welcome to darjeeling vibes
About this blog: We have been exploring Darjeeling ever since we started travelling. We have also blogged about this place for long. This Darjeeling Travel Guide was written sometime back. We have now updated this Darjeeling travel guide with all the latest information and required to plan a Darjeeling trip. This guide might help you when you visit the “Queen of Hills” and make you plan a perfect Darjeeling tour.
Darjeeling is located at an altitude of about 6710 feet and is one of the most beautiful destinations in India. The name Darjeeling came from two Tibetan words ‘dorje’ meaning and ‘ling‘ meaning land. So Darjeeling literally means ‘the land of thunderbolt’.
Previous to its acquisition by the British East India Company in 1835, Darjeeling was a part of Sikkim (Sikkim was an independent kingdom then) and also of Nepal for a brief period of time.
Walking the roads of Darjeeling
Darjeeling has always been my favorite place since childhood for which I have already been there several times.
In this visit, I tried something new by walking on the streets of Darjeeling to get a detailed overview of the city.
Here, I share my experience with you all.
Waking up in the morning for sunrise has never been a problem for me when I am there. I never had to depend upon the alarm clock, as the fresh air gave the power to break every rule.
Observatory Hill:
From my hotel, I walked towards Observatory Hill through the Mall. After reaching, I stood there, with my keen eyes searching for the light on Mt. Kanchenjunga within the dark sky. It was very cold. I have always experienced a clear sky during this season. As the sun rises, the first light on the peak of Mt. Kanchenjunga gave an understanding of actual realistic colors. The color gradually started to glow with changing position of the sun.
It is said that best view of the sunrise over Mt. Kanchenjunga in Darjeeling is from Tiger Hill. I won't say it is bad, but since I have experienced the view several times from Tiger Hill, so this time, I thought of going around by foot and see the sunrise from Observatory Hill, behind Darjeeling Mall.
Take away: While watching the sunrise, you will be accompanied by many local walkers working out in the cold morning.
Mall:
After viewing the sunrise, I walk down to the Mall for a fresh cup of tea in the stands. Leisure time sitting on the wooden plank made chairs, sipping tea and see local people around.
Take away: This Mall has seen the history of changes over the years. Don't miss to spend some time to experience the same.
Located on the Observatory Hill and encircled at its bottom by the Mall Road stands Mahakal Mandir. As you walk along the Mall road, you will see this steep hill rising. It takes about 15 minutes of an uphill walk to reach the top. Though the walk is tiring, in the end, the reward is awesome. The temple is great! If you are really out of breath, there are benches there where you can take some rest.
Take away: There are thousands of Buddhist prayer flags fluttering all over and hanging from the trees. Can't miss the view and experience.
Old Cemetery:
Cemeteries are places which we generally don’t include in our to-visit list while traveling. But this time, after referring several travel sites, I came through about Darjeeling Old Cemetery which is also known as the English Cemetery, resting place of those early British settlers who created this beautiful gem of a hill town. It's an easy 3 km walk from Chowk Bazaar area along Lebong Road.
Happy Valley Tea Estate:
When you are walking on Lebong Cart Road, you cannot miss the view of the beautiful Happy Valley Tea Estate. I was standing there seeing the setting sun. The experience is awesome.
Frequently Asked Questions About Waterfalls in Darjeeling
Is Darjeeling worth visiting?
Well, it’s a North-eastern hill station and very beautiful. There is a hill which is just famous for the captivating views of sunrise it offers. The toy train that plies between Darjeeling and NJP is another experience that you must have. Add to that the cascading waterfalls in Darjeeling and you have all the reasons to visit Darjeeling.
How many days should I spend in Darjeeling?
Ideally you should spend 5 to 7 days in Darjeeling. There are many exciting activities that you can try and many amazing places to visit in Darjeeling which makes it worth a visit.
What should I buy in Darjeeling?
There are many things that you can shop for in Darjeeling. Carpets, hand knitted items, tea, handicrafts, woollens and books are some of the best things to buy in Darjeeling.
What is the best time to visit Darjeeling?
Summer season is the best time to visit Darjeeling. This season is the aptest as most tourist attractions stay open, weather is pleasant, natural beauty is at its best and adventure activities are all accessible. Apart from April to June, January is also a good time to experience snow and enjoy the festive season.
Where can snow be found in Darjeeling?
Places at higher altitude in Darjeeling provides you with the opportunity to watch the snowfall. Sandakphu in the state of West Bengal is at the highest point (12,000ft) where one can get lucky to watch the snow. However, it is not every year that you can experience snow in Darjeeling as all altitude of here is only about 6,700ft.
Which are the most famous waterfalls in Darjeeling?
The most magnificent waterfalls in Darjeeling where one can enjoy a beautiful view are Chunnu Summer Falls, Seven Sisters Waterfall, Kanchenjunga Waterfalls and Paglajhora Waterfalls.
What is Darjeeling famous for?
Darjeeling is well-known for its tea industry, the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and its views of Kangchenjunga, the world’s third-highest mountain. It is also famous for its other major tourist attractions called the Tiger Hill. These are some not to be missed attractions while travelling to Darjeeling.
What should I wear in Darjeeling?
Normal T-shirts and jeanswear is okay to wear during the daytime in Darjeeling. In the evening one requires a sweater, shawl or a jacket. Also, it is good to wear shoes or sneakers considering the weather condition.
Is Darjeeling safe to travel?
Darjeeling is absolutely safe to travel in all the seasons. No place on Earth would be safe if you push your limits but rest it is all fine.