Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version

A Week in Darjeeling, Kalimpong, and Mirik

Tuesday, December 12: Arrival in Darjeeling

Start your journey in the charming hill town of Darjeeling. In the morning, enjoy a breathtaking sunrise view from Tiger Hill, followed by a visit to the famous Ghoom Monastery. In the afternoon, take a ride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the "Toy Train." In the evening, explore the Mall Road and try a cup of Darjeeling tea at one of the local tea stalls.

  • Tiger Hill: Estimated cost - None, Time spent - 2 hours
  • Ghoom Monastery: Estimated cost - None, Time spent - 1 hour
  • Darjeeling Himalayan Railway: Estimated cost - INR 500 (round trip), Time spent - 2 hours
  • Mall Road: Estimated cost - None, Time spent - 2 hours
Wednesday, December 13: Kalimpong Exploration

Embark on a day trip to Kalimpong, a peaceful hill station known for its Buddhist monasteries and flower nurseries. In the morning, visit Zang Dhok Palri Phodang Monastery, offering stunning panoramic views. Afterward, explore the vibrant local market and try some traditional Tibetan cuisine. In the afternoon, visit the flower nurseries and indulge in the variety of exotic blooms. Spend the evening at Deolo Hill, the highest point in Kalimpong, to witness a mesmerizing sunset over the mountains.

  • Zang Dhok Palri Phodang Monastery: Estimated cost - None, Time spent - 1 hour
  • Local Market: Estimated cost - Variable, Time spent - 2 hours
  • Flower Nurseries: Estimated cost - None, Time spent - 1 hour
  • Deolo Hill: Estimated cost - None, Time spent - 2 hours
Thursday, December 14: Leisurely Day in Darjeeling

Spend a relaxed day exploring more of Darjeeling's attractions. In the morning, take a peaceful walk through the sprawling tea gardens and learn about the tea-making process at the Happy Valley Tea Estate. In the afternoon, visit the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, which houses a museum dedicated to mountaineering and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. End the day with a tranquil boat ride on the serene Mirik Lake.

  • Happy Valley Tea Estate: Estimated cost - INR 100, Time spent - 2 hours
  • Himalayan Mountaineering Institute: Estimated cost - INR 50, Time spent - 1 hour
  • Mirik Lake: Estimated cost - None, Time spent - 2 hours
Friday, December 15: Excursion to Mirik

Embark on a day trip to the picturesque town of Mirik, known for its natural beauty. In the morning, visit the Pashupati Nagar Market, located at the Indo-Nepal border, where you can shop for unique handicrafts and clothing. Explore the Bokar Monastery, nestled amidst serene surroundings. In the afternoon, enjoy boating in the Mirik Lake and take a leisurely walk around the town. Don't forget to try the delicious local cuisine in one of the restaurants.

  • Pashupati Nagar Market: Estimated cost - Variable, Time spent - 2 hours
  • Bokar Monastery: Estimated cost - None, Time spent - 1 hour
  • Mirik Lake: Estimated cost - INR 50 (boating), Time spent - 2 hours
Saturday, December 16: Darjeeling Tea Experience

Dedicate the day to diving deeper into the world of Darjeeling tea. Start with a visit to the Tea Garden at Mahakal, where you can witness tea plucking and processing demonstrations. Participate in a tea-tasting session and learn to distinguish between different tea flavors. In the afternoon, explore the Japanese Peace Pagoda, offering panoramic views of the hills. Conclude the day with a peaceful visit to the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, home to various endangered species, including the adorable red pandas.

  • Mahakal Tea Garden: Estimated cost - None, Time spent - 2 hours
  • Japanese Peace Pagoda: Estimated cost - None, Time spent - 1 hour
  • Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park: Estimated cost - INR 100, Time spent - 2 hours
Sunday, December 17: Exploring Darjeeling's Heritage

Spend the day visiting the historical landmarks of Darjeeling. Start with a visit to the Lloyd's Botanical Garden, home to a diverse range of flora, fauna, and orchids. Explore the Himalayan Tibet Museum, showcasing the region's Tibetan cultural heritage and history. In the afternoon, visit the Observatory Hill, an important religious site, and enjoy panoramic views of the Kanchenjunga mountain range. End the day with a memorable visit to the Tibetan Refugee Self Help Center, where you can witness traditional Tibetan arts and crafts.

  • Lloyd's Botanical Garden: Estimated cost - INR 20, Time spent - 2 hours
  • Himalayan Tibet Museum: Estimated cost - INR 10, Time spent - 1 hour
  • Observatory Hill: Estimated cost - None, Time spent - 1 hour
  • Tibetan Refugee Self Help Center: Estimated cost - None, Time spent - 2 hours
Monday, December 18: Departure from Darjeeling

On your last day in Darjeeling, spend some time shopping for souvenirs at Chowrasta Mall. Indulge in a farewell breakfast with a stunning view at Glenary's Bakery and Café. Bid adieu to the beautiful hill town and depart for your onward journey with wonderful memories of your trip to Darjeeling, Kalimpong, and Mirik.

  • Chowrasta Mall: Estimated cost - Variable, Time spent - 2 hours
  • Glenary's Bakery and Café: Estimated cost - INR 500, Time spent - 1 hour

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Darjeeling, don't miss the opportunity to visit the Rock Garden, a serene and picturesque park hidden amidst lush greenery. Another off the beaten path attraction is the Tibetan Buddhist Monastery in Ghum, known for its beautiful statues and peaceful ambiance. Locals also love exploring the quaint streets of Kalimpong's Dello Hills, offering stunning views and a peaceful environment away from the crowds. These hidden gems provide unique experiences and a chance to connect with the local culture and natural beauty.

For hotel and flight prices, you can check here.

0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version