Known For : Nathula Pass MG Marg 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
Distance from Darjeeling: 97 km
Best Time: Throughout the year
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
Distance from Darjeeling: 51 km
Best Time: March to June, September to December
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
Distance from Darjeeling: 75 km
Best Time: April to June, October to December
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
Distance from Darjeeling: 30 km
Best Time: April to May, August to October
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
Distance from Darjeeling: 59 km
Best Time: March to July
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
Distance from Darjeeling: 48 km
Best Time: April to June, October to December
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
Distance from Darjeeling: 119 km
Best Time: April to June, October to December
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
Distance from Darjeeling: 103 km
Best Time: November to March
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
Distance from Darjeeling: 118 km
Best Time: October to March
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
Distance from Darjeeling: 87 km
Best Time: March to May
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
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
Distance from Darjeeling: 202 km
Best Time: Throughout the year
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
Distance from Darjeeling: 140 km
Best Time: Throughout the year
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
Distance from Darjeeling: 166 km
Best Time: October to March
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
Distance from Darjeeling: 202 km
Best Time: October to March
Darjeeling is a tourist friendly town as lots of people are looking for weekend getaways near Darjeeling. A lot of tourists first visit Darjeeling and then combine top places near Darjeeling for a perfect short trip.The destinations are attractive and popular. It offers its travellers a mix of tourist attractions ranging from Hill Stations to Lakes to Wildlife sanctuary. Places to visit near Darjeeling offer a quite retreat from the busy city lives. Some of them can even try the various picnic spots near Darjeeling which are rife with people every other weekend. Also get a taste of the local cuisines and festivals while visiting the best tourist places near Darjeeling. Places near Darjeeling has something for each kind of traveller that is why they attract domestic as well as international tourists all-round the year. There are many tourist places near Darjeeling which provide a perfect outing for those who are trying to escape from their daily routine. These places take 1-2 day(s) and make for a perfect weekend getaway from Darjeeling. Escape to these places around Darjeeling and explore them if you haven?t.
if you're planning a leisure trip then 2 days are more than enough.
You might want to check out this 2 day Darjeeling package!