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1. Darjeeling Himalayan Railway

20 km from city center 1 out of 30 Places To Visit in Darjeeling

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

2. Tiger Hill

6 km from city center 2 out of 30 Places To Visit in Darjeeling

Lying at an altitude of 2590 meters and a distance of 13 kilometres away from the Darjeeling, Tiger Hill is most famous for its splendid sights of sunrise from where you can see the peaks of Kanchenjunga illuminate before the sun is seen at lower elevations. The magnificent view of snow-capped mountains sitting amidst cotton clouds attracts tourists to Tiger Hill from all over the country.

3. Batasia Loop

3 km from city center 3 out of 30 Places To Visit in Darjeeling

Located around 5 km from Darjeeling, Batasia loop is a spiral railway track where the toy train takes a complete 360 degree turn. The toy train descends by 1,000 ft. as it completes the loop through a large circular area.

4. Darjeeling Ropeway

3 km from city center 4 out of 30 Places To Visit in Darjeeling

Darjeeling Ropeway is a cable car circuit where one can witness a myriad of exquisite landscapes, from the glorious snow-capped mountains to the charming valley replete with verdant tea estates.

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1 km from city center 5 out of 30 Places To Visit in Darjeeling

Be it black, green, or oolong, tea is as synonymous with Darjeeling as a view of the majestic Kanchenjunga. With over 80 tea plantations in Darjeeling, spread across the slopes of the valleys of this tourist trap, a visit to at least one tea garden is crucial to the tourist's agenda. The famous Happy Valley Tea Estate is the only garden amongst these that allows tourists to view the subtler nuances of producing and processing tea with their tea factory guided tour.

6. Himalayan Mountaineering Institute

2 km from city center 6 out of 30 Places To Visit in Darjeeling

Located in Darjeeling, Himalayan Mountaineering Institute is recognized as one of the best mountaineering institutes in the world. Established on 4th November 1954, the primary purpose of this initiative was to encourage, enhance and support the interest of the people in the sport of mountaineering, and to channel the abundant energy of the youth into a productive and self-awarding sport. 

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7. Shopping in Darjeeling

0 km from city center 7 out of 30 Places To Visit in Darjeeling

 Darjeeling is famous for its handmade items including pendants with gems engraved on them, paintings known as 'Thangkas' which depicts stories of the Buddhist religion. Nehru road is likely to be the perfect spot for the tourists. Another place to stuff in your shopping bags is Chowk Bazaar which has all kinds of stuff ranging from clothes to mouth-watering dishes.

8. Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park

2 km from city center 8 out of 30 Places To Visit in Darjeeling

The Padmaja Naidu Zoological Park is a splendid enclosure in Darjeeling housing a wide variety of animals. Also known as Darjeeling Zoo, this is a haven for animals of all kinds and a huge centre of attraction for animal lovers and nature enthusiasts.

9. Darjeeling Rock Garden

3 km from city center 9 out of 30 Places To Visit in Darjeeling

Rock Garden is an exquisite picnic spot terraced with natural fall known as Chunnu summer fall, located 10 km away from Darjeeling. It is also known as Barbotey Rock Garden which is surrounded by beautiful hill stream along with the slope covered with fascinating flower gardens and sitting arrangements at various level. It is considered one of the most preferred visiting destinations for nature lovers travelling to Darjeeling.

10. Singalila National Park

20 km from city center 10 out of 30 Places To Visit in Darjeeling

Located at an altitude of more than 7000 feet above the sea in the Singalila range, the Singalila National Park is the highest national park in West Bengal. It is most famous for the breathtakingly mind-stirring view of the Himalayan peak that it offers, providing a panoramic view of the gigantic Himalayas from Nepal to Sikkim and up to Bhutan .

11. Nightingale Park

2 km from city center 11 out of 30 Places To Visit in Darjeeling

Located in the mesmerising hill station of Darjeeling, the Nightingale Park is a public park area frequented by the tourists and locals to relish gorgeous views of the Kanchenjunga ranges. It serves as an ideal place to unwind and recharge amidst lush greenery and soothing winds. This park was earlier called 'The Shrubbery' when it was a private courtyard of Sir Thomas Tartan's Bungalow, during the British reign.

12. Darjeeling Peace Pagoda

2 km from city center 12 out of 30 Places To Visit in Darjeeling

Located on the slopes of Jalapahar hills in Darjeeling, the Peace Pagoda, or the Japanese Peace Pagoda is one of the peace pagodas designed to establish unity, harmony and goodwill amongst people belonging to different sects of society. Famous for its tranquillity, it offers stunning views of snow-clad peaks including the Kanchenjunga peak making it an ideal place for peace and nature lovers.

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13. Kanchenjunga

13 out of 30 Places To Visit in Darjeeling

The third highest peak in the world, the majestic Kanchenjunga, also spelt Kangchenjunga, is one of the most stunning mountains. Surrounded by Nepal, Sikkim and Tibet, Mt Kanchenjunga was first scaled in 1955 but since then has been declared sacred. Kanchenjunga' is a Tibetan name which means 'The Five Treasures of the High Snow'.

14. Sandakphu Trek

27 km from city center 14 out of 30 Places To Visit in Darjeeling

Sandakphu Peak (11,941 Feet) is the highest peak in West Bengal. The highest peak of Singalila Ridge in Darjeeling district, almost near the border of Nepal, it is located very close to Singalila National Park. Sandakphu, the highest peak in West Bengal, gives you a spectacular view of four out of five highest peaks in the world.

15. Trekking in Darjeeling

0 km from city center 15 out of 30 Places To Visit in Darjeeling

Offering you a sweeping view of four out of the five highest peaks of the world Mt. Everest, Kanchenjunga, Makalu and Lhotse, all in a single stretch, Darjeeling offers some of the best trekking routes in the world.

16. Chowrasta Darjeeling

0 km from city center 16 out of 30 Places To Visit in Darjeeling

Chowrasta, located at the heart of Darjeeling, is a vibrant and bustling public square that serves as the town's main focal point. Literally translating to "four roads," Chowrasta is a flat open space where four major roads converge, offering panoramic views of the surrounding hills and the majestic Kanchenjunga mountain range. This lively promenade is a favorite among locals and tourists alike, providing a charming retreat to unwind and soak in the serene atmosphere.

17. Dali Monastery

2 km from city center 17 out of 30 Places To Visit in Darjeeling

Dali Monastery, also known as Druk Sangag Choling Monastery, stands majestically on the slopes of Darjeeling, a testament to the rich Tibetan Buddhist heritage in the region. The monastery, founded by Kyabje Thuksey Rinpoche, is not only a religious center but also an architectural marvel that draws enthusiasts and seekers of tranquility alike.

18. Ghoom Monastery

4 km from city center 18 out of 30 Places To Visit in Darjeeling

At a grand elevation of 8,000 feet, the Yiga Choeling or old Ghoom Monastery is the oldest Tibetan Buddhist Monastery of Darjeeling. A 15-foot high statue of Maitreyi Buddha is seen in the central hall, made entirely of clay brought from Tibet. Rare Buddhist manuscripts like the Kangyur can be found here.

19. River Rafting in Teesta

19 out of 30 Places To Visit in Darjeeling

River rafting in the Teesta River in Darjeeling is an exhilarating adventure that combines the thrill of navigating through turbulent waters with the scenic beauty of the Himalayan landscape. Teesta, originating in the Himalayas and flowing through the picturesque hills of Darjeeling, offers an ideal setting for this adrenaline-pumping activity.

20. Monastries in Darjeeling

4 km from city center 20 out of 30 Places To Visit in Darjeeling

Darjeeling is home to several enchanting monasteries that add a spiritual and cultural touch to this scenic region. These monastic retreats, reflecting the essence of Tibetan Buddhism, attract visitors with their serene ambiance and intricate architectural details.

21. Tinchuley

11 km from city center 21 out of 30 Places To Visit in Darjeeling

At a distance of about 32 km from Darjeeling, Tinchuley is an offbeat hamlet situated close to the West Bengal-Sikkim border. With an altitude of 5550 ft, the name of the place derives from the words ‘tin’ and ‘chula’, which translates as ‘three ovens’ because the trio of hills constituting the hill station resemble mud ovens.

22. Happy Valley Tea Estate

1 km from city center 22 out of 30 Places To Visit in Darjeeling

At a magical altitude of 6,800 feet, the Happy Valley Tea Estate is the second oldest tea estate in the tea-rich town of Darjeeling. One can take a guided tour through the fragrant factory, learning and observing the procedure to produce the different varieties of tea.

23. Darjeeling Observatory Hill

1 km from city center 23 out of 30 Places To Visit in Darjeeling

Observatory Hill is a rising hill situated above Chowrasta Square, around 2 km from the Darjeeling Himalaya railway station, just above the Mall Road in the picturesque hill town of Darjeeling. It is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Darjeeling as it offers a panoramic view of the mountains along with the presence of various Hindu and Buddhist temples including Kanchenjunga Temple, Mahakal temple and Tibetian Memorial Shrine.

24. Bengal Natural History Museum

2 km from city center 24 out of 30 Places To Visit in Darjeeling

A testament to the indigenous flora and fauna of the region, the Bengal Natural History Museum is a fascinating plethora of more than 4000 specimens being exhibited located in the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park in Darjeeling.

25. Lamahatta Eco Park

9 km from city center 25 out of 30 Places To Visit in Darjeeling

Lamahatta is a scenic village in West Bengal, 23km from Darjeeling. To showcase the magnificent views of peaks & rivers and the dhupi & pine forests here, the Lamahatta Eco Park was created in 2012. Lamahatta means Monk's Hermitage and so, this place promises an environment that feels as tranquil as a monk - a measure of balance between nature & man. At an altitude of 5,700 ft., this eco-park has a lot to offer.

26. Lepchajagat

8 km from city center 26 out of 30 Places To Visit in Darjeeling

Lepchajagat is a small village around 19km from Darjeeling. At a height of 6,956 ft, this vilage is considered a haven for nature lovers and honeymooners. Amidst dense forests of pines, oaks and rhododendrons, this village gives you tranquility. Viewing the Kanchenjunga peaks from here is a serene experience. It is now part of a reserved forest area.

27. Mahakal Temple

60 km from city center 27 out of 30 Places To Visit in Darjeeling

The Mahakal Temple in Darjeeling is a revered Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, located atop Observatory Hill in the heart of the town. This ancient temple, dating back to the early 18th century, holds great religious significance for locals and pilgrims alike, attracting visitors seeking blessings and spiritual solace. Set against the backdrop of the majestic Himalayas, the Mahakal Temple offers not only a sacred space for prayers and rituals but also breathtaking panoramic views of Darjeeling town and its surrounding landscapes.

28. Himalayan Tibet Museum

0 km from city center 28 out of 30 Places To Visit in Darjeeling

The Himalayan Tibet Museum in Darjeeling serves as a cultural institution dedicated to preserving and showcasing the rich heritage of Tibetan culture and Buddhism in the Himalayan region. Through its diverse collection of artifacts, artworks, and multimedia exhibits, the museum offers visitors a comprehensive insight into Tibetan life, traditions, and spirituality. Situated in the heart of Darjeeling, the museum provides a platform for cultural exchange and understanding, fostering appreciation for the enduring legacy of Tibetan heritage.

29. Everest Museum (HMI)

4 km from city center 29 out of 30 Places To Visit in Darjeeling

Established in 1957, the Everest Museum or Himalayan Mountaineering Institute (HMI) museum stands as a testament to the rich history and culture of mountaineering in the Himalayan region. Its objectives include facilitating educational activities on mountaineering and preserving the works of Himalayan art and culture, attracting nearly half a million tourists, mountaineers, and researchers annually.

30. Malls in Darjeeling

30 out of 30 Places To Visit in Darjeeling

Darjeeling, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, also boasts a shopping experience that reflects its unique cultural blend. Among the notable malls, Rink Mall on Laden La Road stands out, providing a multi-storey haven for diverse retail and entertainment against the stunning backdrop of the Himalayas.

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The Top 19 Things to Do in Darjeeling, India

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

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

Ride the Himalayan Mountain Railway Toy Train

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

Tour the Tea Gardens

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

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

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

Learn How Tea Is Processed

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

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

Stay on a Tea Estate

Ging Tea House

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

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

Meander Along the British-Era Mall

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

See Where Hindu and Buddhist Faiths Coexist

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

Soak Up the Views with Tea at Sunset Lounge

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

Step Back in Time at the Windamere Hotel

Windamere Hotel, Darjeeling

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

Gaze at Mount Kanchenjunga

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

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

Marvel Over the Buddhist Monasteries

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

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

Join in the Prayer for World Peace

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

Watch Rugs Being Woven

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

Feast on Momos

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

Explore the Local Market

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

Spot the Shy Red Panda and Other Rare Animals

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

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

Learn About Mountaineering and Try Rock Climbing

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

Experience the Thrill of Paragliding

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

Enjoy the Great Outdoors

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

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

Be a "Day Tripper" at Revolver

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

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DARJEELING TRIP PLAN – A Complete Travel Guide with FAQs Answered

Darjeeling , Featured , West Bengal

Last Updated on: Feb 10, 2023  

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

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

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

Darjeeling Trip Plan | About Darjeeling

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

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

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

What is the Best Time to Visit Darjeeling?

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

March to May (Spring and Summer)

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

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

June to September (Monsoon)

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

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

October to November (Autumn)

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

December to February (Winter)

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

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

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

How to Reach Darjeeling?

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

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

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

Best Places to visit in Darjeeling

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

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

1. Tiger Hill

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

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

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

2. Batasia Loop and War Memorial

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

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

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

3. Darjeeling Mall or Chowrasta

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

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

4. Darjeeling Zoo and HMI

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

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

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

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

5. Rock Garden and Ganga Maya Park

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

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

6. Japanese Temple and Peace Pagoda

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

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

Timings: Everyday from 4:30 AM to 7 PM

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

7. Happy Valley Tea Estate

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

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

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

8. Observatory Hill and the Mahakal Temple

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

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

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

Timings: From sunrise to sunset.

9. Ghum Monastery

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

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

10. Tenzing and Gombu Rocks

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

11. Tibetan Refugee Self Help Centre

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

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

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

Darjeeling Travel Guide | Darjeeling Sightseeing

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

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

Tentative Rate for reserved Taxi: Rs 1200.00 – 1500.00

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

Tentative Rate of reserved car: Rs 1200.00 – 1500.00

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

Tentative Rate of reserved car: Rs 1500.00 – 1700.00

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

Darjeeling Toy Train

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

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

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

Darjeeling Tea

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

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Darjeeling?

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

Luxury Hotels in Darjeeling

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

Mid Budget Hotels

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

Budget Hotels in Darjeeling

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

What are the Best Places to eat in Darjeeling Trip?

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

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

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

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

How much does it cost to travel in Darjeeling?

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

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

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

Shopping in Darjeeling Trip | Darjeeling Travel Guide

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day trips from Darjeeling | Darjeeling Travel Guide

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

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

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

Darjeeling Trip – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs answered)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Other Resources on Darjeeling

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

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Agni Amrita

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42 comments.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Dear Sir/Mam,

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

Thanking you Kaushik Mandal

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

That’s an amazing article

THANK YOU SO MUCH 🌎❤️

You have made Darjeeling more beautiful from your precise perceptive.

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

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

Thank you so much!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

This was amazing.. trust me Thankyou

You forgot to mention Aloobari monostry and Jalapahar, St Paul

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

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

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

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

Thank you so much.

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

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

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

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

Leave the planning to a local expert

Experience the real Darjeeling. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Darjeeling Himalayan Railway

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

Singalila National Park

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

Observatory Hill

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

Himalayan Mountaineering Institute

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

Tibetan Refugee Self-Help Centre

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

Japanese Peace Pagoda

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

Yiga Choeling Gompa

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

Himalayan Tibet Museum

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

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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.

An appeal:   Please do not throw litter around. Use a dustbin. If you can’t find one, take the trash with you and throw it when you find one. Your small steps like this one can make the world clean and green.

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One comment

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

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NatureDiary » Blog » Travel Guides » Bucket List Destinations

Top 20 Places To Visit In Darjeeling For A Thrilling Experience

Rightfully labelled as the ‘Queen of the Hills ‘, Darjeeling justifies its legacy as one of the most charismatic hill stations in India. Nestled in the Lesser Himalayas in the northern parts of West Bengal, it offers several beautiful tourist places to explore.

Darjeeling is enriched with its cultural history, and you would love the pleasant climate here all around the year. We have visited Darjeeling many times and witnessed the nostalgic toy trains winding down the roads, with the whistle reminding us of its colonial legacy miles away. Along with this, there are small stalls selling momos, winding roads, valleys, tea plantations, and monasteries.

Darjeeling has got several tea estates, and tea cultivation forms a significant economy. With breathtaking views of the evergreen forests and centuries-old plantations , it offers a calm retreat for thousands of families for vacations.

As the colonial hangover looms heavy in its streets, alleys, and mansions, Darjeeling also serves as a gateway to some of the most popular treks in India. On a clear day with comfortable weather , you would cherish your time sitting over a cup of coffee and feasting your eyes on the magnificent views of mount Kanchenjunga.

Let’s explore the most attractive and best places to visit in Darjeeling. With this information, you can start planning your next trip!

1. Tiger Hill

Tiger hill is a must-visit place in Darjeeling, given that you would be standing at the highest point in the region. It stands at 2,590 meters, from where you can cherish your vision with the snow-capped ranges.

Interestingly, Tiger Hill is such a place from where one can get an entire panoramic view of the ranges between Mount Everest and Mount Kanchenjunga. Some of the other prominent peaks that we can see from Tiger Hill include Kokhtang, Rathong, and Kabru. India has got only two such points that give you such a comprehensive view of The Eastern Himalayas, the other being Mount Phalut (3,600 meters).

For nature lovers like us, Tiger Hill is a great destination to visit. You can witness the first tender rays bathing Mount Everest from here as we did. For photographers and hikes, Tiger Hill happens to be a paradise.

To capture the sunrise, you need to wake up early and travel for 45 minutes from Darjeeling town. On the way, you would come across some of the oldest tree plantations in India.

For these reasons, you wouldn’t like to miss out on visiting Tiger Hill. So, make sure to include Tiger Hill in your itinerary. The only drawback we have found is Tiger Hill gets very crowded during the peak seasons.

2. Batasia Loop

Located around 5 Km from Darjeeling town, Batasia Loop continues to be one of the best places to visit in Darjeeling. You would appreciate the pleasing views of the narrow-gauge track for the toy train spiralling around the place. Darjeeling Himalayan Railway has come up with this strategic point, where the toy train completes a complete loop. No wonder why Batasia Loop finds its name on honeymooners’ lists.

What photographers would love about this place is the flowering plants dotting the garden. It was back in 1919 that Batasia Loop was built in colonial Bengal with the objective to reduce the slope gradient for toy trains. One of the most beautiful places to travel around Darjeeling, Batasia Loop covers an extensive area of around 50,000 square feet.

The special thing about this spot is that you can capture a 360-degree panoramic view of the entire city of Darjeeling, along with its green landscapes with several layers. Then there’s an eco-garden here, where you can find relevant information about organic farming in the district. Also, the Gorkha War Memorial forms a photogenic structure inside the garden.

3. Darjeeling Zoo

The Padmaja Naidu Zoological Park , popularly known as the Darjeeling Zoo, is one of the must-visit places around the hill station. Besides, in 2022, this zoological park earned a feather in its cap , emerging as the best zoo in India.

The Darjeeling Zoo is one of the few places in India where you can get a glimpse of the snow leopard and the red panda, both of which are endangered species. The extensive zoo is spread across 65.56 acres and houses other endangered species like the Himalayan Salamanders.

Besides, you can see the Himalayan Black Bear, clouded leopards, black leopards, Himalayan Mountain Goat, and the Tibetan wolf in this zoo. Apart from the animals, nature lovers admire the diversity of plants here. The zoological park has more than 200 plant species, including alder, birch, and oak.

When you look out for places to see in Darjeeling, make sure to include this zoo in your list. Interestingly, the Padmaja Naidu Zoological Park was built in memory of Tenzing Norgay. The Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, which lies in the same complex, is currently one of the most popular resorts for mountaineering students.

4. Himalayan Mountaineering Institute

The Himalayan Mountaineering Institute (HMI) is a famous place in Darjeeling, where you can find specimens of expedition artefacts and the best mountaineering gear. If you are a mountain lover or a trekker, it would be a sin not to visit this institute when you are in Darjeeling.

The institute runs a boarding school for students interested in mountaineering. Besides, you can capture the memorial built in memory of Tenzing Norgay. The premise also has a souvenir shop and a restaurant.

Trekkers and ambitious mountaineers get themselves trained for the challenges in this institute. Besides, the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute finds its name among one of the best mountaineering schools in the country. Well, even if you are not into mountaineering, you cannot help appreciating the picturesque backdrop where the institute perches itself.

5. Ghum and Dali Monasteries

The Ghum and Dali Monasteries are two of the most popular monasteries to visit in Darjeeling. While the Ghum Monastery is located 7 Km from Darjeeling town, the Dali Monastery sits calmly 5 Km away.

The Samten Choling Monastery, popularly known as the Ghum Monastery, belongs to the Gelugpa sect of Buddhists. It is characterized by the massive arched gate, along with a magnificent white body. The golden top of the monastery happens to be a pure specimen of the Tibetan architectural style.

This monastery has a model of Lord Buddha, 26 feet tall. The structure also houses a sizable collection of Buddhist manuscripts and books. There’s a small café inside the premise, where you can refreshen yourself with light snacks and coffee. Several monks of the yellow hat sect of Buddhism reside in this monastery.

On the other hand, the Dali Monastery will give you peaceful vibes as you step into its premises. It sits as a specimen of divine wisdom. Originally, this monastery was called Druk Sangag Choling Monastery, and it still continues to be a popular pilgrimage site for Buddhists. The Dali Monastery belongs to the Kagyupa sect and was built in 1971 in the Tibetan style.

The monastery has some huge golden drums, cylindrical in shape. The spiritual vibes are evident from the deep humming voices from the prayer room.

6. Tea plantations And Estates

Darjeeling has some of the most verdant tea estates in India, some of which are centuries old. Some of these have been recognized by UNESCO as world heritage sites. You have winding roads around the city that take you around these tea estates.

However, if you are interested in visiting one of these tea estates, you can visit some of the famous ones in exchange for a small fee. Tea estates constitute some of the most beautiful places to visit in Darjeeling. Some of the most famous tea plantations in Darjeeling include the Puttabong Tea Estate, Glenburn Tea Estate, Makaibari Tea Estate, Gopaldhara Tea Estate, Okayti Tea Estate, and Happy Valley Tea Estate.

Both hikers and photographers can enjoy happening moments in these tea gardens and plantations. Besides, you get a first-hand view of the workers at the tea gardens and understand the operation of tea processing. Along with this, you have splendid views of the greenery around these estates.

7. Japanese Temple And Peace Pagoda

Among the tourist places near Darjeeling we have come across, you have the Japanese temple and Peace pagoda. This temple also finds its name among the top pilgrimage sites for Buddhists in Darjeeling, a perfect specimen of Japanese architectural splendour. This is a two-storeyed building that was inaugurated in 1972.

Inside the temple, there’s a large prayer room. The chief priest beats a Ho-ko, or a large drum while offering the prayers. Inside the temple, there’s a statue of Lord Buddha and a picture of Fujii Guruji.

The Peace Pagoda lies on the same premise, a little higher. The breathtaking white structure resembles purity. It is believed that this structure was designed to help people of different creeds and races and unite them in their quest for worldly peace. This structure was inaugurated much later, in 1992. You will find four avatars of Lord Buddha in this pagoda.

Apart from spirituality, the panoramic view of Darjeeling’s landscape attracts tourists to the pagoda. You can also catch a glimpse of the Kanchenjunga range on clear days.

8. Rock Garden

Rock garden in Darjeeling is another beautiful sightseeing spot. This is an artificial garden with bridges, waterfalls, and different types of plants. Besides, tourists in Darjeeling love to engage themselves in various activities in the Rock Garden. There’s a large seating area where you can enjoy blissful photo sessions wearing local attire. Pony riding happens to be yet another activity in this area.

The Rock Garden is located around 10 Km from Darjeeling town. For tourists, it would be a pleasure to spend their time in the colourful terraced gardens with flowering plants growing in them. Make sure to have a photo session in front of the Chunnu Summer Falls. The lush green places and soothing waterfalls around the Rock Garden would make your day happen.

What you would love are the innovative sitting arrangements that have been made by cutting rocks at different levels. Sitting at the top, you can catch a spectacular view of the green landscape with hairpin bends on the roads below.

9. Darjeeling Ropeway

How about getting a birds-eye view of the lush green tea estates and woods of Darjeeling?

The Rangeet Valley Passenger Cable Car, or the commonly known Darjeeling Ropeway, brings you a refreshing adventure for tourists. Interestingly, this was India’s first cable car system, inaugurated in 1968.

When we traversed over the valleys in the cable car, we were enthralled by the mesmerizing green view of the underlying valley. Along with this, our vision was soaked with the pure scenes of waterfalls, tea gardens, various peaks of the Kanchenjunga, gushing streams, and dense forests. So, if you don’t have acrophobia, the Darjeeling Ropeway is one of the must-visit places around the town.

Currently, around 16 cable cars are operating on this line. Each of these cable cars can comfortably accommodate six people in a single ride. Approximately, you would be travelling around 7,000 feet over the verdant valleys!

10. Darjeeling Toy Train

Just imagine cruising along the meandering roads with the colonial hangover looming around the distant valleys and cottages in Darjeeling. Toy Train rides are immensely popular, and the narrow gauge line runs adjacent to the road between Darjeeling and New Jalpaiguri.

The rail tracks are just 2 feet in width and run for 88 Km. It was back in 1879 that the construction of these toy train tracks was initiated. Much later, in 1999, this line, operated by the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR), bagged the stature of the UNESCO world heritage site.

Interestingly, the Darjeeling Toy Train is only the second railway, following the Semmering Railway of Australia, to cherish this feat from UNESCO. Several documentaries and films have been shot around the toy train tracks in Darjeeling.

Although the train line closely follows the main road connecting Darjeeling and New Jalpaiguri, the tracks slightly deviate from the main course at places. This exposes travellers to the blissful green views that are not visible from the roads.

Read the train travel guide in India if you like to explore different types of trains and booking procedure.

11. Botanical Garden

Among the most picturesque places to travel to in Darjeeling, you have the Lloyd’s Botanical Garden. A wide variety of flora and orchids await you in this popular tourist destination in the city. This garden covers more than 40 acres, and you can spot some of the rarest plant species here. Some of these include magnolia, rhododendron, Arisaema, and oak.

For photographers, the Botanical Garden in Darjeeling happens to be a paradise. To catch the flowers in full bloom, make sure to visit Darjeeling between March and September. Inside the garden, you will come across different floral sections, each with its unique species of flowers.

The Botanical Garden in Darjeeling also has more than 150 species of cactus. Moreover, you cannot possibly miss out on the Orchidarium, which has more than 2,500 orchids. The vibrance and spectacle that you would experience would continue to mesmerize your eyes even after you are back home!

12. Darjeeling Mall

When you look out for the best places to visit in Darjeeling, you cannot possibly overlook its streets, squares, and markets, right?

Darjeeling Mall forms the heart of the town. There’s a Chowrasta, or an intersection between four roads, where you should take a customary photo. A typical cosmopolitan population floats around the Mall region, busy with tasting Indian and Tibetan cuisines, shopping, or hopping into antique stores. You also have some of the most popular bakeries and bars in Darjeeling like Glenary’s and Keventers around this place.

The Mall hosts hundreds of boutique shops and eateries, besides coupling up as a popular place from where you can purchase clothes and souvenirs for your friends and acquaintances.

There’s a picturesque pine forest on one side of Darjeeling Mall, enjoying the shadows of the adjoining mountain peaks. You can literally spend hours exploring the wide array of handicrafts, traditional garments, rugs, carpets, shrugs, shawls, paintings, metalware, and semi-precious jewellery. If you are fascinated with collecting antiques, be prepared to bargain your deal!

13. Senchal Lake & Wildlife Sanctuary

The Senchal Lake & Wildlife Sanctuary continue to be one of the offbeat places to see in Darjeeling, besides being one of India’s oldest wildlife sanctuaries. Set up in 1915, the sanctuary happens to be a paradise for nature lovers. Nested around 11 Km. from the main town of Darjeeling, it is a must-visit destination for nature lovers.

Inside the sanctuary, you have the Senchal Lake. Engaging photo sessions and a blissful time await you in this tourist attraction. Interestingly, Senchal Lake serves as the town’s drinking water source. Around the lake, you have several fun activities like cycling, boating, and hiking. With all these activities, it has coupled up as a great picnic spot in Darjeeling.

Also, you can catch a glimpse of different animal species at the Senchal Lake & Wildlife Sanctuary. Some of these include the jungle cat, barking deer, Himalayan black bear, Assam macaque, the Himalayan flying squirrel, and the common rhesus monkey.

There are more than 350 flower-bearing plants and orchids among the plant species. The most beautiful plantations include the mating bamboo, Kawla, Hemlock, Dhupi, and Kapasi. Along with these, you have large trees like birch, pine, and oak, bringing you many photogenic moments as you explore the wilderness.

14. Mahakal Temple And Observatory Hill

The Mahakal Temple, located close to Darjeeling Mall, is a famous place to visit in the town. Beside the temple, there’s an observatory hill. On a clear day, this spot would mesmerize you with breathtaking views of the Kanchenjunga and its sisters.

You simply need to take a winding uphill path meandering its way up from the Mall. The Mahakal Temple is believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva. Besides, there are three icons of Lords Brahma, Vishnu, and Maheshwar, all of which are gold-plated.

The Mahakal temple is a pilgrimage site for the Hindus. It was built in the 19th century after the Gorkhas invaded the area. Around this area, you will come across an amalgamation of Buddhist shrines and Hindu temples. Some of these include the Tibetan Memorial Shrine and the Kanchenjunga Temple, besides the Mahakal Temple.

If you are comfortable with hiking, make sure to visit the small cave located just 15 minutes away from Observatory Hill. The tranquillity of nature would cast a spell on you.

15. Tinchuley, Lamahatta, And Takdah

Tinchuley, Lamahatta, and Takdah are some of the most alluring offbeat places that you can travel from Darjeeling.

An isolated hamlet, Tinchuley, is located 32 Km from Darjeeling, close to the border between Sikkim and West Bengal. Sitting at 5,500 ft, it has some picturesque fruit orchards, tea plantations, and meandering rivers around. The Ranjeet and Teesta rivers add to the splendour of Tinchuley .

You would appreciate the natural vibes of the hamlet, along with the beauty of the quaint village. People looking for an off-centre place near Darjeeling to spend a night or two can go to Tinchuley, Lamahatta, or Takdah. In most of these places, homestay accommodations are available along with food.

Lamahatta, on the other hand, is located 23 Km away from Darjeeling but only 6 away from Tinchuley. You would enjoy your stay amid the Pine and Dhupi forests. Also, if you are keen to explore the local lifestyle in Darjeeling, you can find the Tamangs, Bhutias, Sherpas, Yalmos, and Dukpas in Lamahatta.

Takdah is another romantic hamlet with picturesque orchards and tea gardens, located close to Tinchuley and Lamahatta. Like we did immensely, you will also enjoy your moments as you hike through the coniferous trails in Takdah forest, with the mighty Himalayas forming the backdrop.

Located 28 Km away from Darjeeling town, Takdah has an elevation of 5,100 ft. Although it has a lower altitude compared to Darjeeling, you would enjoy chillier nights due to its geographical location.

16. Chota Mangwa And Bara Mangwa

In the Darjeeling Hills, the Lepcha people call the finger millet ‘Maong-waa’. It refers to the crops like ragi and bajra, which are cultivated in the adjacent villages around the western side of the Teesta River. If you are willing to explore a few more offbeat places around Darjeeling, you can include Bara and Chota Mangwa on your list.

In recent years, tourism has bloomed significantly around these villages. The distance between Bara and Chota Mangwa is only 9 Km, and you can even walk through the small villages.

Takling Village is one of the sightseeing places around this area, where you can visit an old monastery. Also, you can explore the orange orchards and pamper your taste buds with the sweetest oranges. For photographers and nature lovers, the meeting zone of the Teesta and Rangeet rivers would be a key attraction. The Tinchuley Sunrise Point, which lies 9 Km. from Bara Mangwa, brings you some of the most photogenic scenes.

Along with the pleasant views of nature, tourists can also visit the tea estates at Lopchu and Peshok and Rungli Ranglot. At Lopchu, you can peep into the juice-making factory for a change.

17. Singalila National Park And Sandakphu

In case you are a trekker and are looking for places to travel from Darjeeling, make sure to visit Sandakphu (11,929 feet). This peak is the highest in West Bengal and is rightly called the ‘rooftop of Bengal’. On a clear day, you can capture the panoramic view of the Eastern Himalayas. From the top of Sandakphu, you can see mighty Himalayan peaks like Mt. Everest, Mt. Kangchenjunga, Makalu, and Lhotse.

The Sandakphu trek takes you to some of the most picturesque alpine trek routes in India. The trek starts from Manebhanjan and continues through the forests of Dhotrey, Tonglu, Tumling, and Kalipokhri, till you reach the top. On the down trek, you will cross some of the most beautiful forest trails at Gorkhey and Srikhola after scaling the Phault Peak.

The Sandakphu Peak lies around the Singalila National Park , which houses some of the most endangered animal species, including the red panda and the clouded leopard. Trekkers need to take a guide from Manebhanjan and can leave the trek route at any point if the need arises. So, if you are exploring beautiful places around Darjeeling, you can plan a trek to Sandakphu.

18. Chatakpur

Chatakpur is another offbeat place located close to Darjeeling. In case you are planning to visit Darjeeling, why not arrange a trip to Chatakpur that lies just 20 Km away? You can stay away from the crowd and bustle of the city amidst the quaint peace of the pine trees in a homestay in Chatakpur.

Nested amidst nature just beside a river gorge, Chatakpur happens to be a place where people worship nature. Along with the lush-green forests, you can spruce up your vision with the snow-clad views of the Eastern Himalayas. Chatakpur is relatively new to the tourism circuit around Darjeeling. Of late, many cottages and homestays have come up around this place.

Tourists in Darjeeling often look out for uncongested places to travel around, and Chatakpur aptly obliges them with its charismatic beauty. Tall pines, clouds hovering around their tops, and the natural haze dominating the landscape make it a beautiful tourist attraction.

Chatakpur is situated within the Senchal Reserve Forest. There are several trek routes around Chatakpur that hikers and trekkers love to explore.

19. Triveni

Triveni is one of the popular places around Darjeeling. It is situated close to the confluence of the Rangeet and Teesta rivers. The current of the water is forceful, and you would love to spend your hours sitting amidst the quaint village. Triveni continues to awe visitors like us with its sanctum of peace and visual pleasure.

The green views of the forests of the Himalayas dominate the landscape. This is where the Rangeet river originates from the Mount Kabru glacier in the lower Kanchenjunga region. If you are looking for new tourist places near Darjeeling, you can plan a tour to Triveni.

There’s a stream meandering down from the Singalila region, and the picturesque landscape would pamper your vision. A huge torrent forms at the meeting point between rivers Teesta and Rangeet rivers. Besides, you would cherish the sight of a long valley lying at the base of the Eastern Himalayan mountains.

20. Lepchajagat

Yet another beautiful place, located just 45 minutes from Darjeeling, Lepchajagat would captivate your views with its enthralling greenery. It sits just opposite to Darjeeling town. Just after dusk, you can see the entire town lighting up, ejecting shimmering jets like jewels.

Lepchajagat remains cloudy most of the time and residing in one of the homestays, you would love to sit on the balcony to watch clouds breaking into raindrops in front of you. The hovering clouds float nonchalantly over the valley between Darjeeling and Lepchajagat.

Sometimes, you might find your attire and belongings drenched! The clouds condense amidst the pine trees and even inside your hotel rooms without any warning.

Being a nature lover, you would repent if you miss out on Lepchajagat, one of the picturesque places to see near Darjeeling. The dense forests of Lepchajagat have tall pines, oaks, and rhododendrons. The tranquillity amidst the serene nature and beautiful birdlife makes Lepchajagat an ideal offbeat destination in North Bengal.

The next time you start planning a tour to Darjeeling, make sure to cover as many destinations as possible. Typically, you can cover Darjeeling and its key attractions in a 3-night trip. However, exploring the places located more than 30 Km from Darjeeling would typically require another few nights.

For instance, you can spend a night or two at Lepchajagat, Chatakpur, and Tinchuley each. Apart from them, you may also like to visit places like Sittong, Latpanchar, Jhandi, Ramdhura, Rishi Khola, Kurseong, Kalimpong . These tourist destinations near Darjeeling are gaining immense popularity among nature lovers. So, if you visit Darjeeling, try to include some of these places in your extended itinerary.

Watch the following video for some excellent drone views of these tourist attractions in Darjeeling:

We have listed most of the best places around Darjeeling that we have visited multiple times and are also popular with tourists. Hopefully, you can plan your tour by including all these destinations and cherish the mesmerizing beauty of the hills. Now that you are aware of most of the tourist places in Darjeeling, you can start planning your next trip.

We hope that you have enjoyed this article. Let us know your experience! If you like us to write on any specific topic, send your request to [email protected] . Your feedback is highly appreciated. We will love to hear from you!

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India » 11 Incredible things to do In Darjeeling Right Now!

11 Incredible things to do In Darjeeling Right Now!

What's In This Guide?

What to do in darjeeling, india.

In this article, we will dive straight into an amazing list of things to do in Darjeeling. These destinations will give you a great feel for the local culture, it’s people, and the stunning landscapes that surround.

Darjeeling is located in India’s far northeastern state of West Bengal, right at the foothills of the Himalayas. This is possibly one of the most culturally diverse regions in the world with Nepal, Bhutan, China, and Bangladesh all just a short distance away.

Many would say that Darjeeling is the most beautiful region in India. Famous for its picturesque tea fields, one of the world’s tallest mountains, an iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site, and countless beautiful attractions, there is plenty of reason to visit.

If this all sounds exciting to you, then Darjeeling holds a worthy position in your travel itinerary and you should definitely read on.

Our Top Things to do in Darjeeling

1. observatory hill.

Usually the first item on anyone’s list of the things to do in Darjeeling. This is a scenic lookout where you can view Mount Kanchenjunga and other parts of the Himalayas. For a clear view, it is best to visit in October and November.

Observatory Hill is located in the Chowrasta square, also known as The Mall, which is one of the main attractions in the city. Despite the high number of tourists visiting this area, it is also one of the cleanest places in the entire city. It is also a great spot to pick up a souvenir or take a pony ride around the area.

Previously, Observatory Hill was home to the Bhutia Busty monastery, but after Nepali troops invaded the land in the late 1700s, it was converted into a Hindu temple. Now Mahakal temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, can be visited on the hill.

2. Darjeeling Himalayan Railway

Opened in 1881, the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway is also known by several other endearing terms including DHR and the Toy Train. This is one of the three scenic mountain railways in India. The 88 km train line was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999 for its innovation and advanced technology of the time.

The train starts out at an altitude of 100 metres. It then gradually climbs its way to a whopping 2,000 metres above sea-level with six zig-zags and five loops along the way. You’ll definitely feel a sense of nostalgia on this steam-hauled locomotive as it chugs up the mountain.

The railway network has stations in many locations, including; New Jalpaiguri, Rangtong, Sukna, Mahanadi, Kurseong, Ghum which is the highest summit, and, of course, Darjeeling. If you are planning to visit any of these areas while in Darjeeling you can do so via this historical train ride.

3. Darjeeling’s Tea Gardens

Here’s an impressive fact about the tea estates in Darjeeling: there are more than 87 of them, stretching over 17,500 hectares of land and producing more than 10 million kgs of tea every year. That’s a whole lot of tea!

Whether you simply want to stand amidst the greenery, soak in the aroma of tea, or actually have a sip of the drink, a tea garden is a great place for you to visit.

With 87 tea gardens in Darjeeling, there is no shortage of options! We recommend starting with the city’s oldest tea garden, the Makaibari Tea Estate, created in 1859, and certified as a fully organic tea garden. They produce around 100,000 kg of tea annually! They also have homestay accommodation, which is worth considering. The Happy Valley Tea Estate is the second oldest tea garden and also well worth a visit.

Some of the other tea estates are Avongrove , Badamtam , Balasun , Castleton , Phuguri , Pussimbing , and Puttabong.

4. Tiger Hill

Another location offering a panoramic view of Mount Everest and Mount Kanchenjunga. Tiger Hill is located around 11 kilometres from the town of Darjeeling and takes roughly 40 minutes to reach by car. You can take a shared jeep from Club Side Taxi stand or Chowk Bazaar, or book a car (driver included!).

On a clear day, you’ll be able to see as far as Kurseong City in West Bengal as well as the Teesta, Mechi, and Balason Rivers that run down from the Himalayas. If you would like to learn more about the wildlife in the region, you can even visit the Senchal Wildlife Sanctuary.

5. Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoo

Speaking of wildlife, the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park is another great attraction near Darjeeling. Here you can see animals from both Darjeeling and surrounding regions. It is one of the most popular attractions in the city, with over 300,000 visitors every year.

As you might expect, the animals in the zoo are best adapted to alpine conditions. Captive breeding programs for endangered animals have been introduced here to assist in preserving the region’s biodiversity. Some notable animals include the snow leopard, grey peacock pheasant, Himalayan wolf, blue sheep, and red panda.

Needless to say, this is a must-visit location for animal-lovers. Even those who are not particularly fond of wildlife will stand in awe of the fauna of the Indian-Himalayan regions.

6. Mahakal Mandir

India is a place known for its spirituality and for good reason. You’ll find at least a few temples in every single city you visit, and Darjeeling is no exception.

Mahakal Mandir, also known as the Mahakal Temple is located on Observatory Hill that we mentioned earlier. The Mandir is a famous Hindu temple devoted to Lord Shiva. It is a highly sacred location for Hindus as it is believed that three Shiva-Lingas (representations of Lord Shiva) appeared here in 1782.

Since Darjeeling is an area where Hinduism and Buddhism coexist, so you’ll likely see Buddhist influences in the temple too.

There are also various other temples, shrines and monasteries located in the area, giving it a spiritual and calm ambiance. Check out the Tibetan memorial shrine, the Kali temple, and shrines for other Hindu gods, such as Durga, Ganesha, and Krishna.

7. Batasia Loop

Batasia, meaning “airy space”, is a loop that is part of the Toy Train’s line to handle the steep incline, and is known for its war memorial landmark and beautiful views. It is on the Hill Cart Road (National Highway 55) and about 20-minutes by taxi from the town of Darjeeling.

The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway passes through this loop and along the other landmarks surrounding it. In fact, the reason the loop was created was to make the train’s ascent up the mountain easier.

One example of a landmark you’ll pass by is the Batasia Loop War Memorial, which also offers a great view of Mount Kangchenjunga. Foliage and flower gardens cover the area around the memorial, offering some beautiful scenery from the train.

The Batasia Loop Market is also located right next door where you can find as assortment handwoven bags and clothing.

8. Namgyal Institute of Tibetology

The institute gives visitors an opportunity to learn more about Tibetan culture. It is a museum located in Gangtok, a few miles from Darjeeling, which was founded in 1957. Research projects are constantly being conducted at the museum, some of which even give visitors a chance to participate.

For instance, one project aims to study and record the history of around 60 monasteries in the state of Sikkim. Another aims to digitise the rare images of Sikkim and make them available to the public.

If academia is up your alley, you should definitely consider visiting this museum. From history to art to religion to language, there is a lot you can learn about Tibetan culture here.

9. Himalayan Mountaineering Institute

Are you an avid rock-climber or mountaineer? If yes, the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute offers several opportunities, such as trekking tours, for you to exercise your skills. If not, you can learn a new sport!

A number of courses are offered at the institute. If you have a month to spare, you can even take up the basic or advanced mountaineering course which includes activities such as trekking and camping.

Also, the very first director of training for this institute was none other than Tensing Norgay, one of the first two people to reach the summit of Mount Everest.

10. Tsomgo Lake

This lake is not technically located in Darjeeling but in the nearby city of Gangtok. As you search for tour packages to this hill station, the phrase Darjeeling and Gangtok will probably come up a lot. The two places are often toured together, given their proximity.

Tsomgo Lake is about a four-hour drive from central Darjeeling and it is absolutely worth visiting! You’ll be amazed by the landscapes with the lake situated in between soaring mountains. Depending on the time of year you visit, you will see a blue, grey, or white-coloured lake.

It is important to note that the lake is located in a restricted area. An Inner Line Permit (ILP) is required for visitors from abroad, which can be obtained on the spot with an Indian Tourist Visa from all Indian Missions, Sikkim Tourism Offices (New Delhi and Kolkata), and District Magistrates Offices (Darjeeling, Siliguri, and Rangpo).

Whether you’re exploring temples on Observatory Hill, checking out one of many of Darjeeling’s tea gardens, circling Batastia Loop on the historic Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, or visiting the red pandas at the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, there is no lack of things to do in Darjeeling.

Venturing a bit further to beautiful Tsomgo Lake in Sikkim is often something travellers will do as they are relatively close in proximity. Or, for the adventurous crowd, the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute can help you along the way with a variety of intensive training courses and treks.

All in all, if you want some respite, Darjeeling is the perfect place to visit. The natural beauty and Indo-Tibetan culture create a refreshing, relaxing, and even spiritual atmosphere that will leave you, quite simply, in awe.

Harsh was born and raised in Kolkata, India (closest major city to Darjeeling), and has now lived overseas for several years in both the UK and Canada. Having lived in Western countries, and being married to a Canadian, he observed that there is a great interest from Westerners about travel to India, but that there is also a great deal of misunderstanding and confusion about the country.

He, therefore, created the blog An Indian’s Guide to India , which is a travel guide that provides insight into India that only a native can know, and also acts as a bridge between different cultures. The site includes insider tips and tricks about Indian culture, travel basics to the country, health and safety, and destinations. One great read to start with is A Guide on Indian Culture for Travelers  along with his Facebook and Pinterest pages.

Photo Credits: Mahakal Temple by Claire K , The route to Darjeeling by Claire K , Toy Train by Vikramjit Kakati , Mount Kanchenjunga by Arvind Telkar , Tsomgo Lake by Rajat Chakraborty

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

23 Mar 2023

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

Image Source

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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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Tourist Places to Visit in Darjeeling

Darjeeling is a serene hill station that has been a refuge for peace seekers, nature lovers and creative souls since the 19th century. A retreat with abundant natural beauty, Darjeeling is where you can experience the joys of simple living while enjoying breathtaking sunsets and the local cuisine. The locals are warm and a friendly face is never too far away. Whether you choose to spend your time in a tea plantation or head out on a journey on the popular toy train – you can expect a memorable trip.

There are numerous places to visit in Darjeeling and you can hope for an action-packed itinerary. If you want to include tourist attractions nearby in your places to visit in Darjeeling itinerary, you will have to plan your trip keeping in mind your trip duration.

Places to visit in Darjeeling: Natural Beauty

Tiger Hill should be at the top of your places to visit in  Darjeeling itinerary for the panoramic views it offers. The highest point in Darjeeling, Tiger Hill is one of the few viewpoints in India from where you can admire uninterrupted views of Mount Everest, Kanchendzonga, Kokhtang and Rathong. Most travellers prefer heading here early in the morning to catch a glimpse of the sunrise. 

Owing to its popularity in places to visit in Darjeeling itineraries, Tiger Hill might not be as quiet as one would hope. If you want to admire the spellbinding sunrise from the summit, you will have to start your day as early as 3 am. Located 13 kilometres from the main city, it takes anywhere between 30 and 40 minutes to reach the summit. 

It’s important to remember that the weather can turn anytime in Darjeeling. You may expect to see clear skies but can be greeted with torrential rainfall at the summit. But when you are in Darjeeling, everything is beautiful – whether it's clear blue skies or lush greenery after rainfall. During peak season, the road to the car park is jam packed and one needs to walk till the summit. We recommend wearing a sturdy pair of walking shoes as well as warm clothes.

Most tour operators charge anywhere between Rs.200 and Rs.2000 depending on whether you book a shared taxi or a private taxi for your journey.

Cost: Including Tiger Hill in your places to visit in Darjeeling itinerary can cost you between Rs.500 and Rs.3000 depending on the season and the number of people.

Darjeeling Himalayan Railway

Without a journey on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, your trip to Darjeeling is incomplete. Among the top Darjeeling tourist attractions, the Darjeeling Toy Train is a narrow-gauge train that primarily covers the distance between New Jalpaiguri and Darjeeling. If you are not travelling by train, you can include a two-hour joy ride in your places to visit in Darjeeling itinerary.

The joy ride begins at Darjeeling and takes one up to and fro Ghoom, which is the highest railway station in India. The total distance covered on this journey is 14 kilometres. The journey includes a stop at one of the most gorgeous places to visit in Darjeeling – the Batasia Loop. On a clear day, you can expect to see views of the snow-covered Kanchenjunga. The train journey also includes a tour of DHR Museum. Located at the Ghoom Railway Station, the DHR Museum should be included in your places to visit in Darjeeling itinerary if you are a history buff. 

For a more authentic experience, we recommend choosing a ride on the steam engine train. While the tickets are more expensive than the diesel engine train, it’s definitely worth the extra buck. If you want to include this experience in your places to visit in Darjeeling itinerary, we suggest booking your tickets in advance. During the peak season, tickets sell out fast and you will have to wait endlessly for a journey on this locomotive beauty.

With spellbinding views of rolling tea plantations, idyllic villages and countless lush fields, a journey on this UNESCO World Heritage Site will stay with you for a long time. 

Along with offering travellers an unforgettable experience, the Darjeeling Toy Train is also an engineering marvel for science enthusiasts. The route is one of its kind in the country and the train holds immense value as a heritage transport system.

Cost : Including a journey on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway in your places to visit in Darjeeling itinerary will set you back by Rs.1500.

Batasia Loop

Counted among the most popular places to visit in Darjeeling, Batasia Loop is known for its breathtaking views and the extraordinary engineering feat that the loop helped accomplish. This is the point where the famous toy train makes a complete loop and effortlessly descends 140 feet. Without the Batasia Loop, the train journey to Darjeeling wouldn’t be what it is. 

This gorgeous tourist destination in Darjeeling should feature in your places to visit in Darjeeling itinerary if you want to spend a few hours amidst vibrant gardens and lush greenery. The 50,000 square feet area is dotted with countless seasonal flowers and is also home to the Gorkha War Memorial, numerous cafes and an eco garden. The Batasia Loop is an ideal family tourist spot and you can cover tourist attractions nearby in your places to visit in Darjeeling itinerary while planning a visit here.

The Batasia Loop was built in 1919 to tackle the sharp drop after Ghoom Railway Station. The large circular area helped tackle this problem and also gave Darjeeling a breathtaking natural haven. The garden is home to numerous viewing points where you can enjoy a sunny day and of course watch the toy train in its glory. 

Located 5 kilometres away from the main city, there are two ways to reach this popular attraction – one is by hiring a taxi and the second is by hopping on the toy train. Most travellers prefer the latter since the joy ride around Darjeeling is one of the most memorable experiences in a places to visit in Darjeeling itinerary.

Cost: Including a visit to Batasia Loop in your places to visit in Darjeeling itinerary will cost you between Rs.200 and Rs.1000 depending on the number of people.

Singalila National Park

If you are a wildlife enthusiast or are curious about the local wildlife in this beautiful hill station then you must add Singalila National Park to your list of places to visit in Darjeeling. The national park is home to virgin rhododendron forests, alpine valleys and numerous unique species of flora and fauna.  

The national park is a highlight in places to visit in Darjeeling itineraries and offers travellers mesmerising views of the Himalayas. Another reason why the national park stands out is that it’s home to the red panda and Himalayan black bear. In fact, it’s one of the few national parks in the country where you can catch a glimpse of these rare animals. 

The efforts of the government to protect and conserve the national park have gone a long way in ensuring that the park remains one of the most visited tourist places in Darjeeling. 

The best way to explore the national park is on a safari. The most commonly used vehicle in the safari is a jeep. Taking you through vast stretches of lush greenery, thick forests and pink-hued rhododendrons fields, the safari is a rejuvenating experience. Of course, it has its fair share of bumpy stretches and you will have to be careful while tackling tricky stretches. Typically the safari begins at Manebhanjan and takes you through Gorkha villages and some of the highest peaks of West Bengal and Phalut. If it’s a clear day, you may be lucky enough to enjoy uninterrupted views of Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga and Makalu. The safari can take anywhere between four and five hours.

Since the safari is a popular activity here, the Land Rover Association has fixed charges which change according to the season. It’s important to be mindful of other vendors who might try to fleece you.

At the same time, if you are a trekking enthusiast, you will have a wonderful time in the national park. A part of the trekking route runs through the national park and takes one through the foothills of Kanchenjunga and the northern fringe of the Gangetic Plains. 

If you are including the park in your places to see in Darjeeling itinerary, then it’s mandatory to take a permit from the forest department. You will not be allowed to enter without a permit and will have to contact the Forest Department for mandatory permissions.

Cost: A tour of Singalila National Park in your places to visit in Darjeeling itinerary will cost you between Rs.1000 and Rs.4000 depending on the number of people.

Barbotey Rock Garden

The Rock Garden offers the perfect break from sightseeing sprees. If you want to spend time amidst natural beauty and enjoy the serenity that only gardens can offer, then this spot should be included in your places to visit in Darjeeling itinerary.

The Rock Garden is also known as Barbotey Rock Garden and is a popular tourist attraction for locals as well. Carry a picnic basket so you can enjoy a quiet picnic along the scenic lake. The route to the rock garden is an attraction in itself since it offers views of tea gardens and lush fields. You can also include a visit to the Chunnu Summer Waterfall in your places to visit in Darjeeling itinerary. Located a short distance from the Rock Garden, you can enjoy a leisurely picnic here, complete with vibrant greenery and the melodious sound of the waterfall. 

Cost: If you want to include a visit to Darjeeling Rock Garden in your places to visit in Darjeeling itinerary, you must keep aside between Rs.500 and Rs.1500.

Places to visit in Darjeeling: Religious Sites

Ghoom Monastery

Ghoom Monastery is the largest monastery in Darjeeling and was built in 1875. Belonging to the Gelug Sect, the monastery is a major tourist spot which should feature in your places to visit in Darjeeling itinerary. 

The best time to plan a trip to Ghoom Monastery in your places to visit in Darjeeling itinerary is in the morning. Exploring the whole area can take an hour or two since you wouldn’t want to miss the gorgeous architecture. The monastery is home to a prayer hall, a 15-feet high statue of the Buddha known as Maitreya Buddha. The statue was created with clay brought from Tibet.

The monastery is also known as Yiga Choeling Monastery. It is the oldest monastery in the region and is a delight for history lovers to explore. By virtue of being the oldest and most beautiful places to visit in Darjeeling, it should be on your itinerary. 

The monastery is located close to Ghoom Railway Station which is the highest railway station in the country. If your schedule allows, you must spend an hour exploring the station and the museum here.

Cost : Including Ghoom Monastery in your places to visit in Darjeeling itinerary will cost you between Rs.500 and Rs.1000.

Peace Pagoda and Japanese Temple

Add history and architecture to your places to visit in Darjeeling itinerary with the Japanese Temple and the Peace Pagoda. A large complex in white, the temple is home to a prayer hall, a large beating drum which is essential to all Japanese rituals and a Peace Pagoda.

The pagoda took three years to build and is designed by Dr M Ohka of Japan. The Peace Pagoda promises a relaxing experience since it’s among the hidden gems of Darjeeling. To explore the Japanese Temple and the Peace Pagoda, you will need to set aside between two and three hours in your places to visit in Darjeeling itinerary. 

The Peace Pagoda is home to four avatars of Lord Buddha as well as two lions which are placed on either side of the entrance staircase. The walls are adorned with numerous Buddhist carvings that depict Lord Buddha in many positions including standing, meditating and sleeping. Art lovers can admire the artwork which depicts the life of the Buddha on sandstones. There are a few notable depictions on the walls which are from the Buddha’s life and are also mentioned in mythological texts. 

While photography is allowed in the complex, we recommend asking the priests for permission before clicking pictures inside the prayer hall.

Cost : Exploring the Peace Pagoda and Japanese Temple will cost you around Rs.500. The amount will depend on the kind of transport you choose.

Places to visit in Darjeeling: Shopping

No trip to the hilly hamlet is complete without including a visit to Darjeeling Mall and Chowrasta in your places to visit in Darjeeling itinerary. Situated in the heart of the city, the local market offers travellers a plethora of shopping options. If you aren’t in the mood to shop, you can sit in one of the comfortable cafes and enjoy Tibetan delicacies. 

The market is home to several shops and boutiques and depending on your budget, you can expect a fulfilling shopping trip. The shops on the street are open to bargaining, however, the boutiques are expensive and you can’t expect too much reduction in price. Some of the notable shops in Darjeeling are Jolly Art and Bhutan Tibet Art Shop, Curio Corner and Tibetan Refugee Self Help Centre.   

For those who enjoy shopping and have a long shopping list to get through, there are numerous other markets in town that should be part of your places to visit in  Darjeeling itinerary. You can include a visit to Nehru Road that is dotted with several boutiques and emporiums, Batasia Loop Market that offers numerous street shopping options and Ghoom Monastery Market that offers beautiful Tibetan artefacts that you can take home. From prayer wheels, incense sticks, prayer flags to message scrolls, singing bowls, bags for women and apparel, the colourful market at Ghoom Monastery is a delight to explore. 

Cost: Including a visit to the local markets in your places to visit in Darjeeling itinerary will cost you between Rs.200 and Rs.3500, depending on how much you like what the shops have to offer.

Written by Kirat Sodhi. She is a proud mom of three cats and lives for lemon tea, a good book and spontaneous travel plans. Frequent searches leading to this page:- Shopping Places in darjeeling, Religious Sites in darjeeling, Best places to visit in darjeeling, darjeeling tourist places, darjeeling tourist attractions, tourist destination in darjeeling, famous tourist places in darjeeling, Places to see in darjeeling, tourist spot near darjeeling, sightseeing in darjeeling, darjeeling attractions, natural beauty Places in darjeeling,tourist places around darjeeling, points of interest in darjeeling, places to visit near darjeeling, tourist places near darjeeling, most beautiful place in darjeeling, must see in darjeeling, important places in darjeeling, tourist place darjeeling

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

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

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

Amazing Places in Darjeeling to Visit

1. darjeeling himalayan railway (toy train).

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

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

2. Tiger Hill

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

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

3. Batasia Loop

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

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

4. Happy Valley Tea Estate

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

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

5. Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park

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

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

6. Ghoom Monastery

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

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

7. Peace Pagoda

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

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

8. Rock Garden

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

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

9. Mahakal Temple

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

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

10. Singalila National Park

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

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

11. Tinchuley Village

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

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

12. Lamahatta Eco Park

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

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

13. Bengal Natural History Museum

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

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

14. St. Andrew’s Church

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

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

15. Dali Monastery

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

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

16. Observatory Hill

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

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

17. Rangeet Valley Ropeway

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

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

18. Neora Valley National Park

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

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

19. Mirik Lake

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

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

20. Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary

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

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

21. Lepchajagat

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

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

22. Guiders or Bhutia Busty Monastery

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

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

23. Glenburn Tea Estate

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

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

24. Darjeeling Mall Chowrasta

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

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

25. Nightingale Park

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

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

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

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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

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

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

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

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

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List of Top 10 Best Places to Visit in Darjeeling

Home » List of Top 10 Best Places to Visit in Darjeeling

Darjeeling, a beautiful town at the Himalayan foothills in India’s West Bengal state, was formerly a summer retreat for the upper-class British Raj population. Now, it serves as home to the unique and old narrow-gauge Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, or “Toy Train,” built-in 1881. It is famous for its characteristic black tea, cultivated on the plantations in the surrounding mountain slopes. The best places in Darjeeling are where you’ll be charmed by nature, learn about mountain life, eat garden-fresh organic cuisine, and participate in activities where nature, humans, and animals coexist in perfect harmony.

You can join a stroll through the rolling tea gardens and see the garden workers harvest tea leaves, interact with them, or take a walking tour through a hamlet to learn about the democracy and lives of the locals. You may also go on a nature walk, do bird watching, and even see wildlife. Return to your lodge in the evening to enjoy the ethnic-cultural music and dancing organised by the villagers around a bonfire while sipping a glass of house wine. It has a rich cultural heritage and natural resources, and it is a popular tourist destination because of its pleasant temperature all year.

Top 10 Beautiful Places in Darjeeling

• Singalila National Park
• Batasia Loop
• Happy Valley Tea Estate
• Tiger Hills
• Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park
• Rock Garden
• Dali Monastery
• Japanese Peace Pagoda
• Bengal Natural History Museum
• Darjeeling Ropeway

1. Singalila National Park

The popular Singalila National Park is perched on the Singalila Ridge in the West Bengal district of Darjeeling, at an elevation of 7000 feet above the ground sea level. The park is well-known for its majestic peaks and panoramic vistas of the lower range of the Himalayas. The National Park is one of the most Darjeeling famous places for being a trekker’s paradise, with a diverse range of highland vegetation, animals, and birds. Red Panda, Pangolin, Black Bear, Leopard, Tigers, Serow, Clouded Leopard, Barking Deer, Yellow-throated Marten, Leopard Cat, and Takin are among the uncommon and endangered species that the park is home to, making it one of the best places in Darjeeling to visit.

• Attractions: The Himalayan range viewpoint
• Opening hours: 6 am to 7 pm
• Entry fee: 100 INR
• Things To Do: Photography, Trekking
• Best Time To Visit: March to September

2. Batasia Loop

It is a famous Darjeeling scenic spot notable for its distinctive uphill railroad track, gardens, and an Indian military monument. Visitors may observe Batasia Loop as the famous ‘Toy Train’ travels around a looped train track that runs through some beautiful parks. The location is well-known for holding a Gorkha war memorial, and the toy railway provides a 360-degree panorama of Darjeeling. In its 1,000-foot-high fall, the loop encompasses 50,000 square feet and spirals through tunnels, beautiful gardens, and hillocks. The neighbouring local crafts market is also a must-see.

• Attractions: Spiral railroad track, Gorkha War Memorial, parks
• Opening hours: 6 am to 5 pm
• Entry fee: 15 INR
• Things To Do: Toy train ride

3. Happy Valley Tea Estate

Happy Valley Tea Estate is one of Darjeeling’s oldest tea estates. In fact, established in 1854, it is the second-oldest and has remained one of the best tourist places in Darjeeling for many years. It covers 177 acres and is at 2,100 metres above sea level. It employs approximately 1500 people and is quite a popular tourist spot near Darjeeling.

• Attractions: Tea estate
• Opening hours: 9 am to 4:30 pm
• Entry fee: 150 INR per person for the factory tour
• Things To Do: Tea factory guided tour

4. Tiger Hills

Tiger Hills, another best tourist destination in Darjeeling, is a complete package for nature lovers. Climb up this slope surrounded by chilly air to see the magnificent sunrise. The view of the first rays on the mighty Mt Everest is a sight to behold. Alternatively, you could drive up to Tiger Hill before sunset and fine-tune your camera settings and shutter speed to capture the hypnotic ambience of the sunset hues. It happens as fast as an eye blinks, so pay close attention.

• Attractions: Views of Mount Kanchenjunga and Mount Everest
• Opening hours: All day
• Entry fee: Free
• Things To Do: Catching a sunrise, Hiking

5. Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park

The Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park falls among Darjeeling’s nearest tourist places that are must-see. It covers an area of 67.56 acres and is well-known for its Red Panda and Snow Leopard breeding programs. The zoo is the largest high-altitude zoo in India, with an average height of 2,134 metres above sea level. Snow leopards, Tibetan wolves, red pandas, Himalayan Salamanders, Siberian tigers, and Himalayan mountain goats are among the zoo’s unique as well as endangered animals.

• Attractions: Himalayan Wildlife Conservatory, Breeding Centre
• Opening hours: 8:30 am to 4 pm
• Entry fee: 60 INR
• Things To Do: Exotic wildlife exploration

6. Rock Garden

Rock Garden Park is one of the best tourist places in Darjeeling, offering a variety of activities over a large area. It’s a rocky wonderland filled with vegetation, waterfalls, and bridges created by man. The Ganga Maya Park is one, and the Rock Garden located at Chunnu Summer Falls is the other that makes up the two new tourist destinations in Darjeeling. It is a showcase designed to entice visitors to Darjeeling after political unrest hampered tourism in the 1980s. So, if you’re visiting Darjeeling with your family, don’t forget to stop by the beautiful garden!

• Attractions: Waterfalls, lake, flower gardens, sitting spaces
• Opening hours: 8 am to 6 pm
• Entry fee: 20 INR
• Things To Do: Photography, Picnic

7. Dali Monastery

Popularly known as the Druk Sangag Choling Monastery among the locals, the Dali Monastery is one of the largest monasteries in the state of West Bengal and one of the best locations to visit in Darjeeling. It was founded by Kyabje Thuksey Rinpoche in 1971. The Dalai Lama paid a special visit for its inauguration in 1993. The monastery is the headquarters and residence of the Kargyupa sect’s leader, Drukchen Rinpoche the XII. More than 210 monks live in this monastery. It is designed in vibrant crimson and depicts the life of Lord Buddha.

• Attractions: Giant Buddha structure, Buddhist art and sculpture
• Opening hours: 7 am to 5 pm
• Things To Do: Meditation, Exploring architecture
• Best Time To Visit: All year

8. Japanese Peace Pagoda

Japanese Peace Pagoda was built-in 1885 by a Japanese Buddhist monk named Nichidatsu Fuji. The golden sculptures adorn the Buddhist temple, which is white. The construction is 23 square metres and stands tall at 28.5 metres. People of all faiths visit this place to receive divine compassion and spiritual peace. You can spend quality me-time by meditating and connecting with your inner self here. It is one of Darjeeling’s nearest tourist places and one of the most picturesque spots offering a stunning view.

• Attractions: Buddhist Temple, Peace Pagoda
• Opening hours: 4:30 am to 7 pm
• Things To Do: Meditation, Prayer

9. Bengal Natural History Museum

Bengal Natural History Museum is located in the city centre of Darjeeling. It is home to a massive variety of local flora and exotic wildlife. It was once a small home to many birds and butterflies that were found in adjoining hills. Today, the museum boasts an extensive structure and preserves the remains of various species, including insects, mammals, reptiles, and even birds. Here you can also find species like Tibetan foxes, Himalayan Brown Wood owls, Toddy cats, panthers, and other Eastern Himalayan animals, making it a must-visit place in Darjeeling.

• Attractions: Entomological Specimens, displays including dioramas and taxidermy
• Opening hours: 8 am to 7:30 pm ( Sunday closed )
• Things To Do: Learning wildlife insights

10. Darjeeling Ropeway

The Darjeeling ropeway is a 5 km long ropeway. It has sixteen carriages and runs between Darjeeling’s North Point to Singla on the banks of the Ramman river. Who could say no to a panoramic vista of Darjeeling that can be captivated in a single photograph? A cable ride will give you a “birds-eye” perspective of the mountainous town. If you travel in the winter, you may expect to see breathtaking views of tea plantations and magnificent landscapes covered in a blanket of snow. If you don’t want to miss out, make it a priority to include it on your to-do list this year.

• Attractions: Aerial views of the city
• Opening hours: 9:30 am to 4:30 pm ( Sun-Mon ) 9:30 am to 4 pm ( Tue-Sat )
• Entry fee: 200 INR per adult ( Round Trip ) 100 INR per child ( 3-8 Years )
• Things To Do: Ropeway ride, Photography

Darjeeling Calling

The list of the 10 best places in Darjeeling in this article is just a glimpse into the infinite beauty and diversity the place has to offer. The town has an air of romance about it with the rolling green hills, snow-capped peaks, and the gurgling streams. It offers travellers a variety of things to explore and do. At some of the best tourist places in Darjeeling, you will find tea plantations, beautiful landscapes, and breathtaking views that will make you fall in love with India

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28 places to visit in Darjeeling

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

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1. Tiger Hill

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

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

2. Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR)

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

Suggested Read: How to Reach Darjeeling

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

3. Batasia Loop

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

4. Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park

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

5. Singalila National Park

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

6. Japanese Peace Pagoda

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

7. Neora Valley National Park

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

8. Lively Darjeeling Mall Road

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

9. Peaceful Dali Monastery

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

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

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

10. Amazing Sandakphu Trek

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

11. Darjeeling Rangit Valley Ropeway

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

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

13. Himalayan Mountaineering Institute

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

14. Bengal Natural History Museum

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

15. Ghum Monastery

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

16. Amazing Rock Garden

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

17. Mahakal Mandir

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

18. Observatory Hill

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

19. Bhutia Busty Monastery

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

20. Chowrasta

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

21. Serene Shruberry Nightingale Park

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

22. Sanctity of Serene St. Andrew’s Church

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

23. Joyous Happy Valley Tea Estate

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

24. Tinchuley

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

25. Tenzing Rock

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

26. Lamahatta

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

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

28. Tibetan Refugee Self Help Centre

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What is darjeeling most famous for.

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

What are the 10 most visited spots of Darjeeling?

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

How many days are enough for Darjeeling?

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

Can I visit Darjeeling in one day?

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

Which month is best for Darjeeling?

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

What is Darjeeling’s most famous and popular food?

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

How much does a trip to Darjeeling cost?

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

Where is Tiger Hill in Darjeeling?

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

Which day is closed in Darjeeling?

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

Is Darjeeling safe for solo females?

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

Is Darjeeling worth a visit?

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

What is the most loved and famous fruit of Darjeeling?

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

Which sweets are famous in Darjeeling?

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

How long is the Darjeeling toy train journey?

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

Which days do Darjeeling toy trains run?

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

In which month does Darjeeling get snowfall?

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

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Top 10 Places To Visit In Darjeeling

Located in the Indian state of West Bengal, Darjeeling is known for its tea industry. The city is located amidst the lower Himalayas that are also known as the Mahabharat Range. The town was developed in the mid-19th century by the British and soon the town came to be known for its vast tea estates that produce the best Tea in the country. The city was controlled by the kingdom of Sikkim till it was taken by the Gorkhas and subsequently the British. The town is located at an average elevation of 2050 meters and comes under the eastern Himalayan Zoo-geographic zone. The town is endowed with a rich cultural history and natural resources and due to its pleasant climate all year round, is a popular tourist spot. Below is a list of the best places one can visit in Darjeeling .

1. Darjeeling Himalayan Railway

The most famous attraction in Darjeeling, the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR) is also known as the ‘Toy Train’. It is a narrow gauge rail that is 2ft in width and runs between Darjeeling and Jalpaiguri and was built in the years between 1879 and 1881. In 1999, the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, making DHR, the Second railway in the world to have such an honor after Semmering Railway, Austria.

2. Singalila National Park

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

3. Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park

Known for its famous Red Panda and Snow Leopard breeding program, the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park is spread in an area of 67.56 acres. The zoo is located at an average elevation of 2,134 meters above sea level and is the largest high altitude zoos in India. Some of the rare and endangered species in the zoo are snow leopards, red pandas, Himalayan Salamanders, Tibetan wolf, Himalayan mountain goat and Siberian tigers.

4. Tiger Hill

One of the most famous peaks in Darjeeling can be reached either by jeep or by foot which transverses through some of the oldest tea plantations in Darjeeling. The place is best known as a trekking destination and its peaks offer some of the most marvelous views of the Kanchendzonga and the monolithic Mt. Everest.

5. Observatory Hill

Located near Chowrarasta square, Observatory Hill is a famous view point and tourist attraction in Darjeeling. The location is famous for its magnificent views of Kanchendzonga and the ancient temple dedicated to Mahakaal or Lord Shiva.

6. Batasia Loop

Batasia Loop can be visited when the famous ‘Toy Train’ makes its way across a looped track that transverses through some beautiful parks. The place is famous for housing a Gorkha war memorial and while in the toy train you can witness a 360 degrees view of Darjeeling. The loop covers an area of 50,000 square feet and transverses spirally into tunnels, landscaped parks and hillocks in this 1,000 feet high descent. The local crafts market located nearby is a must visit.

7. Happy Valley Tea Estate

Spread across a massive area of 437-acres, and situated at an elevation of 2,100 meters above sea level, the Happy Valley Tea Estate is one of the major tourist attractions in Darjeeling. The place is located amidst some of the most breath taking surroundings in India. It also houses one of the highest tea factory in the world and was established in 1854 by an Englishman and was later taken over by an Indian aristocracy from Hoogly.

8. Joey’s Pub

If you want to relax after a hard day of travelling, Joey’s Pub is the place for you then. It is an English style pub built in 1948 and is a one of the prime attractions for the tourists in India. Make sure you visit the pub for some mid-priced drinks and snacks with some light classic-rock and blues playing in the background.

9. Japanese Peace Pagoda

Built during 1885-1985 by a Japanese Buddhist monk Nichidatsu Fuji, the Japanese Peace Pagoda is a part of 30 such structures across the world. The Buddhist shrine is located amidst some really enticing locations and is built in a beautiful white structure with golden colored sculptures. The structure is 23 sq meters wide and 28.5 meters high.

10. Neora Valley National Park

Spread across a massive 88 square kilometers, the Neora Valley National Park is one of the richest biological zones in the north-east. The Neora Valley National Park is famous for housing one of the largest populations of Red Panda in India. The park was established in 1986 and is a home to several endangered and rare species of flora and fauna.

With an amazing climate all year round, Darjeeling is one of the top tourist destinations in West Bengal. The culture the city has accumulated from years of its history under the various rulers, Darjeeling is a popular hill station town in India.

More West Bengal Attractions:

• Top Places To Visit In Siliguri
• Top Places To Visit In Mindapore (Medinipur)
• Top Places To Visit In Asansol

About Rohit

3 thoughts on “Top 10 Places To Visit In Darjeeling”

Actually, I want to go to Darjeeling after a long wait with my friends in this year first time and i am very excited about this outing, but i am very concerned about timings because me and my all friends are emloyed in private sector and worry about sanctioned leaves.

So anyone can suggest/advise me, that minimum how many days we can expect to capture all above mentioned tourist places in Darjeeling and return back to Delhi within minimum days and how will we manage our trip.

I hope you guys surely get me advised on my concerns

Thank, Keshav

we would like to visit darjeeling with near about 50 students and three faculties…….so which place is better for stay any camp is there for students to stay…..we are from nagpur

Maximum 5 to 6 days!

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• Darjeeling Himalayan Railway
• Singalila National Park
• Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park
• Observatory Hill
• Batasia Loop
• Happy Valley Tea Estate
• Japanese Peace Pagoda
• Neora Valley National Park
• Best Time to Visit Darjeeling
• Homestays in Darjeeling
• Cooch Behar
• Barrackpore
• Murshidabad
• Mindapore (Medinipur)
• Shantiniketan
• Sunderbans Wildlife Sanctuary
• Gorumara National Park
• Buxa Tiger Reserve
• Beaches in West Bengal
• National Parks in West Bengal
• Hill Stations in West Bengal