Darjeeling Guide: Planning Your Trip

Pic Credit: Wikipedia

Darjeeling is a charming hill station in India, known for its picturesque landscapes and famous tea. Nestled in the Himalayas, it offers breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains. The town is adorned with colonial architecture, vibrant markets, and Buddhist monasteries. Darjeeling's cool climate and lush greenery make it a popular tourist destination. Visitors can enjoy a ride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, explore tea plantations, and savor the unique flavors of Darjeeling tea.



Planning Your Trip

  • Best Time to Visit: March to June and September to November are the best months to visit Darjeeling. Before planning your trip, check the Monsoon weather in Darjeeling. These months offer an enjoyable and comfortable experience in this picturesque hill station.
  • Language: Hindi and English.
  • Currency: Indian rupee.
  • Time Zone: UTC (Coordinated Universal Time) +5.5 hours, also known as Indian Standard Time. India does not have daylight saving time.
  • Getting Around: Navigating Darjeeling is mainly by walking, as its hilly terrain suits pedestrians. Taxis, including shared options, are available for longer distances. The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway offers a picturesque journey, and renting a car or hiring a local driver provides flexibility for exploring the area.
  • Travel Tips: For a rewarding trip to Darjeeling, pack layers, start early for clear mountain views, explore on foot, and visit iconic tea gardens. Utilize local transportation like the toy train, stay hydrated due to the hilly terrain, and embrace the local culture and cuisine for a truly memorable experience in this picturesque hill station.

Getting There

Reaching Darjeeling involves a combination of transportation modes. The nearest major airport is Bagdogra Airport, approximately 70 kilometers away. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a pre-booked car to reach Darjeeling. Alternatively, the New Jalpaiguri Railway Station is well-connected, and you can hire a taxi or take a shared jeep to ascend the scenic mountain roads. The journey to Darjeeling is characterized by breathtaking views and winding roads, making the travel experience part of the adventure.



Things to Do

8 Best places to explore in Darjeeling

1. Tiger Hill

Pic Credit: Wikipedia

Tiger Hill, near Darjeeling, India, is renowned for its stunning sunrise views over the Eastern Himalayas, including the majestic Kanchenjunga. A popular tourist destination, it offers a panoramic spectacle of snow-capped peaks. The site holds historical significance for its association with the British and is a must-visit for its breathtaking natural beauty.

  • Entry fee: Free

2. Ghoom Monastery

pic credit: Prabhat Khabar

Ghoom Monastery, near Darjeeling, is an old Tibetan Buddhist temple built in 1875. It has a big statue of Maitreya Buddha and ancient Buddhist writings. People visit to feel the peaceful atmosphere, see the Tibetan-style architecture, and enjoy the colorful prayer flags. It's a special place for spirituality and cultural beauty.

  • Timings: 09 a.m 6 p.m on all days of the week.
  • Entry fee: Free.

3. Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park

pic credit: Wikipedia

Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park in Darjeeling is a renowned wildlife park dedicated to the conservation of Himalayan fauna. Established in 1958, it's home to endangered species like the red panda and snow leopard. The park emphasizes education and research, offering visitors a chance to appreciate the unique biodiversity of the Eastern Himalayas in a natural habitat.

  • Timings: 08:30 a.m to 4:00 p.m on all days of the week.
  • Entry fee: For Indian 110.

4. Batasia Loop

pic credit: Wikipedia

Batasia Loop is a fascinating railway loop near Darjeeling, India. Built to reduce the steep gradient of the ascent, it offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, including the Kanchenjunga. The loop features a Gorkha War Memorial and a garden, making it a popular spot for tourists to enjoy the picturesque landscapes and the charming Darjeeling Himalayan Railway passing through the loop.

  • Timings: 06 a.m to 05 p.m Monday to Saturday.
  • Entry fee: 15.

5. Japanese Peace Pagoda

pic credit: Wikipedia

The Japanese Peace Pagoda in Darjeeling is a peaceful place made by Japanese monks to promote harmony. It sits on a hill, showing different forms of Buddha. People visit for serene views and to feel calm. The pagoda encourages non-violence, and everyone can join in prayers for unity and peace.

  • Timings: 4:00 AM - 7:00 PM Prayer Timings: 4:30 AM - 6:00 AM, 4:30 PM - 6:00 PM
  • Entry fee: Free.

6. Sandakphu

pic credit : Wikipedia

Sandakphu, in the Eastern Himalayas, is a popular trekking destination. It's the highest point in West Bengal, offering stunning views of the world's highest peaks, including Mount Everest. Trekkers enjoy the diverse flora and fauna along the way. Sandakphu is a must-visit for nature lovers seeking breathtaking landscapes and adventure.

  • Entry fee: Free.

7. Dhirdham Temple

pic credit : Darjeeling

Dhirdham Temple is a sacred place in Darjeeling, India. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it features a beautiful architecture inspired by the Pashupatinath Temple in Nepal. Visitors come for prayers and to admire the serene surroundings. The temple's peaceful atmosphere and religious significance make it a revered spot for locals and tourists alike.

  • Timings: The Aarti is held at 8 AM and 6 PM every day.
  • Entry fee: Free.

8. Lepchajagat

pic credit: Inside Darjeeling

Lepchajagat, near Darjeeling, is a tranquil village surrounded by dense forests and tea gardens. Famous for its panoramic views of the Himalayas, it provides a peaceful retreat. Visitors enjoy the serene atmosphere, lush greenery, and simple village life. Lepchajagat is a charming destination for nature lovers seeking a quiet getaway.

  • Entry fee: Free.

Some other places to visit Near Darjeeling :-

  • Himalayan Mountaineering Institute
  • Kanchenjunga Mountain
  • Mahakal Temple
  • Barbotey Rock Garden
  • Happy Valley Tea Estate
  • Lamahatta
  • Tinchuley Village

Q1. How to reach Darjeeling ?

To reach Darjeeling, the nearest major entry points are Bagdogra Airport and New Jalpaiguri Railway Station. From Bagdogra, a taxi or pre-booked car can take you on a scenic drive to Darjeeling. If arriving by train, take a taxi or shared jeep from New Jalpaiguri Railway Station, enjoying the picturesque journey through mountainous terrain. The diverse transportation options ensure convenient access to Darjeeling, allowing visitors to revel in the natural beauty along the way.

Q2. What is the best time to visit Darjeeling?

The optimal time to visit Darjeeling is from March to June and September to November. These months offer pleasant weather, clear skies, and blooming flora. Spring and early summer showcase the beauty of the Himalayas, while autumn provides crisp air and good visibility. Monsoons, occurring from July to August, bring heavy rainfall and are best avoided due to potential landslides. Planning a visit during the recommended months ensures an enjoyable experience in this charming hill station.

Q3. What to eat?

In Darjeeling, savor Tibetan and Nepali delights like momos, Thukpa, and Phagshapa. Enjoy Darjeeling tea and local sweets such as Sel Roti. Bakeries offer tempting pastries, making the culinary experience delightful.

Q4. How many days are needed to explore Darjeeling?

Ans. 3-4 days are ideal for exploring Darjeeling but it depends on your itinerary and planning.

Q5. How much would it cost to visit Darjeeling?

Ans. ₹10,000 – ₹12,000 per head would be sufficient to explore Darjeeling for 3-4 days.