3-Day Shoestring Budget Rail Trip to Darjeeling

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Siliguri, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Ranjit’s

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Ranjit’s, known for its delicious aloo parathas and masala chai.
INR 150, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Darjeeling

Catch the iconic Darjeeling Himalayan Railway from Siliguri to Darjeeling, a mesmerizing journey through lush tea gardens and hills.
INR 700, 7 hours

5:30PM

Check-in at Hotel

Arrive in Darjeeling and check into a budget-friendly hotel like Hotel Yuma, where you can freshen up after your journey.
INR 800, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Kunga Restaurant

Enjoy a comforting dinner of tibetan momos and noodle soup at Kunga Restaurant, a local favorite.
INR 300, 1.5 hours

Day 2: Sightseeing and Culture

Darjeeling, India

7:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Start early with breakfast at your hotel, featuring toast, eggs, and butter along with tea.
INR 150, 1 hour

8:30AM

Visit Tiger Hill

Take an early morning trip to Tiger Hill to witness a breathtaking sunrise over the Kanchenjunga mountain range.
INR 300, 3 hours

11:30AM

Stroll through Batasia Loop

Head to the Batasia Loop for a scenic view of the train and the mountains, accompanied by beautiful gardens.
INR 30, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at The Park Restaurant

Refuel with some traditional thukpa and steaming tea at The Park Restaurant, known for its cozy ambiance.
INR 250, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit to Himalayan Mountaineering Institute

Explore the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute to learn about mountaineering history and see inspiring exhibits.
INR 50, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Darjeeling Organic Tea Company

Savor an organic tea tasting experience along with local snacks to end the day on a delicious note.
INR 400, 1.5 hours

Day 3: Return Journey

Darjeeling, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up with a simple breakfast of local bread and jam at your hotel.
INR 150, 1 hour

9:30AM

Last-minute Shopping

Spend the morning exploring local markets for souvenirs like tea and handicrafts, soaking in the last of Darjeeling's vibrancy.
INR 0 (varies by purchase), 2 hours

11:30AM

Travel back to Siliguri

Catch the same iconic toy train back to Siliguri, enjoying the views once again.
INR 700, 7 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at a Local Diner in Siliguri

Conclude your trip with a satisfying dinner at a local diner, where you can enjoy thali or biriyani.
INR 300, 1.5 hours