Nestled in the Himalayan foothills, Darjeeling is a scenic hill station in northeast India known for its lush tea estates, incredible mountain views, and colonial-era architecture.
If you’re planning a trip to this iconic destination, here is a suggested 5 day itinerary to help you experience the best of Darjeeling:
Day 1: Arrive in Darjeeling
Start your journey by taking a flight or train to Bagdogra Airport/New Jalpaiguri Railway Station, the nearest transit hubs to Darjeeling located about 70km away.
From there, hire a private taxi or shared jeep to make the winding 3 hour ascent up to Darjeeling along hairpin bends and past tea estates.
Check into your hotel and take some time to acclimatize to the altitude as Darjeeling sits at over 6,700 ft above sea level.
Wander around the Chowrasta main square to soak in the charming mountain town ambience.
Be sure to try the famed Darjeeling tea and indulge in momos, steamed dumplings stuffed with meat or vegetables.
Top accommodations in Darjeeling include:
- Windamere Hotel – historic colonial era hotel
- Mayfair Darjeeling – luxury option with great views
- Glenburn Tea Estate – intimate tea plantation stay
Day 2: Sunrise at Tiger Hill & Temple Tour
Wake up before dawn and take a shared jeep to Tiger Hill, the best viewpoint in Darjeeling to see the spectacular sunrise over Kanchenjunga – the third highest peak in the world.
Watch the first golden rays of sun illuminate the Himalayas in an awe-inspiring display.
After breakfast, visit the Ghoom Monastery, Batasia Loop war memorial, the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute with its Everest museum, and the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park to see snow leopards, red pandas and other high altitude animals.
In the afternoon, take a joyride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage narrow-gauge train that offers scenic views as it winds its way through the mountains.
Top attractions in Darjeeling:
- Tiger Hill sunrise
- Ghoom Monastery
- Batasia Loop
- Himalayan Mountaineering Institute
- Darjeeling Himalayan Railway
Day 3: Mirik & Temple Tour
On your third day, take a day trip to Mirik, a picturesque mountain town centered around the serene Sumendu Lake.
Go boating on the lake, visit Mirik Monastery, and walk through the Mirik gardens and tea estates.
On the way back, stop at the Japanese Peace Pagoda for panoramic views. In the evening, visit Observatory Hill to see the temple dedicated to Mahakal, a Hindu god.
Key highlights:
- Sumendu Lake
- Mirik gardens & tea estates
- Japanese Peace Pagoda
- Observatory Hill temple
Day 4: Local Market & Village Tour
Explore the local culture of Darjeeling as you browse through the vibrant Chowk Bazaar, full of colorful stalls selling handwoven textiles, souvenirs, produce, and other wares.
Make sure to try some tasty Tibetan dishes at the food stalls while you shop.
Next, head just outside town to visit a traditional village and tea estate. Interact with local residents to get a glimpse into daily life.
Watch tea pickers harvest the leaves and tour the estate to learn about tea production.
Top cultural attractions:
- Chowk Bazaar local market
- Tea estate visit & tea tasting
- Local village tour
Day 5: Depart Darjeeling
On your final day, squeeze in any last minute sightseeing before taking a jeep back to Bagdogra for your onward journey. Make sure to pick up souvenirs and tea to bring home.
With its magnificent mountainscape, immersive cultural experiences, and bounty of activities, Darjeeling is sure to enchant any traveler.
Follow this 5 day itinerary to maximize your time in this Himalayan hill station gem. Let Darjeeling’s natural beauty and old world charm rejuvenate your soul.
