Things to do in Darjeeling

Darjeeling is one of India's most picturesque hill stations, and it was the principal summer vacation destination during the British Raj. It's simple to understand why this undulating hill station has remained a popular vacation spot for generations.

The calm, nature, and plenty of places to see and activities to do in Darjeeling draw people from all over India and the world. Read our recommendations for things to do in Darjeeling if you're not sure what to do.

Darjeeling will spoil you for choice whether you want to connect with your spiritual side, taste some delectable local cuisine, shop, or seek a few adventure thrills. Some of the top things to do in Darjeeling are listed here.

1. River rafting in Teesta

One of the most thrilling activities in Darjeeling is white water rafting on the Teesta River. Rafting is a popular activity among thrill seekers, with a sequence of rapids ranging in difficulty from Grade 1 to 4. The tough rapids, on the other hand, are only open to experts or seasonal trainers since they are dangerous. If you visit Darjeeling, you must participate in this activities.

2. Experiencing Darjeeling Ropeway

Darjeeling is known across the globe as one of the most beautiful hill stations, with a variety of breathtaking vistas ranging from majestic snow-capped mountains to delightful valleys dotted with lush tea gardens. As a result, the Darjeeling Ropeway is a popular tourist attraction in Darjeeling, offering travellers a variety of breathtaking panoramic vistas as they traverse through the lovely valley.

The Darjeeling Ropeway, India's first cable car system, opened in 1968 to serve the tea estates in the valleys that were difficult to reach. Today, it is a sought-after tourist destination, bringing thousands of visitors every year to take in the sights and sounds of Darjeeling's natural splendour. Each of the 16 cable cars that run from the North Point in Singamari to the Singla Bazaar, located on the banks of the lovely Ramman river, transports passengers at a height of 7000 feet. The vista of Darjeeling's vast tea farms, tumbling waterfalls, and the majestic Kanchenjunga make this an important experience for any tourist visiting Darjeeling. The gondola travels at a leisurely pace, enabling passengers to take advantage of some fantastic photo possibilities. The cable car stops at the bottom of the journey to allow passengers to explore the wonderful tea gardens or rest at the little mountain cafe before returning to the Singamari base station.

3. Visit Monasteries in Darjeeling

Darjeeling's monasteries are a must-see if you want to get a sense of the region. There are several monasteries scattered across the city, each with its particular significance.

The Ghoom monastery, Bhutia Busty monastery, and Aloobari monastery are a few that stick out among the multitude. Ghoom monastery is known for its 15-foot-tall Maitreya Buddha statue. The Sakya monastery is another name for it. If you're looking for both shopping and sightseeing, Aloobari Gompa is a good location to go. Outside the monastery, there are several local stalls. Its splendour is enhanced by the fact that it is one of Darjeeling's oldest monasteries. Another monastery worth seeing is Bhutia Busty Gompa, which is about a kilometre outside of Darjeeling. This is the most beautiful of all the monasteries. The shrine was initially on Observatory Hill, but it was later constructed at its current position.

4. Trekking in Darjeeling

Darjeeling boasts some of the greatest hiking trails in the world, with views of four of the world's five tallest peaks, Mt. Everest, Kanchenjunga, Makalu, and Lhotse, all in one stretch. One of the most popular trekking routes in Darjeeling is the Singalila Range, while others include the Sandakphu & Singalila Trek, Phalut Trek, and Sikkim Trek - Dzongri & Goechala.

5. Sandakphu Trek

The highest point in West Bengal is Sandakphu Peak (11,941 feet). It is adjacent to Singalila National Park and is the tallest point of the Singalila Ridge in Darjeeling district, practically on the Nepalese border.

Sandakphu, West Bengal's highest mountain, offers a stunning perspective of four of the world's five highest peaks. The greatest view is of Kanchendzonga, the highest peak in the world. The top may be reached by automobile or on foot. The hike begins at Manebhanjan and runs for 51 kilometres up the hill. Because of the profusion of Himalayan Cobra Lilies, Sandakphu is also known as the "mountain of toxic plants." Because this is a strenuous walk, you should only do it after establishing your total fitness. The journey to the peak is thrilling, going through a variety of landscapes ranging from difficult valleys to beautiful green plains studded with rhododendrons, magnolias, primulas, and brilliant wild flowers. With over 600 types of orchids alone, the location is a naturalist's dream.

6. Shopping

Darjeeling is known for its tea plantations and is a tea lover's paradise. Shopping in Darjeeling's local marketplaces and old school malls will give you a terrific sense of the area. The teas' original tastes and smells will take your breath away. Apart from tea leaves, local knick-knacks such as handcraft products, woollen scarves and hats, imitation jewellery items, and a variety of other items may be found in the city's marketplaces. You will have a wonderful shopping experience in Darjeeling, whether you go to the Chowk Bazaar or the Mall Road.

7. Experience Darjeeling cuisine

Darjeeling also has a plethora of dining alternatives for foodies. Darjeeling has a wide range of cuisines to choose from, ranging from traditional Tibetan and Sikkimese cuisine to Thai delicacies and plain old North Indian meals, savouring exquisite food and lip-smacking delicacies in the middle of breathtaking landscapes. Essentially, the food here combines ingredients, styles, and recipes from Bengali, Nepali, and Tibetan cuisines.

Despite the large range of options, one of the first items on the menu here is the finest and freshest quality tea available in the neighbourhood, which you must sample. Momos, Thukpa, Aloo Dum, Sael Roti, Naga Platter, Nepali thali, Tongba, Channg, and many more popular dishes are must-trys. Not to add, tea is a widely consumed beverage.

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Best time to visit Darjeeling

In the summers (April-June), Darjeeling has the most delightful weather, with bright and sunny days and a mild breeze. Temperatures range from 18 to 25 degrees Celsius, giving it an ideal time to be outside, enjoy the food, and go sightseeing.

How to reach Darjeeling

Darjeeling's nearest airport is Bagdogra, which is roughly 95 kilometres away. Darjeeling has some direct flights from places such as Kolkata, Delhi, and Guwahati. Taxis may be hired from the airport to get into the city. The journey from the airport to Darjeeling would take over three hours.

About Darjeeling

Darjeeling is one of India's most picturesque and well-known hill resorts. It's 686 kilometres from Kolkata, West Bengal, at 2,134 metres above sea level. Darjeeling is known for its beauty and mild atmosphere, set against the background of the magnificent snow-capped Himalayan hills.

Darjeeling Tourist Destinations

Darjeeling, a breath-taking town nestled cosily in the Himalayan foothills, has a plethora of tourist attractions. The unspoilt grandeur of this breathtakingly lovely village provides a welcome break from the hustle and bustle of city life, attracting people from all over the country.

Things to do in Darjeeling

Darjeeling is one of India's greatest hill stations, spread out in ribbons across a high mountain ridge, surrounded by emerald-green tea fields and towered over by the magnificent Khangchendzonga (8598 m). However, the list of the most great things to do in Darjeeling does not stop there.