Welcome to Darjeeling! Start your trip by checking into your hotel and freshening up. In the morning, head to the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, a high-altitude wildlife park where you can spot endangered species like the snow leopard and red panda. Afterward, visit the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, which showcases mountaineering artifacts and offers insights into the history of Himalayan expeditions. In the evening, take a stroll along the Mall Road, the bustling center of Darjeeling, dotted with shops and eateries.
Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park: Entrance Fee - INR 100 per person, Time spent - 2 to 3 hours
Himalayan Mountaineering Institute: Entrance Fee - INR 40 per person, Time spent - 2 hours
Mall Road: Free, Time spent - 2 to 3 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Keventers Darjeeling, known for their delicious and iconic milkshakes. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For lunch, try Glenary's, a popular bakery and restaurant serving a variety of cuisines. Average cost for a meal is about 600 INR per person.
For dinner, visit Kunga Restaurant, a Tibetan eatery known for its authentic flavors and cozy atmosphere. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Saturday, October 21: Sunrise at Tiger Hill and Tea Garden Visit
Wake up early to witness the breathtaking sunrise over the majestic Kanchenjunga peak from Tiger Hill. Afterward, visit the Happy Valley Tea Estate, one of the oldest tea gardens in Darjeeling, and learn about the tea-making process. Enjoy a cup of freshly brewed Darjeeling tea amidst the picturesque tea plantations. In the afternoon, explore the Peace Pagoda, a Buddhist stupa offering panoramic views of the town and surrounding mountains. In the evening, you can take a joyride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, also known as the Toy Train.
Tiger Hill: Free, Time spent - 2 to 3 hours
Happy Valley Tea Estate: Entrance Fee - INR 100 per person, Time spent - 2 hours
Peace Pagoda: Free, Time spent - 1 to 2 hours
Darjeeling Himalayan Railway: Fare - INR 300 per person (toy train joyride), Time spent - 2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Keventers, a popular cafe known for its delicious pancakes and milkshakes. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For lunch, try Glenary's, a charming bakery and restaurant that offers a wide range of dishes including Indian, Chinese, and Continental cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 600 INR per person.
For dinner, visit the iconic Kunga Restaurant, known for its authentic Tibetan and Chinese cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Sunday, October 22: Explore Darjeeling's Cultural Heritage
In the morning, visit the Tibetan Refugee Self Help Center, a community established to support Tibetan refugees. Learn about their handicraft production and witness skilled artisans creating beautiful Tibetan arts and crafts. Later, explore the Himalayan Tibet Museum to delve deeper into Tibetan culture and history. In the afternoon, discover the fascinating Japanese temple, located amidst serene surroundings. Enjoy the tranquility and admire the intricate architecture. In the evening, you can experience the vibrant local market at Chowk Bazaar.
Tibetan Refugee Self Help Center: Entrance Fee - INR 20 per person, Time spent - 2 to 3 hours
Himalayan Tibet Museum: Entrance Fee - INR 50 per person, Time spent - 1 to 2 hours
Japanese Temple: Free, Time spent - 1 hour
Chowk Bazaar: Free, Time spent - 2 to 3 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Glenary's, a popular bakery and cafe known for its freshly baked breads, pastries, and English breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Keventers, a charming restaurant famous for its momos and other Tibetan delicacies. Enjoy the cozy ambiance and savor the flavorful dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
In the evening, dine at the iconic Kunga Restaurant, a local favorite that serves delectable Tibetan and Indian cuisine. Don't miss their mouthwatering thukpa and momo platters. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Monday, October 23: Excursion to Mirik Lake
Embark on a day trip to the picturesque Mirik Lake, approximately 50 kilometers from Darjeeling. Enjoy a tranquil boat ride on the lake, surrounded by lush green hills. Take a leisurely walk along the lake's promenade and soak in the serene ambiance. Indulge in delicious local snacks and shop for souvenirs at the Pashupati Market, located near the Indo-Nepal border. In the evening, return to Darjeeling and relax at your hotel.
Mirik Lake: Boat Ride - INR 50 per person, Time spent - 4 to 5 hours
Pashupati Market: Free, Time spent - 1 to 2 hours
Tuesday, October 24: Darjeeling Himalayan Railway and Happy Valley
Start your day by experiencing the enchanting Darjeeling Himalayan Railway or Toy Train from Darjeeling to Ghum. Enjoy the scenic route and marvel at the engineering marvels of the iconic toy train. Upon reaching Ghum, visit the Ghum Monastery, one of the oldest Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in Darjeeling. Afterward, return to Darjeeling and spend the afternoon exploring the picturesque Happy Valley Tea Estate. Learn about tea cultivation, enjoy sampling different tea varieties, and take a leisurely nature walk. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant, savoring the flavors of Darjeeling.
Darjeeling Himalayan Railway: Fare - INR 50 per person (Darjeeling to Ghum), Time spent - 2 hours
Ghum Monastery: Free, Time spent - 1 to 2 hours
Happy Valley Tea Estate: Entrance Fee - INR 100 per person, Time spent - 2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Glenary's, a charming bakery known for its freshly baked goods and hearty English breakfast options. The average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Keventer's, a popular eatery offering a variety of dishes including burgers, sandwiches, and local Indian cuisine. Enjoy stunning views of the mountains while savoring your meal. The average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Indulge in a delightful dinner at Kunga Restaurant, renowned for its authentic Tibetan and Nepali flavors. The cozy ambiance and friendly service make it a perfect choice for a memorable dining experience. The average cost for a meal is about 600 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For off the beaten path attractions, consider visiting the Dali Monastery, located on the outskirts of Darjeeling. This serene monastery offers a peaceful atmosphere and stunning views of the surrounding hills. Another hidden gem is the Batasia Loop, a spiral railway track that offers panoramic mountain views and a memorial garden dedicated to the Gorkha soldiers. Locals also recommend visiting the Mahakal Temple, a revered Hindu shrine located on the Observatory Hill, offering a panoramic view of Darjeeling.
For hotel and flight bookings, you can check prices and availability on Kayak.