. The center was setup by Tibetan refugees on 2nd October 1959 AD. It serves as a residence of several Tibetan refugees who fled from their homeland following the footsteps of their spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama. Located on the picturesque hilltop, it is spread over an area of 4 acres of land. A committee was formed with 10 members that were responsible for the development and management of the center. Ms Gaylo Thondup was the first President of the center. Initially, they started raising funds through donations, subscriptions, charity shows and even through exhibition soccer match. Later, they received funds from domestic and international voluntary organizations as well. .....

Most Asked Questions on Darjeeling

Winter and summer the best seasons to visit Darjeeling . This is also time to enjoy its spectacular views of snow-capped peaks and Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. Summer is the busiest season in Darjeeling, most of the tourists planning to visit Darjeeling to spend Summer vacation.

Darjeeling usually takes 2-3 days to visit the most important tourist places. Several tourists usually prefer visiting Darjeeling along with Gangtok which requires additional 2 day. Darjeeling can be mixed with near by wonderful destination like Pelling, Namchi, Kalimpong, Lachen and Lachung by adding few additional days to your trip.

Budget of Darjeeling trip depends on the trip duration and category of hotel you choose for your stay along with the kind of vehicle you prefer. Darjeeling tour packages offered by Trawell.in start from as low as INR 8600 per person for a 3D/2N trip and from INR 11750 per person for 4D/3N vacation.

Ensure to cover most important places to visit in Darjeeling like Darjeeling Himalayan Railway/Toy Train, Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, Tiger Hill Sunrise Observatory, Batasia Loop, Peace Pagoda & Japanese Temple, Observatory Hill & Mahakal Temple, Darjeeling Rangeet Valley Passenger Ropeway, Bengal Natural History Museum, Bhutia Busty Monastery, Dali Monastery, Lloyd's Botanical Garden, Darjeeling Mall and Happy Valley Tea Estate.

Darjeeling is famous for tea and buying locally made of tea powder is a great idea. Darjeeling is also well known�for woolen items like shawls, scarves, hats, jackets, etc, and also offers handicrafts and exotic Tibetan items. You can get these items at low prices in Darjeeling if you bargain a bit. Ensure to check the quality.

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28 places to visit in Darjeeling

Darjeeling is located in the northern part of the Indian state of West Bengal. It is famous worldwide on account of its produce of the finest variety of tea. Darjeeling is located in the lower Himalayas along the Mahabharat Range. The town was established in the mid-19th century by the British and had soon earned fame for its vast tea estates that produce the best Tea in the world. The city was under the rule of the kingdom of Sikkim till it was possessed by the Gorkhas and then it came under British rule. Darjeeling is located at a height of 2050 meters and has a rich legacy of culture, history and tradition. It has a very pleasant climate all through the year and is a popular tourist spot. Below is a list of the best places one can visit in Darjeeling.

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1. Tiger Hill

It’s a sheer delight to watch the magnificent sunrise in Tiger hill Darjeeling. The first rays of the dawn beckon the heavenly beauty to earth to satiate human souls with peace and gratitude. The layers of misty mountains of Mt. Everest and Mt. Kangchenjunga together forms a perfect canvas for the artist and nature lovers in you. Tiger Hill is a very famous peak and can be reached either by jeep or by foot meandering through some of the oldest tea plantations of Darjeeling. Located at a height of 2590 meters, it is also a trekkers’ paradise.

Also Read: Things to do in Darjeeling & Best Time to visit Darjeeling

2. Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR)

The most attractive tourist activity in Darjeeling is to enjoy the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR) or the ‘Toy Train’. It is a 2-feet, narrow gauge rail that runs zigzag and in a loop between Darjeeling and Jalpaiguri. It was between 1879 and 1881 and runs up to a height of more than 7,000 feet. Darjeeling Himalayan Railway is one of the oldest and highest railway lines in the world and in 1999, the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and covers a distance of 78 km. The heritage train crosses 13 stations, including Ghoom, the highest railway station in India.

Suggested Read: How to Reach Darjeeling

The train still operates with the original steam engines, and it attracts tourists from all across the world. The loops are extraordinary examples of human endeavour and world-class engineering. The journey offers stunning scenic views and can be called one of the most enjoyable train journeys in India. The slow pace allows passengers to hop on and off the moving train. A bird’s eye view of the Darjeeling town spread below, and the beauty of the snow-capped Kanchenjunga are spectacular additions to the joy.

3. Batasia Loop

Batasia Loop is the famous railway loop in Darjeeling of West Bengal as the ‘ Toy Train ’ makes its way across a looped track situated below the Ghoom Station. The loop goes around a beautiful park and was constructed in 1919 as an engineering requirement to lower the gradient of ascent of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway when it seemed impossible to navigate the narrow-gauge train to navigate a steep fall. Batasia Loop also has a Gorkha war memorial and at this point as the train spirals up the hill you will get a panoramic view of the surrounding valleys and mountains, while in the toy train you can witness a 360 degrees view of Darjeeling. The loop covers an area of 50,000 square feet and passes through landscaped parks and hillocks. The passengers also enjoy spectacular views of Mt. Kanchenjunga & other snow-capped Himalayan Peaks.

4. Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park

Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park is known for being the conservatory aiding in the breeding of legendary and endangered Red Panda and Snow Leopard. The park covers an extended area of 67.56 acres at a height of 2,134 meters. It is also the largest high-altitude zoo in India. Other rare animals that you can see here Himalayan Salamanders, Tibetan wolf, Himalayan Mountain goat and Siberian tigers.

5. Singalila National Park

Located at an altitude of approximately 2134 meters above sea level the Singalila National Park is situated in the highest regions of West Bengal. The park is known for its amazing peaks and the panoramic views of the lesser Himalayas. The National Park is famous as a trekker’s paradise with a large variety of mountainous vegetation, fauna, and birds. The wildlife includes rare and endangered species like the Red Panda, Black Bear, Leopard, Tigers, Clouded Leopard, Serow, Leopard Cat, Barking Deer, Yellow-throated Marten, Wild Boar, Pangolin and Takin.

6. Japanese Peace Pagoda

Built during 1885-1985 by a Japanese, Nichidatsu Fuji, who was a Buddhist monk from Japan, the Japanese Peace Pagoda is at a distance of 2.5 km from Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. The Buddhist shrine is a beautiful white structure with golden sculptures resting picturesquely on the slopes of the Jalapahar hill in Darjeeling. This 23-metre wide and 28.5-meter high pagoda is one of the several others built across the world by the Japanese Buddhist Nipponzan Myohoji organization. M. Ohka designed this tallest structure in Darjeeling and aims to spread peace and prosperity across the globe.

7. Neora Valley National Park

The Neora Valley National Park was established in 1986 and is spread across an expansive 88 square kilometres. An important biological zone of the north-east, the Neora Valley National Park is the home to the largest populations of Red Panda in India. The park was and is a home to several endangered and rare species of flora and fauna.

8. Lively Darjeeling Mall Road

Darjeeling Mall Road is the central place to feel the vacation vibes. Here you can shop till you drop from the busy market shops all day long. It remains bustling till the late hours in the evening and here you will find an extraordinary variety of knick-knacks and all other things that you might want to shop for. The shops remain crowded with excited tourists and the restaurants throb with the aroma of Darjeeling cuisines. Items of local handicrafts such as exquisitely designed carpets, hand-embroidered shawls, Tibetan masks, costume jewellery, uniquely designed woollen items are to be found in the shops of Darjeeling Mall Road.

9. Peaceful Dali Monastery

Dali Monastery is located at a distance of 2.5 km from Darjeeling Railway Station. It is also known as Druk Sangag Choling Monastery and is an important tourist attraction in Darjeeling.

Dali Monastery belongs to the Kargyupa sect and was built by Kyabje Thuksey Rinpoche in 1971. His Holiness Dalai Lama inaugurated this Buddhist monastery in 1993 and it is an important centre. for preservation of the age-old culture and tradition of the Tibetan monks. Dali Monastery is built in traditional Tibetan style of architecture and is the headquarters and the residence for Drukchen Rinpoche the XII, the supreme leader of the Kargyupa sect.

Here, resides 210 monks who came to live here from the Himalayan region. A small library inside the monastery caters to people interested in Buddhism and the philosophical acts of life.

10. Amazing Sandakphu Trek

Darjeeling is located in the Himalayan foothills and that makes this place a wonderful destination for trekking and hiking trails. Among the most popular and known trekking trails around the city, Sandakphu is immensely picturesque and enjoyable. Sandakphu trek is a moderate scale trek and offers you spectacular scenic landscape views. Reach Sandakphu at 11,929 feet to have a glimpse of the surrounding hills and valleys all across. Sandakphu being the highest peak in West Bengal, the trekkers can enjoy some grand views of the mighty Himalayan peaks and have your full dose of thrill and excitement. An excellent destination for adventure freaks and nature lovers.

11. Darjeeling Rangit Valley Ropeway

Darjeeling Rangit Valley Ropeway started its operation in 1968 and since then it has become an attractive tourist destination of Darjeeling over the years. Both young and old love to enjoy a ride on this and have a mesmerizing view of the beautiful sprawling hill station of Darjeeling from high up in the exclusive ropeway. The layers of lush green verdant tea estates, dense forests, breath-taking flora and fauna and the snow-capped mountain peaks of Everest and Kanchenjunga, the glory of Darjeeling beauty can be enjoyed unhindered. There are about 16 cable cars carrying a minimum of six people per ride across an altitude of approximately 7,000 feet. The cable car travels from the North Point in Singmari to the Singla Bazaar. Click your heart away at the amazing Darjeeling landscape all around.

Rimbik is a small sleepy and hilly town located in the Singalila National Park region in Darjeeling. It is considered an off-beat place and is famous for its trekking routes. This place is gradually gaining popularity among travellers and its proximity to Singalila National park and Sandakphu is an added bonus. These two routes are famous and busy for most part of the year as they are looked upon as two of the best treks in the Eastern part of India. On the way towards Sandaphu, the trekkers need to pass through the Singalila National park, which is home to the famous and elusive red panda and unadulterated natural beauty, silence and peace.

13. Himalayan Mountaineering Institute

The Himalayan Mountaineering Institute (HMI) is a premier mountaineering institute famous across the globe. It was established on November 4, 1954, by Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of India. The institute majorly aims to encourage the inclination of people towards mountaineering as a sport. Currently, this institute is marked as one of the best schools for mountaineering training and is a lucrative option for aspiring mountaineers to fulfil their dreams. Ever since it was founded, it has produced more than 50,000 students who have succeeded in becoming great mountaineers. Out of these incredible numbers of students, more than 20,000 belong to countries outside India. The location of the institute is immensely picturesque, surrounded by the mighty Kanchenjunga, which lures travellers and tourists to this spot.

14. Bengal Natural History Museum

Initially the museum was conceived at a low budget in 1903 under the initiative of the then Governor of Bengal a range of butterflies and birds of the locality. Later on the establishment was shifted to a more accommodating building and the management of the museum was taken over by the newly formed Bengal Natural Museum Society in 1923. Currently, this museum is a great place for the lovers of history and nature. Bengal Natural History Museum is one of the most prominent museums and unique in its diversity showcasing a wide variety of birds with nests, eggs, reptiles, insects and mammals of interest. The museum is said to house more than 820 specimens of bird species that can be quite a fountain of knowledge to the ones interested.

15. Ghum Monastery

Ghoom Monastery is one of the most fabulous places to be in your Darjeeling trip . It is located at a height of approximately 8,000 feet. Ghum Monastery is also known as Yiga Choeling. It was established in 1850 by Lama Sherab Gyatso, it has a 15-feet high statue of Maitreya Buddha, which stands tall in the main hall of the Monastery and is one of the oldest Tibetan Monasteries in Darjeeling. It has a massive collection of rare Buddhist manuscripts and preserved records that can be of immense importance to Buddhist religious connoisseurs. The collection includes 108-volume Kangyur which is believed to have been spoken by the Buddha himself. Its walls are painted with beautiful representations of Buddhist literature and Tibetan art. History of Ghum Monastery dates back to 1850 when its external structure was established by the Mongolian astrologer and monk Sokpo Sherab Gyatso. He headed the operation of the monastery till 1905.

16. Amazing Rock Garden

The Rock Garden was constructed by the Gorkha Hill Council Tourism Department to make Darjeeling more alluring for tourists after a temporary lull in tourism due to the political agitations of the 1980s that disrupted tourism for a while. It is a lush green, exquisitely landscaped, multi-level picnic ground that is designed around a natural waterfall. Spread on the hill slopes at an altitude of 2,134 metres, the Rock Garden was successful in becoming a centre of tourist attraction in Darjeeling. Today, it spans across a sizeable area about 10 km from Darjeeling along the Hill Cart Road that offers scenic views of the tea gardens and green picturesque valleys. The garden overlooks a hill stream cascading down the rocky slopes, known as Chunnu summer fall, with flower gardens blushing at various places at different levels. There is also a small lake and the area bustles on a usual day with tourists coming in huge numbers and hanging around at the tea shops and snack kiosks.

17. Mahakal Mandir

The Mahakal Mandir is a famous tourist spot of Darjeeling and is located at the peak of Darjeeling Observatory Hill. Leaving the road, it involves a hike of about 20 minutes to the temple. The steep uphill trek to the temple is a bit exhausting, but the end of the trek offers the satisfaction and joy of reaching the temple. Signboards along the way guide the travellers till they reach the destination. The trek in itself is a pleasant experience where one can enjoy the beauty of simple things and simple mountain life. The picturesque cottages set against the gorgeous mountains and green valleys make the experience almost magical. At times when the clouds float downwards, one can even touch the clouds and have a memorable vacation in Darjeeling and carry back a bagful of incredible memories. The religious atmosphere that pervades all around mingles with the natural beauty to complete the joy of creation and divinity. One small caution can be to beware of monkeys on the way as they might try to snatch things, especially food items, from the travellers.

18. Observatory Hill

The Observatory Hill of Darjeeling is famous for the Buddhist and Hindu temples that are spread across the hill slopes and peaks. Some of the important temples can be named as Mahakal Temple, Tibetan Memorial Shrine and Kanchenjunga Temple that attract a lot of tourists. The point where The Mahakal Temple can be seen now was originally occupied by a Buddhist Monastery for the Bhutias. Though it no longer exists, still this Observatory Hill is held close to heart by the Bhutias and a lot of religious significance is attached to it. The trekking and hiking trails along this Hill are absolutely soaked with beauty. A mystical small cave is located at a distance of about 15-minute walk from the Hill, which people visit and feel blessed. This Observatory is one of the oldest sites of the city and thus, it is quite a popular tourist spot of Darjeeling.

19. Bhutia Busty Monastery

Bhutia Busty Monastery is located in the Bhutia Colony after it was shifted from the Observatory Hill. The Monastery was established in 1761 by the Lama Dorje Rinzing. It was attacked and plundered and suffered damage in 1815 and had to be rebuilt in 1861. After being relocated in 1879 to the Colony it again underwent extensive damage in the earthquake, following which it was renovated in 1934. It is a cherished destination for tourists, and its rich historical legacy and tradition attracts a lot of visitors from far and near. The Monastery is built and designed in a traditional Tibetan style that has the aura of Sikkim culture. It belongs to the Red Sect of Buddhists and exhibits murals that depict the story of Buddha. The walls of the Monastery depict the stories related to Buddhism but photography is strictly not allowed inside the building.

20. Chowrasta

Chowrasta is a favourite haunt of all young and old coming for a Darjeeling trip. It is the city’s Mall Market, located absolutely in the heart of the city of Darjeeling. It is a throbbing and bustling centre making it literally the heart. It is the main market area and caters to locals and tourists alike. Chowrasta means four-way and you can enjoy glorious warm sunshine, or a crimson sunset, a warm cup of coffee or a filling breakfast, Chowrasta is the place to be. Enjoying local and international delicacies at roadside stalls or stylish eateries, collecting souvenirs and carrying memories back, all can happen while you are at Chowrasta. See and relish the real face of Darjeeling at Chowrasta.

21. Serene Shruberry Nightingale Park

Shruberry Nightingale Park is located around 1.5 km from Darjeeling Mall, and one has to access it through a steep climb and offers a breath-taking view from the top. The Nightingale Park is well maintained and invites a huge influx of tourists all through the year. The stunning views of the rolling hills and the mighty Kanchenjunga is a soothing site for city dwellers. The park is ideal for a leisurely vacation visit and lazy stroll amidst misty mountains, a family picnic or just a relaxing break doing nothing except staring at the mountains. Years ago, the Shrubbery Nightingale Park served as a private courtyard of Sir Thomas Tartan’s bungalow in the British times of the 1900s. A giant statue of Lord Shiva, a green sprawling meadow inside the park, a musical fountain and the snowy peaks of Himalayas create an ambience to seek out for when in Darjeeling. This park is one of the best tourist attractions in Darjeeling and should be included in the travel itinerary of Darjeeling trip. To promote folk art and cultural traditions, Nepalese and regional programs are performed everyday inside the park.

22. Sanctity of Serene St. Andrew’s Church

Darjeeling is a favourite haunt of people with a spiritual bent of mind and also for lovers of architecture and ancient traditions. St. Andrew’s Church is an old Anglican church that belongs to the British colonial era and has a distinct old-world charm that draws people from all across throughout the year. It had many Scottish soldiers and tea planters residing in the Darjeeling Hill area as its early patrons and worshippers. The edifice is named after a patron saint of Scotland and was established on November 30, 1843. The structure was affected adversely in the massive earthquake of 1873 and was renovated after the disaster. It is now every visitor’s delight. Located strategically, in the vicinity of the Darjeeling Mall area, it enjoys ample adulation from the locals and the tourists. Dressing conservatively while visiting St. Andrew’s Church, Darjeeling, is recommended as its sacredness is fiercely protected by the local Scottish community.

23. Joyous Happy Valley Tea Estate

The Happy Valley Tea Estate of Darjeeling is spread across an area sprawling of over 437 acres and is frequented by travellers and tourists. It is the second oldest tea estate of Darjeeling perched at a height of 2,100 metres making it one of the most high-altitude tea estates globally. Happy Valley Tea Estate is a very important tourist destination of Darjeeling as it is the home to the tea factory of one of the highest qualities in the world. The tea factory was established here in 1854 by an Englishman and now it is under the care and operation of a business family of Indian aristocracy hailing from Hooghly. The tea factory is bound to bring eternal joy to tea lovers and as soon as you step into the factory the fresh and additive aroma of tea will fill your senses. Apart from its own attraction of the enticing fragrance of tea, you can also enjoy some spectacular views of the majestic Kanchenjunga peak.

24. Tinchuley

Tinchuley is as amazing and unique as its name. This small hill hamlet is tucked away from the main city, Tinchuley is known for its tea plantations, fruit orchards, meandering Teesta and Ranjeet Rivers and magnificent views of the Himalayan ranges close at hand. Rest, relax and soak in the peaceful vibes of the natural beauty that pervades the atmosphere all around in abundance throughout this village. The misty weather of Tinchuley adds to the gorgeous sunsets and the thrill of unexplored wild jungle trails and creates a heaven on earth for nature lovers. The quiet place is however full of scope for thrill through recreational activities, such as camping, trekking, rappelling and mountain climbing. But gazing at the blue sky from the comfort of your hammock all day long and healing your mind, body and soul is also an attractive option. Tinchuley is a perfect vacation spot close to the facilities and hustle and bustle yet having an aura of natural vibes and beauty of its own. If you want to get away from the enthusiastic rush of Darjeeling tourism, Tinchuley is a perfect option.

25. Tenzing Rock

Tenzing Rock as the name implies, is a large natural rock named after Tenzing Norgay, who is the legendary first man to climb Mt. Everest with Edmund Hillary in 1953. This rock also serves as the training area for both amateur and professional rock climbers or mountain climbers. It is known that Tenzing himself practiced climbing here, which increases the significance of this destination among the tourists, especially those who are adventure lovers. In fact, every year, the Indian Army organizes rock climbing competitions at Tenzing Rock. Tenzing Rock is where the Indian Army holds the annual rock-climbing competitions. The meandering streams nearby or the rain might make the rock surface slippery, wet and damp making it difficult to climb. Thus caution should be practiced while attempting to climb the rock. Just beside the Tenzing Rock destination, there are many stalls, selling delicious Maggie, Momo, Steaming cups of chai and coffee on the way that tempts travellers to rest and enjoy the ambience.

26. Lamahatta

A stunningly beautiful garden and a distance of 1 hour from Darjeeling. The place oozes green fresh stretches of giant conifers and pine against the majestic mountain views and forms an idyllic destination. This place is believed to be inhabited by Buddhist monks before independence. The word ‘Lamahatta’ can be broken into two words ‘Lama’ which means a Buddhist monk and ‘hatta’ which means dwelling. This garden should be included in the Darjeeling itinerary as it is very scenic and an excellent spot for photography. Get your coveted Insta click here amidst the well-manicured garden nestling among the tall pine trees. A good new place in the tourist map of Darjeeling. There are several new properties and home stays that have come up around Lamahatta making this an ideal vacation destination for a weekend or any couple of days. There is also a sacred water lake above and if you can trek up the little steep slope to reach the top, mesmerizing mountain views will dull your senses with awe. The trek is about 1 km each way and you can allow your eyes to feast on the beauty of the amply blooming flowers all around. Lamahatta forms a lovely stopover on the way to another surreal and quiet destination, Tinchooley. Lamahatta is also a favourite honeymoon destination.

If you are dreaming of a destination in the heart of nature and plan to spend a few days in the midst of quietude and peace, Dooars is the place. The lush green vegetation, the widespread tea gardens, the exciting animal watch at the several national parks and sanctuaries, the innumerable rivers and streams, think forests of giant sal depicts nature at its best with the towering Himalayan ranges as the backdrop. Dooars is a place that defines ‘pristine nature’ with its untainted, lush green landscapes. The rushing rivulets, the undulating meadows, the tropical greenery and the rustic dwellings make this place ideal for nature photography and wildlife exploration. The natural beauty of the region and the vast extent of exotic experiences make Dooars one of the most fascinating places to visit in a Darjeeling trip. Once upon a time the Doors area was under the administration of the King of Bhutan. The British took over from Bhutan after the 1865 Bhutan war. Eventually the Doors region got divided into two parts: while the Western Doors came under the boundaries of West Bengal, the Eastern Doors went to Assam. The term Doors was derived from the word Doors, which has evolved from as many as 18 corridors that came into existence between the Doors regions and Bhutan, boosting trade between the places. The sprawling Doors region spread across approximately over 40 by 130 km square rises up to a height of 2000 feet at some places and has the rivers, namely Jaldhaka, Murti, Torsha and Kaljoni, crisscrossing. Jaldapara National Park, Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary and Buxa Tiger Reserve are the most in demand sanctuaries where you can cook up some thrill by catching the exotic animals in their natural habitat. Photography of animals and wild terrains can be an added passion to be satiated in Dooars trip.

28. Tibetan Refugee Self Help Centre

A rehabilitation centre for the Tibetan refugees, the Tibetan Refugee Self Help Centre is an opportunity to indulge in some shopping while on a Darjeeling trip. It now has evolved into a popular tourist spot attracting a huge crowd. The centre was founded with an aim to make the Tibetan community in Darjeeling self-sustainable by offering them an opportunity to become financially independent. Keep a look out for a wide range of exclusive handicraft items, wooden carvings, woollens, exquisite shawls, leather jackets and much more. These products are also exported to 36 countries all across the globe. Tibetan Refugee Self Help Centre offers an insight into the life of Tibetan refugees living in India apart from satiating your shopping mania. Get an honest picture of the life in exile of these Tibetan refugees. Get boosted by experiencing the resilience of the refugees and develop respect for their incessant efforts to preserve their tradition and handicrafts. It was established by Zhu Dan, wife of Gyalo Thondup, through a consistent effort of raising funds from local charity. Artisan and craftsmen training also happens here. Initially, it started off with just 4 workers and now is home to 130 families.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is darjeeling most famous for.

Darjeeling is a widely known name throughout the world for the excellent quality of tea it grows and the impeccable view of the Kanchenjunga range of mountains that it offers. It is also known for its famous heritage toy train and its rich medley of cultural and natural heritage.

What are the 10 most visited spots of Darjeeling?

The 10 most popular tourist places of Darjeeling are: Tiger Hill, Batasia Loop, Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, Peace Pagoda, Ghum Monastery, Rock Garden, Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, Nightingale Park, Himalayan Mountaineering Institute and Singalila National Park.

How many days are enough for Darjeeling?

If you are planning a combined trip of both Darjeeling and Sikkim, then 2 to 3 days are enough to explore Darjeeling and another 2-3 days minimum for Gangtok. A 6–7-day trip is recommended for visiting Darjeeling and Sikkim.

Can I visit Darjeeling in one day?

Darjeeling in and around is an excellent destination for day tours and weekend trips. The towering and mystic Himalayan mountain ranges offer a spectacular panoramic view of Mount Everest and Kanchenjunga, the first and third highest mountain peaks in the world.

Which month is best for Darjeeling?

The summer months from April to June are the ideal months for a Darjeeling trip. Again the autumn and winter months from October to December is a favourite time for visiting this beautiful hill town.

What is Darjeeling’s most famous and popular food?

Some delicious and famous food items and dishes of Darjeeling are: Thukpa; Traditional Nepali Thali; Naga Cuisine; Churpee; Momos; Aloo Dum; Sael Rotis along with a local brew of Chaang.

How much does a trip to Darjeeling cost?

The most popular Darjeeling tour packages of 6 Nights / 7 Days will cost around 50,000 per person including airfare and Pelling visit on an average.

Where is Tiger Hill in Darjeeling?

Tiger Hill is located at an altitude of 2590 meters and at a distance of 13 km away from Darjeeling and offers a stunning view of snow-capped mountains sitting nestled amidst fluffy clouds. Tiger Hill is among the most popular tourist places of Darjeeling.

Which day is closed in Darjeeling?

Since weekends are busy and see a lot of crowds, they must’ve figured Thursday was the least populated day over a period and hence, perhaps decided to keep it closed.

Is Darjeeling safe for solo females?

Darjeeling and Sikkim are very safe for solo female travellers. These places are very tourist friendly, and the people are known for their unparalleled hospitality.

Is Darjeeling worth a visit?

Darjeeling is popularly referred to as the Queen of hill stations. It is located in the northern part of West Bengal, and offers magnificent views of the snow-capped Kanchenjunga, beautiful cascading waterfalls, glorious sunset and sunrise behind the mountain ranges, lovely tea gardens, forested areas covered by firs, pines and ferns, and stunning natural beauty.

What is the most loved and famous fruit of Darjeeling?

In Darjeeling, oranges are very famous. In many locations along the Himalayan slopes, oranges have been cultivated since ages. Besides oranges, passion fruit is very famous in Darjeeling

Which sweets are famous in Darjeeling?

Top most sweets in Darjeeling that serve the people of Darjeeling and also the tourists from far and wide are Motichur Laddu, Malai Peda, Rasgulla and Kaju Katli.

How long is the Darjeeling toy train journey?

The toy train on the Darjeeling Himalayan section is not merely a source of delight for the young and old, it also represents the engineering skills of the highest order. This 83 km long section connecting Darjeeling with the railhead at Siliguri is of great importance and has been bestowed World Heritage Site status.

Which days do Darjeeling toy trains run?

Currently, 52541/New Jalpaiguri – Darjeeling (Toy Train) Passenger runs on all 7 days a week. It starts from New Jalpaiguri Jn (NJP) and goes to Darjeeling (DJ). There are 12 halting stations along the route.

In which month does Darjeeling get snowfall?

Snowfall in Darjeeling happens between the months of October and March. This is also the season when you can enjoy pleasant weather and view the mesmerizing snow-capped mountains. Enjoy the winter beauty of this hill paradise.

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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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25 Best Places to Visit in Darjeeling: Enchanting Hill Station in 2024

Budget Hotels > Travel Blog > Places to Visit > 25 Best Places to Visit in Darjeeling: Enchanting Hill Station in 2024

Nestled in the lap of the magnificent Eastern Himalayas, Darjeeling is a breathtakingly beautiful hill station in West Bengal, India. With its lush green tea gardens, picturesque landscapes, and majestic mountains, it is no wonder that Darjeeling is often referred to as the “Queen of Hills.” From ancient monasteries to cascading waterfalls, from thrilling adventures to serene sanctuaries, the places to visit in Darjeeling offer a perfect blend of serenity and excitement for every traveller. In this comprehensive guide, we present the top 25 places to visit in Darjeeling that you must include in your itinerary.

Amazing Places in Darjeeling to Visit

1. darjeeling himalayan railway (toy train).

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, also known as the Toy Train, offers a mesmerizing journey through the lush green hills and quaint villages. The train ride is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Darjeeling.

• Location: Darjeeling Station
• Entry Fee: INR 600-1000 (depending on the class)
• Timings: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• Distance from Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Station: On-site
• Time required: 3-4 hours
• Best for: It is the most popular Darjeeling tourist spot.
• Tip: There are no toilets in the coaches of the train.
• Nearby Attractions: Tiger Hill, Batasia Loop, Darjeeling Ropeway, Himalayan Mountaineering Institute
• Google rating and reviews: 4.8 rating and 5,000 reviews

2. Tiger Hill

To witness the awe-inspiring sight of the sun rising over the snow-clad peaks of Kanchenjunga, make your way to Tiger Hill, one of the top 5 places to visit in Darjeeling. The panoramic views from here will leave you spellbound.

• Location: Senchal Forest, Senchal Road
• Entry Fee: Free
• Timings: 4:00 AM to 6:00 AM (best time for sunrise)
• Distance from Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Station: 11 km
• Best for: It is one of the best places to see in Darjeeling to watch the sunrise.
• Tip: Prepare to reach there around 4 a.m. to secure a good viewing spot at Tiger Hill.
• Nearby Attractions: Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, Japanese Peace Pagoda, Batasia Loop, Tiger Hill, Ghoom Monastery
• Nearby Restaurants: Glenary’s— Bakery, Restaurant & Pub, Dekevas Restaurant, Gurung Restaurant
• Google rating and reviews: 4.5 rating and 2,500 reviews

3. Batasia Loop

Batasia Loop is a unique engineering marvel where the Toy Train takes a 360-degree turn around a beautifully manicured garden. It also houses a war memorial dedicated to the soldiers who fought for India’s freedom.

• Location: Ghoom, Darjeeling
• Entry Fee: INR 20
• Timings: 5:00 AM to 8:00 PM
• Distance from Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Station: 5 km
• Best for: Among the best places to visit in Darjeeling with kids.
• Tip: Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the scenic beauty.
• Nearby Attractions: Guru Sakya Monastery, Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, Ghoom Monastery, Passenger Ropeway
• Nearby Restaurants: Norgima Restaurant, Santa Banta Dhaba, Misty Mountain Restaurant
• Google rating and reviews: 4.2 rating and 1,200 reviews

4. Happy Valley Tea Estate

This sprawling tea estate offers an insightful experience into the world of tea cultivation, processing, and tasting. A visit to Happy Valley Tea Estate is among the best places in Darjeeling to visit for tea aficionados.

• Location: Lebong Cart Road, Darjeeling
• Entry Fee: INR 100
• Timings: 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM (Tuesday to Saturday)
• Distance from Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Station: 3 km
• Best for: It is among the must-visit tourist places Darjeeling has for nature admirers.
• Tip: Hire a guide for a better understanding of the process.
• Nearby Attractions: Batasia Loop, Tiger Hill Sunrise Observatory, Rock Garden, Peace Pagoda, Ghoom Monastery
• Nearby Restaurants: Spice Route, Al Umami, Glenary’s Bakery
• Google rating and reviews: 4.4 rating and 2,300 reviews

5. Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park

Established in 1958, this zoological park is home to several rare and endangered species like the red panda, snow leopard, and Himalayan wolf. It is one of the best places to visit in Darjeeling and Gangtok for wildlife enthusiasts.

• Location: Jawahar Parbat, Darjeeling
• Entry Fee: INR 30 (adults), INR 10 (children)
• Timings: 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM (closed on Thursdays)
• Distance from Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Station: 2.5 km
• Best for: This zoo is counted among the best places in Darjeeling tourism.
• Tip: Check the weather conditions before visiting, as fog and rain can obscure visibility.
• Nearby Restaurants: Hot Stimulating Cafe, Sandakphu, Tiffany, Magnolia, Douglas Bar, Delicious Moments, Silver Fir
• Google rating and reviews: 4.6 rating and 3,200 reviews

6. Ghoom Monastery

Ghoom Monastery, also known as Yiga Choeling Monastery, is one of the oldest Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in the region. Housing a 15-feet high statue of Maitreya Buddha, the monastery is a serene place for meditation and reflection and a must-visit among the famous places in Darjeeling to visit.

• Timings: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
• Distance from Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Station: 7 km
• Time required: 1-2 hours
• Best for: It is one of the best places to visit in Darjeeling with family.
• Tip: Respect the religious customs and maintain silence inside the monastery.
• Nearby Attractions: Tso Lhamo Lake, Katao, Observatory Hill, Mahakal Temple, Mirik Lake
• Nearby Restaurants: Grains By Udaan Himalayan, Sonam’s Kitchen, Tom & Jerry’s, Dekevas Restaurant, Kunga Restaurant
• Google rating and reviews: 4.3 rating and 8,000 reviews

7. Peace Pagoda

The Japanese Peace Pagoda, with its gleaming white structure and golden statues, symbolises peace and spirituality. It offers a tranquil atmosphere and stunning views of the surrounding mountains, making it one of the top places to visit in Darjeeling.

• Location: West Point, Darjeeling
• Timings: 4:30 AM to 7:00 PM
• Distance from Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Station: 3.5 km
• Best for: Meditating here is among the most popular things to do in Darjeeling.
• Tip: Wear comfortable shoes.
• Nearby Attractions: Batasia Loop, The Rock Garden, Nightingale Park, Nehru Road, Chowk Bazaar
• Nearby Restaurants: Magnolia, Lion Gate, Delicious Moments, Silver Fir, Douglas Bar, Nanglo Cafe
• Google rating and reviews: 4.6 rating and 7,700 reviews

8. Rock Garden

Rock Garden, or Barbotey Garden, is a terraced garden featuring a stunning waterfall and well-maintained flower beds. A perfect picnic spot, it is one of the best places to visit in Darjeeling for couples and families.

• Location: Chunnu Summer Falls Road, Darjeeling
• Distance from Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Station: 10 km
• Best for: Among the best places to visit with friends.
• Tip: Carry an umbrella or raincoat during monsoon season.
• Nearby Attractions: Tiger Hill, Batasia Loop, Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, Peace Pagoda, Ghum Monastery
• Google rating and reviews: 4.4 rating and 150 reviews

9. Mahakal Temple

Situated atop Observatory Hill, Mahakal Temple is a sacred site revered by both Hindus and Buddhists. The temple offers panoramic views of the town and is among the unique places to visit in Darjeeling.

• Location: Observatory Hill, Darjeeling
• Timings: 5:00 AM to 6:00 PM
• Distance from Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Station: 2 km
• Time required: 2-3 hours
• Best for: It is one of the most religious Darjeeling places to visit.
• Tip: Dress modestly and conservatively.
• Nearby Attractions: Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, Ghoom Monastery, Passenger Ropeway
• Nearby Restaurants: Lion Gate, Mamta Pizza Place, Nathmull Tea, Machhan TeaBar Cafe, Sonam’s Kitchen
• Google rating and reviews: 4.7 rating and 2,500 reviews

10. Singalila National Park

A paradise for nature lovers and trekkers, Singalila National Park is home to the famous Sandakphu trek. With its diverse flora and fauna, it is one of the best places to visit in Sikkim and Darjeeling.

• Location: Singalila Range, Darjeeling District
• Entry Fee: INR 200 (Indians), INR 400 (foreigners)
• Timings: 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM
• Distance from Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Station: 58 km
• Best for: It is a popular spot in Darjeeling sightseeing.
• Tip: Be prepared for limited mobile connectivity.
• Nearby Attractions: Tiger Hill, Rock Garden, Japanese Peace Pagoda, Happy Valley Tea Estate
• Google rating and reviews: 4.7 rating and 3,000 reviews

11. Tinchuley Village

An offbeat destination, Tinchuley Village offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Surrounded by lush greenery and panoramic views, it is one of the nearby places to visit in Darjeeling for nature lovers.

• Location: Tinchuley, Darjeeling District
• Timings: Open 24 hours
• Distance from Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Station: 32 km
• Time required: 6-7 hours
• Tip: Book a homestay for a unique experience.
• Nearby Attractions: Kalimpong, Jaldhaka, Kurseong, Mirik, Rajabhatkawa
• Nearby Restaurants: Ukiyo Cafe And Kitchen, Lion’s Gate, Mohan Eateries, Uzumaki’z
• Google rating and reviews: 4.6 rating and 400 reviews

12. Lamahatta Eco Park

Developed as an eco-tourism destination, Lamahatta Eco Park features well-maintained gardens, walking trails, and mesmerizing views of the surrounding mountains. It is one of the best places to visit in Darjeeling in October for its vibrant colours.

• Location: Lamahatta, Darjeeling District
• Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
• Distance from Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Station: 23 km
• Best for: It is one of the best places to visit in Darjeeling with kids.
• Nearby Attractions: Mahakal Temple, Japanese Peace Pagoda, Siddheswar Dham
• Nearby Restaurants: Dekevas Restaurant, Lamahatta Restaurant Tukdah Forest, Jain Jaika Restaurant
• Google rating and reviews: 4.6 rating and 4,300

13. Bengal Natural History Museum

This museum, established in 1903, houses a vast collection of preserved fauna specimens from the Eastern Himalayas, making it one of the best places to visit in Darjeeling for nature enthusiasts.

• Location: Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, Darjeeling
• Timings: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM (closed on Thursdays)
• Best for: It is among the best places to visit in Darjeeling for wildlife and history enthusiasts.
• Tip: Do not touch the specimens inside the museum.
• Nearby Attractions: Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, Tiger Hill, Batasia Loop, Darjeeling Ropeway, Himalayan Mountaineering Institute
• Nearby Restaurants: Guras Zoo Cafe, Burmese Restaurant, Road House Restaurant
• Google rating and reviews: 4.4 rating and 1,000 reviews

14. St. Andrew’s Church

Constructed in 1843, St. Andrew’s Church is an architectural marvel featuring Gothic-style architecture and intricate stained glass windows. It is one of the famous places to visit in Darjeeling for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts.

• Location: Mall Road, Darjeeling
• Distance from Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Station: 1.5 km
• Best for: Among the popular places to see in Darjeeling with family.
• Tip: Do not create unnecessary noise inside the church.
• Nearby Attractions: Darjeeling Mall, Batasia Loop, Tiger Hill Sunrise Observatory, Char Dham Temple, Rock Garden
• Nearby Restaurants: Biryani Baar, The Deck, Nanglo, Hi Spirits Cafe & Pub, Sona Ki Rasoi
• Google rating and reviews: 4.4 rating and 250 reviews

15. Dali Monastery

Also known as Druk Thupten Sangag Choling Monastery, Dali Monastery is a peaceful haven that showcases beautiful Tibetan architecture and vibrant murals. It is one of the serene places to visit in Darjeeling in 3 days.

• Location: Dali, Darjeeling
• Timings: 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM
• Distance from Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Station: 4.5 km
• Best for: It is the best Darjeeling tourist spot for peace seekers.
• Tip: The ideal time to visit the Monastery is in the morning or evening when prayers and chanting are held.
• Nearby Attractions: Himalayan Tibet Museum, Lloyd Botanical Garden, Dali Monastery, Shrubbery Nightingale Park, Dhirdham Temple
• Nearby Restaurants: Cafe Coffee Day, Nepali Chulo, Hotel Soumitra, Penang Restaurant Since 1972, Nanking Restaurant, China Hut Restaurant, Big Bite
• Google rating and reviews: 4.6 rating and 3,000 reviews

16. Observatory Hill

Offering panoramic views of the town and surrounding mountains, Observatory Hill is a popular vantage point and a must-visit among the best places in Darjeeling to visit.

• Location: Darjeeling
• Best for: It is one of the most famous tourist places Darjeeling for panoramic views.
• Tip: Carry light snacks and water.
• Nearby Attractions: Kanchenjunga Mountain, Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, Tiger Hill
• Nearby Restaurants: 10Zing, Dyp Cafe, Kanika’s, La Casse Croute, Orchid Restaurant
• Google rating and reviews: 4.6 rating and 4,100 reviews

17. Rangeet Valley Ropeway

Experience breathtaking views of the lush green valleys, tea gardens, and the mighty Kanchenjunga by taking a ride on the Rangeet Valley Ropeway. It is one of the top 10 places to visit in Darjeeling for adventure seekers.

• Location: Singamari, Darjeeling
• Entry Fee: INR 200 (adults), INR 100 (children)
• Timings: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
• Best for: It is among the most popular things to do in Darjeeling.
• Tip: It is best to plan your visit from October to December or March to May.
• Nearby Attractions: Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (Toy Train), Tiger Hill, Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, Batasia Loop, Peace Pagoda
• Nearby Restaurants: Grains By Udaan Nirvana, Sonam’s Kitchen, Tom & Jerry’s, Dekevas
• Google rating and reviews: 4.3 rating and 8,700 reviews

18. Neora Valley National Park

A haven for wildlife enthusiasts, Neora Valley National Park is home to several endangered species, including the red panda, clouded leopard, and musk deer. This national park is one of the best places to visit in Sikkim and Darjeeling for nature lovers.

• Location: Kalimpong District, Darjeeling
• Entry Fee: INR 100 (Indians), INR 200 (foreigners)
• Timings: 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• Distance from Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Station: 95 km
• Best for: Wildlife spotting and nature walks
• Tip: To enter the park, travellers need an entry permit.
• Nearby Attractions: Tiger Hill Sunrise Observatory, Batasia Eco Garden, Deolo View Point, Tingling View Point, Darjeeling Clock Tower, Lovers Meet View
• Nearby Restaurants: Siliguri Kitchen, Cinnamon Terrace, Nathula Forest Canteen
• Google rating and reviews: 4.5 rating and 3,200 reviews

19. Mirik Lake

Also known as Sumendu Lake, Mirik Lake is a tranquil spot surrounded by lush greenery and offers activities like boating and horse riding. It is one of the picturesque places to visit in and around Darjeeling.

• Location: Mirik, Darjeeling District
• Entry Fee: Free (additional charges for activities)
• Timings: 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM
• Distance from Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Station: 49 km
• Best for: It is a great place to enjoy a picnic.
• Tip: Indulge into the lakeside trekking for some adventure.
• Nearby Attractions: Mirik Church, Bokar Monastery, Rameetay Dara, Tingling View Point, Tea Gardens
• Nearby Restaurants: Nesang’s Gorkha Cafe, Hotel Annapurna, Samden Tibetian restaurant
• Google rating and reviews: 4 rating and 600 reviews

20. Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary

Spread across the banks of the Mahananda River, this sanctuary is home to numerous species of animals, birds, and plants. It is one of the best places to visit in Darjeeling district for wildlife enthusiasts.

• Location: Darjeeling District
• Entry Fee: INR 50 (Indians), INR 100 (foreigners)
• Best for: It is among the popular places to visit in Darjeeling with friends.
• Tip: Hire A Local Guide.
• Nearby Attractions: Darjeeling Mall, Tiger Hill Sunrise Observatory, Batasia Eco Garden, Deolo View Point, Tingling View Point, Darjeeling Clock Tower
• Nearby Restaurants: MAYFAIR Tea Resort, Hotel Saluja, Taj Chia Kutir Resort & Spa Darjeeling, Courtyard by Marriott Siliguri
• Google rating and reviews: 4.3 rating and 1,370 reviews

21. Lepchajagat

A quaint hamlet surrounded by lush forests, Lepchajagat offers a peaceful retreat for those seeking tranquillity and natural beauty. It is one of the offbeat places to visit in Darjeeling, perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation.

• Location: Lepchajagat, Darjeeling District
• Distance from Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Station: 19 km
• Best for: Trekking and Sunrise
• Tip: Wear comfortable shoes with a good grip.
• Nearby Attractions: Kawlay Dara View Point, Tibetan Buddhist Monastery, Dudia, Tamang Buddhist Monastery, Garg World Amusement Park
• Nearby Restaurants: Sonam’s Kitchen, Khushi Cafe, Dekevas, Paper and Spice Restaurant
• Google rating and reviews: 4.7 rating and 100 reviews

22. Guiders or Bhutia Busty Monastery

One of the oldest monasteries in Darjeeling, Bhutia Busty Monastery houses a rich collection of ancient Buddhist manuscripts and artefacts. It is one of the top places to visit in Darjeeling for history and culture enthusiasts.

• Location: Bhutia Busty, Darjeeling
• Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• Tip: Try meditation inside the monastery.
• Nearby Attractions: The Old Cemetery, Pony Road, Dhirdham Temple, Jamuni Tourist Complex, Happy Valley Tea Estate
• Nearby Restaurants: The Amarjeet Restaurant & Bar, Unique Sweets & Snacks, The Maple
• Google rating and reviews: 4.5 rating and 250 reviews

23. Glenburn Tea Estate

A luxurious tea estate offering a unique tea tourism experience, Glenburn Tea Estate allows visitors to stay in a colonial-style bungalow, explore tea gardens, and enjoy delicious tea tastings. It is one of the best places to visit in Darjeeling in January for a cosy winter getaway.

• Location: Glenburn, Darjeeling District
• Entry Fee: Varies (contact the estate for rates)
• Timings: Advance booking required
• Distance from Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Station: 30 km
• Best for: Cultural exploration and nature walks
• Tip: Hire a guide for an informative tour.
• Nearby Attractions: Chowrasta, Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, Pakyong Airport, Batasia Loop War Memorial
• Nearby Restaurants: Keventer’s, Lamahatta Restaurant, Penang Restaurant Since 1972
• Google rating and reviews: 4.8 rating and 800 reviews

24. Darjeeling Mall Chowrasta

Darjeeling Mall Chowrasta is the beating heart of Darjeeling with a panoramic view of the majestic Himalayas. Take a stroll along the promenade, hand in hand with loved ones, and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. Shop for local handicrafts, souvenirs, and delectable snacks. In the evening, the road comes alive with street performers and night stalls.

• Location: Chauk Bazaar, Darjeeling
• Entry Fee: N/A
• Timings: 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM
• Distance from Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Station: 2.4 km
• Best for: It is among the best Darjeeling tourist places for souvenir shopping and street food.
• Tip: Try the local delicacies.
• Nearby Attractions: Tiger Hill, Batasia Loop, Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park
• Nearby Restaurants: KFC, Frank Ross Cafe, Nawangs Restaurant, Shang Restaurant, Goodricke, The House of Tea, Hasty Tasty
• Google rating and reviews: 4.5 rating and 28,000 reviews

25. Nightingale Park

Formerly known as ‘The Shrubbery,’ Nightingale Park is a well-maintained public park offering beautiful views of the town and Kanchenjunga. It is one of the serene places to visit in Darjeeling at night for an evening walk.

• Location: Richmond Hill, Darjeeling
• Entry Fee: INR 10
• Timings: 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM
• Best for: It is among the best places to visit in Darjeeling for couples.
• Tip: Take a walk from the Darjeeling Mall to reach the park to enjoy the view of pine trees.
• Nearby Attractions: Darjeeling Mall, Batasia Loop, Tiger Hill Sunrise Observatory, Char Dham Temple, Rock Garden, Delo Park
• Nearby Restaurants: Keventers, Mamta Pizza, Shangri-La, Sonam’s Kitchen, Lunar Restaurant, Frank Ross Cafe
• Google rating and reviews: 4.3 rating and 1,400 reviews

Whether you are a nature lover, adventure seeker, or history enthusiast, Darjeeling has something for everyone. From the iconic Toy Train to the mesmerizing Tiger Hill, these 25 must-visit places in Darjeeling promise to make your trip unforgettable. So, pack your bags and head to this enchanting hill station to discover its many wonders.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What are the top 5 places to visit in Darjeeling? A. The top 5 places to visit in Darjeeling include Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (Toy Train), Tiger Hill, Batasia Loop, Happy Valley Tea Estate, and Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park. These tourist spots offer a unique and unforgettable experience of the hill station, from a scenic train ride to stunning views of the Kanchenjunga range and the opportunity to explore the local wildlife.

Q. What are the best places to visit in Darjeeling for couples? A. Darjeeling is a romantic destination that offers several attractions for couples. Some of the best places to visit in Darjeeling for couples include Tiger Hill, Rock Garden, Lamahatta Eco Park, Mirik Lake, and Lepchajagat.

Q. What are the best places to visit in Darjeeling in December? A. December is a magical time to visit Darjeeling, with the hill station decked in winter charm. Some of the best places to visit in Darjeeling in December include Tiger Hill, Batasia Loop, Ghoom Monastery, Peace Pagoda, and Glenburn Tea Estate. These places offer stunning views of the snow-capped Himalayas, serene surroundings, and cozy winter experiences.

Q. What are the places to visit in Darjeeling in 1 day? A. If you have limited time to explore Darjeeling, you can still cover some of its top tourist attractions. The places to visit in Darjeeling in 1 day include Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, Tiger Hill, Batasia Loop, Happy Valley Tea Estate, and Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park. These attractions offer a mix of natural beauty, local culture, and history, providing a glimpse into the hill station’s charm and character.

Q. What are the offbeat places to visit in Darjeeling? A. If you want to explore beyond the usual tourist attractions, Darjeeling has several offbeat places to offer. Some of the unique places to visit in Darjeeling include Tinchuley Village, Lamahatta Eco Park, Neora Valley National Park, Lepchajagat, and Bhutia Busty Monastery. These places offer a chance to escape the crowds and explore the local culture, nature, and spirituality of the region.

Q. What are the best places to visit in Sikkim and Darjeeling? A. Sikkim and Darjeeling are two stunning destinations in Northeast India, offering a diverse range of experiences. Some of the best places to visit near Darjeeling and Sikkim include Gangtok, Pelling, Nathula Pass, Tsomgo Lake, Yumthang Valley, and Singalila National Park.

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• Places To Visit In Darjeeling

Places to Visit in Darjeeling

At the foothills of the Himalayas, Darjeeling abounds in timeless serenity and attracts holidaymakers with its rolling tea plantations, views of Mount Kanchenjunga and age-old monasteries.

Things To See & Do

Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park Darjeeling

High-altitude zoo.

3 to 4 hours

Suggested Time

Batasia Loop

360-degree darjeeling views.

1 to 2 hours

Japanese Peace Pagoda

Symbol of harmony.

2 to 3 hours

Himalayan Mountaineering Institute

Historical mountaineering museum.

Spectacular Sunrise Point

Ghoom Monastery

Ancient buddhist monastery.

Sandakphu, Darjeeling

Bengal’s highest mountain peak.

Lepchajagat, West Bengal

A beautiful nature retreat in bengal.

1 to 2 Days

Dhirdham Temple

Sacred hindu temple, best time to visit darjeeling, perfect summer destination, peak season, moderate season.

• Whattoexpect : Warm yet windy weather.
• Thingsyou'lllove : Tiger Hill Point and Darjeeling observatory.

FESTIVALS AND EVENTS

Teesta Tea Festival Novemebr

Losar (Tibetan New Year) February

Book Your Trip to Darjeeling

Travel options to reach darjeeling.

Our Recommendations

Flight to Bagdogra Airport, then cab to Darjeeling

5h 40m . one way.

Booking Price

Flight to Bagdogra

Cab to darjeeling, train to katihar jn, then cab to darjeeling, 25h 15m . one way, train to katihar, stay in darjeeling.

Recommended Options

3 STAR HOTELS

Recommended for you.

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5 star hotels, discover by interest.

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Best places to visit in darjeeling.

The town of Darjeeling can be found in the Indian state of West Bengal. It is situated in the foothills of the Himalayas. The mountainous terrain is covered in plantations of a unique variety of black tea, which has contributed to the region's rise to prominence on the global stage. The breathtaking natural beauty of Darjeeling along with the incredible places to visit in Darjeeling contribute to the town's reputation as a popular hill station .

Tourist Places to visit in Darjeeling

Padmaja naidu himalayan zoological park.

The Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park is dedicated to the preservation of endangered Himalayan species such as Tibetan wolves and snow leopards. It was established in 1958 as India's highest and most extensive zoo, and it is located at an average elevation of 7,000 feet. It is among the most popular places to go in Darjeeling.

Counted among the top 10 places to visit in Darjeeling , the Japanese Peace Pagoda stands as a sign of peace. It is built on the slopes of Jalaphar Hill and contains statues of the Buddha's four incarnations, including Maitreya Buddha. It is one of the most tranquil places in Darjeeling.

Batasia Loop is among the top 5 places to visit in Darjeeling. Here visitors can pay their respects to the Gorkha men of the Indian Army who fought for independence. This loop was constructed to lessen the steepness of the ascent that the railway must make. It is among the most incredible places to see in Darjeeling.

An observatory that offers magnificent views of the sunrise over Mount Kanchenjunga can be found atop Tiger Hill , which is the highest point in Darjeeling, making it one of the most amazing tourist attractions in Darjeeling.

This monastery is the home of the Gelukpa, sometimes known as the Yellow Hat, sect, and it is well-known for the statue of Maitreya Buddha that stands at 15 feet in height. If you are looking for a religious place to visit, then this is among the most spiritual places to visit in Darjeeling.

Best Time to visit Darjeeling

The months of April through June are typically when this region has the warmest weather. The summers continue to be quite mild, with high temperatures averaging around 25 degrees Celsius, allowing you to explore the places to visit in Darjeeling with ease.

The monsoon season in Darjeeling occurs between the months of July and August. This time of year is characterised by significant amounts of rain and landslides.

During the colder months, vacationers can still explore the Darjeeling and soak up the serene beauty of its surroundings. September marks the beginning of the season, while March marks its conclusion. During the months of December and January, it is not uncommon for the temperature to dip to a low of -2 degrees Celsius here.

Places to visit in Darjeeling with family & friends

The Dhirdham Temple , which takes its design cues from Tibetan and Buddhist buildings, is home to a gigantic white sculpture of Lord Shiva with five different faces, each of which represents a different situation, as well as a sixth face that is said to represent the third eye. In 1939, a monk from Nepal named Rai Saheb Purna Bahadur Pradhan was responsible for building the temple. It is ideal among the places to visit in Darjeeling in 1 day.

The Himalayan Mountaineering Institute was established on November 4, 1954 in Darjeeling with the intention of encouraging mountaineering and climbing throughout India. It is home to a zoo as well as a small museum that displays various pieces of mountaineering equipment as well as a memorial to Sir Edmund Hillary. It is among the most insightful Darjeeling Sightseeing.

Himalayan Tibet Museum

This museum features a collection of artefacts and displays, such as a scale model of the Himalayas, that document the history and culture of Tibet. It is among the 25 places to visit in Darjeeling.

Best Places Darjeeling for couples

Sandakphu , which is sometimes called Sandakpur, is a peak that is located on the Singalila Ridge. It is a safe refuge for a wide variety of rare plant and animal species. In addition, the Singalila range is home to one of the most unique and enticing hikes.

Happy Valley Tea Estate

Located in Darjeeling, this tea estate dates back to 1854, making it the second-oldest of its kind in the region. A flourishing tea plantation can be found in the Happy Valley Tea Estate.

Rock Garden

The Rock Garden is among the new parks that can be visited by tourists in the city of Darjeeling, which is located in the state of West Bengal in India. This is among the top places to visit Darjeeling in December.

Good Places to visit at Night in Darjeeling

While taking in the vistas of the city below, diners may do so in a vintage rooftop setting while enjoying cuisine from India, China, and Europe.

This pub is the perfect spot to savour a wide range of premium drinks as well as mouth-watering non-vegetarian delicacies.

Darjeeling Delight

The restaurant serves a variety of Tibetan and Chinese dishes, in addition to steamed dumplings and takeout orders.

Best places to visit near Darjeeling

Gangtok is the capital of the mountainous northern Indian state of Sikkim. It is a Tibetan Buddhist centre and the starting point for trekkers in Sikkim to arrange transportation and permits to explore the Himalayas.

Located in the Himalayan foothills of West Bengal, Kalimpong is a picturesque hill station in eastern India. The village of MacFarlane, named after a Scottish missionary, is positioned on a ridge above the Teesta River, and it is home to several colonial-era buildings.

Aritar, which can be found in the Rangoli sub-division of East Sikkim in North East India, is renowned for its beautiful natural scenery, which is dotted with lush forests, pristine lakes, and imposing Himalayan peaks.

Darjeeling allows you to enjoy the beauty of nature, thanks to the presence of stunning mountain peaks, lush green forests and crystal-clear water bodies. Not to mention, the best places to visit in Darjeeling will keep you engaged. You can also have a fun-filled journey due to the extensive railway network present in Darjeeling.

FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions about Darjeeling

What are the top things to do in darjeeling.

Darjeeling is an incredibly lively place and is popularly known for its topmost things to do like Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, Batasia Loop, and Japanese Peace Pagoda. You will have a great time here, then why wait? Book your trip now!

For which type of travelling is Darjeeling a perfect destination?

Darjeeling is a perfect destination for Food themed holidays.

What are the best places to visit in Darjeeling?

The most loved attractions in Darjeeling are Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, Batasia Loop and Japanese Peace Pagoda.

Similar Places to Visit in Other Destinations

More places & things to explore in darjeeling, explore more, more destinations to explore, similar destination like darjeeling, best places to visit in months, places to visit in countries from india, places to visit in states in india, best international places to visit in 2024, darjeeling weather in months, weather in april for similar destinations.

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2-Day Darjeeling Itinerary

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• Darjeeling in 2 days
• 1-Day Darjeeling Itinerary
• 3-Day Darjeeling Itinerary
• 4-Day Darjeeling Itinerary
• 5-Day Darjeeling Itinerary

Table of contents

Day 1: most popular attractions, day 2: northwest side of town, darjeeling mall.

Tea Garden View

Darjeeling Rangeet Valley Passenger Ropeway

Mayfair hill resort darjeeling, peace pagoda, darjeeling, rock garden, darjeeling, where to eat, chowrasta darjeeling, windamere hotel, hot stimulating cafe.

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Batasia Loop

Ghoom monastery (samten choeling), dali monastery, japanese buddhist temple, darjeeling, lloyd botanical garden, santa banta dhaba, hotel mahakal and restaurant, nathmulls of darjeeling - tea cosy.

Don’t forget to pack anything

Stay organized with a to-do list, packing list, shopping list, any kind of list.

Top searches in Darjeeling

Popular road trips from darjeeling, what's the weather like in darjeeling.

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Darjeeling for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Darjeeling in January
• Weather in Darjeeling in February
• Weather in Darjeeling in March
• Weather in Darjeeling in April
• Weather in Darjeeling in May
• Weather in Darjeeling in June
• Weather in Darjeeling in July
• Weather in Darjeeling in August
• Weather in Darjeeling in September
• Weather in Darjeeling in October
• Weather in Darjeeling in November
• Weather in Darjeeling in December

All road trips from Darjeeling

• Darjeeling to Bangkok drive
• Darjeeling to Gangtok drive
• Darjeeling to New Delhi drive
• Darjeeling to Kathmandu drive
• Darjeeling to Kolkata (Calcutta) drive
• Darjeeling to Jaipur drive
• Darjeeling to Hanoi drive
• Darjeeling to Agra drive
• Darjeeling to Mumbai drive
• Darjeeling to Varanasi drive
• Darjeeling to Thimphu drive
• Darjeeling to Pokhara drive
• Darjeeling to Bengaluru drive
• Darjeeling to Pattaya drive
• Darjeeling to Hyderabad drive
• Darjeeling to Chiang Mai drive
• Darjeeling to Udaipur drive
• Darjeeling to Yangon (Rangoon) drive
• Darjeeling to Luang Prabang drive
• Darjeeling to Chennai (Madras) drive
• Darjeeling to Shillong drive
• Darjeeling to Bagan drive
• Darjeeling to Jodhpur drive
• Darjeeling to Pune drive
• Darjeeling to Guwahati drive
• Darjeeling to Ahmedabad drive
• Darjeeling to Mysuru (Mysore) drive
• Darjeeling to Dhaka City drive
• Darjeeling to Amritsar drive

Explore nearby places

• Gorumara National Park

All related maps of Darjeeling

• Map of Darjeeling
• Map of Jorethang
• Map of Namchi
• Map of Kurseong
• Map of Mirik
• Map of Kalimpong
• Map of Legship
• Map of Temi
• Map of Geyzing
• Map of Pelling
• Map of Loleygaon
• Map of Uttarey
• Map of Ravangla
• Map of Aritar
• Map of Ilam
• Map of Yuksom
• Map of Bagdogra
• Map of Rishop
• Map of Siliguri
• Map of Lava
• Map of Gorubathan
• Map of Tadong
• Map of Gangtok
• Map of Zuluk
• Map of Mangan
• Map of Samsing
• Map of Tetulia
• Map of Gorumara National Park
• Map of Lataguri
• Map of Kupup
• Map of Lachen

Darjeeling throughout the year

• Darjeeling in January
• Darjeeling in February
• Darjeeling in March
• Darjeeling in April
• Darjeeling in May
• Darjeeling in June
• Darjeeling in July
• Darjeeling in August
• Darjeeling in September
• Darjeeling in October
• Darjeeling in November
• Darjeeling in December

Looking for other day-by-day itineraries in Darjeeling?

Check out our other curated itineraries that are also filled with jam-packed days:

Day itineraries for nearby cities

• 2-Day Siliguri Itinerary
• 2-Day Ravangla Itinerary
• 2-Day Pelling Itinerary

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Top Tourist Places & Attractions in Darjeeling

Himalayan Mountaineering Institute (HMI)

Darjeeling Zoo

Darjeeling Toy Train

Darjeeling Ropeway

Batasia Loop

Darjeeling Mall (Chowrasta)

Rock Garden & Ganga Maya Park

Japanese Temple & Peace Pagoda

Happy Valley Tea Estate

Tenzing & Gombu Rock

Dali Monastery

Observatory Hill and Mahakal Temple

Tibetan Refugee Self Help Center

Rainbow Falls in Kalej Valley

Jamuni Tourist Complex

Darjeeling Gymkhana Club

Kanchenjunga Viewpoints in Darjeeling

Darjeeling Monasteries, Temples & Churches

Offbeat places around darjeeling.

Darjeeling Parks & Gardens

Museums, monuments and memorials.

Darjeeling Art & Craft

Kids & families, recommended resources.

• The eBook on Darjeeling & Sikkim is a great resource to plan your tour and get deep insights into various attractions of Darjeeling, Kalimpong and Sikkim including trips, tours and rides. 

Related Articles

Places to Visit in Darjeeling and Gangtok for a Perfect Vacation

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Places To Visit In Darjeeling and Gangtok

Here is the list of 21 places to visit in darjeeling and gangtok for a perfect vacation, 1. tiger hill, darjeeling.

Lying at an altitude of 2590 meters and a distance of 13 kilometres away from the Darjeeling, Tiger Hill is most famous for its splendid sights of the morning sunrise from where you can see the peaks of Kanchenjunga illuminate before the sun is seen at lower elevations. The magnificent view of snow - capped mountains sitting amidst cotton clouds attracts tourists to Tiger Hill from all over the country. Interestingly, this is also the summit of Ghoom, which is the highest railway station in the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

2. Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, Darjeeling

The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, also referred to as the DHR, and lovingly called the 'Toy Train', is a 2 feet narrow gauge train that runs between New Jalpaiguri and Darjeeling, in West Bengal, India. A journey in this Toy Train has amazing sights on display. Passengers on the train witness pleasing mountain views and pass by villages and local shops on the way, with children merrily waving at them. The pace of the train is so slow that local children often hop and off the moving train.

3. Nathu La Pass, Gangtok

Nathula, one of the highest drive roads in the world, is a mountain pass in the Himalayan peaks that co-joins Sikkim and China. Nathula Pass is situated on the Indo-Chinese border and is one of the biggest tourist attractions in India. Several tourists flock here every year for trekking in the valley and enjoying the scenic beauty. There are a number of waterfalls that gush along the way from Gangtok to Nathula. It also offers an opportunity to see beautiful snow peaks encircling the area.

4. Rumtek Monastery, Gangtok

The Rumtek Monastery is one of the largest and most significant monasteries in Sikkim, perched on top of a hill 23 km from Gangtok. Originally called as the Dharma Chakra Centre, it belongs to the Kargyu sect of Buddhists who originated in Tibet in the 12th century. The monastery is surrounded by verdant green mountains and thus serves as a visual treat besides being a focal point for spiritual solace. If you climb on top to the Rumtek Monastery you can have a breathtaking view of the whole Gangtok town situated right opposite the hill. Besides this, the architecture of the monastery is one of the finest in the world.

Darjeeling Travel Packages

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Best sikkim tour package with darjeeling, best selling kalimpong gangtok darjeeling premium tour package, 5. sandakphu trek, darjeeling.

Sandakphu Peak (11,941 Feet) is the highest peak in West Bengal. The highest peak of Singalila Ridge in Darjeeling district, almost near the border of Nepal, it is located very close to Singalila National Park.

6. Tsomgo Lake, Gangtok

Perched between the mountains at a dizzying height of 12400 ft above sea level, the Tsomgo Lake is one of the few high-altitude lakes in India situated on the Gangtok-Nathula highway. This lake is a part of every tourist's itinerary and for a good reason- its overwhelming scenic beauty. Enveloped by steep snow-capped mountains and resting between a bright green carpet of alpine forests, the charming beauty of Tsongmo Lake is bound to leave you in awe. The lake's mesmerising scenic allure combined with its legendary significance to the locals definitely makes it a must visit attraction of Sikkim.

7. Darjeeling Ropeway, Darjeeling

Darjeeling is renowned across the world as one of the most picturesque hill stations, where one can witness a myriad of exquisite landscapes, from the glorious snow-capped mountains to the charming valley replete with verdant tea estates. For this reason, the Darjeeling Ropeway finds itself as a prime attraction of Darjeeling, giving its passengers an array of divine panoramic views as they travel across the magical valley.

8. Kanchenjunga, Gangtok

The third highest peak in the world, the majestic Kanchenjunga is one of the most stunning mountains in the world. Surrounded by Nepal, Sikkim and Tibet, this mountain was first scaled in 1955 but since then has been declared sacred. Kanchenjunga' is a Tibetan name which means 'The Five Treasures of the High Snow'. The treasures represent the five repositories of God, namely gold, silver, gems, grain and holy books. There are a lot of trekking routes in Kanchenjunga which will take you through woody forests and serene countryside.

9. Singalila National Park, Darjeeling

Located at an altitude of more than 7000 feet above the sea in the Singalila range, the Singalila National Park is the highest national park in the state of West Bengal. Initially a wildlife sanctuary, the place was converted into a national park in the year 1992. The national park encompasses a beautiful, 78.60 sq km land of virgin rhododendron forests, alpine valley and rare species of animals and orchids. It is most famous for the breathtakingly mind-stirring view of the Himalayan peak that it offers, providing a panoramic view of the gigantic Himalayas from Nepal to Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh (India), up to Bhutan. 

10. Batasia Loop, Darjeeling

Perhaps one of the most picturesque train routes in all of Darjeeling , the Batasia Loop is a lush green toy train pathway that is meant to minimise the elevation of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. One of the most enchanting aspects of the Batasia Loop is its unmatched natural beauty which is a wonderful sight to behold.

11. Seven Sisters Waterfalls, Gangtok

Justifying its name, Seven Sisters Waterfalls comprises of seven different waterfalls amicably arranged side by side on a wide rugged cliff which seems distinct when looked at from a distance. It appears even more beautiful after rains when it comes to life and offers a captivating view. The gurgling water passes through the green vegetation onto the rugged cliffs and falls on the limestones making a roaring sound. The view of the setting sun pulls the visitors to indulge in a long photography session.

12. Nightingale Park, Darjeeling

This park was earlier called 'The Shrubbery' when it was a private courtyard. The park was closed for renovation for about four years and has reopened for public since 2011. There is a giant statue of Lord Shiva, a musical fountain along with the great scenery.

13. Tashi View Point, Gangtok

Situated 8 km away from central Gangtok, Tashi Viewpoint is a scenic beauty from where travellers can get a view of the magnificent Mount Sinilochu and Mount Kanchenjunga. It was built by Tashi Namgyal who was the king of Sikkim between 1914 and 1963, and that is how the place got its name. Developed by the tourism department of Sikkim and nestled in a perfect location, one can get a beautiful view of the snow-capped mountains from here. This spot also serves as a fabulous picnic place for local as well as foreign tourists due to the presence of a cafeteria and sheds bordering the site of the viewpoint.

14. Rock Garden, Darjeeling

The Rock Garden or the Barbotey Garden as its commonly known, is located a little far from the city around ~10 km away. The benches in the garden are made by cutting rocks at different levels.

15. Reshi Hot Springs, Gangtok

Sikkim has numerous hot springs, but the Reshi Hot Spring is the most famous one due to its strategic location and the religious significance that it holds. These hot water springs or Cha-chu present in Reshi are winter spas from the ancient period where pilgrims along with visitors spend a week or more soaking themselves in the springs which are believed to contain medicinal properties. Easily accessible, the spring is present right after a downhill drive of an hour towards the Rangit River valley.

16. Happy Valley Tea Estate, Darjeeling

At a magical altitude of 6,800 feet, the Happy Valley Tea Estate is a fine land expanse of about 437 acres, growing some of the finest shrubs of this delightful drink in the world. It is the second oldest tea estate in the tea-rich town of Darjeeling, with its origins being closely connected to the history of cultivating and producing the world-famous Darjeeling Tea. The endless expanse of lush plantations situated on a hilly slope combines well with the captivating aroma ensuing from within, mesmerising travellers as they are treated to the charming nuances of producing tea.

17. Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary, Gangtok

Nestled in the exquisite Yumthang Valley in North Sikkim, the Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary is surrounded by Chuba-Sagochen mountain range on the East and by Chomzomei Tso on the West which expands all the way up to the Lava Pass. Sprawling over an area of 43 square kilometres and comprising of several species of rhododendrons, the sanctuary is situated at an elevation of 3,048 to 4,575 meters. The azaleas bloom to their full capacity and turn the sanctuary into a riot of colours during April to July thereby making it the best time to visit the place. The sanctuary gets its picturesque look from the Yumthang Chhu meandering through it.

18. Ghoom Monastery, Darjeeling

At a grand elevation of 8,000 feet, the Yiga Choeling or old Ghoom Monastery is the oldest Tibetan Buddhist Monastery of Darjeeling. Established in 1850 by Lama Sherab Gyatso, this shrine is part of the Yellow Hat sect known as Gelupka who worship the 'Coming Buddha' or 'Maitreyi Buddha'. A 15-foot high statue of Maitreyi Buddha is seen in the central hall, made entirely of clay brought from Tibet. Visitors are treated to a beautiful view of the majestic Kanchenjunga outside the monastery. Prayer flags are flown by the resident monks in typical Tibetan tradition.

19. Observatory Hill, Darjeeling

Like most other hill stations in India, Darjeeling also has a Mall Road and atop the Mall is the Observatory hill. The hill hosts the famous Mahakal temple and the original shrine of Bhutia Busty monastery, making the place of religious significance for Hindus and Buddhists alike.

20. Banjhakri Falls, Gangtok

A new sightseeing destination for the tourists and spread over an area of two acres of land, the Banjhakri Falls is situated at a distance of 10-12 kilometres from Gangtok on the way to Ranka monastery. The waterfall which falls from a rocky height of about 40 feet and cascades down with a lot of force is the main attraction of the Energy Park present here. Beautifully landscaped gardens abound the waterfall along with beautiful statues of Lyam Lymay, Mangpas, Lepcha, and Ban Jhakri ancestors. The entrance of the park also comprises of several recreational activities and refreshment stalls. In addition to several resting places, there is a swimming pool present for the visitors as well.

21. Yumthang, North Sikkim

The popular Yumthang Valley in North Sikkim is located 140 km North of Gangtok. Famous as the "Valley of flowers", this is a rare and exotic valley where the tree line ends. Yumthang Valley is a must visit on your holiday to Sikkim and the nearby beautiful town of Lachung is the base station for an expedition of Yumthang. The Yumthang Valley is a paradise for nature lovers with a spectacular blend of flora and fauna and splendid picturesque beauty. Unique wildflowers such as primulas and Rhododendrons cover the entire valley in rich colours every spring, making it a great tourist attraction.

Check from our elaborate list of places to visit in Darjeeling and Gangtok before you head off to your amazing vacay!

This post was published by Aqsa Aleem

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Places to Visit in Darjeeling; 15 Must See Places in Darjeeling Tour

Are you planning for a Darjeeling tour this summer holiday? Do the hills beckon you with their snow-capped peaks and lush green valleys? Are you wondering about the places to visit in Darjeeling that you cannot miss? If you are unsure of where to begin, you have landed on the right page.

In this article, we will take a look at the 15 most interesting places near Darjeeling that you must include in your Darjeeling tour itinerary.

Darjeeling has forever been a favorite summer retreat. Back in the days of the British, Darjeeling was as popular as it is today. The British Viceroys would escape to the picturesque hill station in quest of respite from the intense summer heat. The central point of attraction of Darjeeling tourism is the fact that there is a vibe of colonialism mixed with a typical hilly environment that makes the town unique among other hill stations.

Darjeeling is Beautiful, Darjeeling is Happening

Located at an altitude of 6,710 feet in the Lesser Himalayan ranges, Darjeeling is a tourist’s piece of paradise. The two most prominent parts of tourism in Darjeeling revolve around stunning tea estates and towering monasteries. While the tea estates are a by-product of colonial culture, the monasteries are of Buddhist religious significance.

Yet another prime element of the tourism industry is the irresistible weather of Darjeeling. The weather factor pulls in several tourists each year. It is never too hot in Darjeeling. While summers are mild and pleasant, spring and autumn are the best seasons to visit. In these two seasons, sightseeing is a wonderful experience. With rhododendron flowers in full bloom and clear blue skies, Darjeeling certainly lives up to its label of the ‘Queen Of Hills’.

Read This to Know Darjeeling Weather and Temperature in Details 

Due to this great weather and visual delight of Kanchenjunga, tourists always kept pouring into the place. To meet tourist demands and also due to its sheer historical significance a lot of Tourist places got developed nearby centering Darjeeling.

Best 15 places to visit in Darjeeling

If a Darjeeling tour is on your mind, then plan your innings in a way so that you can cover all the 15 places that are mentioned below. Trust us when we tell you that you will not be disappointed. The tourist places of interest near Darjeeling can be classified into two broad categories.

• Sight-Seeing Options: Places that you can cover in your Darjeeling Tour while you stay in Darjeeling only.
• Nearby Darjeeling Tourist Places: Tourist Places that should be clubbed with your Darjeeling tour for a night or extended stay

Darjeeling Tour Sightseeing: Places to Visit in and Around Darjeeling

#1. tiger hill.

Watching the sunrise on the horizon from Tiger Hill, Darjeeling, will leave a memory with you that will last forever. Along with the beautiful orange hue of the rising sun, you can also witness a panoramic picture of the majestic Kanchenjunga.

Tiger Hill is around 11 Km away from Darjeeling and is at an altitude of 8482 feet above sea level. The surrounding areas are natural forest reserves. An observatory deck is under construction on the hilltop in order to accommodate the innumerable tourists that come visiting in peak seasons.

The viewing time is around 4 in the morning. It is a usual sight to spot mufflers, scarves, woolen caps, monkey caps, heavy jackets and shivering humans thronged together, waiting patiently for the sun to let out its first rays.

As the sun slowly emerges from the horizon, the view is to die for. The mountain ranges are at a riot of colors while the sun paints the canvas. Photographers will be on cloud nine with the kind of pictures that they will be able to capture. The splendid views will more than make up for your early morning struggle with sleep and the chill.

#2. Himalayan Mountaineering Institute and Darjeeling Zoo

If you are trekking or a mountain climbing enthusiast, this place is just for you. HMI is a lot of things at the same time. It is a museum, home to a boarding school, the Himalayan Zoological Park as well as a shop for souvenirs.

The museum is stacked with mountaineering gears and artifacts needed for expedition purposes. The museum was built as a tribute to two renowned mountain climbers, Tenzing Norway and Sir Edmund Hillary, who had climbed the Everest in 1953. The boarding school caters to students who wish to study mountaineering.

The zoo is popularly known as the Darjeeling Zoo. It occupies around 68 acres of land and is home to several endangered species. If you love wildlife photography, you can capture a Siberian tiger prowling around or a snow leopard napping peacefully. The ever-elusive red panda is also a common sight. You will also spot many species of bright and beautiful birds.

#3. Darjeeling Rock Garden; One of the best places to visit in Darjeeling

Around 10 Km from the main town of Darjeeling, there is a Rock Garden that is constructed around Chunnu Summer Falls. It has several tiers and the whole picture looks absolutely amazing from a distance. The waterfall cascades down the rocky slopes and there are well-manicured gardens and benches at each level.

Your car will take you through these slopes and you can view the entire landscape while going uphill. The road uphill is steep and there are sharp curves and bends ahead.

The Rock Garden was built in the 1980s to attract tourist attention to Darjeeling after the brief lull following political troubles in the hill station.

What will instantly captivate you while going uphill is the way the clouds play hide and seek. One moment, it is cloudy and foggy in front of the car’s windshield and the next moment, the clouds have transported to the tier below the one you are riding on.

The waterfall descends with a soothing rhythm that calms your soul while you go downhill. Bright and beautiful flowers are in full bloom in seasons and the garden is skillfully ornamented with these flowers.

#4. Batasia Loop

Around 5 Km away from Darjeeling, Batasia Loop is a circular railway track around a well-landscaped garden. The garden covers an area of 50,000 sq ft and is dotted with several plants bearing flowers. It is situated at the base of Ghoom station. The Darjeeling toy train runs on this track on a loop and this is how the place got its name. It is indeed a mesmerizing view and a prime tourist location in Darjeeling.

There is a historical fact behind this place. The Batasia loop was specifically built to serve as a gentler slope for the toy train to descend slowly after reaching Ghoom station. Earlier, the descent was 100 feet and was too steep for the toy train to cover comfortably. The Batasia Loop, thus, serves as a means to end

It is a place of tourist interest because of the incredible view of Mt. Kanchenjunga and other Himalayan ranges from the garden. It is also a spectacular sight to see the toy train emerging through billowing clouds and take the gentle curves of the terrain.

If you are looking for only a handful of places to visit in Darjeeling, this has to be on your list.

#5. Darjeeling Ropeway

Among all other tourist places in Darjeeling, the ropeway is the most sought after by adults and children alike. Singamari is the place from where you will have to board the ropeway. The ropeway is also known as Rangeet Valley Passenger Cable because it gives you a fantastic aerial view of the valley running along Little Rangeet river.

The cable car offers stunning views of the lush green tea gardens, rivers in full flow, dense forests and cascading waterfalls all through. The cable car ride lasts for close to 45 minutes. In this short span of time, you will be able to descend from 7000 feet to 800 feet.

You could get off the ropeway and take a tour of some of the tea gardens. You could meet and greet the local women plucking away tea leaves and learn a thing or two about this incredible art.

#6. Ghoom Monastery

The Ghoom Monastery is traditionally known as Yiga Choeling Monastery. It is situated at an altitude of 8,000 feet at Ghoom and is around 8 Km away from the town of Darjeeling.

The monastery happens to be the first Tibetan Buddhist Monastery that was built in Darjeeling. It was built in the year 1875. It is a famous pilgrimage place and attracts many tourists in peak seasons. Apart from the external architecture, it is also home to the statue of ‘Maitreya Buddha’ that is almost 15 feet high.

The statue of Buddha inside the monastery was apparently built with the clay that was sourced from Tibet. Two oil lamps continue to burn in front of the statue of Buddha all year long through time immemorial.

#7. Mahakal Temple

The Mahakal Temple is highly sacred and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The hill on top of which this temple is located is known as the ‘Holy Hill’. It is a few minutes away from Chowrasta.

The most interesting part of this temple is the fact that there is a Hindu priest as well as a Buddhist monk at the altar.

This is because this temple is sacred to Hindus as well as to Buddhists. According to a legend, this place was once a Buddhist monastery and hence the amalgamation of two different cultures happens. Shiva Ratri is celebrated with huge pomp and glory. The environment is calm, spiritual and there is unmatched tranquillity around. This temple is situated just above Mall Road and it is a trip of its own class.

This is closeby mall and one of the best  places to visit in Darjeeling

#8. Mall Road | Darjeeling Mall

For the shopaholic in you, Mall Road is the perfect place to be. It is a busy market all day long and even till the late hours in the evening. You will find almost everything that you might want to shop for.

The road is spotted with tourists who are either out to dine at a restaurant or buy local and branded items. Mall road is not specifically a brand destination. It is home to a number of local handicrafts like exquisitely designed carpets, hand-embroidered shawls, Tibetan masks, costume jewelry, etc. You could find uniquely designed woolen items in the shops on Mall Road.

You will also come across bookstores, cafes and small eateries lining the sides of the road.

The only trick that you need to master before buying things from this place is to bargain with all your might. If you can bargain well, you will be able to crack good deals.

Tourist Places To Visit in Darjeeling

These are some special places that are scattered around Darjeeling and demands a night stay to savor them in totality. These places are fast gaining popularity with tourists that loves to stay in secluded beautiful places and likes to avoid city rush.

#9. Sandakphu

Sandakphu is situated at an altitude of 12000 feet and happens to be the highest peak of West Bengal. The best time to visit Sandakphu would be from March-May and from October-December. This is the season when the Rhododendron flowers are in full bloom and paint the peaks in beautiful colors of their own.

Sandakphu is a prime tourist destination because of the spectacular views it offers at the break of dawn. If you are lucky to have clear and visible skies, then you could have a panoramic view of the 4 loftiest peaks of the world.

Both sunrises and sunsets are stunning to see from Sandakphu. There are even two separate viewing points to ensure that you get the best views possible.

While Sandakphu is a famous trekking site and tourists usually trek up to this place, it is also possible to reach this place by driving up to it. However, the road conditions are not ideal to drive up to the place and it will be much more enjoyable if you opt for trekking.

To club Sandakphu with your Darjeeling tour, you got to take 3-4 days extra at hand for Sandakphu and Phalut Summit.

This is surely one of the most loved places to visit in Darjeeling for trekkers.

If you want to know more about Sandakphu please click the below-given link

Sandakphu: Detailed tour guide

Mirik is around 49 Km away from Darjeeling and takes 2.5 hours to reach by a private car, shared jeeps or taxis. It is famous for its large natural lake situated at an altitude of 5,000 feet above sea level. Since the altitude is lower, weather conditions are highly favorable for tourism.

Mirik happens to be a favorite tourist spot among Darjeeling tourist places. This is due to the fact that it is nestled in beautiful surroundings. There are tall and towering pine trees all around and the atmosphere is tranquil at its best.

Mirik Lake is also called Sumendu Lake. A footbridge arches over this lake and is known as the Rainbow Bridge. Mirik Lake is 1.25 Km long. There are Dhupi trees lining its western bank and the eastern bank has a beautiful garden. Mirik Lake is a favorite site for boating. The long stretch of the lake allows you to boat away leisurely and you can also view the snow-capped mountain peaks while boating on the lake.

The weather is always mild and pleasant. The temperature never exceeds 30 degrees C in summers and never goes beyond 2 degrees C in the peak of winters.

Mirik is an awesome place to stay and you must consider clubbing Mirik for 1or 2 nights with your Darjeeling tour plan.

If you are looking for places to stay in Mirik, please go through these given links

Mirik Home Stay

Schooldara Heritage Bungalow

#11. Kalimpong

Kalimpong 1250 meters above sea level. It is approx 50 km away from Darjeeling. Summers pleasant and winters could be really cold. The best time to visit Kalimpong would be during the summer season.

Kalimpong, as a tourist spot, offers the best of both worlds. It is at once quiet and peaceful because of the abundance of churches and monasteries around. There are beautiful nurseries in Kalimpong that have orchid plants of different varieties. These nurseries are worth a visit to see the collection that they have of various kinds of flowers.

Did you know that Kalimpong produces 80% of the country’s gladioli produce?

There are three important monasteries in Kalimpong that deserve special mention. These are the Tongsa Gompa, the Tharpa Choeling Gompa and the Zong Dog Palri Fo-Brang Gompa.

If you are looking for only a handful of places to visit in Darjeeling, this has to be there in your tour plan.

If you are looking for places to stay in Kalimpong, please go through these given links

Windsongs Kalimpong

Dhardo Retreat Kalimpong Hotels and Resort

#12. Kurseong; one of the best places to visit in Darjeeling again

Kurseong is around 31.5 Km away from the town of Darjeeling and it takes an hour and a half to reach Kurseong by car. It is quieter in comparison to other towns and districts located near Darjeeling. It sits at an altitude of 1458 metres above sea level. Kurseong originally means the place of the White Orchid.

Kurseong is famous in history because of the many artistic compositions that have been made here. The famous poet, literary artist and songwriter, Rabindranath Tagore had composed many of his songs and poems in this town.

You can visit the Makaibari tea garden and Eagles Craig. The Eagles Craig is a high cliff which serves as an observatory point from which the beautiful town of Kurseong can be seen. Makaibari Tea Estate is famous for its landscape and the tea it brings to our palettes.

If you are looking for places to stay in Kurseong, please go through these given links

Kurseong Eco Village

Allita Resort – Kurseong

Lava is around 148 Km from Darjeeling and it lies at an altitude of 2350 meters. It is mostly popular for bird watching since many migratory birds come visiting here. It is also an ideal place for nature exploration.

Lava is the beginning point of the Neora Valley National Park. You will notice a significant change in the vegetation as you approach Lava from Kalimpong. The deciduous trees give way to pine trees, fir trees and birches.

If you are looking for a place to stay in Lava, please go through the given link

Lava Tea Estate

#14. Lataguri

Lataguri is approximately 3 hours 30 minutes drive from Darjeeling. It is at a distance of 110 Km from the township of Darjeeling. It is right outside the Gorumara National Park and nature enthusiasts will absolutely love exploring the various facets of natural flora and fauna in this settlement.

This place is very close to the National Park and is, therefore, a source of thrill and adventure. You can go driving in the wild, spot wildlife, visit forest caves, watch unknown migratory birds and enjoy the calm, serene surroundings.

If you are looking for places to stay in Lataguri, please go through these given links

Retreat Lataguri

Hotel Dreamland Lataguri

Appu Tea Estate

River Retreat Dooars

#15 Rohini; one of the unknown places to visit in Darjeeling

Rohini lies at a distance of 66 Km from Darjeeling. It is closer to Siliguri. Rohini attracts tourist attention because of its stunning natural surroundings and forestlands. The forests of Lama Gomba lure tourists each year and especially the ones who like spotting wildlife and going on jungle tours.

There is a picnic spot, around 15 minutes by car from Rohini and is known as Dudhia. There is a hilltop in Rohini that allows spectacular views of the valley and the surrounding mountain ranges.

If you are looking for a place to stay in Rohini, please go through the given link

Mountain View Retreat – Rohini

So, these will be our 15 choices of tourist places near Darjeeling that you must cover in your Darjeeling tour plan.

We in Nomadic specialize in Darjeeling Tours. We have tied up with the best properties near Darjeeling that you won’t find anywhere else.

Here are a few other articles that you may like reading

Darjeeling weather and temperature: all your questions answered, 8 awesome things to do in darjeeling which you just cannot miss, darjeeling toy train: history, experience and all useful information.

If you are finding these interesting, here  25 such awesome unknown and offbeat Destinations  Near Darjeeling. Do check out. You won’t waste your time.

Check out   Nomadic Weekends   site here.

Click Here to Customize Your Darjeeling Tour with us for Free

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Top 10 tourist places to visit in Darjeeling in 2024

D arjeeling is one of the popular hill stations in India, offering something for everyone. Whether you're excited for a toy train adventure or seeking peaceful moments, Darjeeling has it all. From exploring tea gardens to witnessing breathtaking sunrises at Tiger Hill, we've compiled a list of the top 10 places to visit in Darjeeling in 2024. If you're thinking about visiting Darjeeling, this guide is a must-read. Plus, you can enjoy a variety of activities during your stay in Darjeeling !

Wake up early to catch the spectacular sunrise at Tiger Hill! Located at a height of 2,590 meters, this spot offers breathtaking views of the sun rising over the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas, including the majestic Mount Kanchenjunga. If you are a nature lover and photo enthusiast its a must-visit for you. Don't forget to bundle up warmly and bring your camera to capture this unforgettable moment!

Tea Gardens - the Spectacular Sunrise

You can take a guided tour to learn all about the process of tea cultivation and production. Wander through the lush greenery of the tea bushes, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. You can even sample some freshly brewed Darjeeling tea while soaking in the beauty of the rolling hills and valleys.

Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (Toy Train) - Chug Along on a Scenic Adventure

Hop on the Toy Train for a fun ride through Darjeeling's hills! This special train, recognised by UNESCO, is a small train that travels on narrow tracks. It's like a mini adventure that lets you see pretty views of the countryside and small villages. The Toy Train starts its journey from New Jalpaiguri and ends in Darjeeling, passing through some of the best spots in town.

Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park - Encounter Himalayan Wildlife Up Close

Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park is home to rare and endangered species like the snow leopard and red panda, this park offers a unique opportunity to observe these majestic animals in their natural habitat. Take a stroll through the park's lush greenery, and don't forget to bring your camera to capture the unforgettable moments!

Batasia Loop - Marvel at Nature's Ingenious Design

Imagine a magical spot below Ghum, where the railway tracks swirl around in circles through a tunnel and over a hilltop. This place is called Batasia Loop. But what makes it truly special is the beautifully decorated garden surrounding it. It's like a little piece of paradise, perfect for taking a break and enjoying the scenery. In April, when the weather is just right, Batasia Loop is even more stunning with its lush greenery.

Japanese Peace Pagoda - Find Tranquility Amidst Architectural Splendor

Located atop a hill, this beautiful monument offers panoramic views of Darjeeling town and the Himalayan mountains. Take a moment to admire the intricate architecture and soak in the tranquil atmosphere. Whether you're seeking spiritual solace or simply enjoying the view, the Peace Pagoda is a must-visit destination in Darjeeling.

Himalayan Mountaineering Institute and Everest Museum - A Journey of Adventure and Inspiration

Many people travel to Darjeeling for the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute. It's famous for training both experienced climbers and beginners. People come here to learn and prepare themselves for mountain adventures because it's one of the top mountaineering schools in India. But it's not just about training – the institute is set against a stunning mountain backdrop, which makes it a popular tourist spot too.

Rock Garden and Ganga Maya Park - Reconnect with Nature's Serenity

Situated between lush greenery and cascading waterfalls, this tranquil oasis is the perfect place to unwind and relax. You can explore the terraced gardens, cross over quaint bridges, and listen to the soothing sounds of flowing water. Whether you're picnicking with family or taking a stroll, Rock Garden and Ganga Maya Park offer a refreshing retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Observatory Hill and Mahakal Temple - Ascend to Spiritual Heights

For a spiritual journey, don't miss Observatory Hill and Mahakal Temple! This hilltop site is sacred to both Hindus and Buddhists, offering breathtaking views of Darjeeling town and the mountains around it. Climb the hill to explore the ancient Mahakal Temple, which honours Lord Shiva. Take your time to soak in the tranquil atmosphere, perfect for meditation and self-reflection. Whether you're seeking inner peace or simply enjoying the scenery, Observatory Hill and Mahakal Temple provide a serene and picturesque experience.

Chowrasta Mall - Immerse Yourself in Darjeeling's Vibrant Heart

This bustling promenade is the heart of the town, lined with shops, cafes, and street vendors. Take a stroll along the mall, browse through colourful souvenirs and handicrafts, and savour delicious local snacks. With live music performances and a lively atmosphere, Chowrasta Mall is the perfect place to soak in the sights and sounds of Darjeeling.

With its mesmerising natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and array of attractions, Darjeeling promises an unforgettable experience for travellers in 2024. Whether you're a nature lover, adventure enthusiast, or cultural explorer, Darjeeling has something for everyone to enjoy. So pack your bags and embark on a journey to discover the enchanting charm of Darjeeling!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. When is the best time to visit Darjeeling?

Darjeeling is pleasant throughout the year, but the best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months, from March to May and September to November. During these months, the weather is mild, and the skies are clear, offering stunning views of the Himalayas.

2. How do I reach Darjeeling?

The nearest airport to Darjeeling is Bagdogra Airport, which is well-connected to major cities in India. From Bagdogra, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Darjeeling, which is approximately a 3-4 hour drive away. Alternatively, you can also take the scenic Darjeeling Himalayan Railway from New Jalpaiguri, which is a memorable experience.

3. Are there any trekking opportunities in Darjeeling?

Yes, Darjeeling offers several trekking routes for adventure enthusiasts of all levels. Popular treks include the Sandakphu Trek, Singalila Ridge Trek, and the trek to Phalut. These treks offer stunning views of the Himalayan peaks and the opportunity to explore the region's biodiversity.

4. What should I buy as souvenirs from Darjeeling?

Darjeeling is famous for its tea, so purchasing some high-quality Darjeeling tea is a must. You can also buy Tibetan handicrafts, woollens, and traditional artifacts from local markets. Don't forget to bargain for the best prices! Here is a complete guide about things you can buy in Darjeeling .

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• 15 Best Places Near Darjeeling 2024 For A Perfect Getaway

23 Mar 2023

Darjeeling is a heaven for travellers. Everyone, be it an Indian or a native to a distant land, plans to visit this enchanting hill station nestled in the Himalayan foothills in West Bengal. But it’s not just Darjeeling offering breath-taking sights, soul-enriching feels and enthralling adventure but also places that are situated close to it. We compiled these close by places into this list of places near Darjeeling that promise an experience that is almost life-changing. You will have a charming time and experience the joy of a refreshing vacation.

15 Best Places Near Darjeeling

Here is the opportunity for you to explore the best of places near Darjeeling that offer with plenty of refreshing vibes and a serene experience. All of these places exude serenity and are worth a visit. Take a look!

1. Kurseong

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If you like admiring exotic flowers growing in wild nature, Kurseong is one of the places near Darjeeling you should plan your next trip to. It is called the Land of White Orchids! This hill station is bursting with enigmatic waterfalls, lush green landscape and snow covered mountains shining under misty skies. Trek up to its various hill tops and get surprised with abundant white orchids greeting you with their blooming smiles. This place is also home to temples, churches, museums and Buddhist universities.

Ideal Duartion: 1 Night/2 Days Distance from Darjeeling: 32 km Must See Attractions: Eagle’s craig, Tea gardens, Deer Park, Forest museum and Ambotia Shiv Mandir

5 Best Cottages In Darjeeling Where You Can Soak In Ultimate Bliss & Luxury

2. Kalimpong

Kalimpong is situated on the foothills of the Shivalik range overlooking the Teesta Valley. It is one of the offbeat places to visit near Darjeeling. The height of Kalimpong is 1250 feet which gives it its enchanting mistiness and jaw dropping panoramic view of the green valley. The entire hill station is bustling with Buddhist monasteries, centuries old churches and temples that possess a calm which is deeply stirring.

Places To Stay: Hotel Parijat, Komfort Inn, Hotel Tres Kalimpong, Chhibo Inn, Monarch Hotel Kalimpong Ideal Duartion: 2 Nights/3 Days Things To Do: Deolo Hill: Pay A Visit To The Magnificent Location, Shanti Kunj: Spend A Day Amidst Greenery, St Teresa’s Church: Seek Blessings, Durpin Dara Hill: Absorb The Breathtaking Vistas Distance from Darjeeling: 52 km Must See Attractions: Durpin dara hill, Cactus nursery, Morgan house, Deolo hill, Galingka, and Dong Palriffo Brang Gompa

Gangtok, often referred to as The Gateway to Sikkim, needs to be visited again and again. Why? Because its pristine natural beauty, its spectacular views and places of attractions never leave your mind and heart and compel you to make a comeback and soak in it again. Gangtok is abundant with green pastures, shimmering lakes, and viewpoints. It is also the base for trekkers going to Himalayan mountain ranges and offers an attractive view of Mt. Kanchenjunga. It is among the popular places to visit near Darjeeling. 

Places To Stay: Maya Baas Villa, Debrung, Orchid Glade, Kunzang Villa, Cherry Villa Ideal Duartion: 3 Nights/4 Days Things To Do: Cable Ride – Witness Gangtok At A Glance, Paragliding – Feel Like You Are On Top Of The World, M.G. Marg – Indulge In Local Cuisine, Lal Bazaar – Spend Some Bucks On Souvenirs Distance from Darjeeling: 98 km Must See Attractions: Ban Jhakri Falls, Tsomgo Lake, Tashi View Point, Teesta River, and Enchey Monastery

Festivals In Darjeeling: 8 Popular Celebrations On Queen Of The Hills

The name Mirik is derived from Lepcha words Mir-Yok, which mean ‘Place Burnt by Fire’. It is also fondly called as the ‘Valley of The Sun’. This beautiful and shining town near Darjeeling offers an exciting and rejuvenating gateway for families, just married couples and solo travellers. Head to this scenic place and rediscover your passion for nature, indulge in enthralling activities like boating, catch long moments of tranquillity, and shop to your heart’s content in the traditional bazaars.

Ideal Duartion: 1 Day Distance from Darjeeling: 60 km Must See Attractions: Mirik Lake, Deosi Dara, Tingling Viewpoint, Bunkulung, Mirik Tea Gardens, Bokar Ngedon Chokhor Ling Monastery, Pashupati Nagar, and Orange Orchards

5. Lataguri

For a wildlife aficionado, Lataguri is a dream come true. Located near Gorumara National Park , Lataguri is a very exciting place for spotting exotic flora and fauna. Being in this place feels like being amidst the wild jungles. It is thrilling, captivating and something to lodge in your memories forever.

Ideal Duartion: 1 Day Distance from Darjeeling: 103 km Must See Attractions: Gorumara National Park, Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary, Murti River, and Buxa Tiger reserve

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Dooars is derived from the word Door. This place has as many as 18 corridors or ways that run between it and Bhutan. And so one of its famous names is Gateway To Bhutan. This place is thriving with natural wonders that include mystifying mountains of Eastern Himalayan ranges, thick forests, lakes, wide variety of plants and animals, etc.

Ideal Duartion: 1 Night/2 Days Distance from Darjeeling: 140 km Must See Attractions: Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary, Latpanchore, Sumsing and Suntalekhola, Chapramari Wildlife Reserve

Aritar is a lesser known place near Darjeeling. It is a town situated in the East and is home to virgin natural beauty, ancient temples and monasteries. One advantage of these lesser known natural paradises is you get to explore the place minus the crowd. The more the crowd the more difficult it gets to experience the calm and peace of such a place.

Ideal Duartion: 1 Day Distance from Darjeeling: 90 km Must See Attractions: Lampokhari, Parbateyswar Shivalaya Mandir, Nirmal Dham, Aritar Gumpa and Dak Bungalow

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8. Jalpaiguri

Jalpaiguri is a place that has a rich plantation of olives. That’s why the name Jalpaiguri, which means Town of Olive. Bordered by Bhutan and Bangladesh from the north and south respectively, Jalpaiguri is a cute little town that will find a special spot in your heart. The place is filled with tiny rivulets and small hilltops that almost makes it look like an alive miniature version of a hill station.

Ideal Duartion: 1 Day Distance from Darjeeling: 116 km Must See Attractions: Mendabari fort, Gorumara National Park, Buxa Duar Trek, Murat River

9. West Sikkim

West Sikkim is a place situated at the base of Mount Kanchenjunga and offers what can be considered a picture-perfect shot of the third highest peak’s Southeast face. This place is a meeting point of tranquil nature and religiously rich monasteries. This amalgamation of nature and divinity oozing monasteries have the power to soothe even the most disturbed of minds.

Ideal Duartion: 3 Nights/4 Days Distance from Darjeeling: 74 km Must See Attractions: Khechuperi Lake, Sangachoeling and Pemayangtse monasteries, Pelling, Geyzing, Yuksom and Yangtey

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10. South Sikkim

South Sikkim is a popular destination for divinity seekers owing to its rich monasteries and stupas. But this place is also a haven for nature lovers with its alluring forests and hills that leave you spellbound and speechless.

Ideal Duartion: 2 Nights/3 Days Distance from Darjeeling: 86 km Must See Attractions: Namchi, Ravangla, Solophok, Borong, Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary, Tendong Hill, Temi Tea Garden, and Ralang Monastery

11. North Sikkim

Sharing its boundary with China and Nepal, North Sikkim wears the look and feel of a deserted town due to its lack of many inhibitors. The reason is due to its extreme weather. North Sikkim is home to one of the highest lakes of India, Gurudongmar Lake . North Sikkim has the kind of charm that seems to be singing an ancient tune. Listen if you can!

Ideal Duartion: 3 Nights/4 Days Distance from Darjeeling: 199 km Must See Attractions: Gurudongmar Lake, Lachung, Mount Katao, Lachen, Yumthang Valley and Lachung

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12. Jaldhaka

Hidden in the hills of Darjeeling, besides the river valley, Jaldhaka is a town that will remind you of the good old times with its unspoiled nature that were the norm in the by gone years. Jaldhaka offers relaxing natural beauty and nature inspired adventurous sports.

Ideal Duartion: 1 Day Distance from Darjeeling: 102 km Must See Attractions: Jaldhaka river valley, Coronation bridge, Gorumara National Park, Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary and Jaldapara National Park

13. Cooch Behar

Cooch Behar is a tiny, planned town in North West Bengal. Once a province of the Koch dynasty, this place is brimming with history. If you are visiting Darjeeling, you can include this place in your list as it is just a 5 hour drive from the hill station and can be explored within one day. This is amongst the best tourist places near Darjeeling .

Ideal Duartion: 1 Day Distance from Darjeeling: 201 km Must See Attractions: Cooch Behar Palace, Rajbari, Madan Mohan Temple, Sagardighi and Baneswar Siva Temple

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14. Rajabhatkhawa

Rajbhatkawa is situated very close to the popular Buxa Tiger Reserve. But seldom does any visitor visiting the tiger reserve give this town even a first glance! But we hope that changes soon as this place has a lot to offer right from unadulterated nature to ancient temples and beautiful monuments.

It is also a place for thrilling activities like trekking and camping. So don’t miss visiting Rajabhatkhawa when in Darjeeling and sharing your story to let avid travellers take notice of this beautiful place.

Ideal Duartion: 1 Day Distance from Darjeeling: 193 km Must See Attractions: Jayanti River, Buxa Fort, Nature Interpretation Centre, Park Safari, and Mahakali Caves

15. Jaldapara

Jaldapara is situated in the Eastern foothills of the Himalayas. It is most famous for its wildlife sanctuary that houses animals like tigers, rhinos, deer, wild boar, elephants, eagles and many more. You can also enjoy a safaris perched atop an elephant.

Ideal Duartion: 1 Day Distance from Darjeeling: 154 km Must See Attractions: Jaldapara Wildlife Sanctuary, Chilapata Forest, and Gorumara National Park

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We hope our list of 15 places near Darjeeling has proven an informative and delightful read to you. Travel Triangle is here to help you plan your trip to these places. So contact us today and get your well planned itinerary. Also, do not forget to share you wonderful travel experience with us!

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Frequently Asked Questions About Places Near Darjeeling

Which is the most beautiful place in Darjeeling?

Darjeeling is home to numerous places worth exploring on a holiday. Ghum Monastery, Peace Pagoda, Happy Valley Tea Estate, Darjeeling Ropeway, etc. are counted amongst the most beautiful places to visit in Darjeeling.

Is there snowfall in Darjeeling?

Snowfall in Darjeeling is a very rare event. It usually happens in the month of December, January and February. Tsomgo lake in Gangtok receives abundant snowfall during these months. It is ideal to plan a getaway in winters if you wish to capture snowfall experiences.

What are the things to purchase in Darjeeling?

There are interesting marjets in Darjeeling and you can check out hand knitted items like sweaters and other winter wears, low priced electronics, Tibetan art flaunting carpets, teas, etc.

What is the best time to visit Darjeeling?

The best time to visit Darjeeling is between April to June as the days are sunny and weather remains pleasant during this time, making sightseeing a comfortable experience. However, Darjeeling is known for its winter too and you can also plan a getaway between October to December for an ideal winter vacay.

How many days are enough for Darjeeling?

You must plan a trip for at least 4-5 days to Darjeeling for an ultimate experience. Darjeeling and its nearby places hosts memorable experiences to travelers from across the country.

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5 Best places to visit near Darjeeling

Apr 27, 2024

Lepchajagat

Situated approximately 19 kilometres from Darjeeling, Lepchajagat is a charming village known for its stunning sunrise and sunset views. It's an offbeat destination ideal for those seeking tranquillity amidst nature.

Credit: rural-tourism-gov-in

Ghoom Monastery

Situated in Ghoom, approximately 8 kilometres from Darjeeling, this monastery is one of the oldest Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in the region. It houses a 15-foot-tall statue of Maitreya Buddha and offers insight into Tibetan Buddhist culture and architecture.

Credit: Wikipedia

Situated about 49 kilometres from Darjeeling, Mirik is a tranquil hill town known for its picturesque Sumendu Lake surrounded by forests and tea gardens. Boating on the lake, exploring orange orchards, and visiting Bokar Monastery are popular activities here.

Credit: Unsplash

For adventure seekers, Sandakphu is a trekker's paradise situated around 58 kilometres from Darjeeling. It's the highest peak in West Bengal and offers stunning views of the Himalayan range, including four of the world's five highest peaks.

Located about 50 kilometres from Darjeeling, Kalimpong is a quaint hill station known for its Buddhist monasteries, colonial architecture, and flower nurseries. Durpin Monastery, Deolo Hill, and Dr Graham's Homes are popular attractions here.

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