Things to do in Darjeeling

Top 10 Things to Do in Darjeeling in 2024

If you’re looking for a vacation in hill stations, Darjeeling can be your top destination. And it's easy to see why. Nestled amidst picturesque tea gardens at the foot of the Himalayas, this charming town offers a unique landscape and pleasant weather that's hard to find elsewhere. From the iconic toy train to the majestic Kanchenjunga, Darjeeling has plenty to offer to make your trip unforgettable.

 

Ready for the adventure? Continue reading to discover the top ten things to do in Darjeeling on your visit to this beautiful hill station in West Bengal.

CONTENTS:

Here’s the list of top things to do in Darjeeling in 2024.

 

1. Admire the Sunrise from Tiger Hill

2. Take a Joy Ride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway

3. Explore the Peaceful Atmosphere of Batasia Loop

4. Discover the Art of Tea Making at Happy Valley Tea Estate

5. Visit the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute

6. Find Inner Peace at the Peace Pagoda

7. Savour Local Delicacies

8. Trek to the Scenic Singalila Ridge

9. Experience Spiritual Bliss at Ghoom Monastery

10. Watch the Sunset from Observatory Hill

 

1. Admire the Sunrise from Tiger Hill

 

Tiger Hill stands as one of the most popular attractions in Darjeeling. As the highest peak in the area, reaching an elevation of 8,500 feet, it offers stunning views of Mount Everest, Mount Kanchenjunga, and other Himalayan ranges. 

 

The highlight of Tiger Hill is undoubtedly its breathtaking sunrise which reminds of a scene straight out of a movie. Wake up early and make your way to Tiger Hill to witness the awe-inspiring view of the first sun rays casting a golden glow upon the majestic peaks. It is one of the must-do things in Darjeeling.

 

Tip: Always remember to check the weather forecast beforehand, as clear skies are essential for a beautiful sunrise experience.

 

2. Take a Joy Ride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway

 

Darjeeling is famous for the Toy Train - as the iconic Darjeeling Himalayan Railway affectionately is called.  Gear up for a nostalgic journey as you travel through mesmerising tea estates and charming villages, soaking in the breathtaking scenery along the way. Starting from Ghoom and ending at Kurseong, this scenic ride offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills, taking you in a world of romance and nostalgia. 

 

Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Toy Train is a symbol of Darjeeling's rich heritage and is renowned worldwide for its picturesque route through lush green hills, dense jungles, and sprawling tea farms. Enjoy the company of friends or family as you cross numerous major and minor bridges, adding to the thrill of the journey. 

 

Tip: You can purchase a first-class ticket from New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling for INR 1420, ensuring a comfortable and memorable ride aboard this historic train.

 

3. Explore the Peaceful Atmosphere of Batasia Loop

 

As you ride the Toy Train through Darjeeling, don't miss the chance to witness the scenic beauty of Batasia Loop. This picturesque railway loop offers a 360-degree turn for the toy train. 

 

Surrounded by lush gardens and an iconic War Memorial honouring the brave Gorkha Soldiers, Batasia Loop is one of the top places to visit in Darjeeling. Take a break here to capture breathtaking views of the town and the snow-capped Himalayan range.

 

4. Discover the Art of Tea Making at Happy Valley Tea Estate

 

Sipping the famous tea is among the best things to do in Darjeeling. But why stop at just sipping? Go deeper into the world of tea by visiting the Happy Valley Tea Estate. This historic tea garden is the second oldest in Darjeeling. It is known for producing high-quality Darjeeling tea. 

 

Join the guided tours offered by the estate to learn about the tea-making process, from plucking the leaves to processing them into aromatic tea. Get absorbed in tea-tasting sessions amidst lush greenery for a memorable journey.

 

ALSO READ: Free things to do in Sikkim

 

5. Visit the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute

 

If you love adventure, the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute (HMI) is among the top places to visit in Darjeeling. Founded by the legendary Tenzing Norgay, HMI offers a range of mountaineering and adventure courses catering to different skill levels. 

 

Whether you're a beginner or an expert, there's something to learn here, with course durations ranging from a few days to a month. Even if you're short on time, you can still experience the thrill of rock climbing and other basic activities HMI offers. Also, explore fascinating exhibits on mountaineering history and equipment at the institute's Everest Museum, and gain insight into the world of mountaineering from the experts themselves.

 

6. Find Inner Peace at the Peace Pagoda

 

Experience the feel of tranquility at the Peace Pagoda, an exquisite Buddhist stupa perched above Darjeeling. Take a stroll through the serene surroundings of the pagoda and witness the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. 

 

Situated at the top of Charlemont Hill, Darjeeling's Peace Pagoda is one of 30 such pagodas worldwide, established by Japanese Buddhist monk Nichidatsu Fujii to promote world peace and harmony. It features the four avatars of Buddha, including Maitreya Buddha. Visit this renowned Darjeeling attraction for a serene experience. 

 

7. Savour Local Delicacies

 

Treat yourself to a culinary journey through Darjeeling's diverse flavours. Indulge in mouthwatering momos, steaming hot thukpas, and tantalizing Tibetan specialities at local eateries and street stalls. Darjeeling's culinary scene reflects its rich cultural diversity, blending influences from Tibetan, Nepalese, Bengali, and tribal communities like Lepcha and Sherpa. 

 

While rice, noodles, and potatoes dominate the cuisine here, the variety of dishes is meant to satisfy every palate. Don't miss out on sampling the world-famous tea, that Darjeeling is famous for, to kickstart your day. Some popular restaurants in Darjeeling to taste authentic flavour include -

 

• Shangri-La Restaurant, renowned for its historic ambience

• Glenary's Restaurant, a century-old place for authentic flavour

• Kunga Restaurant for budget-friendly Chinese and Tibetan cuisine

• Hasty Tasty Restaurant for vegetarian delights

• Penang Restaurant for delicious Nepali thalis.

 

ALSO READ: Popular restaurants in Gangtok

 

8. Trek to the Scenic Singalila Ridge

 

What’s a better adventure than hiking in a hill station? If you are looking for thrilling activities to do in Darjeeling - an unforgettable trek to Singalila Ridge should top the list. Walk through enchanting rhododendron forests, picturesque alpine meadows, and remote mountain villages, soaking in the spectacular beauty of the Himalayas. 

 

The Singalila Ridge Trek, Darjeeling's most popular trek, offers breathtaking views of Kangchenjunga, as well as distant views of Makalu and Everest. Whether you prefer a leisure stroll or an adventurous hike, the Singalila Ridge trek ensures a rewarding experience. If trekking isn't your thing, motorised transport options are also available to explore this scenic route.

 

9. Experience Spiritual Bliss at Ghoom Monastery

 

Visit Ghoom Monastery, Darjeeling's ancient Tibetan Buddhist sanctuary. Enjoy its serene ambience, stunning architecture, and tranquil surroundings. Explore its prayer halls, library, and study hall, and savour delicious local snacks nearby.

One of the major attractions of Ghoom Monastery is the 15 ft. statue of 'Maitreya Buddha,' coated in gold and adorned with precious stones. Here you can also spin prayer wheels and seek blessings in the monastery's spiritual atmosphere. Open daily from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm, Ghoom Monastery offers a perfect blend of architectural beauty with spiritual enlightenment.

 

10. Watch the Sunset from Observatory Hill

 

Observatory Hill, situated above Chowrasta Square in Darjeeling, offers panoramic views of this beautiful hill station. Visit this place in the evening and admire the breathtaking views of Mount Kanchenjunga and the surrounding landscapes as the sun sets, casting a warm glow over the town. 

 

Observatory Hill is a sacred site dotted with Hindu and Buddhist temples which offers a captivating backdrop for witnessing nature's magic. Don't forget your camera while visiting this must-see attraction in Darjeeling, where the beauty of the Himalayas unfolds before your eyes.

 

Take Away!

 

Darjeeling is famous for its enchanting allure that makes it a perfect getaway, catering to every traveller's fantasy. Whether you want to go on a romantic journey with your significant other, seek adventure with friends, or plan a memorable family vacation, there are a lot of things to do in Darjeeling. It's a place where you won’t want to miss anything while planning your Sikkim-Darjeeling itinerary. With so much fun to do, ensure that you seize every moment and experience all the wonders this place has to offer.

Ready for an unforgettable adventure? Book a customised Sikkim-Darjeeling tour package. Leave the planning and preparation to the experts, so you can relax and enjoy the breathtaking beauty of this beautiful hill station. Begin your adventure to Darjeeling and discover the wonder that awaits.