Darjeeling: The Queen of Hills, November 2023 Itinerary

1. Day 1: Tiger Hill Sunrise
   25 minutes (9.7 km) from Darjeeling

   Experience the stunning sunrise over Mount Kanchenjunga, India's highest peak. Afterward, visit the Ghoom Monastery, War Memorial, and Batasia Loop.

2. Day 2: Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park
   20 minutes (7.4 km) from Darjeeling

   Visit the Himalayan Zoological Park to see rare animals like the snow leopard, Tibetan wolf, and red panda. In the afternoon, visit the Tibetan Refugee Self Help Center to learn about their handicrafts and culture.

3. Day 3: Happy Valley Tea Estate
   15 minutes (5.3 km) from Darjeeling

   Take a guided tour of the Happy Valley Tea Estate to learn about the tea-making process and sample some of the world-famous Darjeeling tea. In the evening, explore the vibrant nightlife scene in Darjeeling.

4. Day 4: Mirik Lake
   1 hour and 20 minutes (55.5 km) from Darjeeling

   Take a scenic drive to Mirik Lake, surrounded by lush forests and tea gardens. Enjoy a boat ride on the lake and visit the Bokar Monastery before returning to Darjeeling in the evening.

5. Day 5: Singalila National Park
   3 hours and 30 minutes (70.5 km) from Darjeeling

   Embark on a trekking tour of Singalila National Park, home to exotic flora and fauna, including the endangered red panda. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Himalayas and take in the fresh mountain air.

6. Day 6: Bengal Natural History Museum and Darjeeling Ropeway
   10 minutes (3.3 km) from Darjeeling

   Visit the Bengal Natural History Museum to learn about the region's biodiversity, including rare species of birds, butterflies, and reptiles. In the afternoon, take a ride on the Darjeeling Ropeway, the oldest cable car in India.

7. Day 7: Mahakal Temple and Japanese Peace Pagoda
   15 minutes (3.7 km) from Darjeeling

   Start the day with a visit to the Mahakal Temple, a sacred Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. Then, head to the Japanese Peace Pagoda to witness its tranquil beauty and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Recommendations

Consider taking a day trip to Kalimpong to explore its markets, monasteries, and flower nurseries. For adventure seekers, a trek to Sandakphu, the highest peak in West Bengal, is a must-do. Don't forget to try local delicacies like momos, thukpa, and churpee. To maximize your fun, book a stay at a homestay or heritage hotel to experience the warm hospitality of the locals.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Tiger Hill Sunrise (5 hours, INR 500 per person)
• Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park (3 hours, INR 200 per person)
• Happy Valley Tea Estate (2 hours, INR 150 per person)
• Mirik Lake (8 hours, INR 1500 per person)
• Singalila National Park (10 hours, INR 3000 per person)
• Bengal Natural History Museum and Darjeeling Ropeway (3 hours, INR 300 per person)
• Mahakal Temple and Japanese Peace Pagoda (3 hours, Free)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 4750 per person

To check hotel and flight prices, visit https://booking.tp.st/VhZsadPo