Nestled in the lush Himalayan foothills, Darjeeling is a destination that weaves a tapestry of breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and aromatic teas. Known as the “Queen of the Hills,” Darjeeling and its surrounding areas offer a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural charm. In this blog, we’ll embark on a journey to explore the top places to visit in and around Darjeeling, allowing you to experience the best of this Himalayan haven.
Darjeeling: The Gem of the Eastern Himalayas
- Tiger Hill: Begin your Darjeeling adventure with a pre-dawn visit to Tiger Hill, one of the best places to witness the magical sunrise over the Kanchenjunga mountain range. The changing hues of the snow-capped peaks are a sight to behold.
- Batasia Loop and War Memorial: Located on the way to Tiger Hill, the Batasia Loop is a spiral railway track offering panoramic views of Darjeeling. Adjacent to it, the War Memorial pays tribute to the Gorkha soldiers who sacrificed their lives.
- The Mall and Chowrasta: Stroll along The Mall, Darjeeling’s vibrant heart, where you’ll find shops, cafes, and a bustling atmosphere. Don’t forget to unwind at Chowrasta, a large public square offering stunning mountain views.
- Darjeeling Himalayan Railway: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this narrow-gauge steam railway, also known as the Toy Train, is a must-ride experience. It meanders through picturesque landscapes, tea plantations, and quaint villages.
- Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park: Home to the critically endangered red panda, this park is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts. It also houses the high-altitude dwelling snow leopard and other Himalayan animals.
- Himalayan Mountaineering Institute (HMI): HMI is not only a training center for mountaineers but also a museum showcasing mountaineering equipment and the history of Himalayan expeditions. It’s an inspiring place for adventure seekers.
- Peace Pagoda: This gleaming white stupa is a symbol of peace and tranquility. Surrounded by lush gardens, it offers panoramic views of the Darjeeling landscape.
- Tea Gardens and Tea Tasting: A trip to Darjeeling is incomplete without visiting the sprawling tea gardens. You can take guided tours to learn about tea cultivation and processing and savor a variety of aromatic teas.
Exploring Beyond Darjeeling
- Tinchuley: This tranquil village, situated about 32 kilometers from Darjeeling, is known for its breathtaking mountain views and serene ambiance. It’s an ideal escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
- Kurseong: Located around 30 kilometers from Darjeeling, Kurseong is a charming hill station with lush gardens and beautiful viewpoints. The Eagle’s Crag is a must-visit spot for stunning vistas.
- Kalimpong: Just a few hours’ drive from Darjeeling, Kalimpong offers a unique blend of Tibetan, Bhutanese, and Nepali cultures. Don’t miss the scenic Delo Park and Zang Dhok Palri Phodang monastery.
- Mirik: Nestled in the serene hills, Mirik is famous for its serene Sumendu Lake, surrounded by forests and tea gardens. Boating on the lake is a must-try activity.
- Sandakphu: For avid trekkers, Sandakphu is a paradise. It’s the highest peak in West Bengal and provides mesmerizing views of the world’s tallest mountains, including Mount Everest and Kanchenjunga.
- Tonglu and Tumling: These are quaint villages located on the Sandakphu trekking route. The charming simplicity and panoramic views make them perfect for a peaceful retreat.
Pro Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit Darjeeling: The ideal time to visit Darjeeling is from March to May and September to November when the weather is pleasant.
- Local Cuisine: Don’t forget to try traditional Himalayan and Tibetan dishes, such as momo (dumplings) and thukpa (noodle soup).
- Transportation: Darjeeling is well-connected by road and is accessible by road from cities like Kolkata and Siliguri. Bagdogra Airport is the nearest airport, and New Jalpaiguri Railway Station is the nearest railhead.
- Permit: If you plan to visit Sandakphu or other border areas, check if a special permit is required, especially for foreign tourists.
- Respect Local Customs: Be aware of and respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting monasteries and temples.
- Pack Accordingly: Ensure you bring warm clothing, even in the summer months, as temperatures can drop significantly in the evenings.
How to reach Darjeeling by Bus
Reaching Darjeeling by bus, train, and air involves a combination of transportation modes, as there is no direct train or flight to Darjeeling. Here’s how you can reach Darjeeling from major cities in India using different modes of transportation:
Travel Darjeeling By Bus:
Darjeeling is well-connected by road to various cities and towns in West Bengal and neighboring states. Buses are a common mode of transportation to reach Darjeeling by road.
- From Siliguri:
- Siliguri is the nearest major city with good connectivity to Darjeeling.
- You can take a private or shared taxi from Siliguri to Darjeeling. The journey takes approximately 3-4 hours, covering a distance of around 70 kilometers.
- From Kolkata:
- There are several long-distance buses that operate between Kolkata and Siliguri. You can take a bus to Siliguri and then proceed to Darjeeling by taxi.
- From other major cities:
- Depending on your location, you can reach Siliguri or New Jalpaiguri (NJP) by bus and then continue to Darjeeling by taxi.
Darjeeling and its surrounding areas offer a mesmerizing blend of nature, culture, and adventure. Whether you’re seeking breathtaking vistas, cultural experiences, or a slice of mountain life, Darjeeling has it all. So, pack your bags and embark on an unforgettable journey through this Himalayan paradise. If you wish to book the government buses from redBus you can also choose North Bengal State Transport Corporation NBSTC bus ticket as a bus operator. So what are you waiting for? Book your bus ticket to Darjeeling from redBus to enjoy the peaceful holiday.