Transportation

Bus, Taxi
Accomodation

3 Stars Hotels, Homestays
Maximum Altitude

5,416 metres
Departure from

New Jalpaiguri, Bagdogra
Best season

Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan
Tour type

Eco-Tour, Hiking
Meals

All meals during the trek
Language

English, Hindi, Begali, Tamil, Nepali
Fitness level

Easy to Moderate
Group Size

2-15
Minimum Age

5
Maximum Age

65

Overview

Discovering Darjeeling: A Himalayan Gem

Nestled in the foothills of the eastern Himalayas, Darjeeling is a charming hill station in West Bengal, India, renowned for its stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and cool, refreshing climate. Often referred to as the “Queen of the Hills,” Darjeeling offers a delightful escape for tourists seeking both relaxation and adventure.

Natural Beauty

Darjeeling’s most iconic feature is its breathtaking panoramic views of the snow-capped Kanchenjunga, the third-highest peak in the world. The lush tea gardens that blanket the surrounding hills add to the town’s scenic allure. Visitors can explore the picturesque landscapes on a ride aboard the famous Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its vintage charm and spectacular mountain vistas.

Cultural and Historical Highlights

Tiger Hill: For an unforgettable sunrise experience, head to Tiger Hill, where you can witness the first rays of sunlight illuminating the peaks of the Kanchenjunga range and Mount Everest in the distance.
Buddhist Monasteries: Darjeeling is home to several serene monasteries, including the Ghoom Monastery and the Darjeeling Monastery, which offer a glimpse into the region’s Tibetan Buddhist culture.
Himalayan Mountaineering Institute (HMI): Established in 1954, this institute is dedicated to mountaineering and adventure sports. The museum here showcases equipment, memorabilia, and the history of mountaineering in the Himalayas.
Darjeeling Zoo: Officially known as the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, this zoo is famous for its conservation efforts and houses endangered species like the snow leopard, red panda, and Tibetan wolf.

Tea Gardens and Culinary Delights

Darjeeling is celebrated for its world-class tea. A visit to the tea estates, such as Happy Valley Tea Estate, offers a chance to explore the tea-making process and sample some of the finest teas. The town’s culinary scene is equally diverse, featuring delicious Tibetan momos (dumplings), thukpa (noodle soup), and traditional Bengali sweets.

Adventure and Recreation

For adventure enthusiasts, Darjeeling provides various outdoor activities, including trekking, rock climbing, and paragliding. The nearby Singalila National Park is a great destination for trekking, offering trails that lead to panoramic viewpoints and encounters with diverse flora and fauna.

Shopping and Souvenirs

The bustling markets of Darjeeling, such as Chowrasta and Mall Road, are perfect for picking up local handicrafts, souvenirs, and Tibetan artifacts. You’ll find everything from handcrafted woolens to traditional jewelry.

Travel Tips

Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to visit Darjeeling is between March to June and September to November when the weather is pleasant and clear.
Getting There: Darjeeling is accessible by road from New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (about 70 km away) or Bagdogra Airport. The toy train ride from New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling is a memorable experience in itself.
Weather: The weather can be quite cool, even in summer, so pack layers and warm clothing.

Darjeeling’s blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and adventure makes it a must-visit destination for those looking to experience the magic of the Himalayas. Whether you’re looking to relax in serene surroundings, delve into local culture, or embark on thrilling adventures, Darjeeling offers an unforgettable getaway.

Highlights

Witness a breathtaking sunrise over the Himalayas, including the majestic Kanchenjunga and, on clear days, Mount Everest.
Take a ride on the historic "Toy Train," a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Book tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons.
Visit this beautiful Buddhist stupa located on a hilltop offering panoramic views of the town and the Himalayas.
Marvel at the unique engineering of this circular railway loop, which offers spectacular views and a landscaped garden with a war memorial.
Trekking to Singalila National Park
Many more adventures awaits.

Day 1 :

Arrival and Local Exploration

Morning

Arrival in Darjeeling: Reach Darjeeling either by road from New Jalpaiguri Railway Station or Bagdogra Airport. Check into your hotel.
Relax and Refresh: Take some time to settle in and have breakfast.

Afternoon

Lunch: Enjoy a meal at a local restaurant, sampling Tibetan and local cuisine.
Chowrasta and Mall Road: Stroll through the bustling pedestrian area. Explore local shops and cafes. This area is great for shopping souvenirs and experiencing local culture.

Evening

Peace Pagoda: Visit this serene Buddhist stupa for beautiful sunset views over Darjeeling and the surrounding hills.
Dinner: Dine at a local restaurant or café, trying out traditional dishes like momos and thukpa.

Day 2 :

Iconic Attractions and Cultural Experiences

Early Morning

Tiger Hill: Depart early to catch the sunrise over the Himalayas, including views of Kanchenjunga and Mount Everest. The best time to leave is around 3:30 AM to ensure you get a good spot.
Morning

Breakfast: Return to the hotel for breakfast.
Ghoom Monastery: Visit this historic Tibetan monastery, known for its large statue of Maitreya Buddha and its tranquil atmosphere.
Afternoon

Lunch: Enjoy a meal at a local restaurant.
Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (Toy Train) Ride: Take a scenic ride on this UNESCO World Heritage train. The route from Darjeeling to Ghoom offers stunning views.
Evening

Himalayan Mountaineering Institute (HMI) Museum: Explore the exhibits related to mountaineering history and achievements.
Dinner: Try a different local restaurant or cafe for a variety of dishes.

Day 3 :

Nature and Adventure

Morning

Breakfast: Enjoy breakfast at the hotel or a local café.
Darjeeling Zoo (Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park): Visit this well-regarded zoo to see endangered species such as the snow leopard and red panda.
Afternoon

Lunch: Eat at a local spot near the zoo.
Tea Garden Visit: Head to a nearby tea estate, such as Happy Valley Tea Estate, for a guided tour of the tea-making process and a tasting session.
Evening

Batasia Loop: Visit this engineering marvel and war memorial, which offers excellent views and a beautifully landscaped garden.
Dinner: Relax with a dinner at a local restaurant or your hotel’s dining area.

Day 4 :

Relaxation and Departure

Morning

Breakfast: Have a leisurely breakfast at the hotel.
Tibetan Refugee Self-Help Center: Explore this center to learn about Tibetan handicrafts and culture. It’s a great place to pick up unique souvenirs.
Afternoon

Lunch: Enjoy a final meal in Darjeeling, savoring your favorite local dishes.
Departure: Depending on your departure time, you can either explore more or head to the airport or railway station for your journey back.
Evening

Journey Home: Travel back to your starting point with memories of a memorable trip to Darjeeling.
This itinerary balances sightseeing, cultural experiences, and relaxation, allowing you to enjoy the highlights of Darjeeling while soaking in its unique charm and beauty.

Day 5 :

If tour is extended

Customization will be done

Day 6 :

Day 7 :

Cost

The Cost Includes

Here’s a list of services you might find useful during your visit to Darjeeling:
### **1. Transportation Services**
- **Airport Transfers**: Shuttle services from Bagdogra Airport to Darjeeling.
- **Taxi Services**: Local taxis for intra-city travel and sightseeing.
- **Car Rentals**: Self-drive or chauffeur-driven cars for exploring the region.
- **Toy Train Tickets**: Booking services for the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway.
- **Private Tours**: Customized tour packages with transportation included.
### **2. Accommodation Services**
- **Hotels**: Options ranging from luxury to budget hotels.
- **Guesthouses**: Cozy and often more affordable lodging.
- **Homestays**: Authentic local experience with home-like amenities.
- **Resorts**: Higher-end accommodations with extensive facilities.
### **3. Dining Services**
- **Restaurants**: Various dining options offering local, Tibetan, and international cuisine.
- **Cafes**: Spots for casual dining and coffee.
- **Room Service**: Available at most hotels and resorts.
- **Specialty Food Tours**: Guided tours focusing on local culinary delights.
### **4. Sightseeing and Activities**
- **Guided Tours**: Services offering tours of major attractions and cultural sites.
- **Trekking Services**: Guided treks and adventure tours in and around Darjeeling.
- **Tea Estate Tours**: Guided visits to tea plantations with tastings.
- **Adventure Sports**: Paragliding, rock climbing, and other adventure activities.
### **5. Health and Wellness**
- **Medical Facilities**: Hospitals and clinics for medical emergencies and routine care.
- **Pharmacies**: For purchasing medicines and health supplies.
- **Spas and Wellness Centers**: For relaxation and rejuvenation treatments.
### **6. Shopping and Souvenirs**
- **Local Markets**: For traditional crafts, clothing, and souvenirs.
- **Handicraft Shops**: Stores specializing in Tibetan and local handicrafts.
- **Souvenir Shops**: Selling mementos and gifts to remember your trip.
### **7. Communication Services**
- **Internet Cafes**: For access to computers and internet services.
- **SIM Card Services**: Purchasing local SIM cards for mobile connectivity.
- **Post Offices**: Sending postcards and parcels.
### **8. Financial Services**
- **ATMs**: For cash withdrawals and banking services.
- **Currency Exchange**: Facilities for exchanging foreign currency.
- **Banking Services**: For other banking needs.
### **9. Emergency Services**
- **Police Stations**: For assistance with any legal or safety issues.
- **Emergency Numbers**: Local contacts for emergencies (medical, fire, etc.).
### **10. Local Assistance**
- **Tourist Information Centers**: Providing maps, guides, and local information.
- **Travel Agencies**: For booking and managing travel itineraries and tours.
Having access to these services can enhance your visit to Darjeeling, making your stay comfortable and enjoyable while allowing you to fully experience the charm and beauty of this Himalayan gem.

The Cost Excludes

When planning a trip to Darjeeling, some services and activities might be available for free or at minimal cost. Here’s a list of services and attractions that generally do not involve significant costs:
### **1. **Natural Attractions and Views**
- **Tiger Hill Sunrise**: Watching the sunrise from Tiger Hill is typically free, though there might be small fees for parking.
- **Batasia Loop**: Visiting the Batasia Loop and its war memorial is free of charge.
- **Peace Pagoda**: Access to the Peace Pagoda is usually free, but donations are appreciated.
### **2. **Local Exploration**
- **Chowrasta and Mall Road**: Walking around these areas is free and provides an opportunity to enjoy the local atmosphere.
- **Darjeeling’s Markets**: Browsing through local markets and window shopping doesn’t incur costs, though you might be tempted to make a purchase.
### **3. **Cultural Sites**
- **Ghoom Monastery**: Entry to the monastery is often free, though donations are welcome.
- **Tibetan Refugee Self-Help Center**: Visiting this center to learn about Tibetan crafts and culture is typically free.
### **4. **Public Spaces**
- **Local Parks and Gardens**: Many parks and public gardens can be explored without any entry fee.
### **5. **Local Events and Festivals**
- **Festivals**: Participating in local festivals and cultural events is usually free, though there might be costs associated with specific activities or performances.
### **6. **Walking Tours**
- **Self-Guided Walks**: Exploring Darjeeling on foot, including walking through neighborhoods and enjoying local architecture, is free.
### **7. **Religious and Spiritual Visits**
- **Temples and Monasteries**: Visiting many temples and monasteries in Darjeeling is free, though it’s customary to offer a small donation.
### **8. **Public Transport**
- **Local Bus Services**: In some cases, local buses might be an inexpensive way to travel around, but this is more about cost-saving than being free.
### **9. **Photography**
- **Scenic Views**: Taking photographs of the beautiful landscapes, streets, and local life is generally free, though some places might have specific rules.
### **10. **Community Interaction**
- **Local Conversations**: Engaging with locals and experiencing their daily life can be a rewarding part of the visit without any cost.
While many attractions and services in Darjeeling have associated costs, these free or low-cost options allow visitors to enjoy the essence of the town and its surroundings without significant expense.

FAQs

Expand all

How fit do I need to be to do this trek?

Annapurna Base Camp is a Grade B or a moderately difficult trekking route. So any fit person can do this trek, even if you do not have any previous experience. You should be aware of what to expect and mentally prepare for it. Then, as long as you will too, you can.

How long do we walk every day when doing Annapurna Base Camp trekking?

On average, you walk about 4 to 6 hours per day. One or two days can be as less as 3hrs and one or two days can be as long as 7hrs.

What is the highest altitude reached in this trek?

The highest altitude reached is 4190m. This is the elevation of Annapurna Base Camp. ABC is the highest we will climb in this trek.

What about battery charging and hot shower facilities?

Yes, you can charge batteries en route. Charger should be brought. There are hot shower facilities as well. You may have to pay a certain amount for both ($1-$2). Negotiate. Also, a hot water facility could be free at a lower elevation.

Are there ATMs on the way to Annapurna Base Camp?

No. There are no ATMs on this trek route. You will have to draw enough cash in Pokhara or Kathmandu. There are a number of ATMs in these cities. Everything is paid in Nepali rupees. So money should be exchanged before the start of the trek.

What about internet access?

Yes. The Internet can be accessed in most places. Sometimes, there might be some technical problems. The Internet in Nepal is not as fast as you are used to and at times you can just lose connection.

Is it necessary to hire Guides/trekking agency for Annapurna Base Camp trekking?

Not really. It depends on you. If you want, ABC trekking can be done independently. You could hire a guide and a porter by yourself instead of going through an agency or not hire a guide at all. Although, not having a guide can be a little problematic during the offseason.

It really depends on you. Is it your first time in Nepal? How confident are you of being able to find your way around? How pressed on time are you? If you go through an agency, it will be costlier but everything will be planned. You will only have to come, trek and return.

How much do guides and porters cost?

For the Annapurna region, pay for guides range from $20 to $30 per day and porters take $15 to $25 per day.

4 Days tour to Explore the Beauty of Darjeeling

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Map

Overview

Discovering Darjeeling: A Himalayan Gem

Natural Beauty

Cultural and Historical Highlights

Tea Gardens and Culinary Delights

Adventure and Recreation

Shopping and Souvenirs

Travel Tips

Highlights

Itinerary

Cost

The Cost Includes

The Cost Excludes

FAQs

Map

You can send your enquiry via the form below.

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