Darjeeling, a beautiful hill station in West Bengal, India, is one of the most popular travel destinations in the country. Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, this picturesque town is famous for its stunning views of Mount Kanchenjunga, lush tea gardens, colonial charm, and vibrant culture. Whether you are an adventure enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply someone looking to relax, Darjeeling has something to offer for everyone. This article will take you through the things to do in Darjeeling and uncover some of the best things to do in Darjeeling to make your visit unforgettable.
1. Ride the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (Toy Train)
One of the top attractions in Darjeeling is the iconic Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, popularly known as the Toy Train. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a must-do when you are in the town. The narrow-gauge train ride takes you through a scenic journey of lush green hills, tea gardens, and small villages. The route from Darjeeling to Ghoom, the highest railway station in India, offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The toy train ride is not just a journey; it’s a step back in time to the colonial era when the train was the primary mode of transportation.
2. Visit Tiger Hill for a Majestic Sunrise
No trip to Darjeeling is complete without experiencing the sunrise at Tiger Hill. Located about 11 km from the town, Tiger Hill is renowned for its stunning sunrise views. On a clear morning, you can witness the sun’s first rays illuminating the peaks of Mount Kanchenjunga, the third-highest mountain in the world. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of Mount Everest in the distance. The sight of the snow-capped peaks turning golden as the sun rises is truly a magical experience and one of the best things to do in Darjeeling.
3. Explore the Tea Gardens
Darjeeling is synonymous with tea, and visiting its tea gardens is one of the top things to do in Darjeeling. The rolling tea estates, with their neatly lined tea bushes, create a picturesque landscape that is a photographer’s paradise. You can take guided tours of the tea gardens to learn about the tea production process, from plucking the leaves to processing and packaging. Some of the famous tea estates you can visit are Happy Valley Tea Estate, Glenburn Tea Estate, and Makaibari Tea Estate. Don’t forget to sip a cup of the world-famous Darjeeling tea while soaking in the serene environment.
4. Visit the Ghoom Monastery
The Yiga Choeling Monastery, commonly known as the Ghoom Monastery, is another popular tourist attraction. Located in the small town of Ghoom, just a few kilometers from Darjeeling, this monastery is one of the oldest Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in the region. The monastery houses a 15-foot-high statue of Maitreya Buddha (the future Buddha) and ancient Buddhist manuscripts. The peaceful ambiance and the panoramic view of the surrounding hills make the Ghoom Monastery a perfect place for spiritual reflection and meditation.
5. Walk Through the Mall Road
If you enjoy leisurely walks, Mall Road (Chowrasta) is the place to be. It’s the heart of Darjeeling, offering a blend of local culture, shopping, and a relaxed vibe. The area is lined with quaint shops selling handicrafts, woolens, and souvenirs. You can also stop by one of the many cafes and restaurants to enjoy a cup of tea while taking in the splendid view of the mountains. Mall Road is an ideal place for people-watching, meeting locals, and enjoying the town’s colonial charm. Walking down the mall, with the cool breeze and the sight of Kanchenjunga in the background, is one of the best things to do in Darjeeling.
6. Visit Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park
For wildlife enthusiasts, the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park is a must-visit. It is the largest high-altitude zoo in India and home to a variety of endangered species native to the Himalayas, including the red panda, snow leopard, Himalayan wolf, and Tibetan wolf. The zoo is well-maintained and focuses on conservation and breeding programs for endangered animals. If you’re traveling with family, especially kids, this is one of the best things to do in Darjeeling, as it offers both education and entertainment.
7. Explore the Peace Pagoda
The Peace Pagoda is another place to visit for those seeking tranquility and breathtaking views. Built under the guidance of Nichidatsu Fujii, a Buddhist monk from Japan, the pagoda stands as a symbol of peace and harmony. It is located on the slopes of the Jalapahar hill and offers panoramic views of the town and the surrounding mountains. The walk up to the pagoda through the forested path is calming, and once you reach the top, the sense of peace is truly palpable.
8. Trekking to Sandakphu
For the adventure seekers, trekking to Sandakphu is a thrilling experience. Sandakphu is the highest point in West Bengal and offers a panoramic view of four of the five highest peaks in the world—Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, and Makalu. The trek is challenging, but the reward is worth the effort as you pass through beautiful landscapes of rhododendron forests, bamboo groves, and alpine meadows. The trek can be done in a span of a few days, and it’s recommended to go with a local guide.
9. Visit the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute
Established in 1954, the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute (HMI) is one of the oldest mountaineering institutes in the world. It was set up to promote mountaineering as a sport and to honor the achievement of Tenzing Norgay, one of the first two individuals to reach the summit of Mount Everest. The institute has a museum where you can learn about the history of mountaineering in the Himalayas, including artifacts from various expeditions. The HMI also offers mountaineering courses for adventure enthusiasts.
10. Visit Batasia Loop
The Batasia Loop is another must-see spot, especially if you’re a fan of scenic train journeys. This spiral railway track is located 5 km from Darjeeling and is part of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. It was designed to help the Toy Train negotiate the steep descent from Ghoom. The beautifully landscaped garden surrounding the loop offers panoramic views of the mountains, including the majestic Kanchenjunga. There is also a war memorial in the center, dedicated to Gorkha soldiers who lost their lives in various wars.
11. Explore Rock Garden and Ganga Maya Park
The Rock Garden, also known as Barbotey Rock Garden, is a man-made marvel nestled in the lap of nature. This multi-tiered garden is built around a natural waterfall and offers beautiful landscaping with terraced seating areas, flower beds, and small pools. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy a picnic with family or friends. A few kilometers ahead of the Rock Garden is Ganga Maya Park, which has boating facilities and is ideal for spending a peaceful afternoon.
12. Try Local Food and Delicacies
A trip to Darjeeling is incomplete without indulging in the local cuisine. The food in Darjeeling is influenced by Nepalese, Tibetan, and Bengali cuisines. Some of the must-try dishes include momos (steamed dumplings), thukpa (noodle soup), sel roti (a traditional Nepali bread), and churpee (a local cheese made from yak milk). Visit the local eateries and cafes to savor these delicious delicacies, which are a part of Darjeeling’s rich culinary heritage.
13. Visit St. Andrew’s Church
Located near Mall Road, St. Andrew’s Church is an old colonial-era church built in 1843. This serene church is an architectural gem with stained glass windows and wooden pews. The calm and peaceful environment of the church provides a perfect place to spend some quiet moments.
Conclusion
Darjeeling is a town that offers an eclectic mix of nature, culture, adventure, and history. Whether it’s riding the toy train, trekking to Sandakphu, sipping tea at a local estate, or simply soaking in the view of the Kanchenjunga, the list of things to do in Darjeeling is endless. From exploring monasteries and pagodas to enjoying local delicacies and scenic walks, the town offers a unique blend of experiences that cater to all kinds of travelers.
