Darjeeling Travel Guide: Discover the Best Kept Secrets of Queen of The Hills

Darjeeling

Darjeeling – often called the “Queen of The Hills”, is not just a hill station; It is a unique amalgamation of nature, culture, and tradition. Darjeeling is truly a dream destination for those who love the immense beauty of nature, traditional tea plantations, and scenic surroundings. Its hilly roads, cloud-capped peaks, and enchanting tea gardens create an incomparable experience for tourists.

In this blog post, we will tell about some of the hidden gems and lesser-known places of Darjeeling, that the common tourist might not know about. These places will give you a new side of Darjeeling, from where you can experience the true beauty of these wonderful places.

How to Reach Darjeeling

There are several easy and beautiful travel options to reach Darjeeling. Whichever way you set out, this mountain road will make the journey enjoyable.

 • By Train: A popular and traditional way to reach Darjeeling is by rail. New Jalpaiguri (NJP) station is the nearest major railway station to Darjeeling. From here you can take the historic Darjeeling Himalayan Railway or “Toy Train” directly to Darjeeling, which is also a UNESCO Heritage Site. While the ride on the toy train is scenic on one side, the breathtaking view of the hilly roads will fill your mind.

 • By Flight: The nearest airport to Darjeeling is Bagdogra Airport. There are direct flights from almost all major cities in India. Bagdogra can take a car or shared taxi from the airport to Darjeeling

 • By Car or Bus: It is quite easy to reach Darjeeling by car or bus from Siliguri or NJP. For those who enjoy road trips, this mountain road is very enjoyable.

Whichever way you go, you can enjoy the natural beauty of every moment of your journey to Darjeeling.

When to Visit

Darjeeling is suitable for travel at any time of the year, but each season has a different beauty. Here is some information about the best time to visit:

 • Summer (March to June): Summer is the most popular time to visit Darjeeling. During this time the weather is quite pleasant and comfortable, the temperature is usually between 15-25 degrees Celsius. The scenery of Darjeeling is very attractive under the mild climate of the hills and the clear sky. It is a perfect time for sightseeing and trekking.

 • Monsoon (July to September): Darjeeling is drenched in cloud-covered hills and green tea plantations during monsoons. Monsoon is a special time for those who want to enjoy the beauty of nature in peace as most tourists are less during this time. However, mountain roads can be a bit slippery during this time, so caution should be taken while traveling.

 • Winter (October to February): Darjeeling is quite cold during winter and the temperature can drop to 0-10 degrees Celsius. But this is the best time to see Kanchenjunga peak in clear sky. Even though there is no chance of snowfall during this time, there is a distinct chill in the air which makes the winter atmosphere of Darjeeling all the more enchanting.

Thus you can enjoy the beauty of the different seasons of Darjeeling by choosing a suitable time according to your choice.

Top Hidden Gems in Darjeeling

Darjeeling has many popular tourist spots, but there are also some lesser-known places, which really bring out the true beauty of Darjeeling. These hidden gems will bring new experiences to travelers:

 • Tinchule Village: This small village is located outside the city of Darjeeling and its cool and calm atmosphere takes the mind to another dimension. From here you can see the magnificent view of mountains and river Teesta, which is a special attraction for nature lovers.

 • Lamahatta Eco Park: Surrounded by nature, this eco-park is an ideal place for tourists who want to spend some quiet time. Dense green forests, small trails, and peaceful surroundings make this park a unique experience.

 • Batasiya Loop: One of the heritage sites of Darjeeling is the Batasiya Loop, which is part of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. From here one can enjoy the mesmerizing view of Kanchenjunga, and the sight of the toy train turns is especially worth seeing.

 • Chatakpur Village: Located at the foot of the hills, this village is known as an eco-friendly tourist destination. From this village, you can get a wonderful view of the snow-clad Kanchenjunga. It is an ideal place to see the combination of nature and sustainable tourism.

 • Lesser-Known Tea Gardens: Darjeeling's various tea gardens are world-renowned, but there are some lesser-known gardens where you can experience the entire process of tea production in a relatively private setting and engage in conversation with the locals.

By visiting these places you will discover a different side of Darjeeling, which brings out the true beauty beyond its conventional tourist destinations.

Must-Try Experiences in Darjeeling

Darjeeling is not just a tourist destination, there are experiences here that make the trip memorable. These special experiences help to gain deep knowledge of the culture and nature of Darjeeling:

 • Sunrise at Tiger Hill: Watching the sunrise from Tiger Hill is a unique experience. As the sun rises, the peaks of Kanchenjunga and Everest become illuminated in a golden glow, which is truly mesmerizing to watch.

 • Tasting local food: Darjeeling's local food, especially momo, thukpa, and other Nepali and Tibetan dishes is worth a try. The authentic taste of these dishes can be found in various restaurants and roadside eateries in the city.

 • Visit Darjeeling Peace Pagoda: Located in a peaceful environment, this pagoda offers a unique experience to visitors. From here one can also enjoy the beautiful view of the surrounding hills and tea gardens.

 • Himalayan Mountaineering Institute (HMI) Tour: For those who love adventure, HMI is an exciting destination. Here you can see the history and training of mountaineering, which is one of the special features of Darjeeling.

 • Shopping at local markets: Tibetan handicrafts, Darjeeling tea, and other traditional products can be purchased at local markets such as chaurastas and malls. You can get a taste of the local culture and lifestyle by shopping here.

These experiences will connect you more deeply with the true beauty and culture of Darjeeling and make the trip memorable.

Adventure Activities and Nature Spots

Darjeeling is famous not only for its natural beauty but also for thrilling adventure sports. Here are some unique places and activities for nature lovers and adventure travelers:

 • Sandakphu Trek: Sandakphu is the best trekking destination in Darjeeling. It is the highest peak in Darjeeling and many famous peaks including Kanchenjunga, and Everest can be seen from here. It is one of the attractions of Darjeeling for experienced trekkers.

 • Rock Garden and Gangamaya Park: Located near the city of Darjeeling, these parks are famous for their scenic views. Surrounded by mountain springs, stone steps, and lush greenery, these places are ideal for nature lovers.

 • Singalila National Park: One of the major wildlife sanctuaries of Darjeeling is Singalila National Park. Different species of birds, red pandas, and different types of plants can be seen here. It is an excellent place for trekking and wildlife watching.

 • River Rafting (on Teesta and Rangit Rivers): River rafting on Teesta and Rangit rivers is one of the most exciting experiences in Darjeeling for adventurous tourists. Get a different taste of adventure while rafting in the swift currents of the river.

• Paragliding: Paragliding is a great experience to have a bird's eye view of Darjeeling's beautiful scenery. The view of mountains and tea plantations while floating in the sky makes the experience even more mesmerizing.

 • Charles Point and Triveni View Point: These must-visit places to enjoy the natural beauty. From here you can see the estuary of the mountain river and the surrounding green scenery.

All these adventure and nature spots are ideal for enjoying the beauty and thrill of Darjeeling.

Cultural Immersion: Local Traditions and Festivals

The culture and traditions of Darjeeling are deeply influenced by the lifestyle of the local people here. This culture, made up of various castes and communities, is made brighter through local festivals and traditions. Some of the important local festivals and traditions are highlighted:

 • Dasai Festival: The main festival of the Nepalese people living in Darjeeling is Dasai, which is similar to Durga Puja. It is usually held in September or October and spans several days of traditional Nepalese dance, song, and feasting. During this time houses in Darjeeling are decorated and religious ceremonies are celebrated.

 • Tihar or Diwali Festival: This festival is also known as the “Festival of Lights”, which is celebrated for five days. Each day is worshiped in honor of specific deities and animals, and on the last day the Bhai Duj festival is celebrated. Darjeeling is illuminated during Tihar, which is a special experience for visitors.

 • Losar Festival: One of the biggest festivals of the Tibetan community living in Darjeeling is Losar or Tibetan New Year. The festival features Tibetan dances, songs, and religious ceremonies. Locals rejoice in traditional costumes. Tibetan Buddhist monasteries hold special prayers and cultural events during the Lhosa festival.

 • Dance and Song of Tea Workers: Dance-song is an important cultural aspect among the local workers of tea plantations in Darjeeling. Their dance to the tune of local Nepali, Lepcha, and Tibetan songs creates a distinct identity, which becomes attractive to travelers.

 • Darjeeling Carnival: The Darjeeling Carnival is held every year in the month of November, which is celebrated with music, dance, and various cultural events. Various local and international artists participate in it, and the diversity of Darjeeling's lifestyle is beautifully reflected through this carnival.

Through all these festivals and traditions one can get to know the rich cultural diversity and heritage of Darjeeling, bringing you closer to the life of this hill town.

Where to Stay

Darjeeling has various accommodation options to suit different budgets and comforts. The hospitality of the locals, the hilly environment, and the beautiful scenery make the hotels and resorts of Darjeeling more attractive. Here are some popular accommodation types:

 • Luxury Resorts: For those who want a luxurious experience, some of the luxury resorts in Darjeeling such as Mayfair Hill Resort, Elgin Hotel, and Windamar Hotel are particularly popular. It has a wonderful view of the hills and tea gardens with all the modern amenities.

 • Mid-Range Hotels: Darjeeling also has many good hotels for mid-range budgets, such as Hotel Sonar Bangla, Hotel Moonlight, and Darjeeling Tourist Lodge. These hotels offer quality services in a clean and comfortable environment.

 • Budget Hotels and Homestays: Local homestays and budget hotels are ideal for those looking for a low-cost accommodation option. Some popular homestays are Lepcha Jagu Homestay, Himalayan Homestay, and Laligurus Homestay. By staying in a homestay you can get to know the local way of life more closely.

 • Tea Garden Bungalows: For those who want to experience the tea gardens of Darjeeling, the bungalows located amidst the tea gardens are a unique experience. The bungalows at Glenburn Tea Estate and Makaibari Tea Estate allow guests to stay amidst the tea plantations, a memorable experience.

 • Backpacker Hostels: There are also many backpacker hostels in Darjeeling for solo travelers. Mountaineers Hostels and places popular among travelers offer affordable and comfortable accommodation.

All these accommodation options depend on the traveler's preferences, budget, and travel plans. Choose the most suitable place for you from various hotels and homestay options in Darjeeling and enjoy a beautiful trip.

Tips for Travelers

There are some important things to keep in mind while traveling to Darjeeling to make your travel experience more beautiful and memorable. Here are some useful travel tips:

  • Be prepared for the weather: The weather in Darjeeling can change quickly. Winters are cold and summers can be windy. So keep warm clothes, a raincoat, and an umbrella with you.

 • Be careful while driving: Mountain roads can be curvy and narrow, so drive slowly and carefully when traveling by car or bike.

 • Try the local food: Darjeeling's local delicacies such as momos, thukpa, and other Nepalese and Tibetan dishes are a must-try. But be sure of cleanliness and eat street food.

 • Be aware of altitude sickness: Many people can get altitude sickness when traveling at high altitudes. Eat light food, drink water, and get enough rest. Consult a local doctor if you suffer from altitude-related problems.

 • Respect local norms and culture: Different communities in Darjeeling have their own culture and customs. Respect the traditions and culture of the locals when dealing with them.

 • Carry Cash: Many locations may not accept debit, credit cards, or online payment. So carry enough cash with you, especially while traveling in hilly areas.

 • Allow enough time: Darjeeling has many interesting places, so plan your trip with enough time during your trip to enjoy all the places.

 • Be prepared to go in the sun: Since it is cold in the mountains, it often seems that the sun will not have much effect. However, UV rays can be high due to the altitude, so carry sunscreen and sunglasses.

Following these tips will make your Darjeeling travel experience more pleasant and hassle-free.

Conclusion

Darjeeling is famous not only for its hills and tea plantations but also for its culture, heritage, and natural beauty. This “Queen of The Hills” will soothe your mind and give you a taste of a unique experience. Immersing in local culture and traditions, spending time in tea gardens and exciting adventures will keep you enthralled in Darjeeling.

Although you visit Darjeeling once, the memory of this hill town will remain indelible in your mind. So plan your trip with this Darjeeling travel guide and immerse yourself completely in the beautiful environment and experience of Darjeeling. Hope this guide will make your trip easier and more enjoyable.