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25 best places to visit in darjeeling west bengal, the queen of hills.

Tucked in the Lesser Himalaya, has always attracted the mind of travelers from all over the world. The town hosts the typical Gorkha culture and is well known for its quaint colonial ambiance. Moreover, this hill station in India is the gateway to one of the popular treks in the Indian Himalayan region, the Sandakphu-Phalut Trek and is also one of the two places in India where from one can capture the entire panorama of the Eastern Himalayan ranges, from the Everest to Kanchendzonga. Further, the refreshing environment layered with several tea estates and evergreen forests… simply offers a retreat and is ideal for leisure capes. Its breathtaking beauty and pleasant weather are the reasons why to visit Darjeeling for an amazing vacation.

Here is the list of some of the best places to visit in Darjeeling that will surely quench your Darjeeling trip palette.

Tenzing and Gombu Rock

Dhr sukna museum, darjeeling old cemetery, dhr ghum museum, happy valley tea estate, senchal lake and wildlife sanctuary, shrubbery nightingale park, st andrew’s church, dhirdham temple, aloobari monastery, samten choling monastery and yiga choling monastery, dali monastery, ghoom monastery, bhutia busty monastery, tibetan refugee self help center.

• Japanese Temple and Peace Pagoda

Darjeeling Mall and Chowrasta

Rock garden and ganga maya park.

• Darjeeling Ropeway

Himalayan Mountaineering Institute and Darjeeling Zoo

• Batasia Loop
• Bengal Natural History Museum

Observatory Hill and Mahakal Temple

Quick Travel Information about Darjeeling

Popular Darjeeling Tour Packages

• 6 Nights 7 Days Darjeeling Gangtok Pelling Tour Package
• 4 Nights 5 Days Darjeeling Gangtok Sightseeing Tour
• 5 Nights 6 Days Darjeeling Gangtok Kalimpong Tour
• 7 Nights 8 Days Darjeeling Sikkim Romantic Tour
• 6 Nights 7 Days Darjeeling Sikkim Honeymoon Tour

Himalayan Mountaineering Institute showcases the best mountaineering gears and expedition artifacts. It is one of the best tourist places in Darjeeling especially for the mountain lovers. It was built in the memory of Tenzing Norgay who, along with Sir Edmund Hillary, climbed Everest in 1953. The Himalayan Mountaineering Institute further runs a boarding school for mountaineering students and maintains a memorial dedicated to Tenzing Norgay, a restaurant, and a souvenir shop.

Located within the premises of the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute is the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, which is also known as Darjeeling Zoo. It spreads over approximately 68 acres and houses many endangered species of animals adapted to alpine conditions like the snow leopard, red panda, goral (mountain goat), Siberian tiger, Tibetan Wolf, Himalayan Black Bear, clouded Leopards, Black Leopards and a variety of birds. The Himalayan Mountaineering Institute and Darjeeling Zoo is perched on the Birch Hill, which is easily accessible from Darjeeling Mall.

Timings- 8:30 am to 4:30 pm in Summer & 8:30 am to 4:00 pm in Winter

One of the top tourist attractions for nature lovers and honeymooners, the Batasia Loop is specifically known for its spiral of a narrow-gauge railway track on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway where the Toy Train makes a complete loop around a wonderful circular garden. It was built in 1919 to reduce the gradient of the slope for the toy train to fall smoothly from about 140ft.   It covers an area of 50,000 square feet and is dotted with several flowering plants.

You will get a 360-degree view of the entire landscape of Darjeeling from here. It also maintains an eco-garden which has information about organic farming in Darjeeling, Gorkha War Memorial, and many restaurants and eateries.

The Batasia Loop is approximately 5 kilometers away from Darjeeling town and is close to Ghoom. If you are lucky enough then on a clear sunny day, you will get a jaw breaking view of the Khangchendzonga range and Eastern Himalayas.

The Rock Garden also known as Barbotey Rock Garden, which is approximately 10 kilometers from Darjeeling town, is set with picturesque and colorful terraced gardens dotted with highly diversified flowering plants… blazing the rocks and cliffs at different levels. The Chunnu Summer Falls is another additional feature that makes the park a best tourist spot to visit in Darjeeling.

On the other hand, 3 kilometers ahead is the Ganga Maya Park, which is another nature park with a narrow gushing stream flowing through it. The park also hosts gardens dotted with varied species of colorful flowers and a lake. Tourists can also enjoy Gorkha folk dance at Ganga Maya Park.

If you are a nature lover, then you must visit Rock Garden and Ganga Maya Park, the entire landscape of Darjeeling and lofty mountain ranges, the dancing clouds, deep gorges, soothing water streams, lush greenery all around and enchanting hills will definitely take your breath away.

Named after Tenzing Norgay (Who was the first person to climb Mt Everest), Tenzing Rock is one of the most beautiful gigantic natural rocks in Darjeeling. Just opposite to this is the beautiful Gombu Rock which is named after Nawang Gombu, the nephew of Tenzing who became the director of field training at Himalayan Mountaineering Institute after Tenzing retired in 1976.

Both these rocks are used for rock climbing training. Adventurers from all across the globe come here to become mountaineers and rock climbers. The rock-climbing training is given by the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute. Tenzing himself used to practice on the one named after him. It is one of the best tourist places to visit in Darjeeling for adventure lovers and thrill seekers.

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With the natural element in just one view, the Darjeeling Ropeway, which is also known as the Rangeet Valley Passenger Cable Car, offers a refreshing getaway to the tourists.  It was started in 1968 and it was the first cable car system in India.

From the ropeway you can enjoy the spectacular view of the valley below that is bedded with lush green tea gardens, waterfalls, gorgeous Peaks of Kanchenjunga and dense forest and cut by several small gushing streams.

It is one of the popular tourist attractions in Darjeeling where one can spend some ideal hours in the tea estate and enjoy a nature walk.

• Winter and Monsoon Timings – 10:00am to 4:00pm
• Summer and Autumn Timings- 10:00am to 2:00pm
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Set up in 2005, Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Museum (DHR Museum) at Sukna is the third of DHR museums. The first one is in Ghoom and the second is in Kurseoung. It is one of the top tourism sites to visit in Darjeeling. It has a nice collection of original photographs related to the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway.

It houses rare collections which will give you great insight on the history of Darjeeling. You will witness the sketches of Tangas, Rare pictures of toy train, original pictures of Kurseong station in 1880’s, Tindharia Railway Station before 1910, entire history of Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, and a very rare picture of a 100-year-old woman “the Witch of Ghoom” who used to visit Tindharia Railway Station in 1890’s, etc.

If you are a kind of person who really loves to know about the history of places then Darjeeling Museum is a perfect place to be in.

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One may not consider Darjeeling Old Cemetery as a tourist place but it is declared as a site of ‘National Importance’, the Darjeeling Old Cemetery houses two historical graves and several other graves belonging to people from the colonial era. There are graves of those British settlers who turned the dense forests of Darjeeling into beautiful Tea estates which are now visited by nature lovers and solace seekers. It will give you a glimpse of the colonial days of Darjeeling.

The upper section of the cemetery offers breathtaking vistas of tea gardens and mesmerizing landscapes of Darjeeling. The graves dating back to 1840’s will give you spooky vibes. There used to be more than 100 graves in the cemetery but now most of them are destroyed by the ravages of time and it is very difficult to point exactly how many graves are here.

The grave of Lt. General George W. Aylmer Lloyd and the great Hungarian linguist Alexander Csoma de Koros are the major attractions in the vicinity. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions to include in your Darjeeling itinerary for peace and surreal views of Darjeeling’s landscapes.

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One of the three museums in Darjeeling district, the DHR Ghoom Museum that is located in the premises of the Ghoom Railway Station, which is the highest railway station in the world, preserves the oldest model of Toy Train engine of Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. It showcases the heritage of the Darjeeling Himalayan toy train. The Baby Sivok is a major tourist attraction.

It is the oldest toy train engine of Darjeeling Himalayan Railways which was started in 1881. The premises also have a huge collection of rare and old artifacts of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railways, photographs and items donated by the ex DHR employees. You must include DHR Ghum Museum in your Darjeeling sightseeing tour if you want to make your trip interesting.

Timings – 10:00 am to 1:30 pm and 2:00pm to 4:00pm

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A perfect place to spend some romantic moments with your partner, Love Road will bring out the romance in your life.  It is 3 kilometers long stretch of narrow refreshing walkway in the midst of nature… the Love Road encircles Birch Hill. As stated, it is a lovers’ point… hence it is also one of the best honeymoon places in Darjeeling where you can see some beautiful bird species coupling, twittering and flattering around which makes this place an awesome paradise for bird watchers and nature lovers.

Surrounded by the soothing views of nature and gorgeous steep hills, the narrow road’s beauty will give you goosebumps. It is a place where you will see the lofty Kanchenjunga Range and Lebong Spur. The serene shade of Pine and Rhododendron trees is a delightful sight to behold. For a lovely start to your love life, Love Road is one of the most beautiful places to visit for couples in Darjeeling.

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It is time to enjoy the sprawling tea estate that is spread across 440 acres. The serene charm of this bliss Tea Estate will rejuvenate your soul completely. If you are looking for a place to fine tune your spirit, Happy Valley Tea Estate is one of the most beautiful nature tourism places to see in Darjeeling. The thing that will chuckle you is that it has bushes which are more than 150 years old. Your trip to Darjeeling remains incomplete till you visit the Happy Valley Tea Estate, which is Darjeeling’s second oldest tea estate and was established in 1854. It is situated at an altitude of 2100 meters above the sea level.

If you are touring Darjeeling between March and May, then you are likely to see the plucking process. The Happy Valley Tea Estate is approximately 3 kilometers away from Darjeeling town and I must say that tea lovers are surely going to like this place… because of the sweet flavor blending with the atmosphere.

Timings- Tuesday to Saturday – 8:00am to 4:00

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One of the oldest wildlife sanctuaries in India that was set up in 1915, the Senchal Wildlife Sanctuary is a haven for wildlife lovers who are visiting Darjeeling for just a couple of days or on the weekends. It is approximately 11 kilometers away from the Darjeeling town.

The Senchal Lake inside the sanctuary is one of the picturesque sites that attract lots of tourists. It is a perfect haunt for photographers and nature lovers. The Senchal Lake is a source of drinking water to Darjeeling. If you are looking for a place to spend some fun filled moments with your family and friends, the perfect surroundings to Senchal Lake is good for a weekend picnic.

The Senchal Wildlife Sanctuary is home to several species of animals such as the barking deer, wild pig, Himalayan black bear, leopard, jungle cat, common rhesus monkey, Assam macaque, Himalayan flying squirrel and many more. It is also rich in several bird species and plant species. It covers an area of approximately 40 square kilometers.

There are beautiful varieties of flora in the Sanctuary. Oak, Pine and Birch trees, around 350 types of flowering plants including Rhododendron and Orchids, plantations of Dhupi, Kapasi, Kawla, Hemlock and mating bamboo etc. will surely tickle your lens to capture amazing photos of the wilderness.

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The beautiful Shrubbery Nightingale Park is an amazing place to visit with your family in Darjeeling to relax your soul from the chaos of work life. Mesmerizing Kanchenjunga Peaks and Eastern Himalayan Ranges is a beautiful backdrop that will give you a visual treat. In a peak tourist season, this park becomes a fun place as many Nepali cultural programs are held here every evening.

This place was completely destroyed by an earthquake in 1934, after some years the place had been renovated. The park is crisscrossed by many pebbled walkways and also maintains an idol of Lord Shiva. The musical fountain is also a major attraction inside the park. Holidays in Darjeeling will be more interesting and pleasant if you include Nightingale Park in your Darjeeling itinerary tour.

Timings- 8:00am to 8:00pm

Best Time to Visit – October and November

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Another major Tourist attraction in Darjeeling St. Andrew’s Church, which is one of the prominent architectural examples from the colonial era. It is named after the patron saint of Scotland. It was built in the year 1843 but was later rebuilt in 1873 after it was damaged by a massive earthquake. The church holds many inlaid marble tablets and brass plaques, including that of Lt. General Lloyd (Also known as Discoverer of Darjeeling) and Charlotte Countess Canning (Wife of governor general).

From outside the church looks old and not well maintained but from inside it looks beautiful. One of the most interesting facts about this church is that the old cemetery of Darjeeling was under its authority till 1995. In 1970, with the help of Das studio collected records of all the graves through photography but strangely the records have disappeared since then.

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The gorgeous Nepali Style Hindu Temple of Dhirdham is one of the most popular religious tourist attractions to visit in Darjeeling. The temple is located just below the Toy Train Railway Station. Built by Rai Saheb aka Purna Bahadur Pradhan (King of Nepal) in 1936, this beautiful temple of Lord Shiva offers spiritual bliss and eternal peace to the devotees.

The major attraction inside the complex is the white colored statue of Lord Shiva that represents the five different expressions of Shiva with his universal third eye. The architecture of the temple resembles The Pashupatinath Temple of Kathmandu. The temple complex holds a tranquil ambiance and you will surely come across the hospitable nature of the priests’ bestowing blessings to devotees.

Aarti Timings- 8:00 am to 6:00pm

Note- Cameras are not allowed inside the temple premises.

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Located 3km away from Darjeeling, Aloobari Monastery got its name from a place named Aloobari. A religious leader from North Eastern Nepal Sangay Lama built this serene Buddhist monastery during the first world war. This monastery was built as a symbol of peace amidst the chaos of war. The name Mak Dog was given to this monastery which means averting the war. The bright red and yellow walls, two lions on the top of the entry gate look gorgeous.

Inside the monastery you will see the statue of Buddha, Padmasambhava, a prayer hall and murals depicting the life story of Lord Buddha. Surrounding the monastery are several villages inhabited by Tibetan families. It is one of the must visit places near Darjeeling where you can get acquainted with the local culture and experience their hospitality.

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One of the three monasteries in Ghoom, the Samten Choling Monastery is approximately 7 kilometers away from Darjeeling town and belongs to the Gelugpa sect of Buddhists. It is crafted with a huge square arched gate and the exterior of the monastery maintains a white body and golden top in the typical Tibetan architectural style. The major attraction is the 26-foot model of Lord Buddha. It also houses a huge collection of Buddhist books and manuscripts. Inside the premises you will find a small café where you can have tea or coffee and light snacks. It is also the residence of several monks belonging to the yellow hat sect.

Tourists are requested not to confuse Samten monastery with Yiga Choeling monastery, which is the original Ghoom Monastery, was built in the year 1850, and is 1 kilometer away from the Samten Choling Monastery. It also belongs to the Gelugpa sect of Buddhists and maintains a 15-foot model of Lord Buddha. Inside the Yiga Choeling Monastery there are images of Lord Buddha and lamas. There is a large collection of Buddha’s manuscripts, bells and a huge drum inside. Visiting these monasteries will teleport you into the world of euphoria.

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5 km away from Darjeeling, Dali Monastery’s soothing and calm vibes will give you peace and divine wisdom.  The Dali Monastery which was originally named as Druk Sangag Choling Monastery, is yet another important Buddhist pilgrimage center and top tourist attraction to visit near Darjeeling belonging to the Kagyupa sect. It was built in a typical Tibetan style during the period of Thuksey Rinpochey in 1971.

The monastery also maintains huge cylindrical golden coloured drums. The chants from the prayer room and humming from cylindrical golden coloured drums creates wonderful ethereal vibes. There is a coffee shop and residences belonging to over 200 monks.

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The largest monastery in Ghoom, which was built in 1850 by Lama Sherab Gyatso and belongs to the Gelug sect, the Ghoom Monastery is one of the major and oldest Buddhist pilgrimage places in Darjeeling district. It is approximately 8 kilometers from Darjeeling town. This monastery belongs to Gelugpa Sect.

Besides the prayer hall, the monastery houses a 15 feet high statue of “Maitreya Buddha”, images of Buddha’s disciples, and many Buddhist texts. The oil lamps in the monastery keep burning all year and all the time. Don’t get confused with Samten Choling Monastery which is also known as Ghoom monastery by locals.

Note – You will have to pay for photography and Videography

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Belonging to the Nyingma sect, the Bhutia Busty Monastery, which is also known as Karma Dorjee Choling monastery, is a branch of Phodang Monastery in Sikkim. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Darjeeling. It was initially built atop the Observatory Hill in 1761 by Lama Dorje Rinzing but was later relocated to its present location in 1879 after the invasion of Darjeeling by the Gorkhas.

The Bhutia Busty Monastery is approximately 2 kilometers down from the Mall and houses a huge collection of Old Buddhist scripts, including the “Book of Dead ”, which is one of the notable ones. The present architectural structure that dilates the Buddhist traditional style of craftsmanship pulls in thousands of tourists throughout the year.

The monastery maintains a prayer room, a model of Lord Buddha, photographs of the Dalai Lama and images of Goddess Tara Devi and Lakshmi Eswari. It also houses a huge collection of murals, which are originally made out of real gold powder.

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Established on 2 October 1959, Tibetan Refugee Self Help Center is a home to the Tibetan refugees, sick, elderly and destitute… the Tibetan Refugee Self Help Center today houses 130 Tibetan families who mostly earn their bread and butter by producing traditional handicrafts like Buddha idols, various Tibetan sculptures, musical instruments, masks, thangka painting and many more.

It is located at hillside Lebong in Darjeeling that has a historical significance where the thirteenth Dalai Lama had spent his exile in India from 1910 to 1912. It is a must visit place in Darjeeling for tourists having keen interest in Indo-Tibetan culture and their lifestyle.

A fine example of traditional Japanese style architecture, the Japanese Temple is one of the major Buddhist pilgrimage sites in Darjeeling that was inaugurated in the year 1972. It is a two storied white building that maintains a large prayer room where the chief priest offers the prayers, beating a huge drum (also known as Ho-ko) that reverberates to build up a solemn atmosphere in the entire temple premises. The temple further hosts a picture of the founder Fujii Guruji and a model of Lord Buddha.

Close to the Japanese Temple is the Peace Pagoda, which is a monument to inspire peace, designed to provide a focus for people of all races and creeds, and to help unite them in their search for world peace. It was inaugurated in the year 1992 and houses four avatars of Lord Buddha.

From the top of the Pagoda, you get a panoramic view of the landscape of Darjeeling including the Kanchenjunga range. The Japanese Temple and Peace Pagoda comes in the list of top 10 most sought tourist spots in Darjeeling that you can’t miss on your Darjeeling trip.

Located in the heart of Darjeeling town, the Darjeeling Mall and Chowrasta is one of the best places to explore in Darjeeling that one cannot afford to miss on his or her trip to Darjeeling. It is a rendezvous of people from all over the world and is notable as a popular tourist hangout in Darjeeling.

Besides hosting several boutique shops, restaurants and eateries… this place is just your own pick where you would love to get hold of nature at its best.

One side of the mall is thickly layered with pine forest under the shadow of the towering mountain peaks, the other side lies shops of traditional garments, handicrafts, carpets, rugs, paintings, semi-precious jewellery and metal wares. Some of the noted shops, restaurants and eateries in the area are Habeeb Mullick & Son, Curio Corner, Nathmulls Tea & Sunset Lounge, Golden Tips, Life & Leaf, Jolly arts and Bhutan Tibet Art Shop.

The Hawa Ghar and the huge golden color statue of the Nepali poet Bhanubhakta Acharya are the two major attractions in Chowrasta. The Bhutia Market, which is close to Chowrasta is another attraction for shopaholics.

One of the top tourist attractions in Darjeeling is the Tiger Hill, which is the highest point in the region. It stands at an elevation of 2,590 meters overlooking the spur of the snowcapped mountain ranges of the Eastern Himalaya. Tiger Hill is one of the two points in India from where you can capture the entire panorama between Mount Everest and Khangchendzonga along with other peaks like the Kabru, Rathong and Kokhtang on a sunny morning.

The other point from where you can have a glimpse of a similar panorama is from Phalut, at 3,600 meters approximately, which can be only reached by trekking. The Phalut trekking route from Darjeeling starts from Manebhanjan and goes through Tonglu, Giribas, Kalapokhri and Sandakphu.

The Singalila National Park that falls on the trekking route is yet another attraction in and around Darjeeling. Nonetheless, Tiger Hill is best known for the amazing view of the Khangchendzonga peak at sunrise. It is easily accessible by road and roughly takes 40-45 minutes to reach from Darjeeling town.

Originally formed in 1915, to display only the specimens of butterflies and birds of the area… the Bengal Natural History Museum comprises two major sections today housing a huge collection of different specimens like birds with nests and eggs, reptiles and fishes, mammals, insects and more.

The taxidermy unit that was built at the time of inception serves to mount the skins of animals so that they have a lifelike appearance at the display. While one of the sections exhibit specimens like Himalayan Brown Wood Owls, Northern spotted owlet, Northern Brown Fish Owl, pheasants, fly catchers, woodpeckers and 800 more bird species, 35 species of snakes, 57 species of fishes, 608 species of butterflies and moths the other is stocked with animal species like Tibetan fox, Tibetan Lynx, elephant, Toddy cat, heads of wild buffaloes hanging from the walls, panthers, leopards and many more.

There are some other less important sections in the museum that display specimens of reptiles and insects. It is one of the best places to visit with family in Darjeeling for a great insight on bird and animal life.

Close to Chowrasta or The Mall, the Observatory Hill is another popular tourist place in Darjeeling from where you can capture magnificent views of the snow-clad peaks, including Kanchendzonga and its sister peaks. It is approximately 10-15 minutes of uphill walk from the Mall. Atop the hill is the Mahakal Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva and also holds three gold plated icons of Brahma, Vishnu and Maheshwar.

It is one of the major Hindu pilgrimage sites in Darjeeling that was built after the invasion by the Gorkhas in the 19th century. Originally this place was the home to the Dorjeling Monastery that was relocated in 1861 to its present location, which is some 2 kilometers down from the Mall. Around the Observatory Hill you come across the Sai Baba Temple and Hanuman Temple and several Hindu priests and Buddhist monks.

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So are you ready to explore the best of Darjeeling tourism? Make your trip to Darjeeling this year more exciting with us. Tour My India offers you the best of Darjeeling sightseeing tour along with organizing other adventure activities in and around this hill station like rock climbing, wildlife trail, hiking and trekking in Singalila Range. Contact us and let our expert reach out to you with the best travel deals.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to plan a holiday to darjeeling.

Darjeeling is a best tourist destination to visit in summer as well as winters. The weather is very pleasant for sightseeing in summer (April- June) In winters (October - December) is the best time for exploring wildlife and adventure activities.

What are the nearest airports & railway stations to Darjeeling?

Bagdogra Airport is the nearest Airport located 70 km away from Darjeeling. Darjeeling Railway Station and Siliguri Railway Station are the two closest Railheads to Darjeeling.

What are the top places to Visit in Darjeeling for couples?

• Tea Gardens
• Kanchenjunga National Park
• Nightingale Park

What are the best places in Darjeeling with Kids?

• Toy Train Ride
• Darjeeling Zoo
• Chowrasta Mall

How are the accommodation facilities for tourists in Darjeeling?

Darjeeling offers good quality accommodation options to the tourists of all kinds. Whether you are with family or a couple, solo traveler or backpackers, leisure lovers to adventurers- You will surely get accommodation according to your taste and preferences. From 5-star, guest houses, luxury resorts, to budget hotels, the facilities and amenities are equivalent to international standards.

Published: 25 Jan, 2022

About the author

Swairik Das

Brought up from the cultural capital of India, Kolkata, Swairik Das is a passionate traveller who seeks to travel and explore the length and breadth of the country. He is also a dedicated travel writer, blogger and photographer who by heart is also an adventure freak. His focus is mostly into exploring and writing on trekking, jungle safaris and several adventure activities; religion, festival, heritage, people and cuisine.

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28 Top Tourist Places to Visit in Darjeeling

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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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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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DARJEELING TRIP PLAN – A Complete Travel Guide with FAQs Answered

Darjeeling , Featured , West Bengal

Last Updated on: Dec 24, 2016  

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

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

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

Table of Contents

Darjeeling Trip Plan | About Darjeeling

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

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

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

What is the Best Time to Visit Darjeeling?

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

March to May (Spring and Summer)

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

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

June to September (Monsoon)

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

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

October to November (Autumn)

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

December to February (Winter)

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

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

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

How to Reach Darjeeling?

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

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

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

Best Places to visit in Darjeeling

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

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

1. Tiger Hill

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

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

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

2. Batasia Loop and War Memorial

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

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

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

3. Darjeeling Mall or Chowrasta

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

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

4. Darjeeling Zoo and HMI

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

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

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

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

5. Rock Garden and Ganga Maya Park

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

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

6. Japanese Temple and Peace Pagoda

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

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

Timings: Everyday from 4:30 AM to 7 PM

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

7. Happy Valley Tea Estate

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

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

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

8. Observatory Hill and the Mahakal Temple

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

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

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

Timings: From sunrise to sunset.

9. Ghum Monastery

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

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

10. Tenzing and Gombu Rocks

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

11. Tibetan Refugee Self Help Centre

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

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

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

Darjeeling Travel Guide | Darjeeling Sightseeing

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

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

Tentative Rate for reserved Taxi: Rs 1200.00 – 1500.00

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

Tentative Rate of reserved car: Rs 1200.00 – 1500.00

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

Tentative Rate of reserved car: Rs 1500.00 – 1700.00

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

Darjeeling Toy Train

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

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

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

Darjeeling Tea

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

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Darjeeling?

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

Luxury Hotels in Darjeeling

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

Mid Budget Hotels

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

Budget Hotels in Darjeeling

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

What are the Best Places to eat in Darjeeling Trip?

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

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

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

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

How much does it cost to travel in Darjeeling?

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

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

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

Shopping in Darjeeling Trip | Darjeeling Travel Guide

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day trips from Darjeeling | Darjeeling Travel Guide

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

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

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

Darjeeling Trip – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs answered)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Other Resources on Darjeeling

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

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Hey! we’re Agni & Amrita.

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

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42 Comments

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

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

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

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

Thank you so much.

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

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

You forgot to mention Aloobari monostry and Jalapahar, St Paul

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

This was amazing.. trust me Thankyou

Thank you so much!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

You have made Darjeeling more beautiful from your precise perceptive.

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

THANK YOU SO MUCH 🌎❤️

That’s an amazing article

Dear Sir/Mam,

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

Thanking you Kaushik Mandal

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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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

Visit Tiger Hill in Darjeeling to experience the unique opportunity to see the magnificent sunrise over Kanchenjunga Mountain. At 2,590 metres, it's the ideal vantage point, drawing travellers from all over the world. Here, you can enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Everest and Mount Kanchenjunga from the top of Ghoom. Moreover, you can also Immerse yourself in the mesmerizing beauty of nature as the morning sun rises.

Top Experiences To Do in Tiger Hill

Batasia Loop

Situated amidst the beautiful towns of Darjeeling and Ghum is the captivating Batasia Loop, a spiralling railway track. A spectacular 360-degree view of the Eastern Himalayas, including the mighty Kanchenjunga, is yours to enjoy as you descend 140 feet. It is a moving War Memorial remembering Gorkha troops and is surrounded by gorgeous gardens. Batasia Loop is a must-visit site in Darjeeling where you may appreciate the serene beauty and pay regard to the region's history.

Top Experiences To Do in Batasia Loop

Sandakphu Trek

Discover the allure of the Sandakphu Trek, which leads you to the highest peak in West Bengal. Start from Manebhanjan and journey through vibrant rhododendron forests to reach breathtaking vistas. At 3,636 metres above sea level, the trek offers stunning views of Everest and Kanchenjunga. Spanning 52 kilometres over 5 to 6 days and passing through the Singalila National Park, it is a trekker's delight.

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

Hike up the Observatory Hill in Darjeeling to the sacred Mahakal Temple, which is a mere 20 minutes from the highway. Along the way, the challenging winding path makes the journey worth your while for the breathtaking panoramas, lush fields, and lovely cottages. You also get to spot naughty monkeys while enjoying the spiritual vibes and beautiful scenery. 

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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Which are the best places to visit in Darjeeling in 2 days?

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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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• 20 Things To Do In Darjeeling In 2023 That You Won’t Find In Any Travel Guide!

26 Apr 2024

Spread in ribbons over a steep mountain ridge, surrounded by emerald-green tea plantations, and towered over by the majestic Khangchendzonga (8598 m), Darjeeling is among the best hill stations in India. But the list of the most amazing things to do in Darjeeling goes beyond these attractions. The beautiful tea gardens on the slopes of rolling hills, the orchids, pines & rhododendrons, the cute Himalayan toy train negotiating its way through the mountains combined with great sightseeing tours, food, shopping and other exciting activities, there’s so much that this stunning town has to offer.

20 Best Things To Do In Darjeeling

Confused about what to do in Darjeeling? Here is the list of activities you can do in Darjeeling that will make you plan your holiday right away. Keep scrolling down and read along!

• Teesta – Go River Rafting
• Sandakphu – Trek The Peak
• The Toy Train – Take A Joy Ride
• Himalayan Mountaineering Institute – Learn Mountaineering
• Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park – Explore Wildlife
• Tiger Hill – Watch The Sunrise
• Dooars – Explore The Tea Gardens
• Kalimpong – Visit The Monastery
• Peace Pagoda – Calm Your Mind
• Batasia Loop – Explore The War Memorial
• Thukpa And Momos – Relish Some Local Food
• Keventers Restaurant – Enjoy Breakfast
• Churpi – Grab A Candy
• Chowrasta – Stroll On The Mall Road
• Bhutia Market – Buy Some Woolens
• Tattoos – Get Inked
• Revolver Hotel – B&B With Music
• Singalila Jungle Lodge – Lodge Amidst A Forest
• Darjeeling Blossoms Eco-Tourism – Live Close To Nature
• Khambuhang Nature Holiday Camp – Enjoy Cottage Camping

1. Teesta - Go River Rafting

Davedharmendra for Wikimedia Commons

For one of the best experiences of river rafting in India , head to the Teesta river and find out why it is one of the best things to do in Darjeeling in June! The activity is loaded with a series of rapids with varying intensities, ranging from Grade 1 to 4, wherein the latter is only allowed to seasoned, trained rafters because of the level of danger involved in it. This is one of the best adventure activities in Darjeeling.

Cost: INR 900 - INR 1500 Best Time: December - June Risk Level: High

Must Read: Places To Stay In Darjeeling

2. Sandakphu - Trek The Peak

P maneesha for Wikimedia Commons

If you are looking forward to indulging in more adventure activities in Darjeeling. A trekking trip to Sandakphu is absolutely essential for all adventure freaks. It is the highest point in the state of West Bengal and is definitely one of the most fun things to do in Darjeeling. Located at an astounding height of 3,636m, it is known for offering the best panoramic views of the enthralling Mt Everest and the Kanchenjunga Peak.

Cost: INR 9000 - INR 10,000 Best Time: April - May and October - early December Risk Level: Medium

3. The Toy Train - Take A Joy Ride

Syed Sajidul Islam for Wikimedia Commons

The Toy Train ride is one of the most famous things in Darjeeling. You can start your ride from Ghoom and get down at Kurseong, to eat at the many food joints, for Darjeeling sightseeing wherein you get a breathtaking panoramic view of the surrounding hills that transport you into a world of romance. It is one of the most fun activities in Darjeeling which cannot be missed.  

Location: Ghoom, Darjeeling Cost: INR 100 - INR 1300 Timings: NA

Suggested Read: Darjeeling In Winter

4. Himalayan Mountaineering Institute - Learn Rock Climbing

Pinakpani for Wikimedia Commons

The Himalayan Mountaineering Institute located at Jawahar Parvat in Darjeeling, conducts a number of mountaineering and adventure courses at various levels ranging from beginners to expert. The course duration ranges from a month to a few days. HMI has Rock Climbing and other basic activities for one-time tourists who do not want to get into the full-fledged courses and are visiting the town only for a few days. But whatever be the duration, the entire experience is unmatched and completely exhilarating.

Location: Jawahar Parvat, Darjeeling, West Bengal 734101 Cost: The Basic Course costing INR 4000/- per person lasts for a month while Rock Climbing and smaller activities are provided through walk-in and cost a mere 200 bucks per person. Timings: 9 AM - 5 PM Risk Level: Medium

5. Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park - Explore Wildlife

Pradeep Kumar A V for Wikimedia Commons

Located in the famous town of Darjeeling, exploring the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park is one of the best activities to do in Darjeeling. Get ready to meet the endangered Himalayan wolf, the Red Panda, snow leopards and more. You can also explore the mountain Institute and take a few tips for mountaineering.

Location: Darjeeling – Jorethang Road, Near Birch Hill Resort, Jawahar Parbat, Darjeeling, West Bengal 734101 Cost: NA Best Time: March - June and September - January

Suggested Read: Tourist Places In Darjeeling

Places To Visit In Darjeeling

Darjeeling, the ‘tea garden of India’ is a very beautiful place to visit. The hills, the steam engine train, and the lush green tea plantations will make you want to stay here forever. And here are some of the best places and things to see in Darjeeling:

6. Tiger Hill - Watch The Sunrise

Judith for Wikimedia Commons

Your trip is unsuccessful until you have witnessed the sunrise at Tiger Hill . The way the sunlight falls on those snowcapped peaks of Kanchenjunga and illuminate it in gorgeous colours, that view is simply breathtaking. Hiking is one of the best things to do in Darjeeling and Gangtok. You will have the time of your life and will not be disappointed by the avenues of adventure and entertainment this place opens up for you.

Location:  West Bengal 734123 Cost: NA Best Time: October - December and March - April

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7. Dooars - Explore The Tea Gardens

Image Source

Taking a tour of the tea plantation is one of the top things to do in Darjeeling in May. Though the tea gardens of Darjeeling are world famous, you must take a trip down to them at Dooars to witness the sprawling beauty yourself and sip on that refreshing Darjeeling Tea . The verdant pruned bushes, especially in this tea district, is a magical sight which you will never forget in life.

Location: Jalpaiguri District, West Bengal Cost: NA Best Time: mid-September - May

Suggested Read: Darjeeling In Monsoon

8. Kalimpong - Visit The Monastery

Amitabha Gupta for Wikimedia Commons

Zang Dhok Palri Phodang is a beautiful and popular monastery at Kalimpong, Darjeeling. The monastery holds enormous significance as it is home to the many rare scriptures which were brought into India after the fateful invasion of Tibet in 1959. A trip to this peaceful sanctuary should definitely be on your list of places to see in Darjeeling . If you are a traveller who is seeking a spot for meditating, visiting the Kalimpong Monastery is one of the best offbeat things you can do in Darjeeling!

Location:  West Bengal 734301 Cost: NA Best Time: March - May and September - November

9. Peace Pagoda - Calm Your Mind

tearsxintherain for Wikimedia Commons

Sitting atop the Charlimont Hill , Darjeelings Peace Pagoda is one of the 30 such pagodas in the world that were established by the Japanese Buddhist monk Nichidatsu Fujii as a way of promoting World Peace and harmony. Visit this one of the most popular Darjeeling attractions for an outright serene and tranquil experience.

Location:  West Point, Darjeeling, West Bengal 734102 Cost: NA Timimgs: 4.30 AM - 7 PM

Suggested Read: Wildlife In Darjeeling

10. Batasia Loop - Explore The War Memorial

This is one of the most interesting Darjeeling attractions. Venture out to Batasia Loop, the historically and scenically significant junction and a great option for sightseeing in Darjeeling! If youre traveling via the Toy Train, or walking back from Tiger Hill, look out for this famous railway loop that goes around the open-air Gorkha War Memorial, established in honour of the brave soldiers from the region who laid down their lives in WWI and WWII and among the important places to see in Darjeeling.

Location:  Darjeeling district, West Bengal Cost: INR 15 Timings: 5 AM - 4.30 PM

What To Eat In Darjeeling

Check out the list of delicious food delicacies and where to eat them while you are on a vacation in Darjeeling. Take a look!

11. Thukpa And Momos - Relish Some Local Food

Darjeeling has scrumptious answers to your food cravings while youre there. You can enjoy some delicious variety of Darjeeling food like Thukpa and momos that are available in the street joints at almost every nook and corner of the town. Gorging on thump and momos is one of the best things to do in Darjeeling at night.

Places to eat: Kunga Restaurant, Hot Stimulating Cafe, Dekevas

12. Keventers Restaurant - Enjoy Breakfast

Bodhisattwa for Wikimedia Commons

Having breakfast at Keventers should definitely be on your list of Darjeeling highlights. Don't forget to try the delicious Cheese Toast when you're dining here. You can hog on Indo-Western cuisine here or simply get a cup of coffee and drink it while admiring the views outside. It doesn’t get any better than this! This is one of the must-visit restaurants in this region. It is not hard to see why!

Location: Shop No. 1, Club Side, Nehru Rd, Darjeeling, West Bengal 734101 Timings: 8 AM - 6.30 PM

13. Churpi - Grab A Candy

Sumit Surai for Wikimedia Commons

Churpi is a kind of chewing bar that is not exactly sweet in taste, but has a delicious flavor nevertheless. What makes this unique is the fact that it keeps the body warm during winters and gives energy. It is available in almost all street shops selling groceries and comes at a nominal price. You can stock a horde to treat your winter blues when youre back home.

Suggested Read: Darjeeling In December

Where To Shop In Darjeeling

Who doesn’t like shopping? Here some of the places to shop in Darjeeling on your trip. Keep scrolling down and read along!

14. Chowrasta - Stroll On The Mall Road

Vabinik for Wikimedia Commons

Get to Chowrasta, or The Mall, as it is popularly known among tourists, and enjoy the beautiful evening, with a cool breeze brushing your hair while you shop. The Mall Road stretching through Chowrasta is not just a shopping hub but is also perfect for a relaxing stroll and is one of the best things to do in Darjeeling in 2 days.

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Sikkim In Summer

15. Bhutia Market - Buy Some Woolens

Shahnoor Habib Munmun for Wikimedia Commons

So what is famous in Darjeeling for shopping? Bhutia Market is a row of temporary stalls set up by the local Bhutias and is located on a narrow lane that leads down from Chowrasta (The Mall), next to Nathmulls. It’s a shopping paradise for tourists and its where you'll get all winter wear (like sweaters, gloves, woollen caps, mufflers, etc), jackets and even jeans at very reasonable prices. One of the fundamental things to do in Darjeeling is to go to Nathmulls and buy yourself an enormous stock of refreshing Darjeeling Tea from an array of shops.

Location:  5, Mal Rd, Chauk Bazaar, Mall Rd, Chauk Bazaar, Darjeeling, West Bengal 734101 Timings: 9 AM - 8 PM (Closed)

16. Tattoos - Get Inked

Tony Alter for Wikimedia Commons

Darjeeling is much like Goa in terms of providing opportunities for body art. Permanent and temporary tattoo parlours, offering to convert a part of your body into a brilliant masterpiece, are available at almost every nook and corner of the town, adding a hippie influence to this scenic and serene location. And the best part, they go incredibly easy on your budget. Getting a tattoo is one of the best things to do in Darjeeling for all travelers who crave fun and thrill.

Tattoo shops: Pradhan Studio, Tattoo 29, Samink Tattoo Studio

Suggested Read: Resorts In Darjeeling 

Where To Stay In Darjeeling

Now, let’s look at the best place where you can stay while you are on your vacation. Don’t forget to make your reservation on time!

17. Revolver Hotel - B&B With Music

Adding a unique touch to the town is its Beatles-themed hotel providing music based on both eastern and western influences. It’s a budget Bed & Breakfast Lodge and one would find every inch of the interiors laden with the popular Bands art. You have to experience it to believe it!

Location:  110 Gandhi Road, Behind Union Chapel, Darjeeling, West Bengal 734101 Room charges:  INR 1400 - INR 3000

18. Singalila Jungle Lodge - Lodge Amidst A Forest

It is a family owned property owned and run by Avinash Rai – a local. The lodge is spread across some 9 acres of land area full of lush forest and plantations. Once you are in the lodge premises, the only noise you may hear during the day is the chirping of the birds in its garden and the gushing of streams. The lodge offers a spectacular view of the Singalila National Park. You will have the time of your life here.

Location: Palmajua, P.O Bansbotay, Rimbick, West Bengal 734201 Room charges:  NA

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Darjeeling In June

19. Darjeeling Blossoms Eco-Tourism - Live Close To Nature

Image Source Darjeeling Blossoms’s foray into ecotourism began eight years ago. They, along with the help of our community, have earned a name for our excellent services. During your stay with them in their complex, you will discover the inner secrets and mysteries of our fascinating land, people and culture, so different from anything that one might imagine while residing in the hustle and bustle of city life.

Location: Bara Mungwa, West Bengal 734312 Room charges:  Starts at INR 3000

20. Khambuhang Nature Holiday Camp - Enjoy Cottage Camping

The deluxe cottage at Khambuhang Nature Holiday Camp in Kalimpong, are well-designed rooms with wooden interiors to provide an authentic feel of Himalayan Houses. The rooms offer a range of amenities including high-speed Wi-Fi, 24-hour hot and cold water, toiletries, Room service, laundry service and much more. The owners will make sure you enjoy your stay at thisnature camp.

Location: Paren – Todey Rd, Paren Godak Khasmahal, West Bengal 734319 Room charges:  NA

Further Read: Cottages In Darjeeling

With so many things in Darjeeling, India and our detailed guide, we hope that by now you must be really intrigued to visit this place ASAP. Wherever you are, you must plan your trip to Darjeeling at least once in your lifetime to experience all that it has to offer. Darjeeling has all the great ingredients to provide you a perfect break from your daily life. We are also sure that you will want to come back again.

For our editorial codes of conduct and copyright disclaimer, please click here . Cover Image Source: Shutterstock

Frequently Asked Questions About Things To Do In Darjeeling

What is there to see in Darjeeling?

The major attraction in Darjeeling include: 1. Tiger Hill 2. Kalimpong 3. Peace Pagoda 4. Batasia Loop 5. Sandakphu

Can we visit Darjeeling in December?

The average temperature in Darjeeling during December ranges from 2.5°C to 11.2°C. Most of the tourist attractions are open and there are lesser chances of snowfall. So, many people, especially couples, choose to visit Darjeeling in December too.

What is Darjeeling most famous for?

Darjeeling is famous mainly for its tea plantations. Another highlight is its Himalayan railway, which still has a working steam engine train making it a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

What is the right time to visit Darjeeling?

The best time to visit Darjeeling is during summer months from April to June.

How many days are enough for Darjeeling?

5 to 7 Days are enough to explore Darjeeling and the nearby Gangtok. Keep You can spend 2 days in Darjeeling, 2 days in Gangtok and 1 day in Nathula exploring and sightseeing the places.

Is there snowfall in Darjeeling?

Yes, it does occasionally snowfall in Darjeeling and only in some parts of the districts that are located higher in altitude.

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The Top 19 Things to Do in Darjeeling, India

Jane Sweeney/Getty Images

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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Here Are Top 10 Places to Visit in Darjeeling (That You Can’t Miss)

• February 15, 2023
• June 29, 2023
• West Bengal , India

What comes to mind when you hear the word Darjeeling? Lush green and wide tea plantation? The aesthetic Darjeeling Himalayan Railway? Or is it the song “ Mere sapno ki raani kab aaygi tu?”

Darjeeling has something that pulls tourists and travelers from all around the world. It has several places with cultural and heritage importance. And in this travel guide, we’ll tell you about the best places to visit in Darjeeling. 

You’ll also get a rough estimate for ticket pricing and locality in which these places exist. The accommodation options, food, souvenirs, and some practical travel tips — everything is there in this Darjeeling travel guide.

And in between lines here and there, we’ll also insert our personal experience so that you can set right expectations before arriving in Darjeeling.

Are you ready to make your Darjeeling trip memorable? Read on!

Notice: This post may contain a few links that might earn us financial support when you buy or make any reservations. They in no way affect our opinion or the information presented here.

Article Outline

In case you want it in a video.

10 Best Places To Visit In Darjeeling

1. batasia loop.

If you want to see 360-degree views of Kanchenjunga and the Darjeeling city while the toy train does a merry-go-round, come to Batasia Loop.

Batasia Loop is a spiral railway line in Darjeeling that eases the climb of the Himalayan Railway (toy train). This railway line is around a war memorial dedicated to the Gurkha soldiers of the Indian Army, established in 1995.

Batasia loop has beautiful gardens and flower plantations all around. And it makes a perfect place to enjoy your time with your friends and family. 

Remember, the train doesn’t stop here but passes through it, which is in itself a sight to see.

Ticket : INR 30 per person

Opening hours : 5 am to 8 pm.

2. Tiger Hill

How about watching the sunrise with panoramic views of Mt. Everest, Eastern Himalayas, tea plantations and the Kanchenjunga? At Tiger Hill, you get all these — for FREE (technically).

Tiger Hill is a popular mountain peak about 12 km from Darjeeling, at an altitude of 2,590 meters (8,500 ft).

Travel Tip : Book a taxi or rent a bike one day before. See the time of sunrise on the weather app on your smartphone. Reaching prior to the sunrise is a requirement if you want to fully enjoy this experience.

Tiger Hill Ticket Pricing : 

• INR 20 per person for the ground level, 
• INR 30 per person for the first floor, 
• INR 40 per person for the top floor which has comfortable seating with better views.

Opening hours : 4 am to 6 pm.

3. Darjeeling Himalayan Railways (DHR)

Your trip to Darjeeling is incomplete without getting a ride on the DHR.

DHR is a narrow-gauge railway (toy train) that runs between New Jalpaiguri and Darjeeling.

Britisher built this railway in 1881 with the chief aim of transporting tea and other goods.

It covers a distance of 88 km (55 mi) with a total of 87 stations. You will enjoy breathtaking views while covering this distance when you hop on it.

The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999. At first, steam locomotives were used for many years. But, diesel locomotives took the place in the 1960s.

Tip : You can book tickets for the toy train journey on the official website of the Indian Railways (IRCTC). But be mindful, tickets are hard to get because of the rush. So, please book in advance for a confirmed seat.

4. Rock Garden

One of the best places to visit in Darjeeling is the Rock Garden. 

You can visit it on a hillock near Chunnu Summer Falls, at a distance of 10 km from the main city. This garden got its formation by cutting mountains and rocks.

Also, if nature is your thing, you should not miss visiting Rock Garden.

You’ll love the beautiful views of the surrounding hills and valleys from the garden. There is also a lake inside the Rock Garden, adding to its charm.

About 3 km from the Rock Garden is the Ganga Maya Park which has a small lake where boating facilities are available. Gorkha folk dances are organized here for the entertainment of the tourists.

Ticket Cost for Rock Garden : INR 20 per person.

Opening hours : 8 am to 6 pm.

5. Happy Valley Tea Estate

Darjeeling is full of tea estates. And, Happy Valley Tea Estate is one of the most famous and oldest tea gardens among them. This estate was established in 1854 by a Scottish planter named George Williamson and covers an area of approximately 170 hectares.

Happy Valley Tea Estate is known for producing high quality tea.

You can learn about the tea cultivation process here. From plucking the leaves to the final stages of packing. There is also a small museum inside where you can learn about the history of tea cultivation.

Unfortunately, we could not visit this tea estate. But we did visit the Ging Tea Estate, which is at a distance from Happy Valley Tea Estate and offers a similar experience.

6. Darjeeling Ropeway

Do you want to fly over the majestic tea plantations of Darjeeling? If yes, try out the Darjeeling Ropeway.

The Darjeeling Ropeway (aka Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Ropeway) is a cable car service that connects Darjeeling town to Singla Bazaar.

Here’s an interesting fact : It is India’s first and longest ropeway which covers a distance of about 3 km in the valley. You can ride it and enjoy the beautiful views of the surrounding hills and valleys.

Note : The ropeways get closed during monsoon season due to heavy rains and landslides.

Tickets : INR 200 for adults and INR 100 for children.

Opening time:

• In Winter and Monsoon: 10:00 am to 4:00 pm.
• In Summer: 10:00 am to 2:00 pm.

7. Ghoom Monastery

If you want a calm and serene place to spend some time in solitude, Ghoom monastery is your place. The beautiful artistry on the building, enriched with Buddhist culture, will surely attract you.

Ghoom Monastery, also known as Yiga Choiling Monastery, is a small Tibetan Buddhist monastery. It was built in 1875 and is one of the oldest and most important Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in the region. 

You can easily access it as the monastery is situated on the main road. However, you can skip it if you’re short on time or on a mission to explore the places to visit in Darjeeling in 1 day.

Don’t forget to touch the prayer wheels! 

8. Dali Monastery

Another beautiful monastery to visit in Darjeeling is Dali monastery (Druk Sangag Choling monastery). You can easily visit this place as it’s situated on the way to Batasia Loop, and on the main road. You may have to climb some stairs to reach this building.

The best time to visit Dali Monastery is either in the morning or in the evening when there is prayer and chanting. Other times, you may find the main hall closed. 

210 Tibetan Buddhists of the Drukchen sect live in Dali Gompa of this monastery. The hall of 6 feet high golden Tibetan prayer wheels located here draws huge crowds.

9. Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park

Fancy seeing super cute red pandas? Then come to Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park.

You can find a wide variety of animals including the snow leopard, red panda, Tibetan wolf, royal Bengal tiger and Himalayan black bear. The park also houses a breeding and research center for the endangered snow leopard and red panda.

This zoo spans over a 67.56-acre land and is one of the well-maintained zoos of India. So, you may have to walk a lot. Also, it is the first zoo in India to join the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA).

Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park sits at an altitude of 7,000 feet. It follows the design as if it were the natural habitat of animals. 

Further, it got its name after Padmaja Naidu, daughter of freedom fighter and poet Sarojini Naidu.

10. Japanese Temple and Peace Pagoda

The Japanese Temple or Nipponzan Myohoji Buddhist Temple is one of the best places to visit in Darjeeling. It sits at an altitude of 2,050 m (6,726 ft) above sea level. 

You can reach here via a cab or private taxi or hike down through the streets. We asked some locals and hiked our way to this place.

The temple has a scenic beauty. And you can click some great photos keeping it in the backdrop while admiring the calmness in the environment.

Local Cuisine of Darjeeling That You Should Try

Where there’s travel, there’s food. How can you skip the mouth watering delicacies of Darjeeling? Besides tea and momos, Darjeeling has some local cuisines that you should definitely try out.

Here are some popular local food:

• Momos : These steamed or fried dumplings filled with meat or vegetables are a popular street food that you can find in most local restaurants.
• Thukpa : This traditional Tibetan soup made of noodles, vegetables and meat is a popular dish in Darjeeling.
• Aloo Dum : This dish is made from boiled potatoes cooked in a spicy tomato gravy, which can be enjoyed with rice or roti.
• Kinema : This traditional dish made from fermented soybeans is very popular in Darjeeling and Sikkim.
• Phagshapa : Traditionally, this food item is prepared with pork, radish and some chilies. If you want less spicy food which is perfect for cool Darjeeling evenings.
• Darjeeling Tea: If you come to Darjeeling and don’t drink the tea here then why should you come to Darjeeling. The tea here is known for its unique musk flavor and aroma. You can try different types of Darjeeling tea at local tea shops.
• Nepalese and Tibetan Food : You will find a lot of traditional Nepalese and Tibetan dishes in Darjeeling, such as dal bhat , momos and steamed buns.
• Street Food : You can find street food at various places in Darjeeling like Chowrasta where you can taste different types of street food like Chaat, Gol Gappa and Tikki.

What You Can Do In Darjeeling? (Activities)

Go on a tea garden tour.

Darjeeling is famous for its tea, and there are several tea estates in the region that you can tour. Learn about the history of tea cultivation in Darjeeling, and taste different varieties of tea.

Take A Ride On The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway

The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, aka “Toy Train”, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers a memorable ride through the hills. This should top your list of activities to do in Darjeeling.

Go Trekking

Darjeeling has many trails that offer breathtaking views of the Himalayas and the surrounding hills. Among these, Tonglu Trek, Sandakphu and Singalila Trek, Phalut Trek are some of the places that are safe for trekking.

Stroll the Darjeeling Mall Road

This popular place in Darjeeling is famous for shopping and fine dining. There are many local shops and restaurants selling traditional food. You can enjoy them and shop for your loved ones.

Enjoy the Sunrise at Tiger Hill

Capturing the sunrise at Tiger Hill can be a lifetime memory. Keep in mind that there is a lot of crowd here, so go with full preparation.

Souvenirs You Can Buy in Darjeeling

The Mall Road and Chowrasta Bazaar are good places to shop and pick up souvenirs. Here are some popular souvenirs to buy in Darjeeling:

• Darjeeling Tea : Darjeeling tea is one of the most famous tea varieties in the world and can be found in local tea shops. You can buy different types of tea like black, green, oolong and white tea.
• Hand-Knitted Woolen Goods : Darjeeling is known for its hand-knitted woolen goods, such as sweaters, shawls and socks. These accessories are made of high quality wool and are great for keeping warm in the chilly mountain air.
• Handicrafts : Darjeeling is home to many skilled artisans who create beautiful handicrafts such as wood carvings, metal crafts and traditional Tibetan and Nepali items.
• Tibetan and Nepalese items : You can find traditional Tibetan and Nepalese items such as prayer flags, singing bowls and thangka paintings in local shops and markets.
• Jewelry : You can find traditional and modern jewelry in Darjeeling. You can also find traditional Tibetan jewelry made of turquoise, coral, and other precious stones.
• Bamboo and cane items : You will find bamboo and cane items such as baskets, mats and furniture in local shops and markets.
• Postcards and Souvenirs : You can find postcards and other souvenirs like keychains and magnets with pictures of famous Darjeeling tourist places.
• Spices : You can buy traditional spices like cardamom, clove and cinnamon, which are grown in the region and used in the local cuisine.

Darjeeling Public Toilet & Sanitation

Public toilets and cleanliness in Darjeeling can vary from place to place. In general, many public places, including tourist areas, have public restrooms available for use.

However, especially in more rural or less touristy areas, the availability of public restrooms may not be up to the standards of some travelers.

Distance Between Attractions And Transportation Options In Darjeeling

Public transport can be limited in Darjeeling, especially when it comes to traveling to popular tourist spots.

You can use Darjeeling Himalayan Railway as a mode of transport to visit tourist spots. However, it is limited in its route and can be crowded during peak tourist season.

Taxis and buses are also available for transportation, but they are unreliable. Private taxis can be expensive, so it’s important to negotiate the fare in advance.

You can also take the bus which is a more economical option. Apart from this, you can also hire private bikes, cars and jeeps, but ensure that the vehicle is in good condition.

Here’s the kicker: We visited almost all the best places to visit in Darjeeling on foot because the distance between them is not much. If you are used to walking, this can be your way of exploring too.

Best Time To Visit Darjeeling For You

The best time to visit Darjeeling depends on what you want to do during your visit.

The months from April to June are the best time to visit for those who want to escape the heat and enjoy the cool mountain air. The temperature during this time ranges between 25-28 degree celsius, which is perfect for exploring the city and its surroundings. The tea gardens are in full bloom at this time.

Monsoon season heavy rains can disrupt travel and outdoor activities. There is also a danger of landslides in the city during this season.

October to March is the best time to visit for those who seek cold and snow. This is also the best time to view the Himalayas, as clear skies provide the best visibility. Temperatures can drop significantly during this time, ranging from 3-10°C, so it’s important that you pack warm clothes.

Number of Days and Budget

It’s a subjective matter. What you want to see and do in Darjeeling will decide how long you want to stay in Darjeeling. 

If you just want to visit the main attractions and enjoy the beautiful views of the Himalayas, then 2-3 days would be enough.

It is a good idea to plan your stay for 3-5 days if you want to participate in more activities like trekking, visiting tea gardens and experiencing the local culture.

Darjeeling is also surrounded by many beautiful hill stations and places of interest like Mirik, Kurseong etc. Ultimately, it all depends on your personal preferences and availability.

Talking of budget, Darjeeling is not an expensive city. From food to accommodation, we did find it fairly cheap being budget travelers. For instance, we found bunk beds for approximately INR 400 per day.

How You Can Reach Darjeeling

You can reach Darjeeling in three ways:

By Airplane

The nearest airport is the Bagdogra Airport (IXB), located approximately 90 km from Darjeeling. From there you can take a taxi or bus to reach Darjeeling.

The nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri Railway Station, located about 90 km from Darjeeling. The station code of New Jalpaiguri station is NJP.

You get frequent trains to NJP from all major stations in India. From New Jalpaiguri you will get a direct bus or taxi to Darjeeling.

Many buses ply between Darjeeling and major cities of West Bengal and neighboring states. Alternatively, you can also drive to Darjeeling, but be aware that the roads can be curvy and narrow at some places.

Where You Can Stay In Darjeeling? (Accommodation Options)

There are many hotels in Darjeeling ranging from budget friendly options to luxury resorts. Apart from this, you can also stay in homestays and guesthouses. There are also several camping options available for those who want a more adventurous and unique experience.

We recommend booking your hotel well in advance, as the city is packed with tourists, especially during peak season.

Apart from this, it is better to stay near the Mall Road in the central part of the city. This will give you easy access to the city’s main attractions and a variety of dining and shopping options.

FAQs: Places To Visit in Darjeeling

Which is the best time to visit darjeeling.

The best time to visit Darjeeling is from October to June when the weather is pleasant and the views of the Himalayas are clear. The temperature ranges between 25–28 °C in summer and 3–10 °C in winter.

What is the famous thing about Darjeeling?

Some of the places of interest in Darjeeling include Tiger Hill, Batasia Loop, Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, Happy Valley, Rock Garden, Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park and Ghoom Monastery.

What are the famous activities in Darjeeling?

Famous activities in Darjeeling include visiting tea gardens, trekking, paragliding and taking a ride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway.

How is the local cuisine in Darjeeling?

The local cuisine of Darjeeling is a mix of Nepalese, Tibetan and Bengali cuisine, with popular dishes including momos, thukpa and dal bhat.

Is any permit required to visit Darjeeling?

Permits are not required to visit Darjeeling but if you are planning to visit some restricted areas like Singalila National Park, you will need to obtain a permit from the concerned authorities.

Final Words: Places To Visit in Darjeeling

Darjeeling is an ideal destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers and those looking to experience the culture and tradition of the region.

The Queen of Hills is our travel guide to Darjeeling. Hope we have been able to share every little bit of information related to Darjeeling in this.

Still, if you have any suggestions or questions, feel free to share your thoughts in the comment box below. We will try to improve ourselves with your suggestions.

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If you want to enjoy nature and peace, come to Darjeeling. Intresting Artical and valuable content thanks sharing it.

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Top Tourist Places & Attractions in Darjeeling

Darjeeling Toy Train

Darjeeling Ropeway

Darjeeling Zoo

Himalayan Mountaineering Institute (HMI)

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. 

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10 Popular Places to Visit in Darjeeling Town

• December 15, 2023

This guide is designed especially for those with a day or two to spare in Darjeeling and looking to stick around town. It’s a helpful resource to explore the top attractions without the need for extensive travel. Whether you’re short of time or simply prefer discovering what Darjeeling town has to offer, this guide on “10 Popular Places to Visit in Darjeeling Town” is tailored to suit your needs. 

1. Visit tea estate: Happy Valley Tea Estate

The Happy Valley Tea Estate in Darjeeling is a sought-after destination renowned for its exceptional tea cultivation and stunning landscapes. Its convenient proximity to the main town makes it a must-visit spot for travellers exploring Darjeeling.

This esteemed tea estate offers an immersive experience of the art of tea production and the natural beauty of the region without the need for extensive travel, enabling visitors to delve into the world of tea cultivation while staying close to the town’s vibrant atmosphere.  

Visitors have the opportunity to engage in tea-tasting sessions, discovering and relishing the diverse flavours and fragrances of freshly brewed teas, thus fostering a deeper appreciation for this globally acclaimed beverage. 

2. Curio shops: Uncovering Unique Mementos

Chowrasta and its vicinity offer a bustling array of curio shops, famed for their unique treasures in Darjeeling. These shops feature an assortment of silverware with distinctive designs, precious stones, Thangka paintings, local artists’ artwork, and an assortment of copper and brass souvenirs and decor pieces.  

Notably, among the oldest and most reputable curio stores is Habeeb Mullick and Sons in Darjeeling, situated at Chowrasta. This establishment is recognized for its reliability and authentic offerings, making it a go-to destination for those seeking genuine Darjeeling keepsakes.  

3. Tea tasting and shopping: Golden Tips Teattoria

Golden Tips Teattoria is a tea shop known for its high-quality Darjeeling tea and its delicious food.    The tea at Golden Tips Teattoria is some of the best in Darjeeling. It is sourced directly from local tea estates and is brewed to perfection.   The restaurant offers a variety of Indian and international dishes, all made with fresh, local ingredients. 

The tea shop sells a wide variety of Darjeeling tea, including first-flush, second flush, and autumn flush teas. The tea is sold in loose leaves or tea bags. The restaurant also offers a variety of tea-tasting experiences, where guests can learn about the different types of Darjeeling tea and how to brew them perfectly. 

Golden Tips Teattoria is located in a beautiful setting, with stunning views of the Darjeeling mountains.

4. Exploring Religious Spots: Mahakal Temple

Mahakal Mandir, a revered Hindu temple nestled near Chowrasta in Darjeeling, stands as a significant spiritual landmark and a popular destination for visitors. Set against the backdrop of majestic mountains, this temple holds deep religious significance, drawing both devotees and tourists. 

The serene ambience and panoramic views from this sacred site provide a tranquil escape, while the temple’s cultural and historical importance enriches the visit. Surrounded by the lively atmosphere of Chowrasta, the temple offers a serene and spiritual contrast, making it a must-visit spot for those seeking both tranquility and cultural immersion amidst Darjeeling’s vibrant offerings. 

5. Cultural landmark: St. Andrews Church

St. Andrew’s Church in Darjeeling holds a special place in the heart of the town, situated in proximity to the bustling centre of Chowrasta. This historic church, dating back to the mid-19th century, stands as a prominent architectural and cultural landmark, reflecting the town’s colonial history. 

Its Neo-Gothic architecture and stained-glass windows contribute to its grandeur, drawing visitors into its historical embrace. The church’s serene atmosphere amidst the lively energy of Chowrasta invites both worshipers and tourists, offering a tranquil contrast and an opportunity to explore Darjeeling’s rich colonial heritage right at the heart of town.

St. Andrew’s Church in Darjeeling stands as a prominent architectural and cultural landmark, reflecting the town’s colonial history. 

6. The Essence of Tibetan Heritage: Himalayan Tibet Musem

The Himalayan Tibet Museum in Darjeeling stands as a cultural gem, inviting visitors to delve into the rich tapestry of Tibetan history and heritage. 

As a prominent destination in the town, the museum offers an immersive experience, shedding light on the diverse traditions and cultural nuances of Tibet. Visitors can expect an enlightening journey through exhibitions that showcase Tibetan artefacts, art, religious relics, and historical documents, providing a profound understanding of Tibetan culture and its connections to the Himalayan region. 

The museum not only educates but also inspires with its insightful displays, offering a glimpse into the rich heritage of the Tibetan people and their influence in the Himalayan region. 

7. Discover Wildlife Wonders: Darjeeling Zoo

The Darjeeling Zoo, also known as the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, stands as a prime attraction offering a delightful experience for visitors. Nestled amidst the serene beauty of Darjeeling, this zoo is home to an array of rare and endangered Himalayan fauna. 

Guests can expect an immersive journey through diverse exhibits, showcasing indigenous species like the Himalayan wolf, red panda, and the majestic snow leopard. With its conservation efforts and naturalistic enclosures, the zoo provides a unique opportunity to witness these incredible animals in an environment that closely mimics their natural habitats. 

The visit promises not just an enjoyable day amidst nature but also an educational experience, offering insights into the conservation of these precious Himalayan species. 

8. Heart of Darjeeling: Chowrasta

Chowrasta in Darjeeling holds a special place as a bustling centre and a beloved spot for visitors to soak in the town’s vibrant atmosphere. This prominent square serves as a hub for both locals and tourists, offering an immersive experience of Darjeeling’s lively spirit. 

With its open expanse and panoramic views, it’s a gathering point for people to unwind, stroll, shop for local goods, and indulge in street food delicacies. The ambience is heightened by the backdrop of the majestic Himalayas, providing a perfect setting for relaxation and taking in the charm of the town. 

Surrounded by cafes, shops, and a variety of cultural performances, Chowrasta creates a vibrant and inviting space that captures the essence of Darjeeling’s rich heritage and spirited community.

9. Take a walk: Shrubbery Park

The Shrubbery Park in Darjeeling offers a serene retreat amid the town’s lively atmosphere. This charming park, known for its tranquillity and natural beauty, provides a peaceful escape for visitors. 

With its well-maintained pathways, vibrant flower beds, and lush greenery, it’s an ideal spot for leisurely walks, picnics, and moments of relaxation. The park’s scenic setting against the backdrop of the Himalayas adds to its allure, creating a picturesque environment that’s perfect for unwinding and embracing the beauty of nature. 

Shrubbery Park stands as a delightful destination for those seeking a tranquil respite amidst the vibrant energy of Darjeeling. 

10. Local Market: Beech Galli

Beech Galli, also known as Middle Street, is a narrow alleyway in the heart of Darjeeling, India. It is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike, as it is home to a variety of shops and stalls selling authentic Darjeeling snacks, souvenirs, and sweets. 

Some of the most popular snacks available in Beech Galli include gundruk (a fermented dry vegetable dish), churpi (a hard cheese made from yak or cow milk), and dried meat pickle. In addition to snacks, Beech Galli is also a great place to buy authentic Darjeeling souvenirs, such as Darjeeling tea, woollen handicrafts, and silver and gold jewellery. 

Overall, Beech Galli is a great place to experience the authentic flavors and culture of Darjeeling. With its variety of shops and stalls selling snacks, souvenirs, and sweets, there is something for everyone in Beech Galli. 

This convenient proximity curtails the hassle of transportation, allowing visitors to effortlessly explore these gems without the need for extensive travel. Embracing the iconic tea estates, serene religious sites, and vibrant cultural hubs presents a comprehensive overview of Darjeeling’s essence, all easily reachable within the town’s bounds. This harmonious coexistence of attractions within the town makes for a seamless and enriching journey, inviting travellers to savour the tapestry of experiences that Darjeeling graciously offers. 

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"Queen of The Himalayas"

Darjeeling tourism.

Darjeeling, the former summer capital of India under the British Raj, has evolved into one of India's most sought-after hill stations. This picturesque hill destination in West Bengal is ideal for a romantic honeymoon. Darjeeling, nestled among acres of tea estates, is 2,050 metres above sea level and thus has a cool climate all year long. Darjeeling is often clubbed with destinations in Sikkim its neighbouring state, making it a perfect starting point for exploring the wonders of the Eastern Himalayas.

The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway established back in 1881 is conferred the title of World Heritage Status by UNESCO. The train begins its journey from the plains and rises to over 2000 metres above sea level, offering breathtaking views of the mountains as it chugs along. Darjeeling is also famous for it's tea plantations with over 86 tea estates responsible for producing the worldwide famous 'Darjeeling Tea'.  The third highest peak in the world and the highest in India, the Kanchenjunga peak, is visible from here, and you can enjoy a panoramic view of the peak. Some of Darjeeling's most popular attractions include monasteries, botanical gardens, a zoo, and the Darjeeling-Rangeet Valley Passenger Ropeway  cable car, which is the longest Asian cable car. Tiger Hill is a fantastic spot to see the sunrise over the mountains in all its fiery glory. The best time to visit Darjeeling is between April to June when the weather is pleasant. However, a lot of people also prefer visiting the place during the winter months from October to December. The months of July to August received heavy rainfall, a lot of roadblocks are observed in the hill station and hence visiting Darjeeling during these months is not very advisable.

Must Know Before You Travel to Darjeeling

• Indians can carry any Indian ID (passport, voters ID, pan card, drivers license) for a potential Sikkim trekking trip.
• A special permit is required for Singalila National Park from Manebhanjan, costing around 120 INR.
• Carry valid ID (passport/voter ID) for checkpoints and specific areas while visiting Sikkim or Nepal from Darjeeling.
• Foreigners visiting Darjeeling must possess a valid Indian tourist visa and copies of photographs.
• Nepal and Bhutan citizens don't need a Visa. Carry a valid government ID. 
• Report to the Foreigners Registration Office at Bagdogra airport on arrival or at Darjeeling Magistrate Office during the stay.
• Those traveling by rail or road must get their passport and visa stamped and approved for their stay in Darjeeling.
• To visit Kalimpong, the permit must be endorsed at the Foreigners Registration Office in Darjeeling or the office that issued it.
• Darjeeling is prone to landslides during the monsoon season (June to September).
• Have sufficient cash, as not all areas have ATM access.
• Respect local privacy and etiquettes, especially around religious sites.
• Selling alcohol to those below 25 is prohibited, with specific dry days when liquor is not served.

Must Visit Places in Darjeeling

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20 Attractive Tourist places in Darjeeling you must visit

Darjeeling is one of the most popular and favourite tourist destinations cradled in the foothills of the Himalayas.  The history of this Himalayan hill station dates back to the era of the British Raj when it was the summer resort for the elite sahebs . Of tea gardens, the joyous toy train of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, the splendid Mall road, hot momos, chilling air and the view of the magnificent Mt. Kanchenjunga makes Darjeeling one of the most sought after tourist town in Eastern India. Let’s look into 30 tourist places in Darjeeling you must visit at least once.

A brief history behind Darjeeling as a hill station

The word Darjeeling comes from the words Dorje that means thunderbolt and ling that means land or place and for this Darjeeling is also called “ Land of the Thunderbolt “. Darjeeling was a part of Sikkim before it was acquired by the British East India Company in the year 1816. During the British Raj due to its temperate climate, the hill station served as the best resort to escape from the summer heat in the plains.

It was thus established as a sanatorium by Arthur Campbell, a Surgeon and Lieutenant Robert Napier from the East India Company. As Campbell made efforts to develop the hill station it attracted immigrants and also increased the population.

Later with the establishment of the Himalayan Railway in 1881 Darjeeling emerged as a developed region. Darjeeling is inhabited by people from diverse ethnic groups and culture. Darjeeling is home to the Lepchas, Bhutias, Sherpas, Yolmos, Gurungs, and Tamangs are some of the popular tribes.

The tea industry of Darjeeling is credited to Dr Campbell who planted tea bushes cultivated from seeds brought from China. Gradually there was a rapid production of tea in Darjeeling.

The cool and damp climate and the high elevation combine to produce an aromatic tea that is quite refreshing and full of flavour. Presently Darjeeling has around 87 tea gardens and is a major source of economy of the region.

ALSO READ MY PREVIOUS POSTS ON DARJEELING

Darjeeling Jatra – Part I

Darjeeling Jatra- Part II

How to Visit Darjeeling

The nearest airport is Bagdogra and it is well connected by flights from all the major cities of our country. The nearest train station is New Jalpaiguri. Volvo or other Bus services are available from Kolkata and Guwahati. Siliguri is well connected by the night bus service from Guwahati.

From Siliguri or New Jalpaiguri, you can take shared sumo or taxi or book one and it takes around three hours to reach Darjeeling in case there is no traffic congestion. Some of the roads are quite congested with trains running on one side creating traffic jams.

20 best tourist places to visit in Darjeeling

Often called the Queen of Hills, Darjeeling is quite popular among travel lovers. Here are 30 best tourist places to visit in Darjeeling.

1.Tiger Hills

Lying at an altitude of 2590 meter and around 13 km from Darjeeling, Tiger Hills is one of the best tourist places in Darjeeling. It is a popular viewpoint for a panoramic view of Mount Kanchenjunga. It is famous for watching the sunrise and looks spectacular when there is a clear sky as the morning rays of the sun falls on the peak of Mt Kanchenjunga.

People start flocking in as early as 4;30 am in the morning. You can book a cab or hire a shared taxi from the Mall road. But you need to be lucky enough to get that clear sky. Avoid monsoons as most of the time the sky remains cloudy, the best time is in Winter when there is no rain but still much depends on your luck.

2. Batasia Loop

A toy train will take you through a magnificent loop known as the Batasia loop. Or you can book a cab and visit there and spend some quality time. Located on Hill Cart road it takes around 20 minutes to reach Darjeeling town.

You can also get a full view of Darjeeling town and also snow-covered Mt Kanchenjunga on a clear sunny day. The toy train makes a complete loop blowing its whistle around the garden.

There are seating arrangements and you can also go for the telescopic view around the town. On payment of Rs 50 per head, the boys with a huge telescope will show you around some of the popular and heritage buildings of Darjeeling. The centre part of the Batasia Loop is dedicated as a War Memorial.

It was opened in the year 1995 in commemoration of the Gorkha soldiers of Darjeeling who sacrificed their lives in various wars after India’s Independence. There is a statue of a soldier near the National Flag paying homage.

3. Japanese Peace Pagoda

Situated among lush green coniferous trees on the slopes of Jalapahar hills of Darjeeling the Japanese Peace Pagoda was inaugurated on 1st November 1992. It is designed to unite people of all races and creeds in their search for world peace. 

The place has a beautiful charm and you can spend some peaceful time up there. The pagoda was designed by M. Okha and has the four avatars of Buddha including Maitreya Buddha. It is also one of the best tourist places in Darjeeling.

4. The Old Ghoom Monastery

One of the oldest monasteries in Darjeeling is the Yiga Choeling Monastery of Ghoom. Built in 1850 by Sherab Gyatso is also referred to as the old Ghoom Monastery. Ghoom is 7km from Darjeeling located at an altitude of 7,407feet. The monastery worships one of the oldest statues of Buddha in the Darjeeling area.

The monastery has some of the rare handwritten Buddhist manuscripts You can read in details about this monastery at this link HERE . The entry time is from 10 am to 6 pm and entry is free.

5. Darjeeling Himalayan Railways or The Toy train ride

One of the special attention of Darjeeling is the toy train. Darjeeling Himalayan Railway is a 2 feet gauge railway that runs between Darjeeling to New Jalpaiguri. Currently, this service is closed due to Covid-19 pandemic. But you can take a toy train ride from Darjeeling to Ghoom station which is also the highest railway station.

It runs a special basis for tourists. On 2nd December 1999, the Darjeeling Himalayan Railways is declared as UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE.

Both trains run on diesel engines and steam engines are available for joy rides and the train moves so slowly that you can hop in and out while it’s in motion. You can book your train tickets here https://www.irctc.co.in/nget/train-search or you can reach Darjeeling station before 7 am and get the tickets from the counter itself. The total joyride is for two hours and it will be the most memorable ride of your life.

Siddhartha, my husband posing as the train stopped for few minutes inside Batashia Loop and I clicked his photos

6. The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Museum

Located in Ghoom the Darjeeling Railway Museum houses various photographs, articles and documents that date back to the British Raj and the time when the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway was started. While enjoying the toy train ride the train halts at Ghoom for some time so that tourists can visit the museum before it commences the return journey to Darjeeling station.

7. Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park is one of the best tourist places in Darjeeling

One of the most popular tourist places in Darjeeling the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park was established on 14th August 1958. It is internationally acclaimed for the conservation breeding programmes of Red Panda, Snow Leopard and many other endangered species. It has a wide variety of birds, reptiles and other mammals. It takes around one and half hour to walk around the zoo.

8. The Himalayan Mountaineering Institute

Located with the Himalayan zoo is the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute which aims at promoting mountaineering as an organized sport. It aims to encourage youths to take up mountaineering like any other sport. The institute was established on 4th November 1954 by Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru after Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay successfully climbed the Mount Everest in 1953.

It also has a museum that houses various gears, jackets, artefacts, instruments related to mountain life and used by mountaineers while climbing Mount Everest or other higher peaks of the Himalayan range. The visiting hours are from 09:00 am – 01:00 pm and 02:00 pm – 05:00 pm Open all days, except Tuesday. The institute also organizes courses on mountain/rock climbing for children and youth.

9. Tenzing and Gombu Rock Darjeeling

Tenzing rock is a gigantic naturally occurring rock named after Tenzing Norgay the man who created history by conquering Mount Everest along with Edmund Hillary in 1953. Opposite to this is Gombu Rock named after Nawang Gombu the nephew of Tenzing Norgay who climbed Mount Everest twice. Both these two rocks are used for rock climbing training by the HMI.

10. Happy Valley Tea Garden

Established in 1954 and spread over 440 acres of land the Happy Valley Tea garden is the second largest tea garden in Darjeeling. Situated at a height of 2100 metres, it is a popular tourist place in Darjeeling. The Darjeeling tea industry is a part of Indian heritage that was started during British rule. The tea bushes are as old as 80 years and the tea garden is nearest to Darjeeling town.

11. Darjeeling Ropeway

The Darjeeling ropeway also popularly known as Ranjeet Valley Passenger Cable car is famous for getting a panoramic view of the Darjeeling town. The cable car ride is for 45 min that takes you from 7000ft to 800 ft where the station Singla Bazar is located.

The cable car was established in 1968 initially to cater to the needs of the tea gardens located in the valley below. From the cable car, you can see a lush green tea garden, valleys and on a clear day, the sight of Mt Kanchenjunga is sure to feel your heart with joy. The visiting hours are from 10 am to 4 pm and on entry fees of Rs.200 per adult and Rs.100 for children within 3-8 years old.

12. Rock Garden

One of the most spectacular places in Darjeeling is the Rock Garden at Chunnu Summer Falls and should not be missed at any cost. Though it looks more beautiful during the monsoons with the waterfalls in their most beautiful form.

The way to the rock garden is also stunning with sharp hairpin bends through the beautiful valley with clouds passing now and then. You will find some of the most scenic spots while on way itself. Don’t forget to ask the driver to stop the car and click some breathtaking shots. Inside the rock garden, you will see a beautiful waterfall that comes from the top.

There are sitting arrangements made inside the park to sit back and relax. There are tea stalls and small souvenir shops at the entrance of the rock garden, enjoy the food and feel the beauty of the place. The Park is usually open from 10 am to 4 pm and entry fees are Rs 10 per person.

13. Lamahatta Eco Park

Located at a distance of 23 km from Darjeeling and at an altitude of 5700 feet. Lamahatta comes from the word Lama which means a Buddhist monk and Hatta means hut which together means a monk’s heritage. The place has been gaining a lot of popularity among nature lovers lately. A small village but now turned into an eco-tourism park by the Bengal government. The place is easily accessible from both Darjeeling and Kalimpong.

With the beautiful, calm and pleasant surrounding, with tall trees and a view of the mountains this place is quite popular as a honeymoon destination. A few homestays too have come up with proper accommodation facilities. A day tour from Darjeeling would be a good idea to spend some quality time at Lamahata. You can get more information on Lamahata HERE

14. Glenary’s Bakery and Cafe, Darjeeling

A visit to Darjeeling would be incomplete without spending some wonderful time at Glenary’s. Glenary’s not just a name but a sentiment and has been a prominent landmark in Darjeeling since the time of the British rule. The entire building has been divided into a restaurant, a bar and a bakery. The restaurant cum bar can be assessed from outside where there is a staircase that leads to it.

The ambience is just perfect to spend a nice evening with a glass of wine and delicious food. You must try the fish and chips which is one of my personal favourites. Also, Glenary’s is a perfect place to enjoy a delicious breakfast, the bakery and cafe open at 7 am in the morning. 

15. Darjeeling Mall (Chowrasta)

I simply love to spend the evening time at Darjeeling Mall which is located at Chowrasta. All the prominent restaurant including Keventer’s, Glenary’s are situated at a stone throw distance. If interested you can also enjoy horse riding in the Mall.

There are numerous shops where you can buy woollens, gift items, Darjeeling tea, etc. I love to hang around in the Mall sipping my hot cup of coffee and relishing on hot momos. You can also find some street vendor selling woollens at a great price.  

16. Mahakal Temple 

Situated atop Darjeeling Observatory Hill, the Mahakal temple in Darjeeling has quite an interesting history. The temple is located at a place where once a Buddhist monastery named “Dorje Ling” stood. It will take an hour to go around the temple. The temple presents a spectacular view of Buddhist prayer flags fluttering in the air and Hindu temple bells creating a divine atmosphere.

Tourist visits to enjoy the beauty of the place and also to offer prayers in the temple. There is no entry fee and visiting hours are from 7 am to 7 pm. To reach the temple you need to trek for around half an hour amidst one of the most scenic routes.

17. Dali Monastery

Located at a distance of 5 km from Darjeeling town the Dali Monastery is also popularly known as Druk Sangag Cholin Monastery. Built-in a typical Tibetan style this is one of the largest monasteries. Due to Covid-19 pandemic, the monastery is currently closed but as I heard from locals arrangements are going on to open it for tourists.

Dali Monastery belongs to the Kagyupa sect and like any other Buddhist monastery it has its unique charm and appeal. There is a school inside and also a cafe called Kunga Paljor Coffee Shop. I personally love monasteries a lot and so this place is one of the best tourist places in Darjeeling.

18. Enjoying hot momos in The Mall

As I am writing this post which is about the best tourist places in Darjeeling one touristy thing to do is enjoy steaming hot momos while taking a stroll in Mall road. In that way, you can get the best feel of the mountains. There are many small outlets or restaurants around Mall road that serve some of the best momos.

One of my favourites is a small restaurant situated on the road that goes straight on the left-hand side behind Keventer’s also where Hotel Mahakal and restaurant is situated. Just walk a few steps and you will be there, also you can enjoy pork rice there.

19. Ghoom Monastery

The Old Ghoom Monastery also known as Yiga Choelin is famous for its 15 feet high statue of the Maitreya Buddha. The monastery was established in 1850 by a Mongolian astrologer and monk Sokpo Sherab Gyatso. A visit to the monastery comes with the local sightseeing or you can go by cab.

When we visited the monastery it was raining quite a lot and most of it was covered with thick fog. We waited for some time and later when the fog cleared we clicked a few photos.

Mirik is actually 49 km away from Darjeeling. But when we are talking about popular tourist spots of Darjeeling, Mirik must be mentioned. The best way to visit Mirik is towards the end of the trip when you return Siliguri/New Jalpaiguri for your train. Mirik is famous for the Mirik lake and also there are acres and acres of hills all covered with lush green tea gardens while on way from Darjeeling towards Mirik.

It’s the alternative route and Mirik lies in between NJP and Darjeeling. The journey is quite enjoyable and you will find a lot of picturesque spots. Shared jeeps are also available to visit Mirik. Lots of Bengali movies are shot in these tea gardens of Mirik. It is highly recommended and you cannot miss this visit when you are in Darjeeling.

Where to stay in Darjeeling

Almost the whole Darjeeling town is full of hotels and homestays. The most popular ones are located near The Mall. Some of these are Ramada Hotel, Hotel Seven seas where we stayed and you can get an amazing view of

Mt Kanchenjunga, The Elgin, Hotel Sumit, Villa Everest. I have received great reviews of these hotels so I mentioned the names. There are a lot more budget-friendly options you can check on various hotel booking websites.

Gift Items that you can buy from Darjeeling

Well, one of my favourite thing to do when I visit any new place is to collect mementoes. For gifts and also for my home I love to take back memories. As small gifting items from Darjeeling, you can buy pretty woollen stoles, hand gloves, stylish caps/hats, shawls.

Also, magnets are my favourite things to buy. There is a small shop near the Ramada Hotel where you can buy magnets, handmade soaps, Buddhist Prayer flags, handmade purses, mobile covers, etc. Some shops in The Mall offer discounts so don’t forget to plunge into some shopping there.

Fengshui items are also quite popular in Darjeeling and I love to collect some of these for my home. You can buy Darjeeling tea from Mall road. There are so many shops selling Tibetan jewellery you can buy some trinkets from there but don’t forget to bargain as some of these shops are very expensive especially for tourists.

Besides visit to the tourist places in Darjeeling you must have a hot cup of tea while in Darjeeling

Hope this post will help you to plan a trip to Darjeeling, the Queen of Hills. Feel free to drop an email if you have any confusion or you need some guidance. Also, I shall love it if you share this post with your friends and drop in your valuable comments.

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About Author

Ishani Nath, is a full time teacher and a passionate Blogger. She loves to write. With a classic taste in Fashion, a foodie and a bookworm she is happy in her own way. She loves travelling, gain knowledge and spread it to the world. A die hard handloom lover she also loves to adorn anything and everything handmade or handwoven.

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Your pictures are so pretty! They reminded me of my time in Darjeeling a few years back. I visited the main town of Darjeeling only for a day, but I spent a week in a village called Dilaram, close to Kurseong. It was a beautiful trip.

Glad you liked and it brought back your Darjeeling memories

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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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Kurseong – The Land of White Orchids

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Trekking Through the Hills of Darjeeling

Scenic places to visit in darjeeling, darjeeling travel guide, darjeeling queen of hill stations, best places to visit in darjeeling .

Amidst the traffic and piercing noise, the sweltering heat and the hustle and bustle of Bengal lies a small hill station. Although a many in India but none like Darjeeling . Since the inception of time, Darjeeling has been considered one of the most preferred destinations for vacations. The regal Kanchenjunga, surrounding the tract, unmoved, like an army, a ride in a Toy Train , enjoying the envisioned landscape, the undulating hills and the mountains, sipping a cup of soothing Darjeeling Tea makes it worth the visit.

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Indreni Falls

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Darjeeling tourism includes a variety of flora and fauna, surrounded by white snowflakes with the serene and eye-orgasmic landscape. Darjeeling truly is a feast, wanting to consume every bit of the place by the visitors. Right from the start of the journey, Darjeeling grips the attention wanting you to know more of the place. Known as the Queen of Hill Stations, the crest of Kanchenjunga shining brightly in the early morning truly supports the title. With all its glory, the snow-capped Kanchenjunga, standing tall, sparkling from dawn until dusk, dazzling the visitors as well as the locals, is the star of Darjeeling. The third highest peak in the world, at an elevation of 8568 m lies partly in Nepal and partly in Sikkim, India, but a full range view of Kanchenjunga can only be enjoyed from Darjeeling. One need not travel through the dismal paths just to get a glance at the majestic mountain. Kanchenjunga stands unabridged to entertain the visitors and the locals of Darjeeling.

Places to visit in Darjeeling

Symbolic of emerald green hills nestled against the backdrop of the surreal Kanchenjunga, Darjeeling is an array of remnants of the Colonial times that also serves as a quick weekend getaway to the Himalayas. Find your way around the Buddist monasteries, sign up for a joy-ride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway , or grab an English breakfast at Keventers and spend an idle morning gazing at the world’s third-highest mountain- the Kanchenjungha.

If you are more adventurous at heart, sign up for a trek to the Singalila Ridge, or go visit the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute . Across winding lanes, bustling bazaars and amidst the winter chill, Darjeeling is the chicken soup for the thirsty explorer in you, and rightly earns its name as the Queen of the Hills .

Set out as early as 5 am to catch a spectacular sunrise at Tiger Hill. A major tourist attraction, this spot lets you gaze out over the entire horizon of the Himalayas.

Batasia Loop

The Batasia Loop was engineered by the British in 1919 to adjust and negotiate the steep gradient in the hills so as to prevent the train from drastically falling to a lower height. If you’re not taking a ride on the DHR, visit this place for panoramic views of the Kanchenjungha.

Padmaja Naidu Zoological Park

This zoological park located along rounded lanes that go uphill houses the most number of snow leopards in all of India. It is also extremely rich in flora and fauna while also housing a number of birds.

Himalayan Mountaineering Institute

If you’re visiting the zoological park, make a pit stop at the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute which is deemed to be among the best mountaineering institutes in the country. Experienced mountaineers and amateurs alike come here to get extensively trained on mountain climbing.

Peace Pagoda

The Peace Pagoda is symbolic of the four avatars of Lord Buddha. However, this place is a popular spot for meditation and attracts visitors from a large number of other religions as well.

Ghoom Monastery

The Ghoom Monastery is a must-see place during your trip to Darjeeling. Located very close to the Ghoom Railway Station, this monastery is among the oldest of its religion and houses sacred relics of the Buddhist culture.

Rock Garden

Popular among visitors of all realms, the Rock Garden is a man-made tourist spot that is dotted with exotic fauna and flora, tiny waterfalls, and timber-wood bridges.

Singalila National Park

A nature lover’s paradise, an adventure enthusiast’s ideal destination, the Singalila National Park is located at an altitude of 7000ft. Lush greenery speckled with rhododendron forests, a deer or so peeking through the woods, the rare sight of a woodpecker flying into the bushes- all of these make up the Singalila National Park. If the skies are clear, you might be lucky enough to get a glimpse of the Himalayas, sprawling from Nepal to Bhutan.

If you’re more of a laidback kind of traveler, spend an ideal vacation amidst the mountains sipping on a steaming cup of Darjeeling tea !

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Tiger Hill To Japanese Peace Pagoda: 5 Best Places To Visit In Darjeeling

Darjeeling unveiled: 5 spellbinding spots beyond the tea gardens.

Cradled sublimely amid undulating Himalayan foothills lies the picturesque hill station Darjeeling, beckoning travellers persistently over a century for its stunning Kanchenjunga vistas, UNESCO heritage mountain railway journeys, sprawling tea estates, quaint British nostalgia haunts and spiritual transcendence woven soulfully across Buddhist monasteries offering ample scopes for memorable outdoor adventures, gastronomic delights and mindfulness rejuvenation alike!

Let's indulge deeper into top 5 facets revealing Darjeeling's distinctive allure spanning nature, legacy and contemporary charms.

1. Tiger Hill: Vista of Unforgettable Himalayan Sunrise Glory

No Darjeeling sojourn feels complete without heading for early pre dawn drive towards highest summit Tiger Hill promising a literally breathtaking Himalayan spectacle as first light rays gloriously flood mighty snow clad peaks transforming them golden before your eyes from glacier white glinting under rising crimson sun disc capped wordlessly by the third highest giant Mount Everest - such jaw dropping dawn natural phenomenon lasting fleetingly just few minutes remains once in a lifetime soul stirring affair!

Don't forget holding steaming cups of Darjeeling tea sold at stalls up there to beat any winter chill. Stay mesmerised forevermore..

2. Darjeeling Himalayan Railway: Joyride through Mountain Majesty

Winding its way spiritedly through most scenic landscapes steams the pioneering 19th century UNESCO site narrow gauge Darjeeling Himalayan Railway fondly nicknamed 'Toy Train' carrying generations awe struck since 1881 across plunging valley views, quaint hamlets smiling by and sprawling lush tea estates carpeting mountain slopes as whistling engine chugs uphill towards hill station edges promising surely the most picturesque memorable rail odysseys anywhere for fortunate riders!

Enjoy ride comfortably right into town centre itself or get down halfway watching the glory meandering behind through labyrinthine lanes and local bazaars too. Don't forget capturing few selfie memories as souvenirs!

3. Himalayan Zoological Park Padmaja Naidu: Rendezvous with High Altitude Exotic Wildlife

Snuggled dramatically along steep mountain woodland stretches lies the Himalayan Zoological Park set up to nurture and conserve vulnerable regional high altitude wildlife species including exotic fauna like the Red Pandas, Snow Leopards and revered Black bears that continue fascinating visitors through their unique evolutionary adaptions and characteristics from around the world now thanks to thoughtfully customised large enclosures resembling their native habitats with zoo keepers interactions adding further insights.

The Snow Leopard breeding program remains their stellar success apart from education children sensitively towards endangered Himalayan treasures right at the onset! Certainly intriguing for wildlife lovers and shutterbugs.

Don't miss seeing playfully frolicking Himalayan fox families too!

4. Darjeeling Mall Road and Heritage Railway Station: Signature Town Attractions

Towards the humming hill station heart lies the heritage Darjeeling Mall Road proudly bearing still its British Raj quintessential architecture facade dotted wonderfully by emerald green valley views backdrops besides iconic establishments operational since the 1800s ranging from colonial style hotel restro lounge Windermere set charmingly amid little garden nooks to the classy railway station frontage showing off the UNESCO tagged Toy Train facilities.

Stroll along observing local families mingling happily with overseas tourists browsing through curio shops and global cuisine outlets promising thus both architectural nostalgia with contemporary comforts blending intrinsic town attractions for all visitors alike!

5. Japanese Peace Pagoda and Monastery: Ambassadors from the Land of Zen Buddhism

Perched panoramically upon verdant hillslopes stands gleaming brightly the traditional Japanese Peace Pagoda and monastery compound - dedicated as messengers of universal brotherhood and world peace harmony built here through Indo-Japan collaborations serving further as monastery quarters for community education on Buddha ideals, besides location for regular retreats.

Relish the mystic ambience as chants play distantly while prayer flags flutter audaciously across azure skies as monks maintain sanctity diligently of the complex which serves as the perfect peaceful spot for enjoying few quiet sunset moments introspecting on travels deeper meaning as light dips gently over distant snow peaks too.. A tranquil sanctuary appealing all surely!

Beyond Fab Five..Ancient Action Still Stirs!

Get stepped further discovering local culture quirks indulging at unique parks like Darjeeling Ropeway adventures promising adrenaline thrills or quaint cafes like atmospheric Glenary's bakery operational since early 1900s colonial heydays to sampling steaming momo dumplings sold off cute mobile carts making rounds satisfying famished souls deliciously!

Because this charming hill town carries delightful secrets galore around its next dreamy meandering corner always.. Just keep seeking!

Immerse Yourself in Mystic Mountain Allure..

Lose hurried urban ethos gradually against the lullaby like whistles from heritage steam engines meandering tirelessly as the first rays light up floating cotton peaks and emerald sea of endless sea of tea gardens.. Find harmony visiting sparsely crowded monasteries where each spin of gleaming bright prayer wheel suffused divinity regardless direction.. Capture through lenses the fleeting Dance of dawn beams as the golden orb emerges above peaks and snow sparkle momentarily transporting briefly to magical Himalayan Shangri-La realms before returning soulfully further to continue inner journeys ahead fully recharged by Darjeeling's inspiring natural energies..

Just soak completely its distinctive spirit - where tranquillity and mindfulness get infused inherently into rarefied mountain air waiting patiently to embrace every sentient mortal wanderer alike!

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Top 8 affordable travel destinations to visit in India, check the list here

If you are planning to take a trip in india to enjoy your summer vacation, your search ends here. here are the top 8 places to visit.

Top 8 affordable travel destinations to visit in India

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First Published: Jun 12 2024 | 5:37 PM IST

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Happy Father's Day 2024: 6 Hill Stations To Visit With Your Dad For A Memorable Experience

Whether it's exploring scenic landscapes, participating in outdoor activities, or simply enjoying the beauty of nature, a trip to one of these hill stations with your dad promises unforgettable experiences that will make Father's Day truly special.

• Alice Mary Topno
• Updated - 2024-06-12, 10:33 IST

1. Manali, Himachal Pradesh

2. Darjeeling, West Bengal

3. munnar, kerala.

4. Nainital, Uttarakhand

5. Coorg, Karnataka

6. shimla, himachal pradesh.

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