Early morning flight from Kolkata to Bagdogra shortens travel time (approx 1h15m–1h30m) and gives maximum daylight in Darjeeling; flights typically start early—book a 6:00–7:30am slot. Arrive at Bagdogra and clear baggage and taxi formalities.
Private car or shared taxi from Bagdogra airport/NJP to Darjeeling—scenic hill drive of about 2.5–3 hours with short toilet/tea stops; roads can be winding so allow time.
Check into your Darjeeling hotel and head to Glenary's for a mix of continental and local fares; reliable, historic bakery ideal for a hearty lunch and cakes. Glenary's typically opens from 7:00am–10:00pm.
Relaxed walk along Chowrasta (Mall Road) to get acclimatised, shop for handicrafts, Tibetan jewellery and sample street momos; open all day and best in the afternoon when shops are open.
Short drive to Batasia Loop for panoramic views of Darjeeling and the iconic loop with toy-train track and Gorkha memorial; viewpoint is open from early morning to evening (approx 6:00am–6:00pm).
Visit Ghoom Monastery (one of the oldest Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in the region) and nearby viewpoints; monastery open generally all day—respect quiet hours.
Popular for authentic Tibetan and Nepali food—momos, thukpa and hearty stews; great value and near Mall Road, open into the evening (usually until 10:00pm).
Wake early to see the sunrise over the Kanchenjunga range from Tiger Hill — one of Darjeeling's unforgettable experiences. Tiger Hill viewpoint is best before dawn; visitors usually depart between 3:30–4:30am; parking/entry open pre-dawn.
Return to town and enjoy breakfast at Keventers (milkshakes, breakfast combos) or Glenary's bakery for eggs, toast and pastries; both open by 7:00–8:00am.
Visit this high-altitude zoo (specialises in Himalayan species including snow leopard & red panda) and the adjacent Himalayan Mountaineering Institute (HMI) museum—zoo opens typically 10:00am–5:00pm (confirm seasonal times).
Short guided walk through one of Darjeeling's oldest tea estates with tasting; estate tours usually run from ~9:30am–4:00pm and should be pre-booked where possible for guided tasting.
Take the cable car for valley views and tea gardens below—operating hours generally 8:00am–4:00pm but subject to seasonal closures; check locally before planning.
Choose The Park for varied Indian and continental dishes or Glenary's for bakery-dinner options; both remain popular for tourists and are open into the evening.
Enjoy a simple hill breakfast at a local tea shop: hot Darjeeling tea, aloo paratha or bread-omelette to fuel a day trip; most shops open by 7:00–8:00am.
Drive ~2–2.5 hrs one-way to Mirik (Sumendu Lake, pine forests, local markets) — calm lakeside town for boating and relaxing; travel time makes this a day trip best started early. Mirik attractions open during daylight hours; boat charges extra.
Visit Observatory Hill & Mahakal Temple, Tea Centre for more tastings, Tibetan Refugee Self-Help Centre, and do longer strolls through quieter lanes—most sites open during the day (8:00am–5:00pm).
Spend late afternoon exploring local bookstores (Glenary's has a small selection), buying handloom scarves and tea souvenirs; shops generally open until 6:00–8:00pm.
Keventers for shakes and comfort food or Chung Wah for Chinese-style dishes popular in Darjeeling—both are accessible near Mall Road and open in the evening.
Allow 3 hours for the drive to Bagdogra airport (or New Jalpaiguri station) with a short stop en route for tea or photos; depart earlier to allow margin for traffic and airport check-in.