A journey on the UNESCO-listed Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, also known as the "Toy Train," is a quintessential Darjeeling experience. The train takes you through lush tea plantations, narrow bridges, steep hillsides, and charming hill stations. Opt for the first-class seat, which offers unobstructed views of the surroundings. The tour takes 2-3 hours, with multiple stops, and ends at Ghum, the highest railway station in India.
Situated at an altitude of 3,753 meters, the Tsomgo Lake, also known as Changu Lake, is a glacial lake that reflects the sky and mountains beautifully. During winters, the lake is frozen, adding to its charm. You can take a yak or pony ride and explore the nearby hills. The tour takes 2-3 hours, and it's best to start early to avoid the crowd.
The Singalila National Park is a paradise for nature lovers and hikers. The park is home to rare Himalayan animals like the red panda, clouded leopard, black bear, and a variety of bird species. The trek to Sandakphu peak takes 2-3 days, and it offers a panoramic view of the Kangchenjunga range. You can also take a day trek to Tumling and explore the nearby serene villages.
The Yumthang Valley, also known as the valley of flowers, is a picturesque valley surrounded by snow-capped mountains and hot springs. You can trek to the Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary, which blooms in different colors during spring. If you're lucky, you might spot the rare Himalayan blue poppy. The tour takes 4-5 hours, and it's best to carry a picnic lunch.
If you have more time, you can visit other nearby attractions like the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, the Batasia Loop, and the Rumtek Monastery. If you have less time, you can skip the Singalila National Park trek and explore the tea estates in Darjeeling or visit the Pelling Skywalk in Sikkim. Pack warm clothes, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes as the weather can be unpredictable. Always carry cash as most places do not accept cards.