Darjeeling - Discovering India

Travelling to Darjeeling

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Darjeeling, a pretty good destination in India (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Darjeeling and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Darjeeling, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through India, here's everything to know about Darjeeling for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Darjeeling

Darjeeling is a beautiful hill town located in the Indian state of West Bengal. It is situated in the foothills of the Himalayas and is known for its stunning views of the mountains, lush green tea plantations, and beautiful colonial architecture. Darjeeling is a popular tourist destination and attracts visitors from all over the world. The town is famous for its tea production and visitors can experience the tea-making process by visiting the tea estates. Darjeeling is also known for its scenic toy train ride, which has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can also enjoy trekking, hiking, and other outdoor activities in the beautiful natural surroundings.

What to visit in Darjeeling

Sure, here are some popular tourist attractions in Darjeeling and some information about them: 1. Tiger Hill: Tiger Hill is a hilltop located at an altitude of 8,482 feet and is known for offering breathtaking views of the sunrise over the Kanchenjunga range. Tourists can also enjoy panoramic views of the Himalayan Mountains from this hilltop.
2. Batasia Loop: Batasia Loop is a railway loop located on the way to Ghoom from Darjeeling and is famous for its views of the surrounding hills and valleys. The loop also has a war memorial in honor of the Gorkha soldiers who lost their lives in wars.
3. Darjeeling Himalayan Railway: Popularly known as the "Toy Train," the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and its narrow gauge railway is famous for its scenic beauty, which offers a stunning view of the Himalayas.
4. Japanese Peace Pagoda: A massive white stupa, the Japanese Peace Pagoda is a Buddhist shrine located on the slopes of the Jalapahar hills and is famous for its intricate architecture, serene ambiance, and breathtaking views of Kanchenjunga.
5. Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park: This zoological park is home to many rare and endangered species of animals like the Snow Leopard, Red Panda, and Siberian Tiger, and is an excellent place for wildlife enthusiasts.
6. Himalayan Mountaineering Institute: The Himalayan Mountaineering Institute is a renowned institution located in Darjeeling, which is founded to promote mountaineering as a sport. The institute offers various mountaineering courses and has a museum exhibiting mountaineering equipment and artifacts.
7. Happy Valley Tea Estate: Darjeeling is famous for its tea estates, and the Happy Valley Tea Estate is one of the oldest and most famous ones. It offers a beautiful view of rolling tea gardens and allows visitors to learn about the tea-making process.
Hope this helps you plan your trip to Darjeeling!
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in India, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Darjeeling.

When to go on holiday to Darjeeling

The best time to visit Darjeeling is between October and November and from March to May. During these months, the weather is pleasant, skies are clear, and the views of the surrounding mountains are breathtaking. The summer months of June to September should be avoided due to the monsoon season, which can bring heavy rains and landslides. In winter, the temperatures can get quite cold, and the visibility can be limited due to fog, making it difficult to enjoy the scenic views.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Darjeeling

Darjeeling, a popular hill station in India, can be reached by air, train or road.
By Air: The nearest airport to Darjeeling is Bagdogra Airport, which is located about 95 km away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi to reach Darjeeling.
By Train: The nearest railway station to Darjeeling is NJP Railway Station, which is about 88 km away. From NJP Railway Station, you can take a taxi or a shared jeep to reach Darjeeling.
By Road: Darjeeling is well-connected by road and can be reached by bus or taxi. You can take a bus from Siliguri or take a taxi directly to Darjeeling.
Overall, the best mode of transportation to reach Darjeeling depends on your budget, comfort, and time constraints.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Darjeeling, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Darjeeling

Here are some typical foods of Darjeeling, India, along with a brief description for each: 1. Momos - Popular throughout India and Tibet, these steamed or fried dumplings can be filled with meat or vegetables and served with a spicy dipping sauce.
2. Thukpa - A hearty soup made with vegetables, noodles, and sometimes meat. It's perfect for a cold day in the mountains.
3. Churpee - This hard cheese is made from yak or cow milk and is perfect for snacking on during long treks. It has a slightly smoky flavor and a hard texture.
4. Tingmo - A fluffy steamed bread that's typically served with stews or curries.
5. Aloo Dum - A spicy potato dish that's popular throughout India. In Darjeeling, it's often served with a soft and chewy bread called puri.
6. Sel Roti - A popular snack made from rice flour and sugar. It's similar to a doughnut and can be found at street stalls throughout Darjeeling.
7. Thenthuk - Another soup that's made with hand-pulled noodles, vegetables, and meat. It's a specialty of the Himalayan region and is perfect for warming up on a chilly day.
You can find general info about typical foods in India here.

Is Darjeeling an expensive destination for tourists?

Darjeeling can be considered a moderately expensive destination for tourists, especially when compared to other cities or towns in India. The cost of accommodations, transportation, and food can be on the higher side. However, there are also budget options available for those who plan ahead and research their trip thoroughly. The prices also vary depending on the season - peak season (March to May and October to November) can be more expensive than off-season. It's always a good idea to compare prices and read reviews before booking anything.

Where to find accomodation in Darjeeling

The best areas to find accommodation in Darjeeling, India are: 1. The Mall Road: This is the main commercial district in Darjeeling and has plenty of hotels, restaurants, and shops. It offers easy access to popular attractions like Chowrasta Square and the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway.
2. Gandhi Road: This area is located near the Darjeeling railway station and offers a range of budget and mid-range hotels. It's also a good base for exploring nearby tea plantations and temples.
3. Lebong Cart Road: This area is slightly outside the main town and offers stunning views of the Himalayas. It's a good option for those looking for a peaceful stay away from the crowds.
4. Jorethang: This area is located about 2 hours from Darjeeling and is an ideal place to stay if you're interested in exploring the nearby countryside and hill stations. It's also a good option for those looking for budget accommodation.
You can check hotel prices at Darjeeling here:
Booking.com

Is Darjeeling a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Darjeeling is generally a safe place for tourists. However, like any other tourist destination, there are certain precautions that travelers should take to ensure their safety. It is always recommended to keep an eye on your valuables, avoid carrying large amounts of cash, and not leave your belongings unattended. It is also advisable to stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night. In addition, it is always best to use caution when using public transportation or hiring a taxi. By taking these basic precautions, tourists can enjoy their time in Darjeeling safely.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in India here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Darjeeling.

What type of travelers will enjoy Darjeeling the most?

Darjeeling, India is a destination that can cater to a wide range of travelers. Here are some types of travelers who may enjoy Darjeeling the most: 1. Nature Lovers: Darjeeling is a picturesque hill station located in the foothills of the Himalayas offering breathtaking views of the mountains. Nature lovers who enjoy trekking and hiking will find many trails that lead to some of the most spectacular landscapes in the region.
2. Couples: The scenic backdrop and cozy accommodations make Darjeeling a popular destination for couples. With its tranquil mountains, scenic hillsides, and fresh air, couples who want to spend some quality time away from the city's chaos will find Darjeeling a perfect destination.
3. Families: Darjeeling is a family-friendly destination with many activities for kids and adults alike, such as visiting the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park to see exotic animals, taking a ride on the toy train that runs through the city, or taking a ride on a cable car to get stunning views of the surrounding hills.
4. Cultural Enthusiasts: Darjeeling has a rich cultural heritage, including traditional Tibetan and Nepalese architecture, a vibrant local food scene, and ancient monasteries offering a glimpse into the region's religious past.
So in conclusion, Darjeeling offers something for everyone and is a must-visit destination for nature lovers, couples, families, and those interested in learning more about the region's unique cultural heritage.

How to get around Darjeeling

The most popular options for transportation in Darjeeling are taxis, shared jeeps, and toy trains. Taxis are convenient and comfortable, but can be expensive. Shared jeeps are a more affordable option and can be found at designated jeep stands throughout the town. The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, also known as the "toy train," is a World Heritage Site and a popular tourist attraction, offering a unique experience to explore the town and its surroundings.

What to see around Darjeeling

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Darjeeling, India: 1. Mirik - a small hill station with a beautiful lake and tea gardens 2. Kalimpong - a peaceful town known for its Buddhist monasteries and handicrafts 3. Kurseong - a scenic town known for its tea gardens and colonial-era architecture 4. Sandakphu - a high-altitude trekking destination with stunning Himalayan views 5. Tiger Hill - a popular sunrise viewpoint with panoramic views of the Himalayas 6. Ghum - a small town with a famous monastery and a heritage steam engine 7. Pelling - a charming town in Sikkim known for its stunning views of the Kanchenjunga Peak 8. Lava - a quiet hill station with beautiful forests and stunning views of the Himalayas. Hope this helps you plan your day trips!
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