The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway or Darjeeling Toy Train is the first attraction that you should experience. It’s one of the most popular things to do in India, after all. This toy train runs from New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling and covers 88 km of scenic beauty and mesmerizing views. The highlight is that this is the second train in the world to be declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999 because it’s a marvel that such a small steam engine can travel up the mountains pulling the mini coaches along. Several movies, including a scene of the iconic Bollywood movie “Parineeta” were filmed in this train. In recent years, two more railway lines have been added, and they are now famous as the Mountain Railways of India. This attraction should definitely be on your list of places to visit in Darjeeling.
Darjeeling Toy Train journey:
- Darjeeling to Ghum
- Siliguri Junction to Rangtong Station
Darjeeling Toy Train timings:
- Darjeeling to Ghum and back – 7:40 A.M to 4:20 P.M
- Siliguri to Rangtong and back: 10:30 A.M to 1:35 P.M
How to book tickets for Darjeeling Toy Train: You can book the train tickets through the Indian Railway’s official website or at the reservation counter on the station
Darjeeling Toy Train travel tips:
- Book your tickets beforehand
- Reach the station before time
Things to do in Darjeeling Toy Train: Enjoy the scenic view of Kanchenjunga Mountain and other scenic attractions
Attractions near Darjeeling Toy Train: Kanchenjunga Mountain, Tiger Hill, Himalayan Mountaineering Institute
Restaurants near Darjeeling Toy Train: Baker’s Village, Mezbaan, Dark Horse Cafe
Hotels near Darjeeling Toy Train: Goomtea Tea Garden Retreat, Kurseong Tourist Lodge, Orange County Retreat
How to reach Darjeeling Toy Train: You can take a flight to Bagdogra Airport and then take a taxi to Darjeeling. You can also travel via bus from nearby states. From Darjeeling, you can take a cab to reach the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Station
2. Tiger Hill: A Romantic Escapade to Witness a Stunning Sunrise
Tiger Hill is one of the most magnificent viewpoints because it overlooks the Kanchenjunga Mountain. Watching the sunrise from here is a whole other feeling as you can see the mountain glowing even before the sun fully rises. You’ll have to trek to reach the top of this hill, but it’s absolutely worth it because of the captivating scene playing in front of you. The chilly weather, lush greenery, clear blue sky, and the glorious Kanchenjunga Mountains. It’s the perfect combination to turn this into a cherished memory. This hill is also the summit of Ghoom, the highest point of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. It’s among the famous places to visit in Darjeeling for couples, so if you want your trip to be an iconic one, then you must visit this location.
Tiger Hill timings: 4 A.M to 6 P.M
Tiger Hill travel tips:
- It’s ideal to start the trek by 3:30 A.M, so that you reach the top around 4:15 A.M
- Wear comfortable shoes with a firm grip
- Dress up in comfortable clothes
- Stay hydrated
Things to do at Tiger Hill: Watch a glorious sunrise, enjoy the trekking route
Attractions near Tiger Hill: Peace Pagoda, Rock Garden, Batasia Eco Garden
Restaurants near Tiger Hill: Dekevas Restaurant, SuzAm’s Café and Kitchen, Nanglo Cafe
Hotels near Tiger Hill: Singom Tea Estate and Resort, Mayfair Darjeeling, Little Tibet Resort
How to reach Tiger Hill: You can take a cab from Darjeeling and reach the hill, or you could board a bus from nearby cities like Siliguri, Bagdogra, etc. A jeep ride from Chowrasta, Alubari or Jore Bangla is also a convenient option
3. Rock Garden: Relax in this Man-Made Garden with Gorgeous Attractions
Rock Garden is a man-made garden with a bounty of scenic beauties, such as waterfalls, vibrant flora, and much more. It’s one of the most famous places to visit in Darjeeling in 1 day because it’s an ideal spot for relaxing, having a picnic, and spending quality time. You can watch the Chunnu Summer Fall, which is a natural fall surrounded by a variety of flora or you could sit by the serene stream flowing through the garden. There are also tea gardens around this place and a lake, which enhances its beauty even more. It’s one of the Darjeeling places to visit in December because it’ll allow you to take in the crisp air and cold surroundings. You’ll definitely get the suggestion of visiting the rock garden whenever you plan a trip to Darjeeling.
Rock Garden timings: 10 A.M to 4 P.M
Rock Garden travel tips:
- Don’t litter the area
- Don’t pluck the flowers or harm the flora in any way
Things to do at Rock Garden: Relax and unwind, listen to the sound of the waterfall, enjoy a picnic
Attractions near Rock Garden: Ganga Maya Park, Batasia Loop, Yiga Choeling Monastery
Restaurants near Rock Garden: Sonam’s Kitchen, Dekevas Restaurant, Tom & Jerry’s
Hotels near Rock Garden: Singom Tea Estate & Resort, Sterling Darjeeling, Udaan Himalayan Suites and Spa
How to reach the Rock Garden: You can board a bus to Siliguri or Takdah bus stand and then take a taxi to reach the garden
4. Singalila National Park: Explore the Wildlife Haven of Darjeeling
The Singalila National Park is the highest park in West Bengal at an altitude of 7000 ft. above sea level. The biodiversity in this national park would amaze you, from the exotic flora and rare species of animals to other breathtaking attractions, there’s a lot to look forward to here. The highlight, however, is the mesmerizing view of the Himalayan peak. Also, this is one of the parks that is home to the Red Panda and Himalayan Black Bear. It’s an ideal place for trekking as well because of the mountainous terrain, which is why visiting this place is one of the things to do in Darjeeling. You’ll come across Tigers, Clouded Leopards, Barking Deer, Yellow Throated Marten, Pangolin, etc. This park was named after the Singalila Spur that runs through this entire region from the Kanchenjunga Mountain. It’s among the best places to visit in Darjeeling.
Singalila National Park timings: 6 A.M to 7 P.M
Park is closed from June to September due to monsoon
Singalila National Park travel tips:
- Don’t disturb the animals
- Maintain a safe distance from the animals
- Wear comfortable shoes for trekking
- Carry food and water for the journey
- Don’t feed the animals
- You must get a permit from the Forest Department to explore the forest deeper
Things to do at Singalila National Park: Observing the animals, camping, bird watching, clicking photographs, trekking
Attractions near Singalila National Park: Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary, Phalut, Srikhola Bridge
Hotels near Singalila National Park: Summit Hermon Hotel & Spa, Summit Swiss Heritage Hotel & Spa, Ramada
How to reach Singalila National Park: You can take a train to Ghum and then travel via a taxi the rest of the way, or you can drive to the park from nearby areas
5. Japanese Peace Pagoda: A Symbol of Unity and Harmony
This Japanese Peace Pagoda in Darjeeling was established as a symbol of unity and harmony among different sects in the society. You’ll experience utmost peace and tranquility at this place with the views of the Kanchenjunga Mountain. The Peace Pagoda includes four avatars of Lord Buddha and is open to people of all religions. There are 30 similar structures around the world and one of them is in Darjeeling. It’s among the places to visit in India because of its symbolic meaning and the intention behind it. It’s also an amazing place for meditating in a quiet environment. Nichidatsu Fujii, a Japanese Buddhist Monk laid the foundation for this structure in 1972, and it has gained a lot of popularity since then.
Peace Pagoda timings: 4 A.M to 7 P.M; the prayer timings are from 4:30 A.M to 6 A.M and 4:30 P.M to 6 P.M
Peace Pagoda travel tips:
- Wear modest clothes
- Respect the culture and traditions
Things to do at Peace Pagoda: Meditate, explore the structure, soak in the positive vibes
Attractions near Peace Pagoda: Tiger Hill, Yiga Choeling Monastery, Himalayan Mountaineering Institute
Restaurants near Peace Pagoda: Kushal Restaurant, Kunga Restaurant, Tom & Jerry’s
Hotels near Peace Pagoda: Udaan Himalayan Suites and Spa, Hotel Villa Everest, Cedar Inn
How to reach Peace Pagoda: You can ride on the Darjeeling Toy Train and then take a car to this monument
6. Happy Valley Tea Estate: One of the Oldest Tea Estates in the City
When you’re adding the places to visit in Darjeeling to your itinerary, don’t miss out on this second oldest tea estate in the city. It’s the perfect destination for nature lovers to spend time in the foothills of Himalaya, with vast expanse of shrubs as far as the eyes can see. The aroma of fresh tea leaves emanating from this plantation would teleport you to a happy place, maybe that’s why it’s named such. You can take a tour of the estate, learn about the varieties of tea, the organic methods used to ensure high quality tea leaves, and so on. There’s also a tea tasting session that you must participate in to experience the different teas. You can even buy the ones you like.
Happy Valley Tea Estate timings: 8 A.M to 4 P.M; closed on Sunday and Monday
Happy Valley Tea Estate travel tips:
- Take a tour of the estate
- Wear comfortable shoes
- Don’t harm the shrubs
Things to do at Happy Valley Tea Estate: Explore the tea estate, indulge in a tea tasting session
Attractions near Happy Valley Tea Estate: Observatory Hill Viewpoint, Batasia Loop, Peace Pagoda
Restaurants near Happy Valley Tea Estate: Hot Stimulating Café, Sandakphu, New Kalika Restaurant
Hotels near Happy Valley Tea Estate: Mayfair Darjeeling, Little Tibet Resort, Crescent Resort
How to reach Happy Valley Tea Estate: You can reach this estate via a taxi or car via the Lebong Cart Road, or you can reach there from the Chowk Bazar
7. Old Ghoom Monastery: The Oldest Tibetan Buddhist Monastery
Old Ghoom Monastery, also known as Yiga Choeling Monastery was established by Lama Sherab Gytaso and is part of the Yellow Hat sect that worship the “Coming Buddha” or Maitreyi Buddha. When you entire the monastery, you’ll witness a glorious sight of a 15 ft. Maitreyi Buddha made entirely of clay. You’ll also come across several rare Buddhist scripts and the view from the outside with the magnificent Kanchenjunga Mountain and the colorful prayer flags is a sight to behold. There are two oil lamps in front of the statue that burn the entire year, but the highlight is that there are paintings on the wall placed in a sequence, so that it’s easier for the visitor to understand the Buddhist philosophy it depicts. There’s also a Kali temple on the hilltop above the monastery, where people go to seek blessings of Ma Kali.
Old Ghoom Monastery timings: 9 A.M to 6 P.M
Old Ghoom Monastery travel tips:
- Dress up in decent clothes
- Respect the culture and traditions
Things to do at Old Ghoom Monastery: Sit in the tranquil environment, marvel at the beauty of the monastery
Attractions near Old Ghoom Monastery: Peace Pagoda, Batasia Loop, Rock Garden
Restaurants near Old Ghoom Monastery: Misty Mountain Restaurant, Santa Banta Dhaba, Himalayan Coffee
Hotels near Old Ghoom Monastery: Sterling Darjeeling, Summit Grace Hotel and Spa, Udaan Hotel Zambala Retreat
How to reach Old Ghoom Monastery: You can either reach there via car through the Hill Cart Road or you can reach the Ghoom Railway Station and then walk up to the monastery
8. Observatory Hill: Visit this Spectacular Viewpoint for a Mesmerizing Time
This Observatory Hill in Darjeeling is among the famous places to visit in Darjeeling because of the stunning views it offers of the various Hindu and Buddhist temples, such as Kanchenjunga Temple, Mahakal Temple, and Tibetan Memorial Shrine. You’ll have to trek to the top of this hill, but the journey is quite fulfilling with colorful flags decorating the path and beautiful shrines on the way. There are even benches for old people to relax for a while since it’s approximately a 15-minute walk. The picturesque views from the top are worth the effort; therefore, you must add this place to your bucket list when vacationing in Darjeeling.
Observatory Hill timings: 7 A.M to 7 P.M
Observatory Hill travel tips:
- Wear comfortable shoes with a firm grip
- Stay hydrated
Things to do at Observatory Hill: Trek to the top of the hill, admire the beautiful shrines, lose yourself in the mesmerizing view from the top
Attractions near Observatory Hill: Mall Road, Mahakal Temple, Kanchenjunga Temple, Tibetan Memorial Shrine
Restaurants near Observatory Hill: Lion Gate, Nathmull Tea, Orchid Restaurant
Hotels near Observatory Hill: Udaan Nirvana Resort Darjeeling, Central Gleneagles Heritage Resort, Windamere Hotel
How to reach Observatory Hill: You can take a cab or taxi to the base of the Observatory Hill and then climb uphill to reach the top
9. Lepchajagat: Surround Yourself with Natural Beauty
Lepchajagat is a small village in Darjeeling, which is popular for its pines, oaks and rhododendrons forests. The abundance of natural beauty in this village is ideal to spend some peaceful downtime here. The tranquil surroundings and lush greenery would instantly rejuvenate you. If you’re seeking an ideal destination for honeymoon in India, then Darjeeling is the right option because of such breathtaking locations it nestles in it. The best part of visiting this village is the alluring view of the Kanchenjunga Mountain. The beauty of this village and its forests has been protected and preserved by turning it into a reserved forest area.
Best time to visit Lepchajagat: October to April
Things to do at Lepchajagat: Explore the dense forests, relax under the shade of the trees, view the glorious Kanchenjunga peak
Attractions near Lepchajagat: Hawa Ghar, Ghum Rock, Jhorpokhri, Ghoom Monastery
Hotels near Lepchajagat: Lepchajagat Home Stay, Lepchaview Home Stay, Green Valley Home Stay
How to reach Lepchajagat: You can travel here from Darjeeling via a cab or taxi
10. Batasia Loop: The Highlight of the Darjeeling Toy Train Journey
Here’s another reason why you should go for a ride on the Darjeeling Toy Train because it goes through the Batasia Loop, which is a famous railway path in the city. It’s a point where the train track wraps itself around the hilltop tunnel and gives a complete 360-degree view. The magnificent view of the hill station with verdant greenery and mist-covered mountains is an absolutely breathtaking sight. You’ll regret not having included this attraction as one of the places to visit in Darjeeling. Traveling on this path is an entirely different feeling altogether that you must experience.
Batasia Loop timings: 5 A.M to 8 P.M
Attractions near Batasia Loop: Eco Garden, War Memorial
FAQs
Q1. What are the 5 famous places in Darjeeling?
There are many places in Darjeeling that are gorgeous, but these 5 places are a must visit:
- Batasia Loop
- Observatory Hill
- Japanese Peace Pagoda
- Happy Valley Tea Estate
- Tiger Hill
Q2. What is Darjeeling famous for?
Darjeeling’s famous for its tea estates and the Himalayan Railway or Toy Train, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Q3. Which month is best for Darjeeling?
March to May or September to November are ideal months for exploring this city and its numerous glorious attractions.
Q4. How many days are enough for Darjeeling?
3 to 4 days are enough to visit Darjeeling and to explore all the mesmerizing locations here. You can even extend your trip because this hill station would make you fall in love with it.
Q5. What are the famous temples in Darjeeling?
There are several famous Darjeeling temples that you can visit to seek blessings, such as Mahakal Temple, Shiva Mandir, Pranami Mandir, Japanese Buddhist Temple, etc.
Q6. Why Tiger Hill is famous in Darjeeling?
Tiger Hill’s a famous tourist spot because of the splendid views it offers of the Kanchenjunga Mountains, especially during sunrise and sunset. You’ll have to trek to the top of the hill for this magnificent view.
Q7. What is the famous food of Darjeeling?
Darjeeling’s famous food is Kwati, a Gorkha delicacy that you must try on your trip to this city. Apart from that, Thukpa, Nepali Thali, Churpees, Momos, etc. are also famous dishes of Darjeeling.
Q8. What places to visit in Darjeeling with family?
Q8. What places to visit in Darjeeling with family?