Budget-Friendly 3-Day Darjeeling Trip via NJP with Local Transport

Day 1: Arrival at NJP and Local Sightseeing

New Jalpaiguri (NJP) to Darjeeling, India on June 24, 2025

7:00am

Arrival at New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP)

Disembark from the train at NJP; get ready for the journey to Darjeeling via shared taxi or local buses, which take approximately 3-4 hours.
INR150 (shared taxi approx.), 4h0m

11:00am

Check-in and Freshen Up at Budget Hotel in Darjeeling

After arrival in Darjeeling, settle into an affordable guesthouse or hotel close to Mall Road for convenience.
INR1000 (per night approx.), 1h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Glenary’s Bakery and Café

Enjoy familiar budget-friendly sandwiches, bakery items, and Indian dishes in this charming heritage café.
INR300, 1h0m

1:30pm

Visit Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park

Explore the zoo with rare Himalayan animals, open till 5pm, a cost-effective and peaceful afternoon activity.
INR60, 2h0m

4:00pm

Relax at Chowrasta and Stroll Mall Road

Enjoy the vibrant local culture, street food, and handicraft stalls in Darjeeling’s key social spot, all free to explore.
INR0, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Sonam’s Kitchen

Fill up on affordable Nepali and Indian meals known for great taste and local atmosphere.
INR250, 1h0m
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Day 2: Sunrise and Hilltop Adventures

Darjeeling, India on June 25, 2025

4:00am

Early Morning Visit to Tiger Hill

Catch a shared jeep or local bus early morning (starts ~3:30am) to Tiger Hill for a breathtaking Himalayan sunrise.
INR40 (local bus), 3h0m

8:00am

Breakfast at Keventer Tea Room

Enjoy a satisfying and economical breakfast with tea and local dishes at this legendary spot.
INR200, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Batasia Loop and War Memorial

Explore the scenic railway loop and serene memorial gardens, perfect for photo ops. Open all day with no entry fee.
INR0, 1h0m

11:00am

Ride Darjeeling Himalayan Railway - Toy Train

Take a charming short ride on the heritage narrow-gauge train to enjoy unique mountain scenery. Runs 9am-5pm, very affordable fare.
INR70, 1h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Kunga Restaurant

Budget-friendly Tibetan and Nepalese dishes for a flavorful midday meal.
INR250, 1h0m

3:00pm

Visit Himalayan Mountaineering Institute and Museum

Spend the afternoon learning about mountaineering history and Everest expeditions. Open till 5pm, economical entry.
INR20, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Shangri-La Restaurant

Enjoy inexpensive yet delicious Chinese and Indian delicacies with lovely views over the hills.
INR300, 1h0m
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Day 3: Markets and Departure

Darjeeling to NJP, India on June 26, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Glenary’s Bakery and Café

Relax with an affordable breakfast of fresh pastries and coffee before your final day in Darjeeling.
INR200, 1h0m

9:30am

Exploring Darjeeling Mall Market

Shop for local teas, handicrafts, and souvenirs; a vibrant and cost-free morning activity.
INR0, 2h0m

12:00pm

Visit Tibetan Refugee Self Help Centre

Support local Tibetan artisans by viewing and buying handmade crafts. Centre open till 5pm, no entry fees.
INR0, 1h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Sonam’s Kitchen

Have a hearty last meal of traditional Nepali-Indian cuisine, budget-friendly and delicious.
INR250, 1h0m

3:00pm

Travel from Darjeeling to New Jalpaiguri (NJP)

Catch a shared taxi or bus from Darjeeling to NJP station for onward journey; approx. 3-4 hours travel time.
INR150 (shared taxi approx.), 4h0m
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