Stunning districts, hypnotizing sunrises, the immaculate magnificence of the hills, the old-world appeal of the past, and the inviting grins of the nearby individuals all add up to make Darjeeling quite possibly the most delightful hill stations in Eastern part of India. Spread over a precarious mountain edge, settled in the midst of sections of land of rich green tea manors, Darjeeling stand at the height of 2,050 meters above ocean level.

Darjeeling is a famous tourism location in North-East India and the city is known as the 'Queens of the Himalayas'. The lavish green slopes spotted with women plucking tea leaves is a sight as entrancing as other. There are over 86 tea estates in Darjeeling that are responsible for producing the worldwide famous 'Darjeeling Tea'. Have a cup of locally brewed chai at the tea estate, or get down amidst the plantations to pluck a few tea leaves yourself, you are free to take your pick!

#  Climate of Darjeeling-

The best time to visit Darjeeling is between April to June when the weather is pleasant. However, a lot of people also prefer visiting the place during the winter months from October to December.

#  Food of Darjeeling-

Inspite of such wide variety of dishes, one of the primary things on the food here incorporates the best and most fresh qualities of tea found in the area which you should try. The popular items that you must indulge in include Momos, Thukpa, Aloo Dum, Sael Roti, Naga Platter, Nepali thali, Tongba, Channg and many more. Not to mention, tea is a popular beverage consumed by all.

#  Best places to visit in Darjeeling-

1.      Tiger Hill-

Lying at a height of 2590 meters and a distance of 13 kilometres from the Darjeeling, Tiger Hill is generally popular for its breath-taking sights of dawn from where you can see the pinnacles of Kanchenjunga enlighten before the sun is seen at lower elevations. The magnificent view of snow-capped mountains sitting amidst cotton clouds attracts tourists to Tiger Hill from all around the country.

Timings : 4:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Entry Fee : Parking: INR 10 per vehicle
Observatory Tower: INR 20 for ground level, INR 30 for first floor, INR 40 for seating

Located on the slopes of Jalapahar hills in Darjeeling, the Peace Pagoda, or the Japanese Peace Pagoda is one of the peace pagodas designed to build up solidarity, amicability and generosity among individuals having a place with various orders of society. Popular for its serenity, it offers dazzling views on snow-clad peaks including the Kanchenjunga peak making it an optimal spot for harmony and nature lovers.

Timings : 4:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Entry Fee : Parking: INR 10 per vehicle
Observatory Tower: INR 20 for ground level, INR 30 for first floor, INR 40 for seating

3.      Darjeeling Himalayan Railway-

The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway also referred to as the DHR, and lovingly called the 'Darjeeling Toy Train', is a 2 feet narrow gauge train that runs between New Jalpaiguri and Darjeeling, in West Bengal, India. An excursion in Darjeeling Toy Train has stunning sights with pleasant mountain views and pass by towns and nearby shops coming, with kids happily waving at them.

Timings : 4:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Prayer Timings: 4:30 AM - 6:00 AM, 4:30 PM - 6:00 PM
Entry Fee : No entry fee

4.      Batasai Loop-

The Batasia Loop is a lush green toy train pathway that is meant to minimise the elevation of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. The extraordinary design of this glorious attraction permits the track to fold over itself through a hilltop tunnel. Quite possibly the most captivating aspects of the Batasia Loop is its unparalleled normal magnificence which is an awesome incredible sight.

Timings : 5:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Entry Fee : INR 15

5.     Nightingale Park-

Located in the mesmerising hill station of Darjeeling, the Nightingale Park is a public park area regularly visited by the tourists and local people to relish exquisite views of the Kanchenjunga ranges. It serves as an ideal place to unwind and recharge in the midst of rich greenery and relieving winds.

Timings : All days of the week: 7:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Entry Fee : INR 10 per person for adults PM

6.      Darjeeling Rock Garden-

Rock Garden is a flawless picnic spot terraced with natural fall known as Chunnu summer fall, located 10 km away from Darjeeling. It is also known as Barbotey Rock Garden which is encircled by beautiful hill stream along with the slope covered with intriguing blossom gardens and sitting arrangements at different levels.

Timings : 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Entry Fee : Indians: INR 10   |   Foreign tourists: INR 50

#  Hotels/Places to stay in Darjeeling-

1.      Golden Orchid- The Lodge-

Golden Orchid offers an enthusiastic and relaxing accommodation packed with modern amenities and stylish vibe. The lodge features rooms covered in wooden furnishings and contemporary decor, a restaurant and a bar serving scrumptious dinners combined with invigorating beverages and a porch with outside furniture to partake in the entrancing views of the city. Activities hiking and cycling are also available for the nature explores.

Price: INR 1,139 onwards

Featuring a fitness centre, Jai Hotels is set in Darjeeling and is 6 km from Tiger Hill. This property is situated a short distance from attractions such as Neora Valley National Park. Guests can enjoy a selection of Nepalese cuisine in the in-house restaurant. The rooms in the hotel are fitted with a flat-screen TV. Rooms have a private washroom outfitted with a shower, while selected rooms are furnished with a seating region. All units incorporate a work area.

Price: INR 2,700 onwards

3.      Sinclairs Darjeeling-

Situated within 500 metre from Chowrasta town square, Sinclairs Darjeeling offers stunning views of Kanchendzonga on a clear day. Fitted with a fan, rooms are equipped with a wardrobe, satellite TV and seating area. En suite bathrooms come with hot and cold shower facilities along with free toiletries. Room service is accessible too.

Price: INR 6,962 onwards

4.      Villa Everest-

Located just 1 km from the famous Mall road, Villa Everest is located in Darjeeling. The property offers spacious rooms with a mountain view. Free WiFi is accessible in the public spaces of the property. Each room here will provide you with a TV, a seating region and cable channels. There is additionally an electric pot. Private restroom likewise accompanies a shower. You can appreciate mountain view from the room. Additional items incorporate a couch, a work area and bed linen.

Price: INR 3,982 onwards