Nestled amidst the breathtaking Himalayan mountains, Darjeeling, India is a captivating destination known for its tea gardens, stunning views, and rich cultural heritage. This detailed travel guide will take you through the must-see sites and experiences that Darjeeling has to offer.
During the summer of 2022, I had the pleasure of visiting Darjeeling for the first time, and it quickly became one of my favorite destinations in India. While I have traveled extensively in India, exploring the Northeast region was a new and exciting experience. Darjeeling was the last stop on our five-week travel tour, and it proved to be the perfect finale with its cool climate, breathtaking mountain vistas, and a serene pace of life. We flew into Bagdogra airport and opted for a private car to reach Darjeeling, as there are no Uber or Ola services available. The journey, although winding and steep, was a picturesque drive that took about 2 hours and 40 minutes, providing scenic views of West Bengal's tea fields and a sense of tranquility.
Arriving in Darjeeling, I immediately sensed the relaxed and laid-back atmosphere of the town. The narrow, winding, and hilly streets make it challenging to navigate by car, leading many people to explore the town on foot. It's a place where the pace of life slows down, allowing for a more immersive experience. While I've included some suggested sites and activities in my three-day itinerary, I highly recommend taking the time to simply soak in the hill station's charm, embarking on leisurely walks, savoring delicious food, and exploring the local shops.
While we visited Darjeeling in July due to our other travel plans, the best time to visit Darjeeling is from March to May and from September to November when the weather is pleasant, and the skies are clear. During our stay, the skies were clear and blue in the morning but fog quickly rolled in and covered up the beautiful mountain vistas by the afternoon. We also encountered a day of rain, which added to the enchanting atmosphere of the hill station but ultimately put a damper on some of our plans.
During our stay in Darjeeling, we had a delightful experience at the Summit Hermon Hotel, a clean and cute mid-range accommodation that has a cozy mountain ambiance. The hotel boasts charming rooms in a very convenient location within a walkable distance from Mall Road and other major attractions added to its appeal.
Explore the Happy Valley Tea Estate, where you can take a guided tour of the tea gardens, learn about the tea-making process, and indulge in a refreshing cup of Darjeeling tea.
Visit the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park and the adjacent Himalayan Mountaineering Institute. Explore the mountaineering museum, learn about mountaineering history, and witness Himalayan animals at the zoo.
Take a leisurely stroll along the Mall Road, a vibrant street lined with shops, cafes, and eateries. Enjoy shopping for local handicrafts and souvenirs, and try delicious local cuisine.
Kunga Tibetan Restaurant is a beloved eatery that offers an authentic taste of Tibet. The restaurant provides a delightful setting to try traditional Tibetan cuisine, including momos, thukpa, and flavorful curries.
Start the day off with a visit to Tiger Hill, famous for its sunrise views over the Kanchenjunga and other Himalayan peaks.
Note: Only go on a clear day as you won't be able to see much otherwise.
Enjoy a scenic ride on the toy train from Darjeeling to Ghoom, passing through tea gardens, forests, and charming villages.
Note: I only recommend doing the Toy Train ride when the skies are clear otherwise you won't be able to see much. The best times to visit are from March to May and from September to November.
Lunar Vegetarian Restaurant is a popular dining establishment that caters to vegetarians and vegans. With a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, the restaurant offers a diverse menu of vegetarian and vegan dishes inspired by Indian and continental cuisines.
Explore the bustling local markets of Darjeeling, such as Chowk Bazaar and Mall Road. Discover a variety of traditional handicrafts, tea leaves, Tibetan artifacts, woolens, and other souvenirs.
The Mall Road in Darjeeling features many tea shops that offer tasting sessions, including Nathmull's Tea Shop. Located on Chowrasta Mall Road, Nathmull's Tea Shop is a renowned establishment that offers a wide selection of Darjeeling teas. You can participate in guided tea tasting sessions here and learn about the nuances of different tea varieties and their brewing techniques.
