How To Reach Darjeeling?

Reaching Darjeeling largely depends on your starting point and preferred mode of transportation. Here's a general guide:

By Air:
The nearest airport to Darjeeling is Bagdogra Airport (IXB), located about 70 kilometers away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Darjeeling. The journey takes around 3-4 hours depending on road conditions.

By Train:
The nearest major railway station is New Jalpaiguri (NJP), which is well-connected to major cities like Kolkata, Delhi, and Mumbai. From NJP, you can either take a taxi or board a toy train (Darjeeling Himalayan Railway) to Darjeeling. The toy train journey is scenic but slower compared to road transport.

By Road:
From Bagdogra: You can hire a taxi or take a bus from Bagdogra to Darjeeling. The road journey offers beautiful views of the mountains and tea gardens.
From Siliguri: Siliguri is well-connected by road to major cities in the region. You can take a bus or hire a taxi from Siliguri to Darjeeling, which is about 80 kilometers away.
From Kolkata: There are regular bus services from Kolkata to Siliguri. From Siliguri, follow the route mentioned above.
From Gangtok (Sikkim): If you're coming from Gangtok, you can hire a taxi or take a shared jeep to reach Darjeeling. The journey takes around 4-5 hours.

Note:
Road conditions in the region, especially during monsoon season, can be challenging, so it's advisable to check the weather and road conditions before planning your trip.
Consider booking transportation in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to avoid last-minute hassles.
Keep some buffer time in your travel schedule, as delays due to weather or road conditions are not uncommon, especially in hilly areas like Darjeeling.

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Where To Stay/Accommodation in Darjeeling

Darjeeling which used to be a small settlement during the British rule is now bustling modern city with all amenities and facilities. There are hundreds of accommodations dotting all across the town. From Star category heritage hotels, budget hotels and even home stays is available for stay.

​Tea Garden Bungalows & Homestays Near Darjeeling

If you like peace and solitude then you might be tempted to try out staying in the many Bungalows or homestays. These stays are mostly adjoining Tea Gardens, Orange orchards, small streams and in the midst of semi-evergreen, temperate and alpine forests . These homestays are generally located with excellent views of the Kunchenjunga. All modern amenities and facilities are available. Add to the charm of staying with a local family and enjoying food prepared from locally produced vegetables and poultry. Some of these are heritage tea bungalows providing super luxury accommodations while some are standard facilities. If you are staying at these facilities then you need to take the meals from them as there will be no restaurants or eateries nearby. Bada Mangwa, Chota Mangwa, Tinchule, Mahaldiram,  Chatakpur, Sittong, Latpanchar, Lapchajagat, Lamahata, Bijanbari, Mirik and other places.Most of these places command marvelous views of the mountains and are mostly situated in a tea garden itself. Add to that the bonus of orange orchards. These are mostly categorized as homestays and offer accommodation with all meals packages for their guests. Some of these home stays are even offering swimming pools facilities. So it becomes an excellent opportunity for the guests on a to experience the local cuisines and culture. There are few tea estate bungalows on offer but has to be booked well in advance as capacity of these are limited. One can also opt to stay at Kurseong and explore the region.

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​​History Of Darjeeling & Tea Gardens 

During the British Raj, Darjeeling's pleasant temperate climate led to its development as a hill station for British looking to escape the summer heat of the Bengal plains. The development of Darjeeling as a hill station and health resort started very briskly. Their efforts to develop the hill station, attracted immigrants to cultivate the slopes and attract trade resulted in a hundred fold increase in the population of Darjeeling between 1835 and 1849. Tea planting in Darjeeling began in 1841 by the British government and they also established tea nurseries during that period. Commercial development began during the 1850s. In 1856, the Alubari tea garden was opened by the Kurseong and Darjeeling Tea company, followed by others. "Darjeeling Tea" can only be referred to tea that has been cultivated, grown, produced, manufactured and processed in tea gardens in the hilly areas of "Sadar" Subdivision, only areas of Kalimpong District consisting of Samabeong Tea Estate, Ambiok Tea Estate, Mission Hill Tea Estate and Kumai Tea Estate, and Kurseong Subdivision. The first road connecting the town with the plains was constructed between 1839 and 1842. In 1848, a military depot was set up for British soldiers, and the town became a municipality in 1850. Commercial cultivation of tea in the district began in 1856, and induced a number of British planters to settle there. Darjeeling became the formal summer capital of the Bengal Presidency after 1864. Scottish missionaries constructed schools and welfare centers for the British residents, laying the foundation for Darjeeling's reputation as a center of education. The opening of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway in 1881 further multiplied the development of the region.

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Question & Answers- Darjeeling Tour Package

Q: What is the best time to visit Darjeeling?

A: Darjeeling can be visited through out the year other than the months of July August and September due to monsoon. During March to May and October & November weather is pleasant and is the most popular months to visit. December to February is time to experience the winter chill and snow if you are lucky enough.

Q: How many days are enough to cover a Darjeeling tour?
A: You can cover all the important Darjeeling tourist places, with excursions to Mirik and a visit to a tea estate, in a stay of 3 Nights & 4 days. However 2 nights stay is most popular among tourist.

Q: How can I plan Darjeeling tour?

A: If you are planning to visit only Darjeeling you need 3 Days or 4 days maximum. But if you are planning to club your tour with Sikkim or Kalimpong then a 2 Nights stay will be sufficient.

Q: Is there snowfall in Darjeeling?

A: No, not every year. Some times during winters during Winter months of December and January there is snowfall.

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Q: What is the best place to visit in Darjeeling?

A: Darjeeling boasts of some iconic places of tourist interest like the Padmaja Naidu Zoological Garden, Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, Mahakal Mandir and the famous Ropeway. Chowrasta (referred to as the mall) is the most famous hangout destination for both locals as well as tourists, the Glenaries Cafeteria, the Keventers, Planters Club, the tea garden and Tenzing rock are places worth visiting in a Darjeeling package tour.

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Transportation In & Around Darjeeling

In Darjeeling town, transportation options are somewhat limited due to its hilly terrain and narrow roads. However, there are several modes of transportation available for getting around the town:

1. Walking:
Many areas of Darjeeling town are pedestrian-friendly, especially around The Mall and Chowrasta Square. Walking is a great way to explore the town's narrow lanes, shops, and attractions. Plus, you'll get to enjoy the fresh mountain air and scenic views along the way.

2. Taxis:
Taxis are the most common mode of transportation in Darjeeling. You can easily find taxis at taxi stands or hail them on the street. They are relatively affordable and convenient for short distances within the town.

3. Shared Jeeps:
Shared jeeps are another popular option for getting around Darjeeling. They operate on fixed routes and are a cost-effective way to travel to nearby areas and attractions.

4. Toy Train:
The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, also known as the "Toy Train," is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular tourist attraction. While primarily a tourist attraction, it does offer transportation between Darjeeling and Ghoom. However, it's more of a leisurely way to travel rather than a practical mode for daily commuting.

5. Rented Vehicles:
Some visitors may choose to rent bicycles or motorcycles to explore Darjeeling and its surrounding areas at their own pace. However, keep in mind that the hilly terrain and narrow roads can make biking challenging for inexperienced riders.

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​​Darjeeling Tour Packages Activities, Sightseeing & Things To Do

Darjeeling boasts of some iconic places of tourist interest like the Padmaja Naidu Zoological Garden, Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, Mahakal Mandir and the famous Ropeway. Chowrasta (referred to as the mall) is the most famous hangout destination for both locals as well as tourists, the Glenaries Cafeteria, the Keventers, Planters Club, the tea garden and Tenzing rock are places worth visiting in a Darjeeling package tour. Also in Darjeeling tour packages you should not miss the tour to Tiger Hill, Batasia Loop, Ghoom monastery.  Unfortunately guests complain bout the tidiness and the congestion of unplanned development of the town. 

Darjeeling Zoo

Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park or Darjeeling Zoo is a specialized  for its conservation breeding program of Red Panda, Snow Leopards, Tibetan Wolf and other highly endangered animal species of Eastern Himalaya. Established in 1958 in Darjeeling for conservation and captive breeding of endangered Himalayan animal species and educating and create awareness among the local people and visitors on the importance of conservation of high altitude Himalayan Eco-system. INDIAN TIGER, SNOW LEOPARDS, BLACK LEOPARDS, COMMON LEOPARDS, CLOUDED LEOPARDS, TIBETAN WOLF,  ASIATIC BLACK BEAR,  LEOPARD CAT,  RED PANDA, GORAL They are small ungulates with a goat-like or antelope –like appearance, BLUE SHEEP, YAK, HIMALAYAN PALM CIVET, BARKING DEER, The Himalayan Salamander are some of the animals on display here.

The Himalayan Mountaineering Institute (HMI)

Founded in 1954. In a short time HMI became the centre of excellence in the field of mountaineering. Darjeeling is the  home town of Tenzing Norgay and was a very prominent hill station then, in the entire Himalayas, was chosen as the location of HMI. Tenzing Norgay’s and Edmund Hillarys ascent of Mount Everest (8848m /29,028Ft), in 1953, generated huge interest among the youth of India regarding the challenges and aventure of mountaineering. The Institute was started at Roy Villa at Lebong Cart Road initially. The HMI was later shifted to its present location in 1958. Besides being a mountaineering institute of repute, HMI is an important centre of tourist interest for people who come to visit Darjeeling. It also offers a magnificent view of the 8586 Meter high Kanchenjunga Peak, third highest in the world. In its 66 years of existence, the institute has trained huge number Indian and International students. HMI is considered as one of the most elite institution of mountaineering in the world.

​Tiger Hill Darjeeling

Tiger Hill offers breathtaking views of the sunrise over the Himalayas, including the majestic Mount Kangchenjunga, the third highest peak in the world. Tiger Hill is located about 11 kilometers (6.8 miles) from the town of Darjeeling and at an altitude of around 2,590 meters (8,497 feet) above sea level. Tiger Hill is famous for its panoramic views of the sunrise over the Himalayas. On clear mornings, visitors can witness the spectacle of the sun illuminating the snow-capped peaks, including Mount Kangchenjunga, in brilliant hues of orange and gold. Apart from Mount Kangchenjunga, Tiger Hill offers stunning views of other peaks in the Himalayan range, including Mount Everest on clear days. The best time to visit Tiger Hill is during the early morning hours to witness the sunrise. It's advisable to arrive well before sunrise to secure a good viewing spot, as it can get crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Darjeeling Toy Train

The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, In 1999, UNESCO declared it a World Heritage Site. Daily tourist trains called The Joy ride from Darjeeling to Ghoom – India's highest railway station. The Batasia loop is 5 km (3.1 mi) from Darjeeling, below Ghoom Station. There is a memorial to the Gorkha soldiers of the Indian Army who sacrificed their lives after Indian independence in 1947. The loop has a panoramic view of Darjeeling, with Kangchenjunga and other snow-capped mountains in the background. The journey between Darjeeling To Ghoom Station by Darjeeling Joy Ride runs 4 times daily and takes about 40 minutes from Darjeeling to Ghoom and the return takes 30 minutes. So if you are planning a Darjeeling trip keep half day for that.

Mirik

​​Mirikis a popular tourist destination for its climate, natural beauty and easy accessibility near Darjeeling. The distance of Mirik from Darjeeling is 49 kms,  Kurseong 46 kms, Bagdogra 55 kms, and Siliguri is 52 kms. The main attraction of Mirik is the Sumendu lake, surrounded by a garden on one side and pine jungle on the hillocks on the other and linked together by an arching footbridge, Rainbow Bridge over the lake. A 3.5-km-long road encircles the lake and is used for walks with the view of Kanchenjunga on the horizon. Boating in the lake on quaint shikaras and pony riding are available for tourists.  White peaks of Kanchenjunga are clearly seen from Ramitey dara (mountain top) ascending uphill after crossing Samendu Dhap. At Ramitey dara, sunrise and sunset are really beautiful so is the panoramic view of the valley. Mirik actually has several sightseeing and tourist places other than the lake. Several nearby tea gardens, monasteries and temples, orange orchards, flower gardens including orchids and more. You can stay near the lake at many hotels or at  nearby homestays in Ramitey dara or Tabakoshi and enjoy a day or 2 enjoying nearby activities.

Trekking Darjeeling Sandakpu & Phalut

The Singalila National Park Trekking Sandakphu (11,938 ft) is the highest peak in the state of West Bengal. It is the highest point of the Singalila Ridge in Darjeeling district on the West Bengal-Nepal border. The peak boundaries Singalila National Park and has a small hamlet on the summit with a few places to stay. Four highest peaks in the world, Everest, Kangchenjunga, Lhotse and Makalu can be seen from Sandakphu. This trek to Sandhakphu can be undertaken in multiple ways. One can start the trek from Manebhanjan and take the Tonglu Tumling and reach Sandakphu staying at trekkers hut along the way. Also one can reach Srikhola which is directly accessible by road from Siliguri & Darjeeling and can undertake short day treks. You can call us on 9038055530 to get further details about the trek and accommodation. 

​The Darjeeling Mall

Often referred to simply as "The Mall," is the main commercial and social hub of Darjeeling town. It's a vibrant pedestrian-only street lined with shops, restaurants, cafes, and hotels. The Mall is located in the heart of Darjeeling town and stretches from Chowrasta Square to the Nehru Road junction. Chowrasta Square: At one end of The Mall is Chowrasta, a spacious public square with benches and a statue of Bhanubhakta Acharya, a Nepali poet. It's a popular spot for locals and tourists to relax and enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The Mall is lined with shops selling a variety of items such as souvenirs, handicrafts, woollen garments, tea, spices, and more. It's a great place to shop for local specialties and gifts. There are numerous eateries along The Mall offering a range of cuisines, from traditional Nepali and Tibetan dishes to international ones. Visitors can enjoy delicious food while taking in the bustling atmosphere of the street. The Mall often attracts street performers, artists, and musicians who entertain visitors with their talents, adding to the lively atmosphere. As you stroll along The Mall, you'll be treated to stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys, making it a picturesque setting for leisurely walks and people-watching. The Mall is a pedestrian-only zone, so vehicles are not allowed. This makes it a pleasant and safe area for pedestrians to explore. The Mall is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Darjeeling, offering a mix of shopping, dining, entertainment, and scenic beauty in one vibrant street.