5-Day Ultimate Darjeeling Itinerary: Explore the Queen of the Hills

Day 1: Arrive in Darjeeling

Darjeeling, India

9:00AM

Breakfast at Glenary's

Start your day with a delicious traditional Indian breakfast at Glenary's, famous for its pastries and fresh tea.
Located on the main road, just 5 minutes from Darjeeling Railway Station.
INR400, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit the Tiger Hill

Set out for Tiger Hill to catch the breathtaking sunrise over Kanchenjunga, the world's third-highest mountain.
Hire a taxi or join a sunrise tour from your hotel, as it’s about a 30-minute drive.
INR500, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Kunga Nearby

Savor some local Tibetan fare at Kunga, known for its momos and noodles.
After descending from Tiger Hill, take a short taxi ride to the restaurant.
INR300, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore the Batasia Loop

Visit the Batasia Loop, a beautifully designed railway loop offering panoramic views of the hills and a lovely war memorial.
A short 10-minutes taxi ride from the previous restaurant.
INR50, 1 hour

4:00PM

Visit the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway

Take a ride on the UNESCO World Heritage toy train for a nostalgic journey through the hills.
Head to the Darjeeling Railway Station, easily accessible by walking from Batasia Loop.
INR1000, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Park Restaurant

End your day with a sumptuous dinner at The Park, featuring a cozy atmosphere and Indian cuisines.
Walking distance from the toy train station.
INR600, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Culture and Nature

Darjeeling, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Denzong Kitchen

Start your day with some delicious local dishes and herbal tea at The Denzong Kitchen.
Located in the Chowrasta area, about 15 minutes from your hotel.
INR350, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Peace Pagoda

Explore the serene Peace Pagoda offering magnificent views of Darjeeling and the surrounding mountains.
Approximately a 15-minute taxi ride from The Denzong Kitchen.
FREE, 1 hour

11:00AM

Wander through the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute

Visit the institute to learn about the history of Mountaineering in the Himalayas.
Just a 10-minute walk from the Peace Pagoda.
INR50, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Hasty Tasty

Enjoy a classic Indian lunch at Hasty Tasty, renowned for its quick service and diverse menu.
A 10-minute walk from the institute.
INR400, 1 hour

3:00PM

Tea Estate Visit

Visit a local tea estate like the famous Glenburn Tea Estate for a guided tour and tea tasting.
Hire a taxi for about a 30-minute drive to the estate.
INR800, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Orient

Head to The Orient for an exquisite dinner with a mix of Indian and Chinese cuisine.
A 15-minute drive back to the main market area.
INR650, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Day Trip to Kalimpong

Kalimpong, India

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Have an early breakfast at your hotel before setting out for Kalimpong.
Enjoy a hearty meal to prepare for the day ahead.
INR300, 1 hour

8:30AM

Travel to Kalimpong

Drive to Kalimpong, a charming hill town known for its flowers and monasteries.
Hire a taxi for a 2-3 hour scenic ride.
INR1500, 2.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit Zang Dhok Palri Phodang

Explore this tranquil monastery with striking architecture and serene surroundings.
Located just a short drive from Kalimpong's main area.
FREE, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Cafe Kalimpong

Dine at Café Kalimpong, offering local delicacies and a lively atmosphere.
Around 15 minutes drive from the monastery.
INR450, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit the Kalimpong Science Centre

Spend the afternoon at the Kalimpong Science Centre, engaging in interactive exhibits.
A 20-minute taxi ride from the café.
INR100, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Explore Local Markets

Wander around Kalimpong's vibrant markets, famous for their handicrafts and fresh flowers.
Walking distance from the Science Centre.
FREE, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Return to Darjeeling

Commute back to Darjeeling after exploring Kalimpong.
Hire a taxi for about a 2.5-hour drive.
INR1500, 2.5 hours

8:30PM

Dinner at Kunga Restaurant

Return to Darjeeling and enjoy another delightful meal at Kunga Restaurant.
Easily accessible from your hotel.
INR600, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Adventure Day

Darjeeling, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Begin your day with a healthy breakfast included at your hotel.
Fueling up before the adventure.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Bicycle Ride to Ghoom

Rent a bicycle to enjoy a scenic ride to Ghoom, known for its monastery and stunning views.
Bicycles can be rented from shops near the Chowrasta.
INR600, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit Ghoom Monastery

Explore the famous Ghoom Monastery, the oldest in the region, and see the giant statue of the Maitreya Buddha.
A quick walk from the end of the bicycle route.
FREE, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at The Teapot

Refuel with a light lunch at The Teapot, renowned for its tea and pastries.
A bicycle ride back to Darjeeling, approx. 30 mins.
INR350, 1 hour

3:00PM

Hiking to Singalila National Park

Embark on a guided hiking tour to Singalila National Park, known for its diverse flora and fauna.
Arrange transportation to the park entrance, approx. 1-hour drive.
INR300 for transport + INR500 for entry, 4 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at the Mall Road

Conclude your adventure-filled day with dinner at one of the eateries on Mall Road, enjoying a relaxing atmosphere.
Various options available within walking distance.
INR500, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Relax and Reflect

Darjeeling, India

8:30AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel, taking in the serene mountain views.
Savouring the last morning in this beautiful town.
Included, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit the Happy Valley Tea Estate

Take a peaceful walk around the Happy Valley Tea Estate, learning about tea production and tasting fresh brews.
A short taxi ride to the estate.
INR300, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Windermere Hotel Restaurant

Indulge in lunch at the Windermere, featuring a lovely garden and multi-cuisine options.
Back to Darjeeling town center, about 15 minutes by taxi.
INR700, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Stroll in Observatory Hill

Spend your afternoon leisurely exploring Observatory Hill, a tranquil spot with panoramic views of the town.
Walking distance from the restaurant.
FREE, 1 hour

5:00PM

Final Dinner at The Chowrasta

Enjoy your final dinner at The Chowrasta, a cozy place to reminisce your trip in Darjeeling.
A short walk from Observatory Hill.
INR600, 1.5 hours
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