Things to Do in Darjeeling, India

If are you looking for things to do in Darjeeling then you are in the right place. This post is for you only. Darjeeling, also known as the “Queen of Hills”, is a very beautiful hill station in the Himalayan foothills of the state of West Bengal, India.

Spread across vibrant green hills amidst emerald green tea plantations, it gives one of the most breathtaking views of majestic Kangchenjunga, the third-highest mountain in the world.

Nestled comfortably amidst the snow-capped Himalayan peaks, Darjeeling is home to quaint British-era houses, serene forests, and a rich influence of Tibetan culture and cuisine that is reflected in every nook and corner.

For Sure

• Darjeeling is the famous ride on the Himalayan Railway which is considered a must. Affectionately known as the Darjeeling Toy Train, it offers the most enviable and relaxing ride on the undulating hills. It negotiates at least 870 curves amidst lush green plantations and dense forests. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, when in Darjeeling, it must be on the list as a top priority.
• For all the adrenaline junkies out there, the best thing to do in Darjeeling is to experience river rafting in the fiery Teesta River. Known as one of the best in the country for the varied intensity of rapids. It will definitely challenge your intellect. River rafting and camping are a match made for each other and will undoubtedly tickle your adventurous spirit.
• A morning visit to Tiger Hill is a must in your itinerary. Watch the awe-inspiring view of the mighty Kangchenjunga covered in snow bathing the first golden rays of the sun with a cup of Darjeeling tea and a biscuit from Glenaries.

What Do You Like About Your City?

Darjeeling remains crowded during peak season. It has its own old-world charm from every corner. Whether it is a smoky wind laden with mist, Kangchenjunga is covered with snow. the delicious aroma of fresh bake from the Glenarys or the all-embracing smiles of the locals; This small hill station has everything to fill your inner void and relax your senses.

Best Walk in Darjeeling

There are plenty of opportunities to visit in and around Darjeeling. In fact, these hill stations can be best visited on foot. Take a walk in the heart of Darjeeling city, Darjeeling Mall, or Chowrasta as it is popular. A delight for pedestrians and usually crowded during peak hours, try taking an early morning stroll here.

You can enjoy the warmth of the morning sun rejuvenating your soul. If the weather permits you will certainly have the most spectacular view of the Kangchenjunga beyond and the valleys below.

Take a look at colonial architecture, including the famous Clock Tower, and the don’t-miss Andrews Church. You can take the Mall Road and head towards the Observatory Hills to get the best mountain view or just sit back and watch the sudden appearance of the much-coveted toy train past.

Being a social hub, the cacophony can seem rebellious at times during peak times, but as you move along and imbibe the charm, there is no looking back.

For adventure seekers and trek lovers, the Sandakphu trek along the Singilla Ridge in Darjeeling is a must, provided you have time on hand. Sandakphu is the highest point in the Indian state of West Bengal and is considered the Holy Grail of Indian trekking, as it gives a pristine view of four of the world’s five highest peaks – Everest, Kangchenjunga, Lhotse, and Makalu. a clear sunny day.

The trail passes through dense rhododendron forests and tall bamboo thickets. One of the most popular tourist destinations, it can be physically challenging too; Though the mesmerizing view along the trail will leave you enthralled.

Best Restaurants in Darjeeling

It is quite a daunting task to make a list of the best places to eat in Darjeeling, as almost every eatery has its specialty and every one of them exudes a magical charm. Darjeeling is synonymous with Keventers and Glenery, the two oldest eateries that are always packed with tourists.

Inventor is an institutions in themselves. The charm and nostalgia it is emitting will transport you to a different era. Grab a morning breakfast platter of sausage, ham, bacon, and scrambled eggs on the open terrace facing the ridge, and wash it down with a steaming cup of hot chocolate.

The not to be missed Glenaries is all about freshly baked cakes, pastries, bread, brownies, and the best range of Darjeeling tea. Best known for its cafe ambiance, empty your evening by sitting down with a cup of the finest tea or filling your lungs with the aroma of freshly baked goods.

Kunga Restaurant- Hard to find an empty table in busy times, Kunga’s specialty is its local Tibetan dishes of momos and soups. While in Kunga, don’t miss out on Tibetan Meat Pie, Tibetan Bread, and Gyathuk.

Being the signature tea garden of Darjeeling, a visit to Nathmul is a must for tea enthusiasts. As tea lovers, you get to see, smell, taste, and buy some of the best tea in the world here. Have a cup of First Flush and soak in the allure of the sunset sky.

Best Music/Festival

The close mention of Darjeeling is the essence of a beautiful image of hills and tea gardens, but to get a real taste of its distinctive culture, you must be a part of its festivals.

Celebrated in the month of November, the Darjeeling Carnival is a 10-day event that includes band music from different languages, exhibitions, and many such activities. You can also get the opportunity to taste various local delicacies sold here.

Tourism and Teesta Tea Festival- This festival of Darjeeling is celebrated in the month of November. It has an epic footfall of tourists from all over the world. As the name indicates the event showcases tea-tasting sessions and it will take all the tea lovers along on a unique ride of different flavors of tea from aromatic ones to black tea first flush.

Best Nightlife

If you are a late-night person, be aware of your timing as the nightlife in the hills ends fast. Almost all pubs close their shutters by 9:30 pm.

Joy’s Pub – The face of Darjeeling’s nightlife, don’t miss this old British-style country pub. Whether you want to taste the beer or immerse yourself in its earthy atmosphere. This is the place to enjoy a totally serene evening.

Gaia’s Cafe – A perfect combination of Cafe, Bar, and Music Lounge. This is the only place in Darjeeling which is open till midnight. The local bands, the ambiance, the food, everything will amaze you and you will want to see it again.

Far from the hustle and bustle of music, Darjeeling’s nightlife has more to offer than just pubs and bars. Drunk Night lets you talk to strangers, make local friends, strengthen old bonds and spend the best evening under the starry sky.

Best Day Trips Out of Town

With Darjeeling being a tourist hotspot, it represents a pretty busy life during the peak season. If time permits, it is recommended to go on a few day trips out of town and see nature in its most pristine form.

The most beautiful yet virgin circuit includes day tours through the villages of Takdah, Tinchule, and Lamhatta. Famous for its clear and stunning mountain views, you will also stumble upon some lovely tea gardens and orchid centers.

Home to Himalayan black bears, mountain goats, and many other residents and migratory birds. It is a few kilometers away from the city center and will surely enliven the zoologist in you.

Something About Darjeeling That Not Many Travelers Know

When we talk about the best way to see a hill station or a city, it is undoubtedly the ropeway system and Darjeeling has Asia’s largest ropeway. Started in 1968, as the first cable car system in India. The Rangit-Valley ropeway system of Darjeeling makes a steep climb through the dense forests. It gives the best panoramic view of the city through a curtain of clouds. Truly a heavenly journey.