Search and Book the best hotels in Darjeeling on Cleartrip. Here, you can watch the stunning view of tea gardens, landscapes, the world's third-highest mountain, etc. Use our promo code CTHOTEL to get a flat 25% discount on all types of hotels in Darjeeling.
About Darjeeling
Darjeeling, called the 'Queen of Hills,' is a beautiful hill station in West Bengal. This city is quite popular among tourists and is known for its picturesque tea gardens, rich cultural heritage, pines and ferns, landscapes with firs, and stunning views of the Himalayas. Apart from that, there are many other things to do in Darjeeling, including the view of the third-highest mountain in the world. But that's not all; there are many other places to explore in Darjeeling, such as its bustling markets, beautiful temples and monasteries, and the popular Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, also called the "Toy Train". This historic narrow-gauge railway has been declared a UNESCO Site and is a must-visit town for every tourist.
City Attractions & Nearby Attractions
Some of the magnificent attractions that make every tourist spellbound are: -
- Tiger Hill- This well-known sunrise location provides breathtaking vistas of the majestic Himalayan range, drawing in tourists eager to witness the initial sunlight caressing the slopes of Mt. Kanchenjunga.
- Darjeeling Mall- In the heart of the lively market district lies an excellent haven for acquiring indigenous handicrafts, tea, and keepsakes. Additionally, the iconic Darjeeling Clock Tower graces this bustling locale.
- Mahakal Temple- Perched atop a hill, this age-old Hindu temple venerates Lord Shiva and affords captivating vistas of Darjeeling and its environs.
- Batasia Loop- Situated along the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, this spiral railway loop promises a distinctive train journey, providing sweeping panoramas of the town and the majestic mountains.
- Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park- Housing a diverse array of rare and endangered animal species, including the renowned red panda, is an essential destination for those passionate about wildlife.
- Himalayan Mountaineering Institute- Founded by Tenzing Norgay, the pioneer who, alongside Sir Edmund Hillary, achieved the first ascent of Mt. Everest, this institute provides courses in mountaineering. It features a museum showcasing equipment and artefacts related to the adventurous pursuit of scaling mountains.
Places to Visit in Darjeeling
- Rock Garden & Ganga Maya Park: These two adjacent parks offer scenic views, beautiful gardens, and boating activities for tourists.
- Happy Valley Tea Estate: A visit to Darjeeling is incomplete without experiencing a tour of one of its famous tea estates. Happy Valley Tea Estate offers guided tours, tea tastings and beautiful views of the surrounding hills.
- Tibetan Refugee Self-Help Centre: This centre was established to help Tibetan refugees and provide insight into their culture and way of life. Visitors can also purchase handmade Tibetan crafts here.
- Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Museum: This museum showcases the history and development of the famous "Toy Train" and is a must-visit for train enthusiasts.
- Sandakphu Trek: For adventure seekers, the trek to Sandakphu Peak offers amazing views of the Himalayas and is a popular activity among tourists.
- Kalimpong: This quaint hill station is about 50 km from Darjeeling and offers stunning views, beautiful monasteries, and a lively market.
Best Time to Visit Darjeeling
The best time to visit Darjeeling is from March to June and September to November. The weather is pleasant in these periods, and you can enjoy clear views of the beautiful landscapes.
From March to June, spring and early summer are perfect for sightseeing, trekking, and enjoying the blooming flowers. September to November is the post-monsoon and autumn season, offering clear skies and a chance to witness the mind-blowing views of the Himalayan mountains.
Avoid the monsoon season (July to August) because of heavy rainfall that can lead to landslides and make travel difficult. Winter (December to February) is also chilly, but if you like cold weather and occasional snow, it can be a unique experience.
The Best Things to Do in Darjeeling
- Visit a tea plantation and know about the process of making tea.
- Ride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, the "Toy Train."
- Sample local delicacies such as momos, thukpa, and traditional Darjeeling tea.
- Explore the town's temples and monasteries, such as Ghum Monastery and Dali Monastery.
- Take a walk around Chowrasta or The Mall Road and shop for souvenirs.
- Wake up early to witness the sunrise from Tiger Hill, with stunning views of Mt. Kanchenjunga.
- Visit the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park to see rare and endangered species of animals.
- Take a peaceful break at the Japanese-style Peace Pagoda.
- Learn about mountaineering history and participate in adventure activities at the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute.