Darjeeling, located in West Bengal is a beautiful hill station in India. Darjeeling includes the snow-capped peaks of Kanchenjunga, aromatic tea gardens, and immense scenic beauty. There are various options through which one can reach Darjeeling. It is a great place for family vacations and tourists as it offers a wide plethora of options. In this blog we will discuss about Best Places to Visit in Darjeeling, that you must know before planning your trip for this beautiful place.
Top 10 Best Places to Visit in Darjeeling.
1. Kanchenjunga – Third Heights Mountain in The World
The most attractive view in Darjeeling is the beautiful peaks of Kanchenjunga. Though it is not possible to visit the mountains closely, you can always opt for hotels that offer a good view of these mountains. It is one of the Best Places to Visit in Darjeeling.
Bonus Tip – Wear your thickest thermals, it’s going to be freezing.
2. Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park
Darjeeling has a wide variety of flora and fauna. If you’re a nature lover then the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park is the right pick for you. They have various animals like the clouded leopard, black leopard, and blue sheep. The place also has a museum within its premises. The museum replicates the local environment of the place. While visiting the Zoological Park, you can also pay a visit to the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute at the same location. The place provides a lot of knowledge about mountain climbing. The institute also offers courses for professionals. The entry fee is Rs.20 for Indians. The timings are from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm.
Bonus Tip – Make sure you have enough time to explore this place. Also, don’t forget to carry your camera.
3. For those interested in Ropeway, these are some Best Places to Visit in Darjeeling
3.1 Darjeeling Valley Ropeway
Another major place to visit for a fun activity is the Darjeeling Valley Ropeway. It provides a spectacular view of the Rangeet River along with the entire city.
3.2 Passenger Ropeway
Passenger ropeway is another ride that tourists often enjoy. It offers an inside view of the tea gardens from a height and the view is breathtaking.
4. All the early risers, here are some sunrise points
4.1 Tiger Hill
It is a must-visit place for anyone who visits Darjeeling. The view of the sunrise from this particular point is spectacular. However, one has to reach way before time for a good view and the place is crowded especially during the holiday season. You must also ensure to check for weather updates and fog before planning on visiting this place.
4.2 The Jhandi Dara Sunrise Point
It is a similar place with a beautiful view of the sunrise amidst the Kanchenjunga peaks. Thus it is a must for you to experience the beautiful sunrise in Darjeeling. It is one of the best Darjeeling Sightseeing Places.
Bonus Tip – Set an Alarm and be early!
5. The Observatory Hill – Best Places to Visit in Darjeeling
The Observatory Hill, near Chowrasta, has a beautiful walk-through for tourists. It allows them to enjoy the beauty of nature. Located near Chowrasta itself, the Himalayan Tibet Museum is also a good place. You can explore Tibetan history and culture. The place is a storehouse of various artifacts and memorials from the early natives of the city.
The Everest Museum is another great option as you get a chance to visit the brave memorials of mountain climbing and trekking.
Bonus Tip – Do not visit during rain as the view is very cloudy.
6. The Japanese Peace Pagoda
Another wonderful place to add to your bucket list would be the Japanese temple and Peace Pagoda. It is a tranquil place, especially for spiritual seekers. It offers a peaceful view of the city along with the mountains and valleys which truly shows Darjeeling in its full glory.
You can also visit the Tenzing and Gombu Rock named after the first person and his nephew who climbed Mount Everest.
7. All the peace lovers, Monasteries are a great option for you.
Darjeeling also has several monasteries. Those interested in history, spirituality, and culture can explore these.
Right from the Yiga Choeling Monastery built 150 years ago to the Ghoom Monastery, there are various options and Best Places to Visit in Darjeeling. Tibetan Buddhist Monastery, the Dali Monastery, and the Salugara Monastery are great options for tourists.
8. Don’t forget to visit the aromatic tea gardens
Visiting Darjeeling always brings one to the tea gardens. Tea gardens are the number one spot on the checklist for most tourists. Not visiting these is nothing less than a crime. There are various tea gardens all across the city. You can always visit them, sometimes even go inside and try on their traditional dress while posing for pictures.
The Puttabong Tea Estate is one of the most famous ones. You can visit this estate and have a great experience. Also, don’t forget to buy yourself and your friends and family packets of authentic Darjeeling tea.
Bonus Tip – Wait till you reach the inside of the tea gardens before buying tea packets.
9. For all those interested in Sightseeing,
here are some Darjeeling Sightseeing Places
The Coronation Bridge is another famous tourist spot and one of the Best Places to Visit in Darjeeling. The drive itself is very enjoyable. Suntalekhola is another must-visit place for nature lovers as it lies between two streams. It offers a calm environment to visitors.
If you have some time on hand, you can also visit the nearby city of Mirik and its famous Sumendu Lake. Mirik, again, is a true example of nature’s untainted beauty on Earth.
Bonus Tip – Wear comfortable clothes and shoes and hire a good taxi.
10. It’s time to shop!
Here are some Market Places listed among Best Places to Visit in Darjeeling
Darjeeling is also a great place for shoppers and their shopping sprees. The Nehru Road offers a great local marketplace for art and craft enthusiasts. The Teesta Bazaar near Kalimpong is another handicraft market and offers a variety of artifacts for buyers.
The Batasia Loop Market is mainly focused on clothing and delicacies. It’s more of a shopping place for families and couples. The Mall Road or the Sarojini Market of Darjeeling is the ultimate stop for all the hardcore shoppers. They can find everything here, right from clothing, jewelry, and accessories to home decor and food joints.
Pashupati Nagar Market is another spot that mainly deals with gifts, souvenirs, and imported products. You can also visit the Tibetan Refugee Centre. Refugees stay here and sell their handicrafts and artwork.
Bonus Tip – Try buying from the locals.
How To Reach Darjeeling
The nearest airport is in Bagdogra and one can hire a private taxi or cab to Darjeeling from there. The nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri (NJP). The Nearest Bus stand is Siliguri. Transport facilities are available for both shared and private basis nearby for reaching Darjeeling in easily by travelling 3 to 4 hours only.
Conclusion – Best Places to Visit in Darjeeling
Darjeeling is thus a must-visit place for people, especially on vacations. April to June is the ideal time for summer vacations. October and December would be ideal for those who love winters and mountains. I hope this helps those planning to visit Darjeeling and makes their trips even more memorable.
So grab your bags and get ready. Darjeeling is waiting for you.