Places to visit near Darjeeling

Known For : Nathula Pass MG Road, Gangtok Tsomgo Lake

Gangtok, the vibrant capital and largest town of the Indian state of Sikkim, is perched atop the eastern Himalayas. This serene destination is blessed with breathtaking vistas, mist-covered mountains, and an eclectic mix of tradition and modernity. As a gateway to Sikkim, Gangtok is a harmonious blend of Tibetan culture and a contemporary lifestyle, making it a fascinating place for both leisure and adventure seekers.

Activities: Visit the iconic Rumtek Monastery, take a cable car ride for panoramic city views, stroll on the MG Road for shopping and local cuisine, and explore the Enchey Monastery.
Duration: 3-4 days to immerse in the local culture and scenic beauty.
Highlights: Tsomgo Lake, Nathula Pass, Buddhist monasteries, local handicrafts, and the vibrant urban center.

Distance from Darjeeling: 97 km

Best Time: Throughout the year

34 Gangtok Attractions

Known For : Morgan House Durpin Dara hill Cactus Nursery

Kalimpong, located in West Bengal, is a serene hill station that sits on the eastern Himalayan range. Overlooking the Teesta River, this town is renowned for its panoramic valley views, colonial-era architecture, and a rich cultural heritage that includes a mix of Tibetan, Nepali, and indigenous ethnicities. A hub for traditional handicrafts, Kalimpong is also known for its orchid nurseries and the vibrant local marketplaces.

Activities: Explore the Dr. Graham's Home, visit the Durpin Monastery, indulge in shopping at local markets, and marvel at the Cactus Nursery.
Duration: 2-3 days to experience its charm and explore the natural beauty.
Highlights: Panoramic Himalayan views, Buddhist monasteries, colonial buildings, local handicrafts, and the verdant landscapes.

Distance from Darjeeling: 51 km

Best Time: March to June, September to December

24 Kalimpong Attractions

Known For : Pelling Pemayangtse Monastery Yuksom

West Sikkim, nestled in the northeastern part of India, is a pristine and serene region of the state of Sikkim. Adorned with the grandeur of the Himalayas, gushing waterfalls, and ancient monasteries, it paints a picture of tranquility and ethereal beauty. The region's rich biodiversity, combined with its unique culture and history, offers visitors a rejuvenating and enlightening experience.

Activities: Trek to the majestic Kanchenjunga, visit the ancient Pemayangtse Monastery, explore the ruins of the Rabdentse Palace, and soak in the beauty of the Khecheopalri Lake.
Duration: 3-4 days to fully immerse in its cultural and natural beauty.
Highlights: Majestic views of Mount Kanchenjunga, rich biodiversity, historical sites, and Tibetan Buddhist culture.

Distance from Darjeeling: 75 km

Best Time: April to June, October to December

27 West Sikkim Attractions

Known For : Netaji Subash Chandra Bose Museum Ambotia Shiva Mandir Tea Gardens in Kurseong

Kurseong, known as the 'Land of White Orchids', is a picturesque hill station located in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal. With its cool and pleasant climate, Kurseong offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas, lush tea gardens, and rich flora and fauna. This quaint town has an old-world charm that reflects its colonial past, while its serenity provides a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Activities: Visit the world-famous tea gardens, explore the Dow Hill and its forest museum, take leisurely walks on the long, winding roads, and enjoy the panoramic views from Eagle's Craig.
Duration: 2-3 days to explore and relax amidst nature.
Highlights: Tea gardens, colonial-era buildings, serene ambiance, and the diverse flora and fauna.

Distance from Darjeeling: 30 km

Best Time: April to May, August to October

9 Kurseong Attractions

Known For : Mirik Lake Pashupati Nagar Orange Orchards

Mirik, nestled in the serene hills of West Bengal, is a quaint hill station known for its picturesque landscapes and the iconic Sumendu Lake. Surrounded by dense forests and verdant tea gardens, Mirik offers a tranquil retreat with views of the mighty Kanchenjunga. The town is beautifully balanced between nature and the touch of modernity, making it a sought-after destination for travelers seeking both recreation and relaxation.

Activities: Enjoy boating in the Sumendu Lake, walk over the arching Indreni Pull (Rainbow Bridge), explore the beautiful tea gardens, and relish views from the Rameetay Dara viewpoint.
Duration: 1-2 days to soak in the tranquil vibes and scenic beauty.
Highlights: Sumendu Lake, vast tea gardens, orchid nurseries, and panoramic views of the Eastern Himalayas.

Distance from Darjeeling: 59 km

Best Time: March to July

9 Mirik Attractions

Known For : Namchi Ravangla Borong

South Sikkim, set amidst the majestic Himalayas, is a treasure trove of natural beauty, vibrant flora, and cultural significance. This part of Sikkim is renowned for its serene monasteries, vibrant rhododendron forests, and panoramic views of the snow-clad peaks. Offering a peaceful ambiance, South Sikkim is less crowded compared to other parts of the state, making it an ideal destination for those seeking solace and natural beauty.

Activities: Visit the serene Buddha Park in Ravangla, explore the historic Ngadak Monastery, trek through Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary, and soak in the breathtaking views from Temi Tea Garden.
Duration: 3-4 days to explore the various attractions and natural beauty.
Highlights: Verdant tea gardens, ancient monasteries, the tranquility of Buddha Park, and the rich biodiversity of the region.

Distance from Darjeeling: 48 km

Best Time: April to June, October to December

10 South Sikkim Attractions

Known For : Gurudongmar Lake Yumthang Valley Lachen

North Sikkim, located amidst the pristine eastern Himalayas, is a realm of ethereal landscapes, snow-clad peaks, and vibrant biodiversity. This part of Sikkim is often considered a paradise for nature lovers and adventurers, given its remote and untouched beauty. With its mesmerizing waterfalls, high-altitude lakes, and ancient monasteries, North Sikkim offers an unadulterated experience of nature and spirituality.

Activities: Witness the splendor of Gurudongmar Lake, explore the hot springs in Yumthang Valley, visit the sacred Lachen Monastery, and enjoy the beauty of the Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary.
Duration: 4-5 days to fully immerse oneself in the region's landscapes and cultural sights.
Highlights: The enchanting Gurudongmar Lake, the bloom of rhododendrons in Yumthang Valley, the serenity of Lachung, and the rugged beauty of Thangu.

Distance from Darjeeling: 119 km

Best Time: April to June, October to December

13 North Sikkim Attractions

Known For : Gorumara National Park Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary Murti River

Lataguri, a small town located in the Jalpaiguri district of West Bengal, is the gateway to the famous Gorumara National Park. This town has become an essential stop for tourists aiming to explore the dense forests and rich wildlife of the region. Known for its serene environment and lush green surroundings, Lataguri offers an unparalleled experience of nature at its best.

Activities: Go on a jungle safari in Gorumara National Park, visit the Nature Interpretation Center, and explore the tea gardens nearby.
Duration: 2-3 days for a comprehensive experience of the region.
Highlights: Gorumara National Park's rich flora and fauna, tea gardens, tribal dance performances in the evenings, and the serene ambiance of the Dooars region.

Distance from Darjeeling: 103 km

Best Time: November to March

8 Lataguri Attractions

Known For : Murti river Buxa National Park Mendabari Fort

Jalpaiguri, situated in the foothills of the Eastern Himalayas in West Bengal, is a city known for its scenic beauty, tea gardens, and rich cultural heritage. It serves as a major gateway to the North-Eastern states of India and the neighboring country of Bhutan. With its verdant landscapes, flowing rivers, and proximity to renowned national parks, Jalpaiguri offers travelers a unique blend of nature, history, and culture.

Activities: Visit the Gorumara National Park, stroll through sprawling tea gardens, explore the Buxa Tiger Reserve, and witness the beauty of the Teesta and Karala rivers.
Duration: 3-4 days to get a comprehensive experience.
Highlights: Tea gardens, wildlife sanctuaries, Bhutan Gate, Rajbari Palace, and the cultural richness of the region.

Distance from Darjeeling: 118 km

Best Time: October to March

5 Jalpaiguri Attractions

Known For : Lampokhari Parbateyswar Shivalaya Mandir Trekking in Aritar

Aritar, tucked away in the eastern part of Sikkim, is a haven for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility away from the hustle and bustle of urban life. Known for its lush greenery, shimmering lakes, and ancient monasteries, Aritar is a perfect blend of nature's splendor and rich cultural heritage. Its serene landscapes are characterized by dense forests, terraced farms, and meandering streams.

Activities: Take a serene boat ride in the Aritar Lake (Lampokhari), visit the ancient Aritar Gumpa (monastery), explore the Love Dara for panoramic views, and trek through the lush forests.
Duration: 2 days to soak in its natural beauty and cultural sites.
Highlights: Aritar Lake, Aritar Monastery, Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary, and scenic viewpoints.

Distance from Darjeeling: 87 km

Best Time: March to May

7 Aritar Attractions

Jaldapara Wildlife Sanctuary, located in the foothills of the Eastern Himalayas in West Bengal, is a paradise for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers. Established in 1941, the sanctuary sprawls over an area of 216.51 km² and is renowned for its significant population of the Indian one-horned rhinoceros. Apart from the rhino, the sanctuary houses a rich diversity of flora and fauna, making it a hotspot for biodiversity.

Activities: Embark on an elephant safari to spot the one-horned rhinoceros, indulge in bird-watching with over 240 species of birds recorded, and explore the watchtowers for a panoramic view of the sanctuary.
Duration: 2 days to explore the sanctuary comprehensively.
Highlights: Indian one-horned rhinoceros, elephant safaris, Bengal florican, and the lush greenery of the Terai region.

Distance from Darjeeling: 182 km

Best Time: September to May

Known For : Rajbari Madan Mohan Temple Sagardihi

Cooch Behar, situated in the northeastern part of West Bengal, is renowned for its historical significance and architectural marvels. It was once the capital of the princely state of Koch Bihar, and its legacy is still evident in its palaces, temples, and the elegant Cooch Behar Palace, which stands as a testament to the region's rich history and royal heritage.

Activities: Explore the grand Cooch Behar Palace, visit the ancient Madan Mohan Bari Temple, enjoy a leisurely evening at Sagar Dighi, and learn about the region's history at the Cooch Behar Rajbari Museum.
Duration: 1-2 days to soak in the cultural and historical essence of the place.
Highlights: Cooch Behar Palace, reminiscent of classical European architecture; historical temples; serene ponds; and the rich culture of the region.

Distance from Darjeeling: 202 km

Best Time: Throughout the year

5 Cooch Behar Attractions

Known For : Mahanada Wildlife Sanctuary Sumsing and Suntalekhola Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary

Dooars, located in the northern part of West Bengal, is an enchanting region marked by dense forests, wildlife sanctuaries, tea gardens, and meandering rivers. This verdant stretch of land acts as the gateway to Bhutan and the Northeastern states of India. Its name, 'Dooars', is derived from the word 'doors', symbolizing its role as a gateway. 

Activities: Embark on a wildlife safari in the Jaldapara National Park, marvel at the beauty of the Buxa Tiger Reserve, enjoy river rafting in the Teesta, and relish the serene beauty of the tea gardens.
Duration: 3-5 days to explore its forests, wildlife sanctuaries, and cultural experiences.
Highlights: Elephants and one-horned rhinoceros of Jaldapara, historical Buxa Fort, dense forests, and the tranquil setting of the vast tea estates.

Distance from Darjeeling: 140 km

Best Time: Throughout the year

4 Dooars Attractions

Known For : Jaldhaka River Valley Coronation Bridge Gorumara

Jaldhaka, nestled in the Dooars region of West Bengal, is a lesser-known gem characterized by its picturesque landscapes and serene environment. The region gets its name from the Jaldhaka River, which flows through the area, forming a natural boundary between India and Bhutan. Surrounded by tea gardens, forests, and hills, Jaldhaka offers a peaceful retreat away from the urban hustle, making it an ideal spot for those wanting to immerse themselves in nature's tranquility.

Activities: Enjoy the scenic beauty of the Jaldhaka River, take leisurely walks through the tea gardens, explore the local villages, and relish the rich birdlife in the region.
Duration: 2-3 days for a relaxing getaway.
Highlights: Jaldhaka River, serene tea gardens, lush green landscapes, diverse bird species, and the simplicity of rural life.

Distance from Darjeeling: 166 km

Best Time: October to March

7 Jaldhaka Attractions

Known For : Buxa Tiger Reserve Jayanti River spot Buxa Fort

Rajabhatkawa, located in the Dooars region of West Bengal, is a pristine and less-commercialized gateway to the Buxa Tiger Reserve. Surrounded by dense forests, tea gardens, and shimmering streams, this place offers an untouched slice of nature's bounty. Known for its rich biodiversity, Rajabhatkawa is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and those looking to experience the untamed beauty of the Eastern Himalayan foothills.

Activities: Embark on jungle safaris in the Buxa Tiger Reserve, visit the Nature Interpretation Centre, go bird-watching, and explore the nearby tribal villages.
Duration: 2-3 days to explore the region's natural and cultural treasures.
Highlights: Buxa Tiger Reserve, rich flora and fauna, serene landscapes, tribal culture, and the tranquility of the Dooars region.

Distance from Darjeeling: 202 km

Best Time: October to March

9 Rajabhatkawa Attractions