Start your day early in Lonavala, a scenic hill station known for its natural beauty. Begin the day with a visit to Ryewood Park, a lush green expanse with beautiful flowers, tall trees, and a serene lake. Spend an hour walking through the park and enjoying the tranquil surroundings. Entrance to Ryewood Park is free, and it opens at 8:00 AM.
Cost estimate: Free
Time spent: 1 hour
Head to Bhushi Dam, an enchanting spot where you can relax amidst nature's beauty. The dam is surrounded by hills and offers breathtaking views. Take a leisurely walk along the dam or dip your feet in the cool water. This place is perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Cost estimate: Free
Time spent: 1-2 hours
Indulge in a delicious vegetarian lunch at Rama Krishna, a popular restaurant in Lonavala. They offer a variety of Indian dishes that are tasty and reasonably priced. The restaurant has a pleasant ambience and friendly staff, making it a great place to unwind and refuel.
Cost estimate: ₹500-₹1000 per person
Time spent: 1 hour
After lunch, visit Lonavala Lake, a serene lake surrounded by picturesque hills. Take a peaceful boat ride on the lake and enjoy the tranquillity. The lake is also a popular spot for birdwatching, so keep your eyes open for beautiful avian species.
Cost estimate: ₹100 per person for boat ride
Time spent: 1 hour
Bid farewell to Lonavala and catch a flight from Mumbai to Bagdogra, the nearest airport to Darjeeling. Check here for flight prices and availability. Upon arrival at Bagdogra, take a taxi or hire a private car to reach Darjeeling, a journey of approximately 3-4 hours.
Cost estimate: Flight prices vary. Taxi cost from Bagdogra to Darjeeling is around ₹2,000-₹3,000.
Time spent: 3-4 hours (including flight)
End your day in Darjeeling by witnessing a mesmerizing sunset at Tiger Hill. Wake up early the next morning and head to Tiger Hill to witness the stunning sunrise over the Kanchenjunga mountain range. The view is truly breathtaking and worth the early wake-up call.
Cost estimate: ₹50 per person for entry
Time spent: 1-2 hours
For nature enthusiasts, a visit to the Rock Garden in Darjeeling is highly recommended. It is a well-maintained garden showcasing a variety of flowers and rock formations. Another hidden gem is the Happy Valley Tea Estate, where you can take a guided tour to learn about tea production and enjoy the scenic beauty of the tea gardens.