Experience the joy of a scenic train ride along the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers breathtaking views of the valley and the snow-capped mountains. The ride starts at Darjeeling station and takes you through several picturesque stops. The railway loops around the hills, crosses over bridges and through tunnels. A must-do experience for any visitor to Darjeeling.
A great attraction for animal lovers, the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park houses some of the rarest animals and birds in the world. You can see the majestic Bengal tiger, Himalayan black bear, red panda, snow leopard, and many more in their natural habitat. The park also has a breeding center for endangered species. Make sure to visit the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute adjacent to the zoo.
Located in the foothills of the Himalayas, the Happy Valley Tea Estate is a must-visit for tea lovers. The 437-hectare estate offers a serene surrounding amidst luscious green tea bushes. You can take a guided tour of the factory, see tea processing, sample fragrant tea, and buy high-quality tea products. Enjoy the picturesque view of the tea garden and the valley from the estate's tea room.
Located on the Observatory hill in Darjeeling, Mahakal Temple is one of the sacred pilgrimage sites for Hindus and Buddhists. The temple enshrines Lord Shiva, one of the principal deities of Hinduism. The temple offers a panoramic view of the Himalayas and the Darjeeling town. Witness the daily prayer rituals, and experience the spiritual aura of the temple.
If you have an extra day, visit the peace pagoda for a breathtaking sunset view of Darjeeling. You can take a taxi or hike up the hill to reach the pagoda.
Travelers with less time can skip the Happy Valley Tea Estate or the Mahakal Temple.