Darjeeling
This tour guide gives all the insights about everyone’s ‘Darling Darjeeling.’
Table of Contents
Darjeeling Tour Packages
What makes Darjeeling so special to all? The ever smiling faces of the local people, the Tea Gardens, the jaw-droppingly beautiful Himalayan Range, a fine touch of the past, Mt.Kanchenjunga, Toy Train, year-round chill and many other things make Darjeeling so delightful. This place can seduce all with its snow-capped mountains, happening Mall or Chowrashta and mouth-watering foods. Remember what Mark Twain once said about Darjeeling?: “The one land that all men desire to see, and having seen once by even a glimpse would not give that glimpse for the shows of the rest of the world combined”.
| Tour Packages of Darjeeling | No. of Days | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Darjeeling & Kalimpong | 4 Days | INR.8400 |
| Darjeeling & Gangtok | 6 Days | INR.14,000 |
| Darjeeling & Mirik | 4 Days | INR.8,000 |
| Kalimpong Offbeat Tour | 5 Days | INR.9000 |
| Takdah & Tabakoshi | 5 Days | INR.8000 |
| Exotic Offbeat Darjeeling | 4 Days | INR.7000 |
Kanchenjungha steals the show, most of the time.
Things to do in Darjeeling
There are plenty of things to do in Darjeeling. Honestly, we don’t know where to start from and once started how to stop. In no specific order, Darjeeling, as we all know, is famous for Teas. Sip a sweet aromatic grape flavoured tea that is famous worldwide. Take a ride on the iconic Toy Train which moves along the picturesque landscapes of the region and the scenic Batasia Loop. It is crowned with the UNESCO World Heritage status. Pay a visit to Tiger Hill before the break of dawn to see the sun rise over Mount Everest. You can also simply soak yourself in the mesmerizing atmosphere of the place. This is definitely not all. There are numerous things to do and numerous places to visit in this breathtakingly beautiful hill station.
Toy Train-A Joyride
A ride on the Toy Train remains one of the most favourite things to do in Darjeeling. A trip in it is sure to bring a bundle of happiness to all. Not only that the Train has heritage value, but one can also observe the beauty of nature from it. No wonder it has attained the UNESCO World Heritage status. This steam locomotive from the colonial times is an engineering miracle in itself. The Railway Coaches climb steep mountains through fascinating curves. It leaves behind a trail of backgrounds that are strikingly beautiful. The train starts from Darjeeling Station and goes upto the Ghum/Ghoom Station covering a distance of 14kms in 2hrs time. The Ghoom Station is the world’s second-highest railway station. The train halts at Batashiya Loop for about 10mins. It’s called Batashiya Loop as here the train takes a ‘loop’ or bends around the well-maintained garden. The garden has a monument dedicated to the martyred soldiers who laid down their lives for India’s Independence.
Kanchenjungha steals the show, most of the time.
Places to visit in Darjeeling
Darjeeling, the queen of hill stations is one of the most favourite destinations for people in West Bengal, all over India and across the world. There are plenty of places to visit in Darjeeling. The beautiful landscape of Darjeeling with a historical touch offers a lot of places to visit in Darjeeling. This outstanding place is replete with natural wonders, fabulous tea gardens, deep culture, and delicious foods. This scenic hill station is peppered with wonderful places to visit.
Himalayan Zoo
Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park is at a distance of roughly 85 km from Bagdogra Airport. Smt.Indira Gandhi committed the zoo in remembrance of Padmaja Naidu and later on, the zoo was re-named as Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park. This Himalayan zoo actively involves in conserving some imperiled animals like Snow Leopards, Tibetan Wolf, and Red Panda among others. Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park tries to maintain an ecological balance in the beautiful city of Darjeeling in Eastern Himalayas.
Japanese Peace Pagoda
Japanese Peace Pagoda Darjeeling is also called the Nipponzan Myohoji Buddhist Temple. This temple is built in line of Japanese architecture and offers spectacular views of Darjeeling’s topography and the eternal beauty of Kanchenjunga. This remarkable temple is at 10 minutes drive from the town of Darjeeling. Japanese Peace Pagoda has two floors. As you enter, there is a picture of Fujii Guruji, the founder.
Happy Valley Tea Estate
Happy Valley Tea Estate lies on the slant surface of the hills. The beautiful tea garden with a picturesque landscape beckons the weary souls. Happy Valley Tea Estate is hardly 3 km from Chowk Bazaar area. Embark on a walk through the greens to reach this marvelous Tea Estate. Experience the tea making process and get firsthand knowledge on everything regarding Tea.
Rock Garden Darjeeling
Barbotey Rock Garden or simply the Rock Garden is one of the major tourist attractions in Darjeeling. Rock Garden Darjeeling has nestled down the valley amidst the lush greens all around. The floating clouds make the place seems out of a fairy-tale book. The Rock Garden’s sitting area is completely made by cutting rocks. The waterfall cascades down and meets a rivulet. This is a beautiful place to enjoy or relax in the lap of nature.
Tiger Hill Sunrise
The first rays of sun falling on the summit of colossal Kanchenjunga will not only lighten up the day but also your life. Tiger hill is 11km from Darjeeling. To watch the snow-crowned peaks sparkle as it bathes in the golden beams of the sun is an experience of a lifetime. Tiger Hill is the tallest point in Darjeeling and to watch the horizon’s changing hues is nothing short of eternal bliss. You need to reach Tiger Hill in the wee hours of the morning because you are not the only one who wants to observe the sunrise from the tiger hill.
Ghoom Monastery
Ghoom Monastery or Yiga Choeling Monastery is one of the ancient Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in Darjeeling. Ghoom Monastery was constructed way back in 1850. The outside façade of this monastery lies below the Ghoom railway station. The Ghoom Monastery houses a 15foot statue of Lord Buddha. It’s also known as the Gyalwa Shampa or Maitreya Buddha.
Batasia Loop
Batasia Loop is the embodiment of Darjeeling’s key points of attractions. You will get an all-embracing panoramic vista of scenic Darjeeling from Batasia Loop. It is hardly a 20-30minutes drive from the town of Darjeeling. There is a picturesque manicured garden which has the tracks of the iconic Toy Train. The garden also has sitting areas to observe the scenery all around and it’s embellished with colourful flora and fauna. The Toy Train makes a roundabout turn from here.
Bhutia Market
The other name of Bhutia Market is the New Mahakal Market. Shopping from roadside stalls or flea markets gives you a true sense and vibes of the place you are traveling. The Bhutia community set up stalls here selling a wide range of authentic items from woolen wears to jeans and umbrellas, etc. This place has a statue of poet Bhanubhakta Acharya. This is one of the best shopping areas in Darjeeling.
Chowrasta/ Darjeeling Mall
The hot and happening place in cool Darjeeling is the Chowrasta Mall. It is the nerve center of Darjeeling. Tourists and local people relax and spend time in the Chowrashta. The street is also lined with benches so that people can sit and chat espying the gorgeous skyline of this truly beautiful hill station. This place also has some quaint heritage buildings. There are pony rides available for children.
Darjeeling Ropeway
A ropeway ride that will be remembered forever. It’s known as the Rangeet Valley Passenger Cable Car as you will be bestowed with stunning views of the Rangeet River. The majestic views of the Himalayan Alps, the green pasture of valleys and luxuriant tea gardens and the floating clouds will mesmerize you. The last station is Tukvar. You can alight here and spend some time or return back.
Museum
The Himalayan Mountaineering Institute was built in honour of Sherpa Tenzing Norgay. The museum has Sherpa Norgay’s memorabilia from his quest to scale Mount Everest in 1953 alongside Sir Edmund Hillary. The foundation stone of Himalayan Mountaineering Institute was laid by the then PM of India-Pandit Jawahar Lal Nehru. An excerpt from his precious words was “The Institute trains young men not only to climb Himalayan peaks but also create in them an urge to climb peaks of human endeavour…”
Mahakal Temple
The Mahakal Temple sits atop a peak of a hilltop in Darjeeling. The ascending climb can be difficult for seniors and people who are not used to such walk but the scenery from the top is absolutely breathtaking. Basically the Mahakal Temple in on the Observatory Hill. Till you reach the summit, you can rest on the benches provided at places. The spotless beauty is worth your tiring legs and body.
Places to visit near Darjeeling
Kalimpong
Kalimpong is a quiet place nearly 50 kms from Darjeeling. It is near the River Teesta and it has Sikkim as its adjoining state. Beautiful Monasteries, Delo Hill, Dr.Graham’s House, Orchid Garden, Morgan House and a vast Golf Course are some of the heritage and stunning sightseeings of Kalimpong. Some amazing tourist destinations like Lava, Loleygaon, Rishyap, Sangsher, Pedong, Pabong, Kafergaon Charchol, Kholakham, Jhandi, and Rikkisum are part of Kalimpong district and have good connectivity by road. These offbeat destinations are beautiful weekend retreats. Each place has its own idiosyncratic flavour.
Kurseong
If you want to enjoy the purity of nature through its alpine beauty and ignore the intensely cold weather then you will find Kurseong as the perfect place for trekkers, history buffs and gazing at nature. ‘The Land of White Orchids’ as Kurseong is also called, is a quaint hill station planted among the Siliguri-Darjeeling Highway. You won’t take much time to fall in love with the verdant forests, snow-clad mountains, remains of bygone British era and the Tea Plantations. The Mighty Mt. Kanchejungha with its full glory is standing there just for you. Kurseong is not cramped for a place. Visit Kurseong to discover its silent and solitude side. Some of the beautiful sightseeing spots include Eagle’s Craig View Point, Forest Museum, Makaibari Tea Estate, Chimney, etc. This place provides an array of activities like trekking, water rafting, and adventure sports. The hill slopes are fully decorated with the white orchids which the locals/Lepchas call as Kurson Rip. Some amazing tourist destinations from Kurseong are Sittong, Ahaldara, Shelpu, Ghalaytar, Turyok, Mahaldiram, Bagora, Chhatokpur and Chimney.
Lamhatta
This is an eco-friendly unconventional destination. The serenity, greenery and the picturesque landscape will enthrall its visitors. There is a vast well-maintained garden full of beautiful flowers. Mt. Kanchenjunga can be viewed from the garden.
Takdah/Tinchuley
Takdah is a little hamlet which is 28kms from Darjeeling and Tinchuley is 3km from Takdah. Both are spectacular offbeat places full of lush greens and snow-capped mountains far off from the crowded towns. The Orchid center at Takdah is a lovely spot. Take a stroll in this dreamy holiday destination to unwind your senses. Takdah is a misty place that gets heavy rainfall. The winding roads of Tinchuley with Mt. Kanchejunga and orange orchards in the background paint a very beautiful picture. The three mountain tops that surround Tinchuley resembles ovens or ‘chullahs’. This is how the place got the name as Tinchuley.
Chongtong
Chongtong is a Tea garden which was initially called Chun Thang. The Tea Garden is situated in a very good looking slope where the River Ranjeet goes along the garden. The thick green forests and trees all around make this place looks so soothing. Chongtong Tea garden has three divisions namely the Salabari, Chiyasi Division and Sirisi Tar which are the Upper, Middle, and Lower Divisions respectively.
Rangbull
It is a small scale Tea Estate which cuddles up in the center of the Himalayan foothills. The calm area around the Tea Estate is full of thick green vegetation. There is a beautiful cascading waterfall that is popular for its rainbow formation on bright sunny days. And rightly enough the waterfall is named as the Rainbow Waterfalls. The local people call it the ‘Indrani Chago’. Rangbull is truly a hidden gem amidst the mountains. The lush greenery and the fogs make this unconventional spot look every bit magical.
Dawaipani
This off-track tourist destination will cast such a mesmerizing spell on you that it will be hard for you to come out if it. Open the treasure trove called Dawaipani and discover the jewels inside. The solitary hamlet, snow-clad mountains, full grand view of Kanchenjunga and Darjeeling are there for you to enjoy. The place is surrounded by dense tea gardens. Breathe in the purest air and relax in this heavenly abode among the mountains.
Lepchajagat
This is the place for all the nature devotees. Observe the colours of the Kanchenjunga range during sunrise and sunset and get blown away by its beauty. Here the hills are alive only with the chattering of the birds and the sounds of the crickets. The verdant forest is enveloped in oaks, pines, and rhododendrons. This unconventional destination will wrap you up in peace and utter natural beauty.
Pokhriabong
Pokhriabong is very near to Lepchajagat. The whole area is covered in dense Tea Gardens. The beauty of this place is astounding. This is also a small hamlet where various types of Himalayan birds are noticed. Pokhriabong is situated at the side of Turzum Tea Estate. The misty, foggy weather along with the greens gives a romantic feeling to this place.
Tea Estates
Sourenee
This is a marvelous Tea estate in the beautiful valleys of Mirik. Spread over a sprawling area of 137 hectares, this 100-year-old Tea Estate produces supreme quality Tea. It also takes pride in a Boutique resort sheltered in the peaceful lap of nature. This sophisticated accommodation provides for AC rooms, free wifi, and all the major amenities. Staying in the Sourenee Tea Estate and getting the Sourenee Experience amongst the dense Tea bushes, between the Ferns and the cascading stream is a breathtaking episode of one’s life. And do not forget to try the Black Blossom Tea.
Tumsong
This quaint Tea Estate is situated in the poised locales of Darjeeling. It provides the complete privilege of Tea Tasting to its esteemed guests at its own factory. Tumsong Chai Bari has a manicured garden, a games room, and a lounge. Tumsong Chai Bari spreads over 186 hectares. This beautiful Tea Estate arranges Campfire, Hiking, Camping, Riverside Picnic, Trekking, and traditional dance and music. Tumsong Chai Bari is a mesmerising splendor of Darjeeling and staying here is absolute bliss. You cannot afford to miss the splendid views of Mt. Kanchenjunga and the deep green forests and tea plantation all around.
Chamong
This is a premium quality resort in the edges of Darjeeling. There is a fabulous multi-cuisine restaurant called Brindavan. It stretches over 900 acres of land. This is an ideal getaway from your everyday mundane and hectic schedule. The forested area of the Tea Estate has a wide variety of flora and fauna. Chamong Chaibari is a century old wood encrusted resort which is close to Darjeeling. It is hardly a two hours distance from Tumsong Chaibari. You can breathe in the fresh air in this population free zone and soak in the pristine natural beauty.
Glenbury/ Glenburn
This gorgeous Tea Estate and Boutique hotel were started by a Scottish Tea Company in 1859. This Tea estate is perched on a hill up above the banks of Ranjeet River. It provides a very comfortable stay amidst the supremely beautiful Himalayan Range and Mt. Kanchenjunga. The visitors can have a tour of the Tea Estate, sip the flavour full Glenburn Tea while observing the picturesque views from the balcony, gorge on freshly baked bread, cakes, cookies and just give in to the flow of the place.
Lebong
This Tea Estate is settled in Pulbazar, Darjeeling. The amazing splendour of the rolling hills, the thick tea bushes, and the serene daily life makes this area popular amongst visitors. The slender deciduous forest makes way for scenic walking trails and you’ll soon discover the tropical flowers, meandering streams, and cascading waterfalls. It provides luxury accommodation will all present-day facilities.
Darjeeling Hotels
Hotel Mayfair Darjeeling
Hotel Mayfair Darjeeling
Hotel Mayfair Darjeeling along with being one of the best hotels in Darjeeling is also one of the finest Heritage Properties. It provides a harmonious ambience. This luxury hill front resort situated on a beautiful landscape emits a vintage charisma and sophistication. It is a luxurious answer for everything from business conferences to family holidays. Here, guests can enjoy the city’s most exquisite dining ranging from multi-cuisine restaurant: Magnolia, to high-class private dining: Tiffany and ultimately an old styled exquisite English Bar. Additional amenities include a posh spa, a gym, a library, and a kids’ playing zone and an amazing Banquet Hall.
Viceroy Hotel
Viceroy Hotel
The Bellevue Hotel Darjeeling exudes calmness and gentleness of the Tibetan culture. It is also run and owned by a Tibetan family. The hotel is strategically located on the Mall which is Darjeeling’s main nerve center. The well-equipped rooms have wooden carvings made of pine and juniper. The caring staff is always there to ensure you have a flawless stay at our hotel.
Alice Villa
It is a very affordable hotel situated in a convenient location. This used to be a house during the colonial British period and still has the old world charm intact. Alice Villa is a simple looking building with a slanted roof and a porch in front. The distance from the mall through the Bhutia market takes just 3-4 minutes. One unique feature of the rooms is that they have fireplaces. All the rooms are carpeted and are comfortable to stay.
Central Nirvana
This superbly beautiful hotel matches the beauty of the surrounding. Located near to the Mall Road, the wooden paneled interiors and the colonial design of the hotel stand out among the crowd of other hotels. The morning rays of the sun coming in through the large glass windows brighten up your day automatically. Each room is tastefully decorated and has all the contemporary facilities.
Elgin Darjeeling
Once a summer residence of Maharaja of Cooch Behar, this elegantly designed opulent Heritage hotel oozes a certain charm that is hard to ignore. The grandeur of this over 125 years old hotel has not diminished a bit. The interiors of this awesome hotel are bedecked with artifacts and furniture from the past.
Windamere
It is the actual “Heritage House of the Himalayas”. Windamere sits atop the Observatory Hill which is a famous landmark of Darjeeling. Many eminent personalities have graced this hotel. The garden of the Windemere Hotel has rare species of trees. A stay in this hotel will weave memories to last a lifetime.
How to reach Darjeeling?
Kolkata to Darjeeling
The best option, if you are planning for a Darjeeling Tour Package from Kolkata is to take a flight to Bagdogra (IXB), and then take a car to Darjeeling. You can find Kolkata to Bagdogra Flight details hereunder:
Kolkata to Bagdogra Flights
| Flight No.# | Flight Name | Dept. Stn. (Time) | Arrv. Stn. (Time) | Journey Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SG – 263 | Spice Jet | 5:55 (New Delhi) | 8:05 (Kolkata) | 2h 10m |
| SG – 253 | Spice Jet | 18:10 (New Delhi) | 20:25 (Kolkata) | 2h 15m |
| l5 – 548 | Air Asia | 4:55 (New Delhi) | 7:10 (Kolkata) | 2h 15m |
| l5 – 550 | Air Asia | 19:30 (New Delhi) | 22:10 (Kolkata) | 2h 40m |
| G8 – 103 | Go Air | 20:10 (New Delhi) | 22:20 (Kolkata) | 2h 10m |
| G8 – 105 | Go Air | 21:25 (New Delhi) | 23:40 (Kolkata) | 2h 15m |
You can also opt for trains from Kolkata to New Jalpaiguri Station (NJP) and thereafter taking a car to Darjeeling. Check out the Kolkata to NJP Train details:
Kolkata to NJP Trains
| Train# | Train Name | Dept. Stn. (Time) | Arrv. Stn. (Time) | Journey Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12345 | Saraighat Express | Howrah(15:50) | New Jalpaiguri(01:40) | 9h 50m |
| 15959 | Kamrup Express | Howrah(17:35) | New Jalpaiguri(06:20) | 12h 45m |
| 13147 | Uttarbanga Express | Sealdah(19:35) | New Jalpaiguri(06:50) | 11h 15m |
| 13149 | Kanchankanya Express | Sealdah(20:30) | New Jalpaiguri(07:30) | 11h |
| 12343 | Darjeeling Mail | Sealdah(22:05) | New Jalpaiguri(08:00) | 9h 55m |
| 12377 | Padatik Exp | Sealdah(23:20) | New Jalpaiguri(09:15) | 9h 55m |
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1 Comment
Darjeeling is always my favourite, especially I always prefer to stay near Darjeeling Mall and roam around it relishing food from Keventers (Kev’s) & Glenary’s. The walk beside the Mall road staring at Kanchenjungha in a cloudy evening always attracts me like anything. I love this article here, where you can find some good information on absolute offbeat destinations near and around Darjeeling. I truly recommend Ocean6 Holidays for their in detail understanding of my travel requirements.