Major Attractions of Darjeeling
Darjeeling Himalayan Railway
This colonial-era toy train, commissioned in 1881, chugs along the picturesque route from New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling. Passing through high altitude passes, reverses, and loops along precipitous terrains; this toy train is a delightful experience for both adults and kids.
Japanese Peace Pagoda
Built by the Nipponzan Myohoji Buddhist Order, this dazzling white structure showcases the four avatars of Buddha and is erected to propagate world peace and prosperity.
Tiger Hill
Tiger Hill is a perfect spot to catch the first sun rays as the dawn spreads its wings over the majestic Himalayas. Take a jeep ride at 4 am to witness the glittering Mount Everest and Kanchenjunga peaks.
Observatory Hill and Mahakal Temple
A trail off the Mall Road leads up to the Observatory Hill, where you are greeted by gorgeous scenery and the holy Mahakal Temple. Sacred to both Hindus and Buddhists, the temple shrine is managed by a Hindu priest, and a Buddhist Lama.
Ghoom Monastery / Yiga Choeling Monastery
A short drive from Darjeeling takes you to the beautiful monastery of Ghoom. Built-in 1875, this yellow-hat monastery is much known for its 15ft statue of Maitreya Buddha, the biggest & oldest Buddha statue in the region.
Singalila National Park
Tall rows of rhododendrons, with patches of bright red blooms, mark the boundary of Singalila National Park. Its fascinating trails are a delight for trekkers and nature lovers. Home to the elusive red panda, black Himalayan bear, and blossoming orchids; Singalila Park is a popular attraction of Darjeeling.
Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park
This Darjeeling zoo is home to the endangered red pandas and snow leopards along with other rare Himalayan animals like Himalayan Salamanders, Tibetan wolf, and Siberian tigers. The zoo also runs a breeding program for red pandas and snow leopards.
Other Attractions of Darjeeling
- Batasia Loop- A spiral railway track with a perfectly landscaped park
- Happy Valley Tea Estate
- Neora Valley National Park
- Rock Garden
Nearby Excursions
Kalimpong (50kms) – Kalimpong is a bustling market town known for its panoramic views, white water rafting, monasteries, orchid centers and charming colonial architecture.
Fairs & Festivals of Darjeeling
- Losar- Tibetan New Year
- Tendong Lho Rumfaat- Lepchas Tribe Festival
- Cham Dance- Tibetan Festival
- Buddha Jayanti- Celebrating Buddha’s birth, enlightenment and Nirvana
- Teesta Rangeet Tourism Festival- A cultural festival
- Chaita Dasai- Celebrating the birth of Lord Rama
Shopping in Darjeeling
Darjeeling Tea, bamboo artifacts, scroll paintings, and Tibetan artifacts are some of the great souvenirs you may pick from the Mall Road in Darjeeling.
Food in Darjeeling
Darjeeling’s diverse population of Nepalis, Lepchas, Bhutias, Tibetans, and Gorkhas reflects in the variety & flavors of its cuisine. Momos & Thupka, Nepali Aloo Dum, Churpee (yak cheese), Shaphalay, and leafy Gundruk; the food here offers a lot of variety. Do try quirky cafes on the Mall Road to catch the distinct taste of Darjeeling.
Best time to Visit
Darjeeling is a destination for all seasons. However, the peak tourist season is from March to June in summers and from October to December in winter.
How to Reach Darjeeling
By Air- Bagdogra International Airport, around 70 kilometers from Darjeeling, caters to both domestic & international air traffic.
By Rail- New Jalpaiguri railhead, around 60kms from Darjeeling, is the closest railway station. You may also board the toy train from here.
By Road- Darjeeling is connected to major cities in the country by a well-maintained network of roads & highways.
Book a Darjeeling and Sikkim Tour Package to explore this gorgeous Himalayan realm. A gateway to the north-east, Darjeeling beckons you for a cozy vacation in the backdrop of the majestic Kanchenjunga. Please call us to find out more about travel discounts and personalized itineraries to ensure you a happy, comfortable, and memorable vacation.
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