If you are seeking fresh mountain air, stunning panoramic scenery, and exciting adventures, Darjeeling promises an unforgettable getaway. Relax amidst picture-perfect landscapes and experience world-renowned tea at its source, all while indulging your love for exploration. This enchanting, historic hill station is sure to satisfy any traveler’s wanderlust—uncover the unique experiences that Darjeeling tourism offers with this helpful travel guide.
What is the Best Season to visit Darjeeling ?
The best time to visit Darjeeling depends on your preferences and interests. Most people prefer going from April to June because the weather is nice. Some also like visiting in the winter, from October to December. July and August bring rain, so it’s better to avoid these months due to road blockages from heavy rain.
Summer Season (April to June) – The weather is not too hot and there is a nice breeze all day. It’s a great time to enjoy outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Monsoon Season (July to September) – There are strong rains and landslides, so many travelers avoid this season.
Winter Season (October to March) – Winter brings chilly weather starting in October. It can get very cold from late November to January, and sometimes it snows. The skies are often clear and sunny, making it a good time for sightseeing if you dress warmly. If you want to see snow in Darjeeling, plan your visit in January.
How To Reach Darjeeling ?
Bagdogra airport provides convenient flight service to and from Darjeeling from all the major regions of the nation. The distance from Darjeeling to the closest airport is only three hours by car. However, those who prefer to go by train can take the well-known Darjeeling train from Sealdah and a number of other express trains from all across the country each day to get to the nearest railhead, New Jalpaiguri, where they can then travel to Darjeeling. One may board the renowned Toy Train, which chugs up to Darjeeling, after they arrive at New Jalpaiguri.
Siliguri, the terminal city, is also well connected to Darjeeling thanks to a network of state and private buses that travel nightly from Calcutta to Siliguri. To get to Darjeeling, you can take a luxury bus or a private cab through the forest and tea estates.
Major Attractions In Darjeeling
TIGER HILL – Tiger Hill is well renowned for its breathtaking dawn views of the mountain Kanchenjunga and the snow-capped peaks of the entire eastern Himalayan range. The best part is from this point, you can even see Mount Everest on a clear day.
- Location: Upper Darjeeling, Jorebunglow Sukhia
- The best time to visit: The ideal time to visit Tiger Hill in Darjeeling is between mid-October and mid-January.
- Opens from: Monday to Sunday
- How to reach: The distance between Tiger Hill and Darjeeling is 11-13 kilometers and there are multiple road routes to reach the place.
TOY TRAIN – The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, also called the Toy Train, is a famous train journey and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It lets travelers enjoy beautiful views of hills, tea gardens, and forests around Darjeeling and nearby areas. The train connects New Jalpaiguri and Darjeeling and stops at places like Siliguri, Kurseong, and Ghoom. The Toy Train runs every day from 8 AM to 4 PM, and tickets cost about INR 805.
TEA GARDEN – The Darjeeling Tea Garden has been well known throughout the years for its tranquillity and beauty. Visits to the tea gardens are therefore regarded as being among the must-do activities in Darjeeling. It not only enables you to take in the amazing beauty of the gardens, but it also provides the necessary refreshment you may want while on vacation.
- Location: Lebong Cart Road (Near Darjeeling Zoo)
- Opens from: Monday to Sunday
- Timing: 9:00 am – 6:00 pm
GHOOM MONASTERY – The Ghoom Monastery in Darjeeling is one of the most well-known tourist destinations. In the Darjeeling area, it is the oldest Tibetan Buddhist monastery. For those who wish to understand about the background of Tibetan Buddhism, it is the ideal location.
- Location: Hill Cart Road, Ghoom, Jorebunglow Sukhia
- Opens from: Monday to Sunday
- Timing: 5:00 am – 11:00 pm
MAHAKAL TEMPLE – The Mahakal Temple is situated atop the observatory hill, providing beautiful city views from its vantage point. The primary god worshipped in this location is Lord Shiva. In accordance with local legend, the site where the current temple is located was formerly a Buddhist monastery. Consequently, both Hindus and Buddhists attach significant importance to this location.
- Location: Mall Road, Chauk Bazaar
- Open from: Monday to Sunday
- Timing: 4:00 am – 11:00 pm
PEACE PAGODA – The Darjeeling Peace Pagoda, located on Charlimont Hill, is a beautiful white pagoda built to promote peace and harmony worldwide. Created under the guidance of the Japanese Buddhist monk Nichidatsu Fujii, it offers visitors a peaceful and quiet place to reflect and relax. The pagoda features four golden statues of Buddha and displays detailed carvings that tell the story of Buddha’s life. From here, visitors can enjoy stunning views of Darjeeling and the Himalayan mountains on clear days. This serene spot is a must-visit for anyone seeking calm and spiritual connection in Darjeeling.
- Location: West Point, Darjeeling
- Timing: 4.30 AM – 7 PM
BATASIA LOOP – Batasia Loop is a fascinating spot to visit in Darjeeling, known for its historical importance and beautiful scenery. It is a railway loop where the famous Toy Train slowly winds around a sharp curve, offering visitors a unique experience. Located near the Gorkha War Memorial, this site honors the brave Gorkha soldiers who fought in World Wars I and II. It’s a popular attraction for those traveling by train or on foot from Tiger Hill. Visiting Batasia Loop provides a chance to enjoy scenic views and pay tribute to the heroes of Darjeeling.
- Location: Darjeeling district, West Bengal
- Ticket: INR 15
- Timings: 5 AM – 4.30 PM
ACTIVITIES TO DO IN DARJEELING
PARAGLIDING – Darjeeling is full of hills and wonderful scenery, making it perfect for paragliding. Adventure lovers come here for a bird’s-eye view of the area. The popular paragliding spots are around the Jamuney and Jalapahar regions. Paragliding operates daily from 9 AM to 4 PM with a ticket price of INR 3500.
MOUNTAIN BIKING – Mountain biking has become very popular in Darjeeling, not just among locals but also tourists. Since January 2017, Darjeeling is the only place in India with a dedicated biking park. There are many biking trails where you can enjoy long rides through beautiful landscapes. Most biking trips last all day, starting in the morning and ending before sunset. Popular biking destinations include Lamahatta, Pokhribong, Maneybhanjan, and Kurseong and the entry fee is around INR 1000.
CABLE CAR RIDE – The cable car ride in Darjeeling offers a relaxing way to see the whole town from above. It provides amazing views and a peaceful atmosphere. A cable car can carry up to six people, making it great for groups or families. The ride is open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM and the ticket price for the same is INR 200 for adults & INR 100 for children.
TEESTA RIVER RAFTING – For adventure lovers, river rafting on the Teesta River is one of the best activities in Darjeeling. The rapids vary from easy (Grade 1) to challenging (Grade 4), and only experienced rafters or trained instructors are allowed on the tougher sections. Rafting here is exciting and full of adrenaline. The best time for rafting is between December and June and the tickets cost from INR 900 to INR 1500.
TEESTA TEA AND TOURISM FESTIVAL – Darjeeling, though a small town, is famous worldwide for its excellent tea and unique flavors. Most residents are connected to tea estates, so tea is a big part of daily life here. Every year, in November and December, Darjeeling hosts the Teesta Tea and Tourism Festival, attracting visitors from all over the globe. The festival offers tea exhibitions, tasting sessions, and showcases a wide variety of tea types.
DARJEELING CARNIVAL – The Darjeeling Carnival takes place throughout November and lasts for 10 days. It features live rock and band music performed by local artists in English, Bengali, and Nepali. Visitors can also enjoy painting and photography displays, poetry readings, and other cultural events. Traditional food stalls add to the festive atmosphere, making it a favorite event for people of all ages.
DARJEELING ORANGE FESTIVAL – Held mostly in December, the Darjeeling Orange Festival gives visitors a chance to learn about different types of oranges, their quality, and how they are preserved. The festival draws participants from over 50 communities and is one of the biggest events in the area. Occasionally, it is hosted outside Darjeeling due to its growing popularity.
NEW YEAR FESTIVAL – On 31st December, Darjeeling comes alive with vibrant celebrations on New Year’s Eve. The Bhutias and Lepchas perform traditional dances in the streets to welcome the New Year, which starts in January according to their calendar. The lively processions are a special experience for visitors. During this time, fairs are also organized where you can taste local dishes like momo and thupka.
LOSHA – The most significant celebration in the Tibetan calendar is called Losha. The Tibetan New Year is marked by its celebration towards the end of February or beginning of March. The festivities last for nearly a week, during which Tibetans prepare delectable cuisine, don new attire, and dance wildly. The Tibetan people celebrate Cho Nga Chopa on the eleventh day of the festival. The goal of this celebration is to improve Buddhists’ devotion. Chotrul Duechen, or the 15th day of the festival, is a day of sacrifice for Tibetan Buddhists. You need to take part in this event if you want to learn about the culture of Darjeeling.
Places To Eat In Darjeeling
- Glenarys – It is difficult to overlook the white Glenarys building if you are heading in the direction of the Mall. Freshly made bread, pies, brownies, cakes, and pastries are what Glenarys is known for, coupled with a cup of the finest Darjeeling tea. The quaint-looking café, where you may relax with your tea and pastries, is located on the ground level. Afternoon and evening teas go well here. You may sit on the open patio and take in the scenery. Address: Nehru Road Near Clock Tower, Chauk Bazaar ; Timings: 9.00 am – 9.30 pm
- Revolver – If you want to explore real Naga food, then Revolver is the place to go in Darjeeling. Revolver Lodge and Restaurant is an outlandish establishment with a Beatles motif. The two portions of the restaurant and café provide a cozy atmosphere. There is an area that resembles a lounge, complete with low chairs and an impressive library. They provide decent Darjeeling tea in addition to English and continental food. However, the food there is fantastic.
BEST HOTELS OR RESORTS TO STAY IN DARJEELING
Mayfair Darjeeling – Located opposite the Governor’s House in a prime spot of Darjeeling, MAYFAIR Darjeeling is a luxurious hotel known for its excellent facilities. The hotel has 43 stylish and fully furnished rooms that blend classic charm with modern comforts. Although nearly a century old, it offers a warm and youthful atmosphere with cozy fireplaces, stunning sunset views, a spa, an elegant tea shop, and multiple dining options. These features make it a favorite place for visitors to return to time and again.
Sinclairs Darjeeling – Sinclairs Darjeeling takes guests back to the Raj era with its Victorian-style beauty. The hotel showcases carved fireplaces, antique furniture, chandeliers, and traditional artifacts, creating a cozy and welcoming feel. Guests enjoy gracious hospitality and a relaxing environment that makes them feel right at home.
Ramada by Wyndham – With its abundance of flawless amenities and exceptional services, Ramada Darjeeling is one of the best places to stay in Darjeeling. The 62 rooms of the Ramada Darjeeling are all furnished with contemporary conveniences, so you won’t have to sacrifice modern conveniences. Ramada’s rooms integrate business and leisure by striking a balance between luxury and spaciousness.
Summit Swiss Heritage Hotel & Spa – With a hint of British old colonial architecture that transports the hotel’s elegance back to the 1940s, it provides the ideal balance of historical heritage, contemporary facilities, and coziest accommodations. Summit Swiss, one of Darjeeling’s best hotels, is only five minutes from the renowned Mall Road. This home has large grass spaces, is fully equipped, and looks out over Darjeeling’s tranquility.
Markets To Explore In Darjeeling
- Bhutia Market, Hakim Para- Siliguri
- Nehru Road Market
- Mall Road
- Tibetan Refugee Self Help Centre, Gandhi Road
