Darjeeling Trip Plan: A Perfect 5-Day Itinerary for an Unforgettable Experience

🗺️ 5-Day Darjeeling Trip Plan

Darjeeling, the “Queen of the Hills,” is a breathtaking hill station in West Bengal, India. Famous for its tea plantations, colonial charm, and stunning views of the Himalayas, Darjeeling is the perfect getaway for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Here’s a detailed 5-day Darjeeling trip plan covering all the must-visit places and experiences!

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📌 Day 1: Arrival & Local Exploration – Darjeeling Trip Plan

✈️ How to Reach Darjeeling?

Darjeeling is well-connected by air, rail, and road. Here’s how you can reach this beautiful hill station:

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🛫 Darjeeling Trip Plan By Air (Fastest Route)

• Nearest Airport: Bagdogra Airport (IXB) (Distance: 70 km from Darjeeling)
• Flight Options: Direct flights are available from major cities like Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Guwahati, and Bangalore.
• Airport to Darjeeling:
  • Private taxis (₹2500-₹3500) take around 3-4 hours.
  • Shared cabs are available from Siliguri (₹500-₹700 per seat).

Check Fares to Darjeeling By Air:

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🚆 Darjeeling Trip Plan By Train (Scenic & Budget-Friendly)

• Nearest Major Railway Station: New Jalpaiguri (NJP) Railway Station (Distance: 72 km)
• Train Options: Direct trains from cities like Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Chennai, Bangalore, and Guwahati.
• NJP to Darjeeling:
  • Toy Train: Take the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR) Toy Train (7-hour scenic ride).
  • Private Taxi: Costs ₹2500-₹3500 (takes around 3-4 hours).
  • Shared Jeep: Available at Siliguri Junction (₹400-₹600 per seat).
    
    Check Train Timing and Fare to Darjeeling before Darjeeling Trip Plan:
    

Indian Railways Train Search

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🛣️ Darjeeling Trip Plan By Road (Adventure Seekers)

• Drive to Darjeeling:
  • From Siliguri – 70 km (3-4 hours)
  • From Gangtok – 100 km (4-5 hours)
  • From Kalimpong – 50 km (2 hours)
• Public Transport:
  • Buses & Shared Jeeps: Available from Siliguri, NJP, and Bagdogra.
  • Private Car Rentals: Start from ₹3000 for a one-way trip.

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🌟 Darjeeling Trip Plan – Best Travel Option?

• For Comfort & Speed: Take a flight to Bagdogra and then a private taxi.
• For Budget Travelers: Take a train to NJP and then a shared jeep.
• For a Scenic Experience: Take the Toy Train from NJP to Darjeeling.

🚗 Tip: Roads are winding, so carry motion sickness medicine if needed. 😊

🏡 Check-in & Relax

• Check into a hotel or homestay in Mall Road or Chowrasta for easy access to major attractions.
  
  Book Homestays in Darjeeling
  
  
• Some good options: Mayfair Darjeeling, Central Nirvana Resort, Summit Swiss Heritage Hotel
  

🌆 Explore Darjeeling’s Heart

• Mall Road: Take a leisurely walk, shop for souvenirs, and sip on authentic Darjeeling tea.
• Chowrasta: Enjoy a peaceful horse ride and admire the panoramic view.
• Mahakal Temple: A short uphill trek from Chowrasta leads to this serene Hindu and Buddhist temple.

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🍽️ Dinner at Glenary’s

• End the day with delicious continental food at Glenary’s, an iconic colonial-era café.

📍 Location: Nehru Road, Near Mall Road, Darjeeling
⏰ Timings: 7:30 AM – 9:00 PM
💰 Price Range: ₹300 – ₹800 per person

🌟 Why Visit Glenary’s?

Glenary’s is one of Darjeeling’s most iconic restaurants, famous for its colonial charm, delicious bakery items, and breathtaking views of the Himalayas. Established during the British era, it remains a favorite among travelers for its old-world ambiance and delectable food.

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🍞 What to Try at Glenary’s?

🥐 Bakery & Café (Ground Floor)

• Freshly Baked Croissants & Pastries
• Darjeeling Tea with Scones
• Cheesecakes & Apple Pies
• Pineapple & Chocolate Swiss Rolls

🍽️ Restaurant (Upper Floor)

• Continental Breakfast: Omelets, Toast, Pancakes
• Lunch & Dinner: Grilled Chicken, Fish & Chips, Sizzlers
• Indian & Chinese Dishes: Tandoori Chicken, Noodles
• Local Specialties: Tibetan Thukpa, Momos

🍷 The Glenary’s Pub (Basement)

• Serves a variety of local and imported drinks
• Perfect for a cozy evening with live music

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🌄 Ambiance & Experience

• The open-air seating offers spectacular mountain views.
• The colonial architecture and classic wooden interiors add to the charm.
• The live music (on some evenings) enhances the experience.

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🛍️ Nearby Attractions in Darjeeling Trip Plan

• Mall Road: A short walk from Glenary’s
• Chowrasta: Perfect for an evening stroll after dining
• Mahakal Temple: A peaceful spiritual site nearby

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⭐ Final Verdict: A Must-Visit in Darjeeling!

If you’re in Darjeeling, Glenary’s is an experience you shouldn’t miss. Whether you’re here for a hearty breakfast, a relaxing lunch, or just an evening tea with a view, Glenary’s will surely leave you with delicious memories! 😊

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📌 Day 2: Sunrise at Tiger Hill & Tea Gardens

🌄 Tiger Hill – The Best Sunrise Spot in Darjeeling

📍 Location: 11 km from Darjeeling Town
🕒 Best Time to Visit: 4:30 AM – 6:00 AM (Sunrise timing varies by season)
💰 Entry Fee: ₹20 (₹50 for a premium view)
🚗 How to Reach: Private taxis (₹1500-₹2500) or shared jeeps (₹300-₹500 per person)

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🌅 Why is Tiger Hill Famous?

Tiger Hill is the most famous sunrise point in Darjeeling, offering a breathtaking panoramic view of Mt. Kanchenjunga, Mt. Everest, and other Himalayan peaks. On a clear morning, you can witness the first golden rays of the sun illuminating the snow-clad mountains—an experience of a lifetime!

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🌞 What to Expect at Tiger Hill?

1️⃣ Sunrise Over Kanchenjunga

• The sky changes colors from deep blue to orange and gold.
• Kanchenjunga’s snow-capped peaks glow with the first sunlight.
• On exceptionally clear days, you can even spot Mount Everest!

2️⃣ Spectacular Views of the Himalayas

• The view includes Makalu, Lhotse, Janu, and other Himalayan peaks.
• The Teesta and Rangeet rivers glisten in the early morning light.

3️⃣ Chilly but Refreshing Morning

• The temperature can be very cold before sunrise, so wear warm clothes.
• Local vendors sell hot tea and snacks near the viewpoint.

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📅 Best Season to Visit Tiger Hill

Season	Experience	Weather
October – December	Best clear mountain views	Cold & crisp mornings
March – June	Pleasant sunrise with some mist	Cool & breezy
July – September	Foggy, limited visibility	Rainy & unpredictable

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🌟 Tips for Visiting Tiger Hill

✔️ Start Early: Leave by 3:30 – 4:00 AM to get the best spot.
✔️ Dress Warmly: It gets very cold before sunrise. Carry gloves, jackets, and caps.
✔️ Book Transport in Advance: Private cabs and shared jeeps get booked fast.
✔️ Visit on a Clear Day: Avoid foggy or rainy days for the best visibility.

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⛰️ Nearby Attractions

• Batasia Loop & War Memorial (on the way back to Darjeeling)
• Ghoom Monastery (one of the oldest monasteries in Darjeeling)
• Senchal Wildlife Sanctuary (great for nature lovers)

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⭐ Final Verdict: A Must-Visit in Darjeeling!

Tiger Hill offers a once-in-a-lifetime sunrise experience and is an essential stop for every Darjeeling traveler. The mesmerizing play of colors on Kanchenjunga and the peaceful Himalayan atmosphere make it truly unforgettable! 🌄✨

🛤️ Batasia Loop & War Memorial – A Scenic Marvel in Darjeeling

📍 Location: 5 km from Darjeeling Town, on the way to Ghoom
⏰ Timings: 5:00 AM – 8:00 PM
💰 Entry Fee: ₹20 per person
🚂 How to Reach:

• By Toy Train (Part of Darjeeling Himalayan Railway ride)
• By Taxi or Shared Jeep from Darjeeling town (₹200-₹500)

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🌟 Why Visit Batasia Loop?

Batasia Loop is a famous spiral railway track designed to help the Toy Train navigate the steep gradient of Darjeeling’s hills. It offers:

✔️ A 360-degree panoramic view of Darjeeling and the Himalayan peaks, including Mt. Kanchenjunga.
✔️ A beautifully landscaped garden, perfect for photography and relaxation.
✔️ A chance to see the Toy Train in action, looping around the track.

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🏅 War Memorial – Honoring Gorkha Soldiers

Within Batasia Loop is the Darjeeling War Memorial, built in honor of the brave Gorkha soldiers who sacrificed their lives in wars post-independence.

✔️ A 9-foot-high bronze statue of a Gorkha soldier, standing in tribute.
✔️ Peaceful surroundings with flowers and well-maintained gardens.
✔️ A place of respect and patriotism, offering a moment of reflection.

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🎭 Things to Do at Batasia Loop

✔️ Enjoy the Scenic Views: Capture the stunning Himalayan sunrise from this viewpoint.
✔️ Watch the Toy Train Pass By: The most exciting moment is when the heritage train makes a full loop around the track.
✔️ Stroll Through the Garden: Filled with colorful flowers and fountains, it’s a peaceful place to relax.
✔️ Photography: A great spot for clicking Instagram-worthy pictures of mountains, gardens, and the train.

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📅 Best Time to Visit Batasia Loop

Season	Experience	Weather
October – December	Best clear views of Kanchenjunga	Cold but refreshing
March – June	Pleasant weather, colorful gardens	Cool and breezy
July – September	Foggy, lower visibility	Rainy and misty

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⭐ Final Verdict: A Must-Visit Spot!

Batasia Loop is more than just a railway track—it’s a historical, scenic, and peaceful attraction that perfectly blends nature, engineering, and patriotism. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or photography enthusiast, Batasia Loop & War Memorial is a must-visit during your Darjeeling trip! 🚂🌿✨

🏛️ Ghoom Monastery – A Spiritual Gem in Darjeeling

📍 Location: Ghoom, 8 km from Darjeeling town
⏰ Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
💰 Entry Fee: Free (Donations accepted)
🚕 How to Reach:

• By Taxi or Shared Jeep from Darjeeling (₹150-₹500)
• Part of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Toy Train route

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🌟 Why Visit Ghoom Monastery?

The Ghoom Monastery, officially known as Yiga Choeling Monastery, is one of the oldest and most revered monasteries in Darjeeling. Established in 1850, it belongs to the Gelugpa sect of Tibetan Buddhism and is famous for:

✔️ A 15-ft-high statue of Maitreya Buddha (Future Buddha), one of the largest in West Bengal.
✔️ Ancient Buddhist manuscripts, thangkas (Tibetan paintings), and sacred texts.
✔️ A peaceful and spiritual atmosphere, perfect for meditation and self-reflection.

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🛕 What to See & Do at Ghoom Monastery

1️⃣ Marvel at the Maitreya Buddha Statue

• The golden statue of Maitreya Buddha (the Future Buddha) is the main attraction.
• The serene expression of Buddha radiates peace and tranquility.

2️⃣ Admire the Ancient Buddhist Art & Texts

• Explore intricately painted thangkas (traditional Tibetan scroll paintings).
• See Tibetan scriptures, including old manuscripts of the Buddhist teachings.

3️⃣ Spin the Prayer Wheels for Blessings

• The monastery has large Tibetan prayer wheels inscribed with Buddhist mantras.
• Spinning them is believed to bring peace and positive energy.

4️⃣ Enjoy the Scenic Views from the Monastery

• The location offers a breathtaking view of Darjeeling’s mountains and valleys.
• The misty ambiance makes it a photographer’s paradise.

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📅 Best Time to Visit Ghoom Monastery

Season	Experience	Weather
October – December	Best for clear views & spiritual vibes	Cool & pleasant
March – June	Ideal for sightseeing & photography	Mild & breezy
July – September	Misty & mystical, but can be rainy	Rainy & foggy

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📍 Nearby Attractions

✔️ Batasia Loop & War Memorial – Just 2 km away, perfect for a combined visit.
✔️ Tiger Hill – A famous sunrise viewpoint, located 5 km from the monastery.
✔️ Samten Choling Monastery – Another serene Buddhist monastery nearby.

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⭐ Final Verdict: A Must-Visit for Peace Seekers

Whether you’re a history lover, a spiritual seeker, or just someone looking for a peaceful retreat, Ghoom Monastery is a must-visit in Darjeeling. The Maitreya Buddha statue, Buddhist art, and serene surroundings make it an unforgettable experience! 🏔️🙏✨

🍃 Happy Valley Tea Estate – A Tea Lover’s Paradise in Darjeeling

📍 Location: Lebong Cart Road, 3 km from Darjeeling town
⏰ Timings: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Closed on Mondays)
💰 Entry Fee: ₹100 per person (Includes guided tour)
🚕 How to Reach:

• By Taxi or Shared Jeep from Darjeeling (₹150-₹500)
• By Walking (30-40 minutes downhill from Mall Road)

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🌟 Why Visit Happy Valley Tea Estate?

Established in 1854, Happy Valley Tea Estate is one of the oldest and most famous tea gardens in Darjeeling. Spread over 437 acres, this tea estate is known for producing high-quality, organic Darjeeling tea, often exported worldwide.

✔️ Take a Guided Tour to learn about tea plucking, withering, rolling, oxidation, and drying.
✔️ Enjoy Fresh Darjeeling Tea Tasting at the estate’s tea lounge.
✔️ Explore the Lush Green Tea Gardens and click stunning photographs.
✔️ Buy Authentic Darjeeling Tea directly from the estate’s factory shop.

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🫖 What to Expect at Happy Valley Tea Estate?

1️⃣ Guided Factory Tour – The Tea-Making Process

• Watch the traditional hand-plucking of tea leaves.
• Learn about the processing techniques behind white, green, oolong, and black tea.
• Understand how Darjeeling tea gets its unique flavor and aroma.

2️⃣ Tea Tasting – Savor the Finest Blends

• Enjoy a premium tea tasting session with different varieties of Darjeeling tea.
• Experience the delicate flavors and floral notes of first flush and second flush teas.

3️⃣ Explore the Tea Gardens – A Photographer’s Delight

• Walk through the endless green slopes of the estate.
• Capture the stunning landscapes with the backdrop of Kanchenjunga.

4️⃣ Buy Authentic Darjeeling Tea

• Purchase freshly packed organic tea directly from the factory at reasonable prices.
• Get exclusive first flush and second flush tea varieties.

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📅 Best Time to Visit Happy Valley Tea Estate

Season	Experience	Weather
March – May	Best time to see tea plucking & processing	Pleasant & warm
June – September	Lush green gardens, but monsoon may disrupt tours	Cool & rainy
October – December	Ideal for tea tasting & scenic views	Cold & misty

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📍 Nearby Attractions

✔️ Lloyd’s Botanical Garden – A great place to explore Himalayan flora (2 km away).
✔️ Darjeeling Ropeway – Offers breathtaking views of tea gardens from above (5 km away).
✔️ Japanese Peace Pagoda – A peaceful Buddhist site near the estate (6 km away).

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⭐ Final Verdict: A Must-Visit for Tea Enthusiasts

If you love tea, nature, and history, Happy Valley Tea Estate is a must-visit in Darjeeling. The guided tour, scenic gardens, and tea tasting experience make it an unforgettable visit. Don’t forget to take home some authentic Darjeeling tea! 🍃🫖✨

🍛 Lunch at Kunga Restaurant – A Hidden Gem for Tibetan Food in Darjeeling

📍 Location: Gandhi Road, Near Clock Tower, Darjeeling
⏰ Timings: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
💰 Price Range: ₹200 – ₹500 per person
🚶 How to Reach: Walking distance from Mall Road & Chowrasta

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🌟 Why Visit Kunga Restaurant?

Kunga Restaurant is a small but highly rated Tibetan eatery in Darjeeling, known for its authentic flavors, homely ambiance, and pocket-friendly prices. It’s a favorite among locals and tourists who love traditional Tibetan and Nepali cuisine.

✔️ Serves some of the best momos & thukpa in Darjeeling
✔️ Warm, cozy atmosphere with friendly service
✔️ Perfect for a budget-friendly yet delicious meal

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🍽️ What to Try at Kunga Restaurant?

🥟 Tibetan & Nepali Delicacies

✅ Steamed & Fried Momos (Pork, Chicken, Veg) – Soft, juicy, and flavorful
✅ Thukpa (Tibetan Noodle Soup) – Spicy & warm, perfect for the cold weather
✅ Tingmo (Tibetan Steamed Bread) with Shapta (Stir-fried Meat) – A must-try combo
✅ Shyaphale (Tibetan Fried Meat Patties) – Crispy & delicious

🍜 Noodles & Rice Dishes

✅ Chicken, Pork, or Veg Chowmein – Loaded with flavors and fresh veggies
✅ Fried Rice with Tibetan Curry – A perfect comfort meal

🍵 Beverages & Desserts

✅ Butter Tea (Authentic Tibetan Yak Butter Tea) – Unique salty tea experience
✅ Lemon Ginger Honey Tea – Refreshing and soothing
✅ Sweet Tibetan Rice Pudding – A delightful dessert to end your meal

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🌿 Ambiance & Experience

• Small, cozy eatery with a rustic Tibetan vibe
• Simple interiors with handwritten menu boards
• Warm hospitality from the owners, who often chat with guests

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📍 Nearby Attractions

✔️ Darjeeling Mall Road & Chowrasta – Perfect for a post-lunch stroll
✔️ Mahakal Temple – A peaceful spiritual site nearby
✔️ Observatory Hill – Offers scenic views of the Himalayas

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⭐ Final Verdict: A Must-Visit for Food Lovers

If you’re looking for authentic Tibetan flavors, generous portions, and a warm, homely atmosphere, Kunga Restaurant is a must-visit in Darjeeling. Whether it’s the delicious momos, hearty thukpa, or traditional Tibetan dishes, this place will leave you craving for more! 🍜🥟✨

🎭 Himalayan Mountaineering Institute & Zoological Park

• Visit HMI, a tribute to legendary mountaineer Tenzing Norgay.
• Explore the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, home to the endangered Red Panda and Snow Leopard.

⛲ Peace Pagoda

• End the day at Japanese Peace Pagoda, a serene Buddhist site with breathtaking sunset views.

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📌 Day 3: Offbeat Darjeeling – Mirik & Lepchajagat

🚗 Day Trip to Mirik (1.5 hours drive)

• Sumendu Lake: Enjoy a boat ride amidst pine forests.
• Bokar Monastery: A peaceful place for meditation.
• Tingling Viewpoint: Overlook lush tea gardens and rolling hills.
• Orchid Nurseries: Explore beautiful flower nurseries.

🏔️ Visit Lepchajagat (Optional)

• A serene village just 30 minutes from Darjeeling.
• Perfect for a peaceful stay amidst dense pine forests and misty mountains.

🌅 Return to Darjeeling & Evening Leisure

• Stroll around Mall Road again.
• Enjoy a cup of steaming Darjeeling tea at a heritage tea lounge.

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📌 Day 4: Rock Garden, Tenzing Rock & More

🌿 Rock Garden & Ganga Maya Park

• A beautiful terraced garden with waterfalls and rock formations.

🧗 Tenzing Rock & Gombu Rock

• Perfect for rock climbing and adventure lovers.
• Named after Tenzing Norgay, the first Everest summiteer.

🕍 Bhutia Busty Monastery

• A peaceful Buddhist monastery with stunning views.

🍛 Try Local Cuisine at Sonam’s Kitchen

• Famous for pancakes, sandwiches, and ginger tea.

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📌 Day 5: Farewell to Darjeeling

🌳 Explore Offbeat Attractions (If Time Permits)

• Darjeeling Ropeway: Enjoy an aerial view of tea gardens.
• Lloyd’s Botanical Garden: Discover rare Himalayan flora.

🛍️ Last-Minute Shopping & Departure

• Buy tea, woolens, and handicrafts from Teesta Bazaar or Habeeb Mullick & Son.

🚆 Return Journey

• Travel back to NJP/Bagdogra for your train/flight.

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📝 Travel Tips for Darjeeling

✔️ Best Time to Visit: March–June (pleasant weather), October–December (clear mountain views)
✔️ Budget Estimate: ₹10,000-₹20,000 (Varies based on accommodation & transport)
✔️ Must-Try Food: Momos, Thukpa, Darjeeling Tea, Nepali Thali
✔️ Local Transport: Shared jeeps, private taxis, and walking are common.

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🧐 FAQs About Darjeeling Trip Plan

1. How many days are enough for Darjeeling?

A 5-day trip is ideal to explore all major attractions and enjoy leisure time.

2. What is the best time to visit Darjeeling?

The best seasons are March to June (spring/summer) and October to December (autumn/winter). Avoid monsoons due to heavy rainfall.

3. How much does a Darjeeling trip cost?

For a budget trip, expect around ₹10,000 per person. For a luxury trip, it can go up to ₹30,000+.

4. What should I wear in Darjeeling?

• Summer (March–June): Light woolens, comfortable shoes
• Winter (Oct–Feb): Heavy woolens, gloves, jackets
• Monsoon (July–Sept): Raincoats, waterproof shoes

5. Is Darjeeling safe for solo travelers?

Yes! Darjeeling is very safe for solo and female travelers. Just be cautious at night.

6. Can I see Mount Everest from Darjeeling?

Yes! On a clear day, you can see Mount Everest from Tiger Hill along with Kanchenjunga.

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🏔️ Final Thoughts

Darjeeling is a perfect mix of scenic beauty, adventure, and cultural heritage. Whether you’re a solo traveler, honeymooner, or family explorer, this 5-day itinerary ensures you have an unforgettable experience in this Himalayan paradise!

🌏 Plan your trip today and enjoy the magic of Darjeeling!