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Darjeeling Travel Guide – Complete Guide to the Queen of Hills

Darjeeling, often called the “Queen of the Hills”, is one of India’s most loved hill stations, located in the foothills of the Eastern Himalayas in West Bengal. Known for its tea gardens, panoramic mountain views, colonial charm, monasteries, and the iconic Toy Train, Darjeeling attracts travelers from across India and the world.

This Darjeeling Travel Guide by Tour Adviser covers everything you need to know before planning your trip — from best time to visit, places to see, things to do, local transport, food, hotels, shopping, nearby attractions, and travel tips.

Whether you are planning a family vacation, honeymoon, group tour, or weekend getaway, this guide will help you plan a smooth and memorable Darjeeling trip.

About Darjeeling

Darjeeling is situated at an altitude of approximately 6,700 feet (2,042 meters) above sea level and offers breathtaking views of Mount Kanchenjunga, the third-highest peak in the world. The town has a unique cultural blend influenced by Nepali, Tibetan, Bengali, and British colonial heritage.

The pleasant climate, lush greenery, and relaxed atmosphere make Darjeeling a perfect escape from city life.

Best Time to Visit Darjeeling

Choosing the right time to visit Darjeeling depends on what kind of experience you are looking for.

🌸 March to May (Spring & Summer) – Best Season

  • Pleasant weather (10°C to 20°C)

  • Clear mountain views

  • Ideal for sightseeing, family tours & honeymoons

  • Peak tourist season

🌧 June to September (Monsoon)

  • Heavy rainfall

  • Landslides possible

  • Fewer tourists & lower hotel prices

  • Recommended only for off-season travelers

🍁 October to November (Autumn)

  • Crystal clear views of Kanchenjunga

  • Cool and pleasant climate

  • Best for photography and nature lovers

❄ December to February (Winter)

  • Cold weather (2°C to 10°C)

  • Occasional snowfall in nearby areas

  • Ideal for winter lovers and couples

Pro Tip:

For first-time visitors, March–May and October–November are the best months.

How to Reach Darjeeling

✈ By Air

The nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport (IXB), located about 70 km from Darjeeling.

From Bagdogra:

  • Taxi to Darjeeling (3–4 hours)

  • Shared or private cabs available

👉 Tour Adviser provides Bagdogra to Darjeeling Taxi Services

🚆 By Train

The nearest major railway station is New Jalpaiguri (NJP).

Options from NJP:

  • Private taxi (most comfortable)

  • Shared jeep

  • Toy Train (slow but scenic)

🚗 By Road

Darjeeling is well connected by road from:

  • Siliguri

  • Bagdogra

  • Kalimpong

  • Gangtok

Mountain roads offer scenic views but can be winding.

Top Tourist Attractions in Darjeeling

🌄 Tiger Hill

Famous for its sunrise view over Kanchenjunga, Tiger Hill is a must-visit attraction. On clear days, you can even spot Mount Everest.

Best time: Early morning (4:00–5:00 AM)

🚂 Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (Toy Train)

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Toy Train offers a nostalgic ride through hills, markets, and tea gardens.

🌺 Batasia Loop

A beautifully landscaped garden with a war memorial, offering panoramic mountain views.

🕉 Ghoom Monastery

One of the oldest Tibetan monasteries in Darjeeling, housing a 15-foot statue of Maitreya Buddha.

🏔 Himalayan Mountaineering Institute (HMI)

Established after Tenzing Norgay’s Everest expedition, HMI showcases mountaineering history and equipment.

🐼 Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park

Known for conservation of Red Panda, Snow Leopard, Himalayan Wolf, etc.

🛍 Chowrasta & Mall Road

The heart of Darjeeling town — ideal for shopping, cafés, and evening walks.

🌸 Tea Gardens

Visit famous tea estates like:

  • Happy Valley Tea Estate

  • Makaibari Tea Estate

Learn about tea processing and enjoy fresh Darjeeling tea.

Things to Do in Darjeeling

  • Sunrise at Tiger Hill

  • Ride the Toy Train

  • Tea tasting at tea estates

  • Shopping for handicrafts & tea

  • Visit monasteries

  • Café hopping

  • Nature walks & photography

Darjeeling for Honeymoon Couples

Darjeeling is one of the most romantic hill stations in India.

Why couples love Darjeeling:

  • Cozy weather

  • Scenic viewpoints

  • Quiet walks on Mall Road

  • Romantic cafés

  • Heritage hotels

👉 Ask Tour Adviser for Darjeeling Honeymoon Packages

Darjeeling for Family Trips

Family-friendly attractions include:

  • Zoological Park

  • Ropeway

  • Tea gardens

  • Toy Train

  • Easy sightseeing routes

Darjeeling Ropeway

One of the oldest ropeways in India, offering stunning aerial views of:

  • Tea gardens

  • Valleys

  • River Teesta

Shopping in Darjeeling

Popular items to buy:

  • Darjeeling Tea

  • Woollen clothes

  • Handicrafts

  • Tibetan artifacts

  • Prayer flags

  • Wooden souvenirs

Best places:

  • Chowrasta

  • Bhutia Market

  • Mall Road

Local Food & Cuisine in Darjeeling

Must-try local foods:

  • Momos

  • Thukpa

  • Gundruk

  • Sael Roti

  • Tibetan bread

Popular cafés:

  • Glenary’s

  • Keventer’s

  • Nathmull’s Tea Lounge

Hotels in Darjeeling

Accommodation options include:

  • Budget hotels

  • Heritage hotels

  • Boutique stays

  • Luxury resorts

  • Homestays

👉 Tour Adviser offers hotel booking in Darjeeling at best rates

Local Transport in Darjeeling

  • Shared jeeps

  • Private taxis

  • Walking (best for Mall Road)

👉 Book Darjeeling Taxi Services with Tour Adviser

Nearby Places to Visit from Darjeeling

🌿 Kalimpong

  • Flower nurseries

  • Monasteries

  • Teesta river views

🏞 Mirik

  • Sumendu Lake

  • Tea gardens

  • Ideal day trip

🏔 Sandakphu

  • Highest point in West Bengal

  • Trekking destination

Ideal Darjeeling Trip Duration

  • 2–3 days: Quick getaway

  • 4–5 days: Relaxed sightseeing + nearby places

  • 6–7 days: Darjeeling + Kalimpong / Sikkim

Darjeeling Travel Tips

  • Carry warm clothes year-round

  • Book taxis in advance during peak season

  • Start early for Tiger Hill

  • Avoid monsoon travel if possible

  • Carry cash (limited ATMs in some areas)

Darjeeling Tour Packages by Tour Adviser

Tour Adviser offers:

  • Customized Darjeeling tour packages

  • Family & honeymoon packages

  • Group tours

  • Taxi + hotel + sightseeing packages

  • Bagdogra / NJP pickup & drop

📍 Based in Siliguri

📞 Call / WhatsApp: 9832588889 | 8001915555

Why Choose Tour Adviser for Darjeeling Travel?

✔ Local expertise

✔ Verified hotels & drivers

✔ Transparent pricing

✔ Custom itineraries

✔ 24/7 travel support

FAQs – Darjeeling Travel Guide

Q. Is Darjeeling safe for tourists?

Yes, Darjeeling is safe for families, couples, and solo travelers.

Q. Is snowfall guaranteed in Darjeeling?

Snowfall is rare in town but possible in nearby higher areas.

Q. How far is Darjeeling from Bagdogra?

Approximately 70 km (3–4 hours by road).

Plan Your Darjeeling Trip with Tour Adviser

If you’re planning a trip to Darjeeling, let Tour Adviser handle everything — tour packages, taxi services, hotels, and permits.

🌐 Website: www.touradviser.in

📍 Location: Siliguri, West Bengal

📲 Call / WhatsApp: 9832588889 | 8001915555

Explore Darjeeling with comfort, safety, and local expertise.

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Darjeeling Trip Itinerary

3-Day Darjeeling Itinerary:

  • Day 1: Arrival & Local Walk: Reach Darjeeling, check in, and spend the evening at Chowrasta (The Mall). Enjoy a cup of tea at Nathmull’s.

  • Day 2: The 7-Point Sightseeing: Start at 4:00 AM for Tiger Hill, followed by Batasia Loop and Ghoom Monastery. After breakfast, visit the Zoo, HMI, Ropeway, and Tenzing Rock.

  • Day 3: Mirik or Tea Gardens: Take a day trip to Mirik Lake via the Pashupati Market (Nepal Border) or spend the day exploring the Happy Valley Tea Estate before your departure.

3-Day Darjeeling Itinerary

  • Day 1: Arrival, check-in, and sunset stroll at Mall Road.

  • Day 2: 4 AM Tiger Hill Sunrise, Batasia Loop, Ghoom Monastery, Zoo, and HMI.

  • Day 3: Tea Garden visit & Mirik Lake excursion on the way to NJP/Bagdogra.


Darjeeling Toy Train (DHR): The Ultimate Booking Guide

The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR), fondly known as the "Toy Train," is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a masterpiece of 19th-century engineering. No trip to the Queen of Hills is complete without experiencing this nostalgic journey.

1. Types of Toy Train Rides

  • The Joy Ride (Most Popular): A 2-hour round trip from Darjeeling to Ghum and back. It includes a 10-minute stop at the scenic Batasia Loop and a 30-minute stop at the DHR Railway Museum in Ghum (entry included in the ticket).

  • NJP to Darjeeling (Full Journey): A 7–8 hour scenic climb from the plains of New Jalpaiguri (NJP) to the hills. This is best for slow-travel lovers.

  • Jungle Safari: A specialized ride from Siliguri Junction to Rongtong through the Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary.

2. Steam vs. Diesel Engines

  • Steam Engine (Heritage): These are the original "B-Class" vintage locomotives. They are more expensive but offer the authentic colonial-era experience with the classic whistle and puffing smoke.

  • Diesel Engine (Modern): These are faster, more reliable, and cheaper. They are great if you are on a budget but still want to see the views.

3. Latest Ticket Prices (2025–2026)

Ride TypeEngine TypeApprox Fare (Per Person)
Joy Ride (Darjeeling-Ghum)Steam Engine₹1,500
Joy Ride (Darjeeling-Ghum)Diesel Engine₹1,000
NJP to DarjeelingDiesel Engine₹1,400 – ₹1,500

Note: Fares are subject to change by Indian Railways. Vista Dome coaches (with glass roofs) may have premium pricing.

4. How to Book Toy Train Tickets

  • Online via IRCTC: This is the most recommended way.

    • Visit the Official IRCTC Website.

    • Use station codes: From: DJ (Darjeeling) to To: DJRZ (Darjeeling Joy Ride) or GHUM.

    • Select "First Class" (FC) as all Toy Train coaches are categorized this way.

  • Offline at the Station: You can buy tickets at the computerized reservation counters at Darjeeling or NJP stations, but they sell out weeks in advance during peak season (May, October, December).

5. Pro-Tips for the Best Experience

  • Book in Advance: During peak months, tickets are booked 2–3 months in advance. Don't wait until you reach Darjeeling.

  • Morning vs. Evening: Choose the earliest morning ride (around 8:00 AM or 9:00 AM) for the clearest views of Mount Kanchenjunga from Batasia Loop.

  • Seating: Try to get a seat on the right-hand side when going from Darjeeling to Ghum for the best valley views.

  • No Restrooms: Remember, Toy Train coaches are small and do not have toilets on board. Use the facilities at Darjeeling station before boarding.

Darjeeling Toy Train (DHR) Booking Guide 2026

Ride TypeEngineFare (Per Person)
Joy Ride (DJ-Ghum)Steam₹1,500
Joy Ride (DJ-Ghum)Diesel₹1,000
NJP to DarjeelingDiesel₹1,420 (FC) / ₹1,700 (AC)

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