Darjeeling is located in West Bengal, India. Located in the foothills of the Himalayas, this city is cool almost throughout the year. All over the world, Darjeeling is recognized for its scenic beauty, tea, and railways. Additionally, many tourists visit every year to witness the incomparable beauty of Kanchenjunga and the sunrise over Tiger Hill as well as many sightseeing spots.
Best Places to visit in Darjeeling
Since the British rule, people have come to know Darjeeling as an ideal holiday destination due to its beautiful scenery and favorable climate. Not only does the natural beauty attract people, but the various educational institutions located also attract students from Asia.
Tiger Hill
The sunset is worth watching from Tiger Hill. Tourists do not easily miss the opportunity to see the spectacular view of Mount Everest and Kanchenjunga from the top of this hill. The crowd of tourists can be avoided till 5 in the morning.
Batasia Loop
Batasia Loop is one of the most beautiful rail routes located just 5 km from city. A train ride through the mountain top tunnel is a thrilling experience for any tourist. The natural beauty here is also impressive.
Toy Train
The small steam engine driven train is one of the main tourist attractions of Darjeeling as it travels through hilly winding roads and curves. This railway was once the first and most important transport system in the country. Also known as the “Toy Train“, this train ride is an enchanting experience. Many people must have seen the beautiful scenery around this train in Kolkata and Bollywood films.
Darjeeling Zoo
The park is also known as Himalayan Park with an area of about 67.56 acres. Rare animals such as snow leopards, Himalayan wolves, clouded leopards, black bears, and red pandas, as well as birds and reptiles of the Himalayan range, inhabit the park. Tourists are also attracted to the wildlife museum of this park. The park charges an entrance fee of Rs 60 and an additional Rs 10 for cameras.
Additionally, Darjeeling boasts several parks, including Nightingale Park, Darjeeling Rock Garden, and Singalia National Park.
Happy Valley Tea State
The tea garden city, established in 1854, is the second oldest. This beautiful tea garden offers a stunning view of the entire city. You can see the entire tea garden with a guide by spending 100 rupees. If desired, you can also purchase tea leaves from here.
Bengal Natural History Museum
The whole family can visit a beautiful place. This museum houses the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute. You can see various animals and birds in this museum. You also have an opportunity to take photos in traditional clothes for Rs 100-150.
Read more: Tips for Safe Travel
Himalayan Mountaineering Institute
This institute recognized as one of the mountaineering centers of the world had the primary objective of encouraging the common people about mountaineering. Countless climbers from all over the world come here to develop their skills. And now, this institute has gained immense popularity as a tourist destination. The view of the world’s third highest peak, Kanchenjunga, from this institute truly mesmerizes.
Pagodas and Monasteries
Jhum Monastery is notable among the pagodas and monasteries of Darjeeling. Located at an altitude of about 10,000 feet above sea level, this ancient temple has a 15-foot tall Buddhist statue and a beautiful sunrise. The Peace Pagoda with four Buddhist statues known as symbols of peace will be very interesting. At Japanese Buddhist Temples you will have the opportunity to visit many temples and pagodas built in traditional Japanese style.
Also, if time permits, visit Tenzing Rock, First Everest Conqueror Memorial, Refugee Centre, Tibetan Self-Help Centre, Darjeeling Gorkha Stadium at 800 feet, Darjeeling Museum, Ava Art Gallery, century old sights. Dirdaham Temple. , Gangamaya Park, Khangchendzonga and Victoria. You can also visit places like waterfalls.
Special Attractions
Darjeeling Ropeway (16 km long cable car ride over tea gardens from 5500 feet), River rafting and trekking in Teesta.
Good Time to Travel
The weather in Darjeeling is at its best during the months of April to June and October to December. And hence these six months are the best time to visit Darjeeling.
How to Reach
By Flight
If you want to go by air from Kolkata, you must take the Kolkata Airport – Bagdogra Airport flight. You can reach Darjeeling from the airport in Bagdogra by taxi.
By Train
Collect the ticket from the tourist counter Fairly Palace if you want to go to Darjeeling from Kolkata by train. New Jalpaiguri Railway Station is the nearest railway station to Darjeeling. The distance from this railway station to Darjeeling is 88 km. Kolkata’s Sealdah railway station departs the Darjeeling mail train at 7.15 pm. The train will reach New Jalpaiguri station at 10 am the next day. Take a rickshaw from Siliguri jeep station to reach Darjeeling by Tata Sumo or Commander jeep from Jalpaiguri station.
Travel Cost
The cost usually depends on what time you go, how long you stay, what kind of hotel you stay in, how much you spend on food. On many such subjects. If you think about a rough budget, it can cost 15,000 to 18,000 Indian Rupee per person for 5 nights and 4 days (3 nights stay in Darjeeling) for traveling from Kolkata to Darjeeling, accommodation, food. And if you want to travel at a low cost, if you group together and travel in a shared jeep, sharing hotel and food, you can travel beautifully within 10-12 thousand Indian Rupee per person. If you stay for 2 nights instead of 3 nights, the cost will be reduced further.
Where to Stay
There Are Various Quality Residential Hotels and Homestays in Darjeeling. Among the Budget Hotels, You Will Get a Room for Two People Between 600-800 in Hotels Like Hotel Tower View, Dejong Retreat, Everest Glory, Ki Kiba Dhi, Hotel Ev Castle, Hotel Everest Glory, Pahari Sol, Benu’s.
Again, in a Slightly Higher Budget, Two People Can Stay in Homestays Like New Singalia Park Homestay, Himshikha Homestay, Fraterniti Homestay, Mountain Homestay Which Are Popular Among Tourists for 900-2000 Rupees.
Check Sites Like Booking.com, Hotels.com, Expedia for Online Room Booking. You Will Find Many Hotels According to Your Needs. You Can Check the Reviews and Various Facilities of These Sites to Know More About Any Hotel.
Where to Eat
The locals of Darjeeling love to eat meat and lentils with rice. Among the restaurants, Kunga, Hasty Tasty, Penang, Sonam’s Kitchen, Caventer’s, Glenaris, Shangri La, Caventer’s, and Lunar offer local dishes of Darjeeling as well as Thai, Indian or Bengali food. And popular local dishes include gundrak (Fermented Mustard Leaves), mum (a pita-like dish with meat or vegetables), thupka (Thick Soup made with Meat, Noodles, Egg and Vegetables), Alu dum, naga platter and chang (Local Beer). And of course, don’t forget to eat Darjeeling special tea and Darjeeling oranges in small clay cups.
Shopping
Several small and big markets and shops line laden-la road in Darjeeling city. You can buy essential Winter Wear, Gloves, Mufflers, Sweaters, Leather Jackets, Nepali Shawls, Sarees, Leather Shoes, and Gift Items for loved ones from these markets. You can buy souvenirs among other things from several local shops in tiger hill. When it comes to buying good tea leaves, it is best to buy from a good tea estate rather than from a local store. You will find cheaper prices and different grades of tea leaves.
Some Travel Tips
- Visiting Darjeeling during the monsoon season is not recommended as it is prone to landslides.
- When you visit hilly tourist spots, avoid wearing heeled sandals and instead wear good quality slippers or sandals.
- If you buy from a big shopping mall or market rather than a local store, you will get good things and chances of cheating will be less.
- To avoid complications of getting a room in the hotels during the peak season, you must book hotels in advance as there is a huge crowd of tourists.
- Before booking a hotel room, find out whether the hotel has hot water and a room heater.
- Maintain cleanliness as much as possible while roaming around Himalayan Park, a cleanliness park regulated by proper authorities, and do not disturb any animals unnecessarily.
- Food restaurants are quite far from Darjeeling Rock Garden, so it is better to take food with you when visiting here.
FAQ: Darjeeling
How can I reach Darjeeling?
The nearest airport to Darjeeling is Bagdogra Airport, and the nearest major railway station is New Jalpaiguri (NJP). From these points, you can hire a taxi or take a shared jeep to reach Darjeeling.
What are the must-visit attractions in Darjeeling?
Some of the must-visit attractions in Darjeeling include the Tiger Hill for sunrise views, the Batasia Loop, the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, and the Peace Pagoda.
Is it safe to travel to Darjeeling?
Darjeeling is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, like any other place, it's advisable to be cautious, especially with your belongings, and follow local guidelines and instructions.
What kind of clothing should I pack for Darjeeling?
As the weather in Darjeeling can be quite unpredictable, it's advisable to pack layers of clothing. Even in summer, mornings and evenings can be chilly, so carry a light jacket or sweater. In winter, heavy woolens are necessary.
What are the local delicacies of Darjeeling that I must try?
Darjeeling is famous for its tea, so sampling different varieties of tea is a must. Other local delicacies include momos (dumplings), thukpa (noodle soup), and local sweets like sel roti and gur gur chai.
Can I visit Darjeeling with family?
Darjeeling is a great destination for families. There are plenty of family-friendly attractions and activities to enjoy, such as toy train rides, nature walks, and visiting the local markets.
Are there any trekking opportunities in Darjeeling?
Yes, Darjeeling offers several trekking routes, ranging from easy to challenging. The Singalila Ridge Trek and the Sandakphu Trek are popular options for trekkers, offering stunning views of the Himalayas.
Is it necessary to book accommodation in advance?
During the peak tourist seasons, it's advisable to book your accommodation in advance to avoid any last-minute hassles. However, if you're visiting during the off-season, you may find accommodation easily without prior booking.