Darjeeling Tourism & Tour Guide

Apart from this, Darjeeling is one of the important shopping centers where visitors can shop for showpieces, clothes, handicrafts, and showpieces. The tourists in Darjeeling shop for woolen garments, fashion clothes, and shawls.

Brief History

Darjeeling, part of the state of Sikkim, became a part of a significant buffer state between Nepal and Bhutan. The British used this area as a sanatorium and found out that the climate here was excellent for tea cultivation conditions and, thus, soon began to grow tea on the Darjeeling hills. Today, This hill town remains a world-renowned export of Darjeeling tea.

Let’s look at the Darjeeling travel guide to plan your trip efficiently. 

Where is Darjeeling located?

Darjeeling lies in the north of West Bengal state at the eastern Himalayas' foothills. The district of Darjeeling shares its boundaries with countries like Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Nepal. It is one of the sparsely populated districts of the state. Located at an altitude of 2134 meters above sea level and surrounded by Buddhist monasteries and the mighty peaks of the Himalayas. 

How is the weather in Darjeeling?

In the summer, the temperatures in Darjeeling range between 14°C and 8°C. During winter, the temperature falls from the freezing point of 6°C to as low as 1°C. During the monsoon, Darjeeling experiences heavy rain showers, leading to frequent landslides.

What is the best time to visit Darjeeling?

The best time to visit Darjeeling is between April and June, September and December. This is because Darjeeling experiences a moderate climate during most of the year. Many tourists visit Darjeeling during summer as it is a good time for all tourist activities. For sightseeing, the best months would be from September to November. Visitors who like chilly climates should visit Darjeeling around December to January, as it is the best period for honeymooners. The adventure avid can visit Darjeeling from February to June, which is idyllic for all adventure activities in Darjeeling.

What is the average trip cost for Darjeeling?

INR 18,000 - INR 20,000 is the minimum cost required for Darjeeling. This price is subject to change as per the meals, accommodation, activities, and mode of transportation you choose.

Darjeeling is well connected to Siliguri, the terminal city, as a fleet of state and private buses run overnight from Calcutta to Siliguri. Traverse through the forest and tea gardens either by boarding a luxury bus or private taxi to reach Darjeeling.

Tourists Attractions in Darjeeling

Here are the top places to visit in Darjeeling -

• The Mall

The famous Mall road is a commercial street lined by Tibetans selling hand-Knitted cardigans and is clustered with many shops selling souvenirs and imitation and authentic antiques. While exploring Mall Road, the guest will lead to the Chaurasta, a pony-riding arena for children.

• Observatory Hill

Observatory Hill, locally known as “Makal-Babu-Ko-Thaan”, is the oldest site in Darjeeling. The ancient legends reveal that a Red Hat Buddhist Monastery, Dorje Ling, stood at this spot. Unfortunately, the Dorje Ling was destroyed in the 19th Century. In the present time, this observatory Hill is perched by both the Shivas and Buddhist believers.

• Chowrasta

Chowrasta is the place from where Mall road originates and finishes. Situated in the heart of Victorian Darjeeling, it is a significant paradise for shopping lovers and souvenir collectors. The central shopping items to shop for are tribal ornaments, rosaries, woolen garments, Gorkha daggers, and brass statues. Local handicrafts are also available for shopping.

• Himalayan Mountaineering Institute

Tenzing Norgay created the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute after he conquered Mt Everest with Sir Edmund Hillary on 29th May 1953. The museum displays and preserves all the equipment used to climb one of the highlights. Near this mountaineering institute is a Zoological garden, home to exotic wildlife like Siberian tigers, Yaks, Red Pandas, etc.

• Darjeeling Rangeet Valley Traveler Ropeway

The Darjeeling Rangeet Valley Passenger Ropeway is the first traveler ropeway in India. The reservation of ropeway seats must be made prior. Contact the officer-in-charge of the ropeway station for prior bookings of the seat. Frequent share taxi service is available from Market Motor and Taxi Stand to the Ropeway Station.

Fairs & Festivals in Darjeeling

Sawan Sankranti (July), Sansari Puja (April), Maghey Sankranti (January), Gyalwang Drukpa (April), and Buddha Jayanti (May) are some of the most famous festivals in Darjeeling. You can plan your trip near or during these fairs and festivals for a great insight into the local culture and traditions.

Tips for Visiting Darjeeling

• Do your research on which places you want to visit in Darjeeling. It will save you time when you are in this hill town. But for a complete package including meals, transfers, sightseeing, and accommodation, check out our Darjeeling travel packages.
• Ensure to have your necessary documents with you.
• Keep track of the weather forecast before you plan your Darjeeling tour.
• Make sure to check hotel ratings before booking.
• Pack your clothes as per the weather conditions.
• Always carry some cash with you.
• Respect the local laws and ethics.
• Savor the local delicacies for a memorable experience.