Spread in ribbons over a steep mountain ridge, surrounded by emerald-green tea plantations, and towered over by the majestic Khangchendzonga (8598 m), Darjeeling is among the best hill stations in India. But the list of the most amazing things to do in Darjeeling goes beyond these attractions. The beautiful tea gardens on the slopes of rolling hills, the orchids, pines & rhododendrons, the cute Himalayan toy train negotiating its way through the mountains combined with great sightseeing tours, food, shopping and other exciting activities, there’s so much that this stunning town has to offer.
30 Things To Do In Darjeeling in 2024
Confused about what to do in Darjeeling? Here is the list of activities you can do in Darjeeling that will make you plan your holiday right away. Keep scrolling down and read along!
- Teesta – Go River Rafting
- Sandakphu – Trek The Peak
- The Toy Train – Take A Joy Ride
- Himalayan Mountaineering Institute – Learn Mountaineering
- Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park – Explore Wildlife
- Darjeeling Ropeway – A Bird’s-eye View
- Barbotey Garden – A Rocky Garden
- Bengal Natural History Museum – Explore The Wildlife Of Himalayas
- Tinchuley – A Peaceful Getaway
- Tiger Hill – Watch The Sunrise
- Dooars – Explore The Tea Gardens
- Kalimpong – Visit The Monastery
- Peace Pagoda – Calm Your Mind
- Batasia Loop – Explore The War Memorial
- Observatory Hill – Explore The Religious Spots
- Ghum Monastery – A Serene Religious Place
- Nightingale Park – Take A Walk
- Mahakal Temple – Lord Shiva’s Abode
- Thukpa And Momos – Relish Some Local Food
- Keventers Restaurant – Enjoy Breakfast
- Churpi – Grab A Candy
- Chowrasta – Stroll On The Mall Road
- Bhutia Market – Buy Some Woolens
- Tibetan Refugee Self-Help Center – Support A Good Cause
- Teesta Market – Buy Buddhist Paintings
- Tattoos – Get Inked
- Revolver Hotel – B&B With Music
- Singalila Jungle Lodge – Lodge Amidst A Forest
- Darjeeling Blossoms Eco-Tourism – Live Close To Nature
- Khambuhang Nature Holiday Camp – Enjoy Cottage Camping
1. Teesta – Go River Rafting
Davedharmendra for Wikimedia Commons
One of the best places for river rafting in India, head to the Teesta River and find out why it is one of the best things to do in Darjeeling in June! The activity is loaded with encounters with a series of rapids with varying intensities, ranging from Grade 1 to 4, wherein the latter is only allowed to seasoned, trained rafters because of the level of danger involved in it.
It’s surely an exciting time but always pay attention to the operator’s instructions, and this could be one of the best adventures of your life. White water rafting on Teesta River in Darjeeling starts at the 7th Mile point and ends at Labarbote, which means that the rafting journey takes about 30-35 minutes.
Location: 7th Mile, Kalimpong, Darjeeling, West Bengal, 734301
Best Time To Visit: December – June. Monsoon season should be ideally avoided for rafting.
Timings: 9 am to 2 pm
Also Read: Tourist Places In Darjeeling
2. Sandakphu – Trek The Peak
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If you are looking forward to indulging in more adventure activities in Darjeeling, a trekking trip to Sandakphu is an essential activity you should add to your travel bucket list. Sandakphu is the highest point in West Bengal and trekking to the top where you can see some of the world’s tallest peaks and gaze into the vistas not just in Darjeeling but as far as Sikkim, Bangladesh, and Nepal. It is truly one of the most awe-inspiring and goosebumps-raising things to do in Darjeeling.
Located at an astounding height of 3,636m, from this mountain peak, you can see the peaks of the enthralling Mt Everest and the Kanchenjunga Peak. Breathtaking sunsets and sunrises await you if you time your trek and visit just right.
Location: Damey Gaon, Mane Bhanjang, Majua, West Bengal 734221
Best Time To Visit: April – May and October – early December
Timings: On guided treks, pickup and drop off times are generally 8 am and 6 pm.
3. The Toy Train – Take A Joy Ride
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Riding the Himalayan Toy Train ride is one of the most famous things to do in Darjeeling. You can start your ride from Ghoom and get down at Kurseong, to eat at the many food joints, and do some Darjeeling sightseeing wherein you get a breathtaking panoramic view of the surrounding hills.
The toy train started operating in 1881 and covers a track of about 90 km. Declared a UNESCO Heritage Site, some of the locomotives of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway are still run on the traditional steam engine. This mesmerizing little journey will transport you into a world of romance. It is one of the most fun activities in Darjeeling to enjoy with your kids and cannot be missed.
Location: Hill Cart Road, Limbugaon, Darjeeling, West Bengal
Best Time To Visit: October to December is the peak time, when the mists have cleared up, and the weather becomes pleasant.
Timings: 7.40 am to last train leaving at 4.30 pm
Related Post: Darjeeling In Winter
4. Himalayan Mountaineering Institute – Learn Rock Climbing
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The Himalayan Mountaineering Institute located at Jawahar Parvat in Darjeeling conducts a number of mountaineering and adventure courses at various levels ranging from beginners to experts. The course duration ranges from a month to a few days.
HMI has rock climbing and other basic activities for one-time tourists who do not want to take full-fledged courses and visit Darjeeling only for a few days. But whatever the duration, the entire experience is unmatched and completely exhilarating. The basic course costs about INR 4000/- for a month while Rock Climbing and smaller activities are provided through walk-in and cost a mere 200 bucks per person.
Location: Jawahar Parvat, Darjeeling, West Bengal 734101
Best Time To Visit: During the months of April to June and September to December, the weather is nice and breezy and perfect for such a strenuous activity.
Timings: 9 am to 5 pm
5. Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park – Explore Wildlife
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Located in the heart of Darjeeling and dedicated to the memory of Padmaja Naidu, exploring the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park is one of the best activities to do in Darjeeling. Established in the year 1958, it is also known as the Darjeeling Zoo and is spread over an area of 67 acres of land.
Get ready to meet the endangered Himalayan wolf, the Red Panda, snow leopards, the Himalayan Tahr, the Himalayan Salamander, the blue sheep and many more adorable members of the animal kingdom. The Himalayan Mountaineering Institute is actually situated inside the premises of the zoo, so go for a rock climbing session at the same time.
Location: Darjeeling – Jorethang Road, Near Birch Hill Resort, Jawahar Parbat, Darjeeling, West Bengal 734101
Best Time To Visit: March – June and September – January
Timings: 8:30 am – 4 pm
Related Post: Places To Stay In Darjeeling
6. Darjeeling Ropeway – A Bird’s-eye View
Image Credit: JyotiPN for Wikimedia Commons
It is no hyperbole to say that Darjeeling is one of the most beautiful cities on earth. You can experience this beauty from all perspectives, including an aerial POV. When you look at it from above, you get the bigger picture of the Queen of the Hills. Vast sweeping vistas of tea gardens, hilly forests, snowy peaks of mountains & valleys, Mt. Everest in the distance, and monasteries shining like beacons of light & faith as if fireflies twinkling at night.
A cable car ride on the Darjeeling Ropeway is one of the best things to do in Darjeeling with family and friends. One car can take up to 6 people, so share the joy of watching the Rangeet River meander through the landscape of the city with loved ones. This is one of the best honeymoon places in Gangtok and Darjeeling.
Location: Singamari Bazaar, Darjeeling, West Bengal
Best Time To Visit: March – June and September – January
Timings: 8:30 am – 4 pm
7. Barbotey Garden – A Rocky Garden
Image Credit: Csheik for Wikimedia Commons
Also known as the rock garden, this is one of the most favourably reviewed destinations in Darjeeling. The park is a feat of imaginative and visionary work as far as the planning of open public spaces goes. Littered with rock beds, waterfalls, and fountains, visiting this Eden-esque garden is one of the top things to do for nature lovers visiting Darjeeling. You’d think you were transported to a Sanskrit epic with a prominent sringara rasa mood when you step into this garden with bumblebees and bright flowers following you everywhere. There are some steep climbs in the garden, so if you have heart problems or joint aches, it is better not to let the garden lure you into exploring too much. The garden comes alive in the monsoon months. Visiting Darjeeling in August and onward will have great pleasures waiting for you.
Location: Barbotey Busty, Rock Garden Rd, Darjeeling, Barbatia Khasmahal, West Bengal 734102
Best Time To Visit: March to September
Timings: 9 am – 5 pm
Related Post: Hill Stations Near Darjeeling
8. Bengal Natural History Museum – Explore The Wildlife Of Himalayas
Image Credit: Michael Noel for Pexels
Located inside the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, this anthropological zoo showcases the preserved remains of the diverse range of flora and fauna that have inhabited the city and the surrounding areas of Darjeeling. The Natural History Museum was established in 1923 to help students & scholars research the avian, mammal, and reptile kingdoms. The museum currently houses 371 species of preserved bird remains (110 species of bird eggs), 250 species of mammals, 46 species of reptiles and fish, and many species of butterflies, moths, dragonflies and beetles. Visiting this section is one of the top things to do in Darjeeling if seeing the carcasses of rare animals excites you as well.
Location: Padmaja Naidu, Himalayan Zoological Park, Jawahar Parbat, Darjeeling, West Bengal 734104
Best Time To Visit: March – June and September – January
Timings: 8 am – 4:30 pm (Thursdays closed)
9. Tinchuley – A Peaceful Getaway
Image Credit: Kamchatka for Depositphotos
Small-town charm meets hill station vibes. Meet Tinchuley, your dream destination! Located on the West Bengal and Sikkim border, this town is famous for its tea plantations and fruit orchards. This is a very picturesque and photogenic location, so carry a camera around, and you’ll take some Academy Awards-worthy shots. Have a fruit or two at the orchards, and you’ll forget all about the cold storage fruits you get in the cities once you taste the juicy oranges & apples here. The place gets its name Tinchuley – Tin meaning three, and Chula meaning Oven from the trio of hills that stand near the town. A journey to Tinchuley is a meditative experience you must have when visiting Darjeeling.
Location: In the vicinity of the West-Bengal Sikkim border
Best Time To Visit: March – June and September – January
Timings: Daylight hours
Related Post: Darjeeling Travel Tips
Places To Visit In Darjeeling
Darjeeling, the ‘tea garden of India’ is a very beautiful place to visit. The hills, the steam engine train, and the lush green tea plantations will make you want to stay here forever. Here are some of the best places and attractions in Darjeeling:
10. Tiger Hill – Watch The Sunrise
Your trip to Darjeeling won’t be fruitful until you have witnessed the sunrise at Tiger Hill. The way the sunlight falls on those snowcapped peaks of Kanchenjunga and Everest, and illuminates it in gorgeous colours, that view is simply breathtaking. On a clear day, you are greeted with views of the mountains in Tibet, and the various rivers of the region including Teesta, Mechi, and Mahananda meandering their way towards the Bay of Bengal.
Hiking to this spectacular viewpoint is one of the best things to do in Darjeeling and Gangtok. You will have the time of your life and will not be disappointed by the avenues of adventure and entertainment this place opens up for you.
Location: Tiger Hill, Darjeeling, West Bengal, 734123
Best Time To Visit: October – December and March – April
Timings: Open all hours but the recommended time to visit is 6 am to 6 pm
11. Dooars – Explore The Tea Gardens
Image Credit: Rajibnandi for Wikipedia
Taking a tour of a tea plantation is one of the top things to do in Darjeeling in May. The tea gardens of Darjeeling are world-famous, and you must take a trip down to the Dooars-Terai Gardens to witness the sprawling beauty yourself. Spread over an area of about 100,000 hectares, and accounting for the production of a quarter of India’s total tea production, the Dooars-Terai plantations were first started by the British settlers who came to Darjeeling. Now the gardens have grown into big industries and give employment to 3 lakh workers.
Give yourself a treat and sip on the most delectable and fresh Darjeeling tea here. The verdant pruned bushes, especially in this tea district, are a magical sight which you will never forget in life.
Location: Jalpaiguri District, West Bengal
Best Time: October to March is the best time to visit the tea gardens.
Timings: Daylight hours
Related Post: Darjeeling In Monsoon
12. Kalimpong – Visit The Monastery
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Zang Dhok Palri Phodang is a beautiful and popular monastery at Kalimpong, Darjeeling. Also known as the Lava Monastery, this monastery holds enormous cultural significance in Buddhism as it is home to the many rare scriptures which were brought into India after the fateful invasion of Tibet in 1959.
A trip to this peaceful sanctuary should definitely be on your list of places to see in Darjeeling. If you are a traveller seeking a quaint spot for self-reflection & meditation, you’re in luck as visiting the Kalimpong Monastery is one of the best offbeat places in Darjeeling. As the monastery is located atop a hill, the views from above are just golden!
Location: Durpin Dara Hill, Kalimpong, West Bengal 734301
Best Time To Visit: Spring: March to April | Autumn: October to November
Timings: 9 am – 5 pm
13. Peace Pagoda – Calm Your Mind
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Sitting atop Charlimont Hill, Darjeeling’s Peace Pagoda is one of the 30 such pagodas in the world that were established by the Japanese Buddhist monk Nichidatsu Fujii as a way of promoting World Peace and harmony. He created this Stupa, a mound-like hemispherical building, so people from different races, communities, and religions could come together and unite in search of peace.
Fujii was inspired by his meeting with Mahatma Gandhi and spent the rest of his life promoting the edicts of peace & non-violence. Visit this one of the most popular Darjeeling tourist attractions for an outright serene and tranquil experience.
Location: West Point, Darjeeling, West Bengal 734102
Best Time To Visit: Visit on a sunny day in late afternoon or early morning in spring & autumn
Timings: 4 am – 7 pm
Related Post: Wildlife In Darjeeling
14. Batasia Loop – Explore The War Memorial
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This is one of the most interesting Darjeeling tourist attractions. Venture out to Batasia Loop, the historically significant & aesthetically pleasing junction which is one of the best Darjeeling sightseeing spots!
If you’re travelling via the Toy Train, or walking back from Tiger Hill, look out for this famous spiral railway loop first commissioned in 1919 that goes around the open-air Gorkha War Memorial, established in honour of the brave soldiers from the region who laid down their lives in WWI and WWII and among the important Darjeeling tourist attractions.
Location: Batasiya View Point, West Point, Ghoom, Darjeeling, West Bengal 734102
Best Time To Visit: Although Batasia Loop is an all-year-round destination, the best time to visit is on spring mornings.
Timings: 5 am – 4.30 pm
15. Observatory Hill – Explore The Religious Spots
Image Credit: Matt Stabile for Wikimedia Commons
This is a hill located near the Chowrasta in Darjeeling. The name is quite apt as it is a great vantage point for scenic views of the city and the snow-clad peaks in some distance, including Mt Kanchenjunga. Bhutia Monastery was originally built here, and now the hill houses the Mahakal Temple. The place has been briefly featured in Satyajit Ray’s film Kanchenjunga as well. As the place is located in close proximity to a lot of other tourist spots, make an itinerary for the day and plan to hit all of them. It is a great place to bring children for pony rides along the Chowrasta road. Some of the best cafes in Darjeeling are also located here.
Location: Naya Basti, Darjeeling, West Bengal 734101
Best Time To Visit: March to September
Timings: 7 am – 7 pm
Related Post: Darjeeling Nightlife
16. Ghum Monastery – A Serene Religious Place
Image Credits: Bernard Gagnon for Wikimedia Commons
Also called the Yiga Choeling Monastery, this is the oldest monastery of the Buddhist faith in Darjeeling. The inner sanctum of the monastery features a 15-foot tall statue of the Maitreyi Buddha which was built from clay brought originally from Tibet. You can find manuscripts and scriptures in text form & engraved on the walls and pillars of the monastery, and prayer flags hanging from every pillar to post in Tibetan custom, which beautify the place beyond belief. The mountains in all their glory greet you once you step out of the monastery. It is situated in one of the most scenic locations in the city and that’s why visiting Ghum Monastery is one of the best things to do in Darjeeling.
Location: Ghoom Monastery Rd, Darjeeling, Ghoom, West Bengal 734102
Best Time To Visit: March to September
Timings: 5 am – 4.30 pm
17. Nightingale Park – Take A Walk
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Take a meditative walk in the Nightingale Park in Darjeeling & breathe in the revitalizing mountain air. Opened to the public in 2011, this was earlier a private park on the property of Sir Thomas Tartan. A courtyard in his bungalow then, it was called the Shrubbery during the British reign. Today this charming park is accessible to common masses where one can sit for a while amidst nature. The park has a statue of Lord Shiva and a musical fountain in the centre.
Nightingale Park is located on a hilltop, so you need to climb a little to the top, but it is a relatively easy hike. The greenery paired with a cool breeze is just perfect for a morning out & about on your Darjeeling tour. Read a book, have a meet-cute on a first date, plan a picnic with your loved ones, or just go people-watching – the options are endless.
Location: Richmond Hill, Darjeeling, West Bengal 734101
Best Time To Visit: Spring: March to April | Autumn: October to November
Timings: 7 am – 8 pm
Related Post: Darjeeling In October
18. Mahakal Temple – Lord Shiva’s Abode
Image Credit: Amitabha Gupta for Wikimedia Commons
Located on the top of Observatory Hill is also the Mahakal Temple. As the name suggests, the temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, and just as Shiva resides on the top of Kailash Parbat, this temple on a hill also provides picturesque visions of what seems like the entire world. Earlier, a Buddhist monastery was also situated in this location, and even now the temple entrance is decorated with Buddhist prayer flags.
One needs to be a little cautious around here as just like many other temples in Darjeeling you can find monkeys roaming around. There are smaller shrines in the temple dedicated to other Hindu gods including Lord Hanuman, Ganesha, and Durga. The shivlinga in the inner sanctum is cohabited by idols of Budhha, which displays the multiculturalism & syncretism of the place.
Location: Chauk Bazaar, Darjeeling, West Bengal 734101
Best Time To Visit: October – December and March – April
Timings: 8 am – 5:30 pm
What To Eat In Darjeeling
Check out the list of delicious food delicacies and where to eat them while you are on vacation in Darjeeling. Take a look!
19. Thukpa And Momos – Relish Some Local Food
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The Queen of the Hills – Darjeeling has scrumptious answers to your food cravings while you’re there. You can enjoy a brilliant variety of yummy Tibetan imports like Chicken Thukpa, a hearty bowl of noodle soup cooked with flavorful meats, veggies, and spices, or a steaming plate of Momos that are available everywhere in the city from high-end restaurants to street joints in almost every nook and corner.
Gorging on Thukpa and momos is one of the best things to do in Darjeeling at night. The spices warm up your belly on cold evenings and this Darjeeling special food is as comforting as it is healthy.
Location: Kunga Restaurant, Hot Stimulating Cafe, Dekevas, Chopstix
Best Time To Visit: All year round
Timings: Go for evening or mid-night snacks
Related Post: Darjeeling Vs Gangtok
20. Keventers Restaurant – Enjoy Breakfast
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Having breakfast at Keventers should definitely be on your list of Darjeeling highlights. Don’t forget to try the delicious Cheese Toast when you’re dining here. You can chow down on Indo-Western cuisine here or simply get a cup of coffee and drink it while admiring the views outside.
Darjeeling is famous for its colonial charm. Have some English Breakfast with the famous Darjeeling Tea. It doesn’t get any better than that! Founded in 1911, and preserving the taste of Colonial India, this is one of the must-visit restaurants in Darjeeling. It is not hard to see why!
Location: Shop No. 1, Club Side, Nehru Rd, Darjeeling, West Bengal, 734101
Best Time To Visit: The best time for vacationing in Darjeeling is during the spring & autumn months.
Timings: 8 am – 6.30 pm
21. Churpi – Grab A Candy
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Churpi is a kind of chewing bar that is not exactly sweet in taste, but has a delicious flavour nevertheless. Made out of cottage cheese, Churpi is traditionally made from Yak milk and is consumed in Nepal, Bhutan, and the higher slopes in India. What makes this unique is the fact that it keeps the body warm during winter and gives energy.
You can eat it directly or use it as a condiment on any of your hot meals. There are two varieties – harder ones chewed directly with betel leaves and softer varieties eaten like a side dish with rice. It is available in almost all shops selling groceries and street foods in Darjeeling and comes at a nominal price. You can stock a horde to treat your winter blues when you’re back home.
Location: Any grocery shops in Darjeeling
Best Time To Visit: Churpi is best for consumption during winter, but can be had anytime.
Timings: No specific time
Related Post: Darjeeling In December
Where To Shop In Darjeeling
Who doesn’t like shopping? Here are some of the places to shop in Darjeeling on your trip. Keep scrolling down and read along!
22. Chowrasta – Stroll On The Mall Road
Get to Chowrasta (meaning ‘intersection’), or The Mall, as it is popularly known among tourists, and enjoy the beautiful evening, with a cool breeze brushing your hair while you shop. The town square used to be a place for the residents to gather for public assemblies and town meetings ever since colonial times.
The Mall Road stretching through Chowrasta is not just a shopping hub but is also perfect for a relaxing stroll and is one of the best things to do in Darjeeling in 2 days. Perched at an altitude of more than 2000 meters, on a clear day, one can easily see the peak of Kanchenjunga from here. Visit this iconic place on your Sikkim Darjeeling tour this year.
Location: Darjeeling, West Bengal, India
Best Time To Visit: April – May and October – early December
Timings: Daylight hours are best for visiting Chowrasta
23. Bhutia Market – Buy Some Woolens
Looking to purchase local specialities and wondering where to go for shopping in Darjeeling? Bhutia Market is where. This market in Darjeeling is a row of temporary stalls set up by the local Bhutia tribe and is located on a narrow lane that leads down from Chowrasta (The Mall), next to Nathmulls.
It’s a shopping paradise for tourists and it’s where you’ll get all winter wear (like sweaters, gloves, woollen caps, mufflers, etc), jackets and even jeans at very reasonable prices. One of the most essential things to do in Darjeeling is to go to Nathmulls and buy yourself an enormous stock of refreshing Darjeeling Tea from the array of shops. Buy leather bags, wooden home decor, hangings, and other souvenirs.
Location: Mall Road, Chauk Bazaar, Darjeeling, West Bengal 734101
Best Time To Visit: Evenings in the spring and autumn seasons is when you should step out to shop at Chowrasta and Bhutia Market.
Timings: 9 am – 8 pm
Related Post: Paragliding In Darjeeling
24. Tibetan Refugee Self Help Center – Support A Good Cause
Image Credit: Shahnoor Habib Munmun for Wikimedia Commons
The Tibetan Refugee Self-Help Centre is one of the most benevolent & important cultural centres in Darjeeling. It empowers refugees not just by helping them rehabilitate but also by teaching them skills that allow them to earn a stable livelihood. The centre produces quality handicrafts like carpets, woodcarvings, wool and woollen items. The refugees thus also get access to a ready market to sell their wares.
Established in 1959, this centre does a charitable deed by providing emergency relief to refugees who come to India via a hazardous trek through the Himalayas. Their offerings are as aesthetically pleasing as they are authentic. One must take wall hangings, decor items or other souvenirs back home with them.
Location: Havelock Villa, 119/B, Gandhi Rd, Darjeeling, West Bengal 734101
Best Time To Visit: March to September
Timings: 9 am – 5 pm
25. Teesta Market – Buy Buddhist Paintings
Image Credit: Bernard Gagnon for Wikipedia
Located on the banks of the Teesta River in the Kalimpong district is the Teesta Bazaar, which sells a host of tasteful & delightful local delicacies. We’re not just talking about delicious street-style Tibetan food, this market in Darjeeling is popular all over Darjeeling for selling gorgeous Thangkas, which are Buddhist paintings on cotton, silk appliqué, usually depicting a Buddhist deity, scene, or mandala. You can find other handmade home decor, handicraft rugs, carpets, wall hangings, little statuettes, clay sculptures, and more. The natural surroundings of the market are picturesque as well, encircled as it is by the Teesta River and the mountains in all 4 corners. Visiting this bazaar is one of the top Darjeeling tourist attractions as you can get stuff for a variety of prices.
Location: Teesta River Bank, Kalimpong, Darjeeling
Best Time To Visit: Early morning or evening time in March to September
Timings: 9 am – 7 pm
Related Post: Resorts In Darjeeling
26. Tattoos – Get Inked
Image Credit: Jitenmehra for Wikimedia Commons
Darjeeling is a lot like Goa in terms of providing opportunities for body art. Permanent and temporary tattoo parlours offer to convert a part of your body into a masterpiece. Tattoo parlours are found in almost every nook and corner of the town, adding a hippie influence to this scenic and serene location.
And the best part, they go incredibly easy on your budget. Getting inked is one of the popular things to do in Darjeeling for travellers who want to carry small memorabilia of Darjeeling back home with them. It’s a great way to remember a place and all the fun memories you made with your loved ones.
Location: Pradhan Studio, Tattoo 29, Samink Tattoo Studio, Gorkha Ink
Best Time To Visit: It would be best to get a tattoo during winter as your skin sweats less and is not exposed to the elements all that much under heavier clothes.
Timings: 10 am – 7 pm
Where To Stay In Darjeeling
Now, let’s look at the best place where you can stay while you are on your vacation. Don’t forget to make your reservation on time!
27. Revolver Hotel – B&B With Music
Adding a unique touch to the town is its Beatles-themed hotel providing music based on both eastern and western influences. It’s a budget Bed & Breakfast Lodge and one would find every inch of the interiors laden with the popular Bands art. It is a small cosy hotel with 5 simple rooms and one family suite projecting homely vibes.
The food you get in the kitchen is super appetizing. The service and hospitality you receive is also top-notch. The place scratches the itch for the ’70s & ’80s rock music nostalgia; you’d feel as if you had been transported to a time long past by. Revolver is one of the best hotels in Darjeeling. You have to experience it to believe it!
Location: 110 Gandhi Road, Near Union Chapel, Darjeeling, West Bengal 734101
Best Time To Visit: October – December and March – April
Timings: 7:30 am to 6 pm
Related Post: Festivals In Darjeeling
28. Singalila Jungle Lodge – Lodge Amidst A Forest
Image Credit: StockSnap for Pixabay
It is a family-owned property owned and run by Avinash Rai – a local. One of the best hotels near Darjeeling, the lodge is spread across some 9 acres of land area full of lush forest and plantations. Once you are in the lodge premises, you may hear the sounds of the chirping of the birds in its garden and the gushing of streams.
The lodge comprises two deluxe suites and a log hut and offers a spectacular view of the Singalila National Park. You may visit the national park and create an itinerary based around this dreamy cottage. There are many places to visit nearby in Palajua. The service of the staff, the amenities available in the suite, and the food served are just amazing. You will have the time of your life here.
Location: Palmajua, P.O Bansbotay, Rimbick, West Bengal 734201
Best Time To Visit: Visit in winter to spend some cosy time in the snowy season.
Timings: 9 am – 9 pm
29. Darjeeling Blossom Eco-Tourism – Live Close To Nature
Darjeeling Blossoms’s foray into ecotourism began eight years ago. During your stay with them in their complex in Darjeeling in the summer months, you will discover the workings and mysteries of this fascinating land of Darjeeling, its people and its history which is so different from anything that one might imagine. Away from the hustle and bustle of city life, Darjeeling Blossom is a family-owned and family-centred place.
While you might not get modern amenities here, you will feel right at home here, with nutritious and deliciously cooked Nepali food, homely decor, and educational activities for children. Tourists can go visit various Darjeeling sightseeing spots nearby including Peshok Tea Garden, View Point, Teesta Bazar, Bara Mangwa Resort, Orange Garden, Takling Monastery, Takdah Orchid Centre, and many more.
Location: Bara Mungwa, West Bengal, 734312
Best Time To Visit: Spring season (March – April)
Timings: 9 am – 8 pm
Related Post: Places To Visit In Darjeeling In June
30. Khambuhang Nature Holiday Camp – Enjoy Cottage Camping
The deluxe cottage at Khambuhang Nature Holiday Camp in Kalimpong, are well-designed rooms with wooden interiors to provide an authentic feel of Himalayan Houses. The rooms offer a range of amenities including high-speed Wi-Fi, 24-hour hot and cold water, toiletries, room service, laundry service and much more.
There are 4 separate cottages and a common dining hall that serves sumptuous food, a gazebo, and a campfire area. The owners will make sure you enjoy your stay at this nature camp, which includes arranging sightseeing at attractions in Darjeeling, trekking in Darjeeling, guides & chauffeurs.
Location: Paren – Todey Rd, Paren Godak Khasmahal, West Bengal 734319
Best Time To Visit: Spring season (March – April)
Timings: 8 am – 8 pm
Tips For Travellers
- It is suggested that you make sure to check the weather forecast before you take a trip to Darjeeling.
- Get to know the local flavours of Darjeeling, and become familiar with the best spots, best restaurants, and transport. Do not hesitate to talk to the locals, share stories with them, and gain insight and information from them.
- Ensure you carry warm clothes with you during your visit. Whereas summers are a matter of sweaters, and full trousers in Darjeeling, in winter you’re required to wear heavy jackets and warm pants.
- If you are travelling in the peak season or otherwise – book your stays beforehand to avoid last-minute chaos.
- Make sure to carry all your IDs with you – including Aadhar, Driver’s License, PAN card, etc in case you end up needing them. Keep them safe.
- Avoid carrying a lot of cash. Use online modes of payment instead.
- Maintain decorum, which might involve following appropriate dress codes, no photography, taking off shoes in temples, switching off mobile phones, etc.
- In case you are travelling to remote areas- be prepared to carry power banks, headlamps, and other essentials.
- Enjoy all local food, but if you’re sensitive to certain spices avoid street foods or if you’re allergic to certain ingredients, ask about what components are going in your meal and try to avoid any regrets. Kwati, Sekuwa, Aaloo Gobhi, Pork Curry, Kheer, and Keema are some of the many famous food items in Darjeeling.
How To Reach Darjeeling
Image Credit: GOWTHAM AGM for Pexels
Darjeeling is well connected with the other states of India and different countries through roadways, airways and railways. Here is how to reach Darjeeling:
By Air: Bagdogra Airport is the nearest airport to reach Darjeeling. It is well connected to various parts of the world. From Bagdogra, one can take a taxi which takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes to cover the distance. Overall flight duration to reach Darjeeling from Delhi is about 3 hours and from Kolkata is about 1 hour.
By Train: Darjeeling railway station is connected to New Jalpaiguri by Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. New Jalpaiguri train station lies on the broad-gauge network. There are direct trains from Kolkata and Delhi to New Jalpaiguri. If you are travelling with family or a huge group then the railway is a more convenient mode of transport.
By Road: Kolkata to Darjeeling is a picturesque route by road and something that excites every adventure lover. The journey from Kolkata to Darjeeling can be completed in a period of about 11 hours and 30 minutes via Badshahi Road and NH 34. The entire route is beautiful and well-maintained.
You May Also Like To Read: Cottages In Darjeeling
With so many things in Darjeeling, India and our detailed guide, we hope that by now you will be intrigued to visit this place ASAP. Wherever you are, you must plan your trip to Darjeeling at least once in your lifetime to experience all that it has to offer. Darjeeling has all the great ingredients to provide you with a perfect break from your daily life. We are also sure that you will want to come back again.
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Cover Image Credit: ANKAN for Wikimedia Commons
Frequently Asked Questions About Things To Do In Darjeeling
What is there to see in Darjeeling?
The major attraction in Darjeeling include:
1. Tiger Hill
2. Kalimpong
3. Peace Pagoda
4. Batasia Loop
5. Sandakphu
Can we visit Darjeeling in December?
The average temperature in Darjeeling during December ranges from 2.5°C to 11.2°C. Most of the tourist attractions are open and there are lesser chances of snowfall. So, many people, especially couples, choose to visit Darjeeling in December too.
What is Darjeeling most famous for?
Darjeeling is famous mainly for its tea plantations. Another highlight is its Himalayan railway, which still has a working steam engine train making it a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
What is the right time to visit Darjeeling?
The best time to visit Darjeeling is during summer months from April to June.
How many days are enough for Darjeeling?
5 to 7 Days are enough to explore Darjeeling and the nearby Gangtok. Keep You can spend 2 days in Darjeeling, 2 days in Gangtok and 1 day in Nathula exploring and sightseeing the places.
Is there snowfall in Darjeeling?
Yes, it does occasionally snowfall in Darjeeling and only in some parts of the districts that are located higher in altitude.
What are the top trekking routes around Darjeeling?
The best trekking routes from Darjeeling are - trek to Sandakphu, trek to Singalila Ridge, trek to Kamala Falls, trek to Tonglu, and the trek to Gorkhey.
What are the best tea plantations to visit in Darjeeling?
The top tea plantations & the most frequented ones are - Glenburn Tea Estate and Retreat, Makaibari Tea Estate and Home Stay, Goomtee Tea Estate and Resort, Happy Valley Tea Estate, Ging Tea House.
What are the must-see attractions in Darjeeling?
The top tourist attractions in Darjeeling that every visitor must see are - Tiger Hill, Singalila National Park, Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, Happy Valley Tea Estate, Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, Batasia Loop, Ghoom Monastery, and Darjeeling Ropeway.
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Abhay Kumar is a graduate of English Literature. Writing is both his hobby and his passion. He writes academic research articles as well as poetry and short fiction. He loves reading science fiction, fantasy, literary fiction, and translated fiction. He also loves traveling and writing about himself in the third person.
