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Darjeeling, West Bengal, India

Darjeeling, West Bengal, India

About the Darjeeling

Darjeeling, often referred to as the 'Queen of the Hills,' is a picturesque hill station in West Bengal, India. Renowned for its stunning Himalayan views, tea gardens, and the iconic Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), Darjeeling offers a delightful blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and adventure.

Best Time to Visit

Autumn (September-November) and Spring (March-May) offer mild temperatures and pleasant weather, ideal for exploring the city and its surrounding regions. Summer (June) can be hot, but is perfect for enjoying outdoor activities. Winter (December-February) is cooler and wetter.

Trip Duration

3 days 4 days
A 3-day trip will allow you to explore the city center and major attractions. A 4-day trip will provide ample time to visit tea gardens, monasteries, and enjoy scenic viewpoints.

Best Tourist Places to Visit in Darjeeling

Tiger Hill, Darjeeling
Tiger Hill, Darjeeling
★★★★★

4.6

Popularity

Batasia Loop
Batasia Loop
★★★★★

4.5

Popularity

Peace Pagoda, Darjeeling
Peace Pagoda, Darjeeling
★★★★★

4.6

Popularity

Padmaja Naidu Himalayan zoological park
Padmaja Naidu Himalayan zoological park
★★★★★

4.7

Popularity

Happy Valley Tea Estate
Happy Valley Tea Estate
★★★★★

4.4

Popularity

Rock Garden, Darjeeling
Rock Garden, Darjeeling
★★★★★

4.5

Popularity

The Singalila National Park - West Bengal, India
The Singalila National Park - West Bengal, India
★★★★★

4.7

Popularity

Yiga Choeling Monastery
Yiga Choeling Monastery
★★★★★

4.6

Popularity

Tenzing Rock HMI
Tenzing Rock HMI
★★★★★

4.1

Popularity

Japanese Buddhist Temple, Darjeeling
Japanese Buddhist Temple, Darjeeling
★★★★★

4.5

Popularity

Activities / Things To Do in Darjeeling

  • Take a Ride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (Toy Train) Experience the charm of the 'Toy Train' as it chugs through the scenic landscapes, passing through tunnels, tea gardens, and bustling towns. Book tickets in advance, especially during peak season.
  • Visit Tiger Hill for Sunrise Wake up early and head to Tiger Hill to witness the spectacular sunrise over the Kanchenjunga range. The view is truly unforgettable, but be prepared for crowds.
  • Explore Happy Valley Tea Estate Visit one of Darjeeling's oldest tea estates and learn about the tea cultivation process. Enjoy a guided tour, sample different tea varieties, and purchase fresh tea leaves.
  • Visit Ghoom Monastery Explore the oldest Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Darjeeling, known for its impressive Maitreya Buddha statue. Observe the monks' rituals and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.
  • Visit the Peace Pagoda Climb up to the Japanese Peace Pagoda for panoramic views of Darjeeling and the surrounding hills. The pagoda symbolizes peace and harmony.
  • Explore the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute and Zoo Visit the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute (HMI) to learn about mountaineering history and techniques. Adjacent to the HMI is the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, home to rare Himalayan animals like the snow leopard and red panda.
  • Trekking and Hiking Embark on a trek or hike to explore the surrounding hills and forests. Popular trekking routes include Sandakphu and Phalut. Obtain necessary permits and hire a local guide for longer treks.
  • Shopping at Chowrasta Chowrasta (the central square) is the hub of Darjeeling, offering a variety of shops selling souvenirs, handicrafts, woolen clothes, and local products.

Darjeeling Best Restaurant | Your Ultimate Dining Guide

Keventer's
Keventer's
★★★★★

4.8

Popularity

Glenary's— Bakery, Resturant & Pub
Glenary's— Bakery, Resturant & Pub
★★★★★

4.4

Popularity

Sonam's Kitchen
Sonam's Kitchen
★★★★★

4.5

Popularity

Hasty Tasty
Hasty Tasty
★★★

2.1

Popularity

Foodsteps Cafe
Foodsteps Cafe

Popularity

REVOLVER
REVOLVER
★★★★★

4.6

Popularity

Frank Ross Cafe
Frank Ross Cafe
★★★

2.9

Popularity

Kunga Restaurant
Kunga Restaurant
★★★★★

4.7

Popularity

THE PARK RESTAURANT DARJEELING
THE PARK RESTAURANT DARJEELING
★★★★★

4.4

Popularity

Ara restaurant cum bar
Ara restaurant cum bar
★★★★

3.8

Popularity

Accommodation

MAYFAIR Hill Resort Darjeeling | 5-Star Hotel In Darjeeling
MAYFAIR Hill Resort Darjeeling | 5-Star Hotel In Darjeeling
★★★★★

4.5

Popularity

Hotel Seven Seventeen
Hotel Seven Seventeen
★★★★

3.9

Popularity

Tashi Delek Hotel
Tashi Delek Hotel
★★★★★

4.9

Popularity

Cedar Inn
Cedar Inn
★★★★★

4.5

Popularity

Sinclairs Darjeeling
Sinclairs Darjeeling
★★★★★

4.2

Popularity

Hotel Zambala Retreat and Spa Darjeeling By DJD Group of Hotel
Hotel Zambala Retreat and Spa Darjeeling By DJD Group of Hotel
★★★★

3.8

Popularity

Udaan Hotels | Nirvana Resort, Darjeeling
Udaan Hotels | Nirvana Resort, Darjeeling
★★★★★

4.4

Popularity

Dekeling Hotel
Dekeling Hotel
★★★★★

4.3

Popularity

Zip By Spree Hotels Gangtok
Zip By Spree Hotels Gangtok
★★★★★

4.8

Popularity

Summit Swiss Heritage Resort & Spa, Darjeeling
Summit Swiss Heritage Resort & Spa, Darjeeling
★★★★★

4.3

Popularity

How to Reach Darjeeling

Air

Bagdogra Airport (IXB) is the nearest airport, located approximately 90 kilometers from Darjeeling. From Bagdogra, you can hire a taxi or take a shared jeep to Darjeeling.

Bus

Darjeeling is well-connected by road to Siliguri and other nearby towns. You can hire a taxi or take a shared jeep from Siliguri to Darjeeling. Buses also operate between Siliguri and Darjeeling, but they are less frequent.

Train

New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP) is the nearest major railway station, which is well-connected to major cities across India. From NJP, you can hire a taxi, take a shared jeep, or board the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (Toy Train) to reach Darjeeling.

Important Notes

Carry warm clothing, even during summer, as the weather can be unpredictable.
Be prepared for altitude sickness, especially if you are not used to high altitudes. Acclimatize gradually and drink plenty of water.
Obtain necessary permits for trekking and other activities.
Bargain while shopping, especially in the local markets.
Respect the local culture and customs.
Be aware of potential landslides during the monsoon season.
Carry cash, as ATMs may not always be readily available.

Darjeeling Nearby Destinations

Kalimpong

Kalimpong

A serene hill station known for its monasteries, orchid nurseries, and panoramic views of the Himalayas.

Distance : 21 KM (approx)

Rating : 4.4

Popularity Score : 4.4

Must Visit : Deolo Hill, Durpin Monastery, Cactus Nursery

Mirik

Mirik

A picturesque town centered around Sumendu Lake, offering boating and scenic views.

Distance : 19 KM (approx)

Rating : 4.2

Popularity Score : 4.2

Must Visit : Sumendu Lake, Bokar Monastery, Pashupati Market

Kurseong

Kurseong

A quiet hill station known for its tea gardens, viewpoints, and colonial architecture.

Distance : 18 KM (approx)

Rating : 4.1

Popularity Score : 4.1

Must Visit : Eagle's Crag, Makaibari Tea Estate, Forest Museum

Sikkim

Sikkim

A serene state in the eastern Himalayas.

Distance : 60 KM (approx)

Rating : 4.5

Popularity Score : 4.5

Must Visit : Gangtok, Tsomgo Lake, Nathula Pass, Pelling

Siliguri

Siliguri

A city and a major transit hub of the region.

Distance : 37 KM (approx)

Rating : 4

Popularity Score : 4

Must Visit : Iskcon Temple, Coronation Bridge, Salugara Monastery

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the altitude of Darjeeling?
Darjeeling is situated at an altitude of approximately 2,050 meters (6,700 feet) above sea level.
Is Darjeeling safe for tourists?
Yes, Darjeeling is generally considered safe for tourists. However, it is always advisable to be cautious and aware of your surroundings.
What type of currency is used in Darjeeling?
The Indian Rupee (INR) is the currency used in Darjeeling.
Do I need a permit to visit Darjeeling?
Indian citizens do not need a permit to visit Darjeeling. Foreign nationals may require a Protected Area Permit (PAP) to visit certain areas near Darjeeling, especially those bordering Sikkim and Bhutan. Check the latest regulations before your trip.
Are there ATMs in Darjeeling?
Yes, there are ATMs in Darjeeling, but they may not always be reliable. It is advisable to carry sufficient cash with you.
What languages are spoken in Darjeeling?
The main languages spoken in Darjeeling are Nepali, Bengali, Hindi, and English.
Is it possible to see Kanchenjunga from Darjeeling?
Yes, Kanchenjunga is visible from Darjeeling on clear days, especially from Tiger Hill and other vantage points.

Location Map

Coordinates: Latitude 27.041, Longitude 88.2664 (Darjeeling, West Bengal, India)