Darjeeling is one of the beautiful hill stations in West Bengal. It is popularly known as the “Queen of the Hills.” This hill station is located in the foothills of the Himalayas. It is renowned for its breathtaking views, cool weather, and world-famous tea gardens. If you love nature, photography, or just explore the unknown, Darjeeling has something special for everyone.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to go to Darjeeling would be during spring, say March to May, and also during autumn, from October to November. The weather is beautiful, and the skies are pretty clear, offering you splendid views of the Kanchenjunga mountains.
If you enjoy colder weathers, you can actually visit during winter, between December and February. Avoid it, however, during the monsoon seasons, June to September since it rains a lot, with possibilities of landslides, which might make the travel a bit difficult.
How to get
| By Air | By Train | By Road |
| Nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport, which is roughly 70 kilometers away, and you can get a taxi or shared cab from there. | From NJP, which lies around 62 kilometers away. You can take a taxi or ride the famous toy train, Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, in for a scenic trip from NJP. | You can conveniently travel by road from surrounding towns like Siliguri, Kalimpong, or Gangtok. Buses and taxis are available. |
Must-Visit Places in Darjeeling
1. Tiger Hill: Wake up early to view the sunrise over Kanchenjunga. You might even get a view of Mount Everest on a clear day!
2. Batasia Loop: A beautiful railway loop with amazing mountain views and a War Memorial.
3. Darjeeling Zoo: The official name is Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park. It harbors rare animals such as the red panda and snow leopard.
4. Himalayan Mountaineering Institute (HMI): Learn about mountaineering and see exhibits of famous Himalayan expeditions.
5. Rock Garden: Serene place with waterfalls and lush greenery.
6. Japanese Peace Pagoda: It is a serene Buddhist temple with lovely views.
Image Gallery
Best Places to Take Photographs
1. Tiger Hill: It is ideal for photography at sunrise.
2. Observatory Hill: A silent place with beautiful views of the mountains.
3. Lamahatta: It is a silent village full of greenery and some great landscapes.
4. Darjeeling Ropeway: It gives a bird’s eye view of tea gardens and valleys.
Cafés You Should Try
1. Glenary’s Bakery and Café: They are popular for cakes, pastries, and hot drinks. The view of the hills is also great.
- Website: Glenary’s
2. Keventer’s: It is a classic café, very good for breakfast with sausages, bacon, and sandwiches.
3. Sonam’s Kitchen: A homely place for pancakes and coffee.
4. The Park Restaurant: Serving scrumptious Thai and Chinese dishes.
Best Hotels to Stay In
- The Elgin, Darjeeling: A luxury hotel with great views and excellent service.
- Website: Elgin Hotels
- Mayfair Darjeeling: A fancy resort with modern facilities and a cozy vibe.
- Website: Mayfair Hotels
- Central Nirvana Resort: A budget-friendly option with comfy rooms and friendly service.
- Website: Central Hotels
- Zostel Darjeeling: A great choice for students and backpackers. It’s affordable and has a fun social vibe.
- Website: Zostel
Places to Explore around
1. Kalimpong: The town is located 50 km away from the city, and it’s known for monasteries and flower nurseries.
2. Mirik: Located 49 km away from Darjeeling, Mirik is a lake that is encircled by tea gardens.
3. Siliguri: It’s a bustling city and also referred to as the gateway to North-East India. It’s fantastic for shopping and exploring the local culture.
4. Sandakphu: About 58 kilometers away trekking spot with views of four of the tallest peaks of the world
Online Booking Websites
Here are some trusted websites for planning your trip:
Conclusion
Darjeeling is a perfect blend of natural beauty, exciting adventures, and warm hospitality. Whether it is sipping the famous tea, experiencing the Toy Train ride, or just capturing breathtaking views, every moment here is magical.
Enjoy peaceful monasteries, lively markets, and friendly locals, so Darjeeling is sure to stay with you for a lifetime. So pack your bags, book your stay, and get ready for an amazing trip to the “Queen of the Hills”.