Two-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary for Darjeeling in July 2023

1. Day 1: Darjeeling Himalayan Railway
   0 minutes (0 miles) from Downtown Darjeeling
   Morning: Take a joyride on the UNESCO World Heritage Site Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. Enjoy the scenic views of the Himalayas while passing through tunnels and over bridges.
   Afternoon: Visit the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, home to the endangered snow leopard and the Himalayan black bear.
   Evening: Stroll around the Chowrasta Mall and enjoy the local food and shopping.
2. Day 2: Tiger Hill and Peace Pagoda
   20 minutes (5.2 miles) from Downtown Darjeeling
   Morning: Wake up early and drive to Tiger Hill to witness the breathtaking sunrise over the Kanchenjunga mountains.
   Afternoon: Visit the Peace Pagoda, a Buddhist shrine built to promote peace and harmony among all races and creeds. Enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
   Evening: Visit the Happy Valley Tea Estate and learn about the tea-making process while enjoying a cup of Darjeeling tea.

Recommendations

Don't miss out on the Batasia Loop and Ghum Monastery which are both en route to Tiger Hill. If you have time, take a day trip to the nearby town of Mirik to enjoy the serene Sumendu Lake and the beautiful tea gardens. To maximize your fun, try the local momos and thukpa!

Time and Costs Estimates

• Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (2 hours, INR 150)
• Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park (2 hours, INR 100)
• Tiger Hill (3 hours, INR 500)
• Peace Pagoda (1 hour, Free)
• Happy Valley Tea Estate (1 hour, INR 100)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 950