3-Day Darjeeling Tour Itinerary
Darjeeling, known as the “Queen of the Hills,” is a beautiful hill station located in the state of West Bengal. With its breathtaking views of the Himalayan range, lush tea gardens, and colonial charm, it is a perfect destination for a 3-day getaway. This itinerary will guide you through the best that Darjeeling has to offer, including sightseeing tours, vehicle rates, and nearby places to explore.
Day 1: Arrival and Local Sightseeing
After arriving in Darjeeling, the first day can be spent exploring the local attractions.
Tiger Hill Sunrise
Start your day early to catch the stunning sunrise at Tiger Hill, around 11 km from Darjeeling. The view of the sun rising over the majestic Mount Kanchenjunga is a must-see.- Vehicle Rate: Around ₹2,000–₹2,500 for a round-trip by private taxi.
Ghoom Monastery and Batasia Loop
After Tiger Hill, visit the Ghoom Monastery, one of the oldest Tibetan monasteries in Darjeeling, and then head to Batasia Loop, a spiral railway track offering panoramic views.- Vehicle Rate: ₹1,200–₹1,500 for a taxi covering both spots.
Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (Toy Train)
A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Toy Train ride is an iconic experience. Take a joyride from Darjeeling to Ghoom, which is about a 2-hour round trip, offering a scenic view of the hills and tea gardens.- Ticket Price: Around ₹1,000 per person (First Class).
Peace Pagoda
Visit the Peace Pagoda in the afternoon to enjoy some tranquility and take in the stunning views of the surrounding area.
In the evening, stroll along the Mall Road for local shopping and street food, including Momos and Thukpa.
Day 2: Tea Gardens and Museums
Happy Valley Tea Estate
Start your second day by visiting the Happy Valley Tea Estate, located about 3 km from the town. Take a guided tour to learn about the tea-making process, and you can even sample some of the finest Darjeeling tea.- Entry Fee: Free, but guided tours may cost around ₹200–₹300.
Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park and HMI
Next, head to the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, famous for its collection of rare Himalayan animals, including red pandas and snow leopards. Right next to it is the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute (HMI), where you can learn about the history of mountaineering and famous expeditions.- Entry Fee: ₹60 per person for both attractions.
Japanese Temple and Rock Garden
Visit the Japanese Temple, a serene place of worship, and spend some time at the Rock Garden, known for its terraced gardens and small waterfalls.- Vehicle Rate: ₹1,500–₹1,800 for a half-day tour by private taxi.
Local Markets and Handicrafts
In the evening, explore the local markets for handicrafts, woolen garments, and souvenirs. Darjeeling is known for its handmade carpets and traditional items.
Day 3: Nearby Attractions and Departure
Mirik Lake (Day Trip)
On the third day, take a day trip to Mirik, located about 50 km from Darjeeling. The scenic drive through tea gardens and forests is worth the journey. At Mirik, you can enjoy boating on the beautiful Sumendu Lake and visit the Bokar Monastery.- Vehicle Rate: ₹3,500–₹4,500 for a full-day round trip by taxi.
- Boat Ride: ₹150 per person for a paddle boat.
Pashupati Market (Nepal Border)
On your way back from Mirik, stop at the Pashupati Market, located on the Indo-Nepal border, for some unique shopping. The market is known for imported electronics, clothing, and cosmetics.Nearby Places to Explore
If you prefer staying closer to Darjeeling, you can visit Lamahatta (23 km away), a peaceful eco-park surrounded by pine forests, or explore Tinchuley (32 km away), known for its rural charm and scenic beauty.- Vehicle Rate: ₹2,000–₹2,500 for a day trip to Lamahatta or Tinchuley.
Vehicle Rental and Sightseeing Rates
- Private Taxi for Local Sightseeing: ₹2,000–₹2,500 per day for full-day sightseeing.
- Shared Cabs: ₹300–₹500 per person, depending on the destination.
- Self-Drive Cars: Not very common in Darjeeling due to narrow and steep roads, but taxis are readily available.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Darjeeling is during the summer months (March to May) and autumn (October to November) when the weather is pleasant and skies are clear for viewing the mountains. During winter (December to February), Darjeeling experiences cold weather, but you can still enjoy a scenic, less crowded experience.
This 3-day itinerary provides a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and local charm. Darjeeling is a treasure trove of unforgettable memories, whether you’re sipping tea at a plantation or watching the sunrise over the Himalayas.