Places to visit in Darjeeling

Darjeeling is a picturesque hill station located in the state of West Bengal, India. Darjeeling height is around 2000 metres above sea level. The hill station is nestled in the high Himalayas, offering stunning views of snow-capped peaks, including the majestic Mount Kanchenjunga, the third-highest mountain in the world. Known for its lush tea gardens, Darjeeling produces some of the world's finest tea.  It's famed for the distinctive black tea grown on plantations that dot its surrounding slopes.

Once a summer resort for the British Raj, it remains the terminus of the narrow-gauge Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, or Toy Train.

History of Darjeeling:

Before the British arrived, Darjeeling was a small settlement under the rule of various local chieftains and the Sikkimese kingdom. It was predominantly inhabited by the Lepchas, Bhutias, and other indigenous communities. The British East India Company first became interested in Darjeeling in the early 19th century. In 1828, it was purchased from the Sikkimese ruler by the British as a strategic location for a sanatorium and a hill station. This was formalised in 1835, when the British East India Company formally acquired the region.
By the 1850s, Darjeeling was developed as a hill station for British officers and their families seeking respite from the heat of the Indian plains. The construction of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, completed in 1881, further boosted its development as a popular tourist destination. The toy train, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, still remains a charming symbol of this era.

The Importance of Tea in Darjeeling’s History:

Tea holds a central place in Darjeeling's identity and economy.
In the 1850s, British planters began cultivating tea in Darjeeling, which rapidly became renowned for its distinctive flavour and quality. The region's unique climate and soil conditions proved ideal for growing high-quality tea, which quickly gained international recognition for its unique flavour and aroma. 
The tea industry has also been a major economic driver in Darjeeling. The establishment of tea estates created jobs, contributed to infrastructure development, and helped shape the local economy. Today, Darjeeling tea remains one of the most sought-after varieties in the world.

Tea in Darjeeling is more than just a commodity; it is a crucial part of the local culture and heritage. The cultivation of tea is embedded into the social and cultural fabric of the region, influencing local festivals, traditions, and daily life. Darjeeling tea has been granted the GI or  Geographical Indication status, which protects the name "Darjeeling" and ensures that only tea grown in the designated regions can be labelled as such. This status helps preserve the quality and reputation of Darjeeling tea
The tea industry is a significant part of Darjeeling's economy and cultural identity.

The town is notable for its colonial architecture, bustling markets, and unique cultural blend of Tibetan, Nepali, and Indian influences. Among the many popular places to visit and activities to do, here are a few which should be on everyone’s list when visiting Darjeeling :

1. Popular Tourist Spots in Darjeeling -

Sandakphu Phalut Trek is a must-visit experience for tourists coming to Darjeeling. It is famous for its breathtaking sunrise views over the Kanchenjunga range. One can see the first light of day hitting the snow-capped peaks. One should start in the early morning and reach the spot well before dawn to witness daybreak.

Peace Pagoda located at the top of Jalapahar hill offers serene surroundings and views of Darjeeling. It is part of a global network of pagodas promoting world peace.
The Japanese Temple, also within the same compound known as the Nipponzan Myohoji Buddhist Temple,  is a peaceful spot with a beautiful garden and offers a tranquil atmosphere for meditation.

Darjeeling Zoo which is officially known as the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, is a conservation centre of high-altitude species such as the red panda, snow leopard,  Himalayan black bear, blue sheep and wolf.
The Himalayan Mountaineering Institute which is located beside the zoo, was founded by Tenzing Norgay and it is dedicated for mountaineering and offers a museum showcasing the history of climbing in the Himalayas.

The Lloyd Botanical Garden is a great place to explore a wide variety of plants and flowers, including some native to the region. It is best to visit during the daytime in the spring and summer season.

The Batasia Loop is a unique railway loop in Darjeeling  where the DHR Toy train makes a complete circle, offering panoramic views of the surrounding hills and the town of Darjeeling. It also features a small park and a  war memorial.

Happy Valley Tea Estate is  located just outside Darjeeling and offers guided tours where you can learn about the tea-making process and sample some fresh Darjeeling tea. One can also purchase tea which is plucked straight from the garden.

Other popular places to visit within the town are Barbotey Rock Garden, Sanga Choeling Monastery or Dali Gumba,  Rangit Valley Cable Car Project or  Singamari Ropeway,  Tibetan Refugee Self Help Center and ofcourse Mall Road Chowrasta.

2. MTB (Mountain Biking at Chatakpur) -

For the adventure junkies, North Bengal’s Chatakpur Mountain Bike trail is the biggest adrenaline rush one can experience in the Himalayas. It was inaugurated in 2017 and is India’s first mountain bike park. The trail is a 20-km dirt trail that stretches from the Senchal Wildlife Sanctuary near Jorbangla and ends at the State Tourism guest house in Chatakpur.

The path is laced with verdant greens, pine forests and shrubs with a  stone and mud track. Along the way one can also come across Himalayan birds like the Yellow Throated Woodpecker, Hornbill, Asian Emerald Cuckoo, Black Backed Pheasant etc.
One needs to carry water and snacks along the way as there are no shops in  between the trail. 
Only once you reach the guest house, there are food stalls and restaurants as well as washroom facilities available. There are also lodges and basic homestays where you can even rest for the day or spend a short vacation after your biking adventure is over.
To go mountain biking in Chatakpur, your travel agent can arrange a tour which provides a bike, headgear and a guide for the day.

3. Full Moon Tea Plucking in Darjeeling:

The enchanting ritual of full moon tea plucking is not just about harvesting leaves; it is a celebration of nature's abundance and the timeless bond between humans and the land. 
For generations, full moon teas have been considered the most prized teas because of the belief that the full moon's gravitational pull enhances the flavour and energy within each tea leaf plucked.
This special tea is picked by the garden's most experienced tea pickers as the full moon rises.
In the quaint tea gardens of Darjeeling, when the moon casts its luminous glow upon the fragrant tree shrubs, a mystical ritual unfolds under the cover of the night sky.

Known as the Silver Tips Imperial, it’s only plucked by expert pickers from the Makaibari estate on clear, full-moon nights when the planets align to produce optimal harvest conditions. This mystical Oolong isn’t only cosmic, it’s also costly.  In 2014, it sold for the equivalent of $1,850 per kg, making it the most expensive tea ever produced in India. Silver Tips Imperial can only be picked four to five times during the seven-month season and workers must race to finish harvesting the tea by midnight.
It takes about 200 kgs of leaves to make 50 kgs of processed Silver Tips Imperial

To be  a part of this unique ritual you can book an experience with OurGuest.

4. DHR Toy Train Joy Ride in Darjeeling:

The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway  or DHR,  is a remarkable and historic railway system. It is often referred to as the Toy Train due to its narrow gauge. The DHR was inaugurated in 1881, making it one of the oldest narrow-gauge railways in the world.
It was built to connect the hill station of Darjeeling with the plains of Bengal, providing a crucial link for the transportation of the region's tea industry.
The railway line is renowned for its engineering ingenuity as it traverses steep gradients and sharp curves, including a series of loops and reverses that help it climb the challenging terrain. 
One of its most famous features is the Batasia Loop, a spiral loop that allows the train to gain altitude while offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
In 1999, the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in recognition of its outstanding universal value.
People seeking a nostalgic and picturesque travel experience can opt for the Toy Train experience. It  features both the steam and diesel locomotives, with tourists favouring the steam engine over the diesel one for its vintage appeal.

Tickets can be bought online from the DHR official website with the most popular route being the 2 hour round trip joy ride from Darjeeling to Ghoom station.

5. Classic Land Rover Ride to Sandakhphu -

The Sandakphu Land Rover Experience is a thrilling off-road adventure that takes you from Maneybhanjyang to Sandakphu, the highest point in West Bengal.
One of the unique aspects of this area is its association with classic Land Rover vehicles. The land Rovers in Maneybhanjyang are integral to the region's transportation network, particularly for accessing remote areas like Sandakphu.
These vehicles have been used for decades, and their rugged design and reliability make them well-suited for the challenging terrain.

Sandakphu is a popular destination for trekking and panoramic views of the Himalayas which can be viewed at 360 degree. The image resembles that of the Sleeping Buddha, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayan range, including iconic peaks like Kanchenjunga, Everest, and Makalu.
The drive to Sandakphu involves navigating steep, winding, and narrow rugged paths. The vehicles are specially equipped to handle these challenging conditions, and the experience allows you to witness the off-road capabilities of the Land Rover.
Professional guides usually accompany the trip to ensure safety and offer support during the journey. The Land Rover trip is part of the Sandakphu Phalut Trek and the experience is best enjoyed during the Spring and Autumn months when weather conditions are more favourable, from March to June and September to November.

You can book the Sandakphu Phalut Trek with OurGuest or simply book the Land Rover ride.

6.  Local Culinary Gems -

Darjeeling boasts a vibrant food scene with hidden gems that offer unique and authentic flavours. Here are some popular as well as lesser known culinary treasures in Darjeeling that every food enthusiast should definitely explore.

Beef/Chicken Shapta with Ting Mo at Blind Date
Pork Taipo at Chogyal Restaurant popularly known as Choks
Chicken/Pork Thentuk and steamed momo from Kunga
Tuna Sandwich at Boney’s
Baked goods especially tea cakes and pork sausage roll at Glenarys
Puff Biscuits and fruit cake at Wallis
Keema Bun at Kalden Cafe
Breakfast Meat Platter at Keventers
Veg Thali at Hasty Tasty
Paratha With Bheja Fry at Anjuman
Tahkali Set and Sekuwa at Kathmandu Kitchen
Darjeeling Tea at Teattoria by Golden Tips

These food gems offer a delightful mix of traditional and unique flavours, providing an authentic taste of Darjeeling’s rich culinary landscape.

7.  Darjeeling Guided Walk -

The true essence of Darjeeling can also be enjoyed with a guided walk around town hosted by OurGuest. This walk takes you through some of the major landmarks and monuments of the historical town as well as a visit to the local markets and food joints. 
The walk will be an informative four to five hour session that takes you across scenic landscapes traversing the zigzagging hilly roads. It is an excellent way to explore the town's rich cultural heritage, stunning scenery, and unique attractions like historic buildings, old churches, and colonial-era institutions.
The walk delves into the local culture and daily life of Darjeeling’s diverse communities, including Tibetan, Nepali, and Indian influences.
You can also customise the guided walk based on your interests.

The history of Darjeeling is a testament to its strategic importance, colonial legacy, and the enduring spirit of its people. It remains a symbol of the picturesque charm and cultural diversity of the Indian Himalayan region. The town's architecture, tea estates, and its unique blend of cultures and traditions attract visitors from around the world.

We also recommend to stay in a homestay in Darjeeling if possible. There are some nice homestays who offer very good hospitality. North Point Homestay in Darjeeling is a very nice homestay run by an elderly couple, not to far from the main centre.
 

Written by Prerna: The Curious Traveller
Prerna, a seasoned travel & hospitality expert, isn't just a writer – she's a curator of experiences. Leading OurGuest's operations at The Barfung Retreat, she leverages her extensive background at Taj, Hyatt, ITC, and more. A Master's graduate in English Literature, Prerna's passion for storytelling is fueled by her childhood spent traversing India with her police officer father. Fluent in Bengali, Hindi, English, and Nepali, she fosters genuine connections across cultures. Join Prerna as she unveils the hidden gems and vibrant soul of Northeast India, one captivating story at a time.

For a customized Darjeeling tour experience you can contact us at +91-7669503993 or email to contact@ourguest.in