Darjeeling and Gangtok are two travel destinations famous worldwide, and rightly so. It boasts spectacular mountainous views unlike anywhere in the country. Plus, given its rich culture and history, travelers also come here to lose themselves in the serenity of monasteries and temples.
Wait, that’s not all! This place is a paradise for people who wander searching for adventure and rich food. With tea plantations that produce the finest tea for the country and mouthwatering native food, it is a food lover’s dream. Trekking routes here are a sight to behold, and the view of the Kanchenjunga mountain range is breathtaking. River rafting and paragliding are also general here and will leave you stumped with adrenaline.
From Tsomgo Lake's vastness to Tiger Hill's beauty, the Darjeeling and Gangtok excursion is a take closer to nature and harmony. The old-school charm of the monasteries and temples here is something you won’t find anywhere else nowadays. Visit this serene land and let yourself submerge in utmost tranquility! MG Marg in Gangtok is a hotspot of buzzing shops filled with cultural artifacts, distinct trends, and everything you’d want to take back home! What’s more, this small town provides a stunning view from any and everywhere. You can never go wrong with sunsets and sunrises here.
Places to visit in Darjeeling-Gangtok
Tiger Hill: Witness the most splendid sunrise over the panoramic view of the Kanchenjunga mountain range and Mount Everest together. Just 13 km from Darjeeling, Tiger Hill is covered with beautiful foliage, and the cool morning breeze feels out of the world just before sunrise!
Tsomgo Lake: It harbors the mythical history of legends and is considered as a holy lake. Along with the alpine landscape and scenic views, it offers rides alongside the lake on colorful yaks. You can enjoy native delicacies from the shops lined up by the lake.
Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park: Indulge in a marvelous view of flora and fauna in the largest high-altitude zoo in India. You can spot animals successfully bred to the alpine conditions, such as snow leopards, endangered Himalayan wolves, red pandas, etc.
Yumthang Valley: The Valley of Flowers welcomes travelers worldwide with an explosion of colorful flowers and panoramic views. It’s a feast for the eyes during springtime and is 150 kilometers from Gangtok. You will also find a glistening river, yaks, and vast grazing pastures around here.
Darjeeling Himalayan Railways: Awarded the title of UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is a must for your Darjeeling to-do list! Also known as ‘Toy Train’, it takes you through splendid expanses of tea plantations and Darjeeling's raw, natural flora. So, hop on and enjoy the ride!
Nathula Pass: The historic Nathula Pass is as beautiful as it is rich with culture and history. Situated on the old silk route of the Indo-China border, it sustains the ruins of Buddhist architecture. You can also take a moment to learn about what the Indian Army has been doing here over the years.
Things to do in Darjeeling-Gangtok
Hop on the iconic Darjeeling Himalayan Railway: The majestic train ride symbolizes the region’s rich heritage and flora. It’s a marvel to look at passing tea plantations and steep slopes through the iconic railway. An additional tip - you’d want to take your camera with you for this memorable experience!
A splendid sunset from Tiger Hill: The most exhilarating sunrise of them all! Witness a view of the sun rising from behind the Kanchenjunga range and Mount Everest. Tiger Hill’s biodiversity richness will leave you spellbound, let alone the beautiful morning sight.
River Rafting in Teesta (Gangtok): For the adventure seekers, river rafting in the Teesta River is an exhilarating experience. The river offers both mild and wild rapids, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced rafters. As you navigate through the lush greenery and picturesque landscapes, you'll feel the adrenaline rush and witness the region's natural beauty up close.
Try Momos and Thukpa (Darjeeling and Gangtok): Exploring local cuisine is an essential part of any trip. Momos, a type of dumpling, and Thukpa, a noodle soup, are iconic dishes in both Darjeeling and Gangtok. These savory delights are widely available in local eateries and offer a taste of the Himalayan flavors. Don't miss the opportunity to savor these delectable treats.
Visit Batasia Loop (Darjeeling): This engineering marvel is a must-visit for train enthusiasts and nature lovers. The Batasia Loop is a spiral railway track that provides stunning views of Darjeeling and the Kanchenjunga mountains. Surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens and a war memorial, it's a peaceful spot to enjoy the scenery and watch the Toy Train wind its way through the loop.
Yak Ride in Tsomgo Lake (Gangtok): Tsomgo Lake, also known as Changu Lake, is a pristine high-altitude lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains. A unique experience here is taking a yak ride around the lake. Yaks are gentle, sturdy creatures and provide a leisurely ride with breathtaking views. It's a memorable way to soak in the tranquil beauty of this region.
Paragliding in Gangtok: If you're looking for an adrenaline-pumping adventure, paragliding is an option in Gangtok. Soar through the skies and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and lush landscapes. With trained pilots and modern equipment, it's a safe and thrilling way to get a bird's-eye view of the region.
Why to Buy Darjeeling-Gangtok Packages
Convenience and Stress-Free Planning: Travel packages for Darjeeling and Gangtok offer a high level of convenience. They take care of all the intricate details, from accommodation and transportation to itinerary planning. This means you can focus on enjoying your trip without the stress of coordinating multiple aspects of your journey. Whether you're a busy content writer or a traveler seeking a hassle-free experience, packages make your life easier.
Expert Local Insights: Travel packages often come with the expertise of local guides who know the region inside out. They can provide you with valuable insights into the culture, history, and hidden gems of Darjeeling and Gangtok. This local knowledge can enhance your trip, allowing you to discover unique experiences that might be missed when traveling independently.
Cost-Effective Options: Packages often offer cost savings compared to booking each element of your trip separately. Travel companies can negotiate better deals for accommodations, transportation, and activities due to their bulk bookings. This can translate into significant savings for you, especially if you're budget-conscious.
Tailored Experiences: Many packages are customizable to suit your preferences. Whether you're interested in adventure sports, cultural experiences, or serene nature explorations, packages can be tailored to include the activities and destinations that align with your interests. This personalization ensures your trip is truly unique and fulfilling.
Time Efficiency: Packages are designed to make the most of your time in Darjeeling and Gangtok. They often include well-planned itineraries that cover the key attractions and activities. This means you won't waste time figuring out what to do next or how to get there. Every moment of your trip is optimized for enjoyment.
Added Perks and Inclusions: Travel packages sometimes come with additional perks, such as complimentary meals, guided tours, or special experiences. These extra inclusions can make your journey more memorable and enjoyable. It's like getting a little something extra for your money.
Best time to visit Darjeeling-Gangtok
No matter what time you visit Darjeeling and Gangtok, you’ll be welcomed by the distinctive features of these places. However, to suit your interests, you should know of the seasons there and choose accordingly.
From March to June, you can expect clear skies and pleasant weather best suited for hitting the great outdoors! You might experience slight chilly winds after October when the monsoon ends. From mid-November to January, the winter season will drop to 7 to 5 degrees Celsius. Snowfall is rare, but pack quality woolen clothes for this season.
From July to September, heavy rainfall is usually observed in Darjeeling. It is a great time to visit Darjeeling if you want to witness the blooming greens. They make up for quite a photograph! Otherwise, it would be a good time to avoid visiting Darjeeling since you may experience some inconvenience and obstacles with the landscape due to heavy rainfalls.
Ideal duration for Darjeeling-Gangtok
Every place has a culture of its own, and there’s no question about this regarding these two destinations. A trip of a minimum of 4-5 days in total would be recommended for soaking in the beauty that lies in details - which is otherwise missed in a rush. It would give you time to cover all important destinations and activities on the list, whether a spiritual experience or a daunting adventure. Darjeeling and Gangtok combined have a lot of noteworthy places that are best enjoyed without a rush, indulging in harmonious sounds and sights of nature.
When looking at Darjeeling and Gangtok, it might seem like a tourist attraction. However, the true essence of these hill stations lies in staying a little longer. Rest assured, given the wide variety, you will not face a shortage of places to visit or activities to do during your excursion through Darjeeling and Gangtok.
How to reach Darjeeling-Gangtok
Reaching Darjeeling directly by air is currently impossible as it doesn’t have an airport. However, you can always fly to another nearest airport - Bagdogra International Airport in Siliguri. Afterward, you can take a bus or a cab to Darjeeling. It's just an hour and a half ride from the airport. And, if you wish to take the scenic route, a train runs from Kolkata to New Jalpaiguri. From there, it’s about a two-hour car ride to Darjeeling.
To get to Gangtok, you could check the availability of flights to Pakyong Airport. It is a seasonal airport, so keep in mind to check the flights with enough time to spare. You can also always take a flight to Bagdogra International Airport. After that, a cab ride to Gangtok will take up to five hours to reach. For Gangtok as well, trains run from Kolkata to New Jalpaiguri. Following that, you can either take a cab or a bus. The nearest bus station - Siliguri SNT bus terminal - is just 10-15 minutes away, and daily buses go to Gangtok at an interval of one hour. You can generally catch these buses from 8:30 am to 1 pm.
Darjeeling Travel Essentials
Darjeeling and Gangtok are two travel destinations famous worldwide, and rightly so. It boasts spectacular mountainous views unlike anywhere in the country. Plus, given its rich culture and history, travelers also come here to lose themselves in the serenity of monasteries and temples.
Wait, that’s not all! This place is a paradise for people who wander searching for adventure and rich food. With tea plantations that produce the finest tea for the country and mouthwatering native food, it is a food lover’s dream. Trekking routes here are a sight to behold, and the view of the Kanchenjunga mountain range is breathtaking. River rafting and paragliding are also general here and will leave you stumped with adrenaline.
From Tsomgo Lake's vastness to Tiger Hill's beauty, the Darjeeling and Gangtok excursion is a take closer to nature and harmony. The old-school charm of the monasteries and temples here is something you won’t find anywhere else nowadays. Visit this serene land and let yourself submerge in utmost tranquility! MG Marg in Gangtok is a hotspot of buzzing shops filled with cultural artifacts, distinct trends, and everything you’d want to take back home! What’s more, this small town provides a stunning view from any and everywhere. You can never go wrong with sunsets and sunrises here.
Places to visit in Darjeeling-Gangtok
Tiger Hill: Witness the most splendid sunrise over the panoramic view of the Kanchenjunga mountain range and Mount Everest together. Just 13 km from Darjeeling, Tiger Hill is covered with beautiful foliage, and the cool morning breeze feels out of the world just before sunrise!
Tsomgo Lake: It harbors the mythical history of legends and is considered as a holy lake. Along with the alpine landscape and scenic views, it offers rides alongside the lake on colorful yaks. You can enjoy native delicacies from the shops lined up by the lake.
Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park: Indulge in a marvelous view of flora and fauna in the largest high-altitude zoo in India. You can spot animals successfully bred to the alpine conditions, such as snow leopards, endangered Himalayan wolves, red pandas, etc.
Yumthang Valley: The Valley of Flowers welcomes travelers worldwide with an explosion of colorful flowers and panoramic views. It’s a feast for the eyes during springtime and is 150 kilometers from Gangtok. You will also find a glistening river, yaks, and vast grazing pastures around here.
Darjeeling Himalayan Railways: Awarded the title of UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is a must for your Darjeeling to-do list! Also known as ‘Toy Train’, it takes you through splendid expanses of tea plantations and Darjeeling's raw, natural flora. So, hop on and enjoy the ride!
Nathula Pass: The historic Nathula Pass is as beautiful as it is rich with culture and history. Situated on the old silk route of the Indo-China border, it sustains the ruins of Buddhist architecture. You can also take a moment to learn about what the Indian Army has been doing here over the years.
Things to do in Darjeeling-Gangtok
Hop on the iconic Darjeeling Himalayan Railway: The majestic train ride symbolizes the region’s rich heritage and flora. It’s a marvel to look at passing tea plantations and steep slopes through the iconic railway. An additional tip - you’d want to take your camera with you for this memorable experience!
A splendid sunset from Tiger Hill: The most exhilarating sunrise of them all! Witness a view of the sun rising from behind the Kanchenjunga range and Mount Everest. Tiger Hill’s biodiversity richness will leave you spellbound, let alone the beautiful morning sight.
River Rafting in Teesta (Gangtok): For the adventure seekers, river rafting in the Teesta River is an exhilarating experience. The river offers both mild and wild rapids, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced rafters. As you navigate through the lush greenery and picturesque landscapes, you'll feel the adrenaline rush and witness the region's natural beauty up close.
Try Momos and Thukpa (Darjeeling and Gangtok): Exploring local cuisine is an essential part of any trip. Momos, a type of dumpling, and Thukpa, a noodle soup, are iconic dishes in both Darjeeling and Gangtok. These savory delights are widely available in local eateries and offer a taste of the Himalayan flavors. Don't miss the opportunity to savor these delectable treats.
Visit Batasia Loop (Darjeeling): This engineering marvel is a must-visit for train enthusiasts and nature lovers. The Batasia Loop is a spiral railway track that provides stunning views of Darjeeling and the Kanchenjunga mountains. Surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens and a war memorial, it's a peaceful spot to enjoy the scenery and watch the Toy Train wind its way through the loop.
Yak Ride in Tsomgo Lake (Gangtok): Tsomgo Lake, also known as Changu Lake, is a pristine high-altitude lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains. A unique experience here is taking a yak ride around the lake. Yaks are gentle, sturdy creatures and provide a leisurely ride with breathtaking views. It's a memorable way to soak in the tranquil beauty of this region.
Paragliding in Gangtok: If you're looking for an adrenaline-pumping adventure, paragliding is an option in Gangtok. Soar through the skies and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and lush landscapes. With trained pilots and modern equipment, it's a safe and thrilling way to get a bird's-eye view of the region.
Why to Buy Darjeeling-Gangtok Packages
Convenience and Stress-Free Planning: Travel packages for Darjeeling and Gangtok offer a high level of convenience. They take care of all the intricate details, from accommodation and transportation to itinerary planning. This means you can focus on enjoying your trip without the stress of coordinating multiple aspects of your journey. Whether you're a busy content writer or a traveler seeking a hassle-free experience, packages make your life easier.
Expert Local Insights: Travel packages often come with the expertise of local guides who know the region inside out. They can provide you with valuable insights into the culture, history, and hidden gems of Darjeeling and Gangtok. This local knowledge can enhance your trip, allowing you to discover unique experiences that might be missed when traveling independently.
Cost-Effective Options: Packages often offer cost savings compared to booking each element of your trip separately. Travel companies can negotiate better deals for accommodations, transportation, and activities due to their bulk bookings. This can translate into significant savings for you, especially if you're budget-conscious.
Tailored Experiences: Many packages are customizable to suit your preferences. Whether you're interested in adventure sports, cultural experiences, or serene nature explorations, packages can be tailored to include the activities and destinations that align with your interests. This personalization ensures your trip is truly unique and fulfilling.
Time Efficiency: Packages are designed to make the most of your time in Darjeeling and Gangtok. They often include well-planned itineraries that cover the key attractions and activities. This means you won't waste time figuring out what to do next or how to get there. Every moment of your trip is optimized for enjoyment.
Added Perks and Inclusions: Travel packages sometimes come with additional perks, such as complimentary meals, guided tours, or special experiences. These extra inclusions can make your journey more memorable and enjoyable. It's like getting a little something extra for your money.
Best time to visit Darjeeling-Gangtok
No matter what time you visit Darjeeling and Gangtok, you’ll be welcomed by the distinctive features of these places. However, to suit your interests, you should know of the seasons there and choose accordingly.
From March to June, you can expect clear skies and pleasant weather best suited for hitting the great outdoors! You might experience slight chilly winds after October when the monsoon ends. From mid-November to January, the winter season will drop to 7 to 5 degrees Celsius. Snowfall is rare, but pack quality woolen clothes for this season.
From July to September, heavy rainfall is usually observed in Darjeeling. It is a great time to visit Darjeeling if you want to witness the blooming greens. They make up for quite a photograph! Otherwise, it would be a good time to avoid visiting Darjeeling since you may experience some inconvenience and obstacles with the landscape due to heavy rainfalls.
Ideal duration for Darjeeling-Gangtok
Every place has a culture of its own, and there’s no question about this regarding these two destinations. A trip of a minimum of 4-5 days in total would be recommended for soaking in the beauty that lies in details - which is otherwise missed in a rush. It would give you time to cover all important destinations and activities on the list, whether a spiritual experience or a daunting adventure. Darjeeling and Gangtok combined have a lot of noteworthy places that are best enjoyed without a rush, indulging in harmonious sounds and sights of nature.
When looking at Darjeeling and Gangtok, it might seem like a tourist attraction. However, the true essence of these hill stations lies in staying a little longer. Rest assured, given the wide variety, you will not face a shortage of places to visit or activities to do during your excursion through Darjeeling and Gangtok.
How to reach Darjeeling-Gangtok
Reaching Darjeeling directly by air is currently impossible as it doesn’t have an airport. However, you can always fly to another nearest airport - Bagdogra International Airport in Siliguri. Afterward, you can take a bus or a cab to Darjeeling. It's just an hour and a half ride from the airport. And, if you wish to take the scenic route, a train runs from Kolkata to New Jalpaiguri. From there, it’s about a two-hour car ride to Darjeeling.
To get to Gangtok, you could check the availability of flights to Pakyong Airport. It is a seasonal airport, so keep in mind to check the flights with enough time to spare. You can also always take a flight to Bagdogra International Airport. After that, a cab ride to Gangtok will take up to five hours to reach. For Gangtok as well, trains run from Kolkata to New Jalpaiguri. Following that, you can either take a cab or a bus. The nearest bus station - Siliguri SNT bus terminal - is just 10-15 minutes away, and daily buses go to Gangtok at an interval of one hour. You can generally catch these buses from 8:30 am to 1 pm.
No, you do not need a passport to visit Darjeeling if you are an Indian citizen. However, as a foreign national, you are required to have a valid passport and visa to enter India itself but you do not need any specific documents to enter into Darjeeling.
How can I get to Nathula Pass?
Nathula Pass is open only to Indian citizens and not foreign nationals. To visit Nathula Pass, a permit has to be obtained from the Tourism and Civil Aviation Department. The only way to get here is by driving from Gangtok which is about 53 km away; only SUV vehicles are allowed to be driven here owing to the steep and uneven roads. You can rent a Scorpio, Bolero or Innova.
Is zoomcar available in Darjeeling?
Yes, Zoomcar is available in Darjeeling. You can pick a self-drive car when travelling around Darjeeling and you have the option to choose from a variety of cars (sedans, SUVs, hatchbacks and luxury cars). The price varies from car to car and includes taxes and insurance.
Which is better Shimla or Darjeeling?
Shimla (Himachal Pradesh) and Darjeeling (West Bengal) are both absolutely breathtaking destinations and it’s a little difficult to compare the two. However, Darjeeling may be a better choice for nature lovers since it is home to sprawling tea plantations, Singalila National Park, Darjeeling Rock Garden and Tiger Hill which overlooks mount Kanchenjunga. When in Darjeeling, you can also enjoy some delicious Tibetan, Nepali and Bengali food. Shimla, on the other hand, tends to be slightly more crowded and is visited for the Green Valley, Himalayan Bird Park and Shimla Reserve Forest Sanctuary. If you are a history buff, Shimla houses many colonial establishments like Rothney Castle, Visceral Lodge and Shimla Christ Church. Both destinations are known for activities like trekking, hiking, riding the ropeway and the toy train but in Shimla, you can experience snowfall during the peak winter months and you can go skiing and ice skating.
What is the famous food of Darjeeling?
Since Darjeeling is in West Bengal and the state is close to Nepal and Tibet, it is known for Bengali, Tibetan and Nepali food. Some of the most popular dishes that you can eat in Darjeeling include thukpa, momos, kwati, tongba, Nepali thali, sel roti, pork curry, gundruk, sekuwa, etc. Eateries like Kunga Restaurant, Lunar Restaurant, Penang Restaurant and Hasty Tasty are known to serve these dishes.
What is the price of Darjeeling Gangtok Tour Package?
The cost of a Darjeeling Gangtok Tour Package can vary from INR 13,000 to 60,000 and can vary depending on your preferences and budget. Darjeeling and Gangtok offer a range of options for every budget, from budget-friendly stays to 5 star resorts.
What can you do in Darjeeling and Gangtok?
Darjeeling offers a tranquil escape, where travelers can lose themselves amidst the sprawling tea gardens, sipping aromatic brews and witnessing mesmerizing sunrises at Tiger Hill. It's a place that invites contemplation and nostalgia, with the quaint toy train rides and invigorating treks through the hills. On the other hand, Gangtok exudes adventure and spirituality. The journey to Nathula Pass, perched on the Indo-China border, is an exhilarating experience, while the city's monasteries offer a glimpse into the rich cultural tapestry. The serene Tsomgo Lake and thrilling adventure sports provide a striking contrast.
What is the best time to visit Darjeeling Gangtok?
The best time to visit Darjeeling and Gangtok is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these seasons, the weather is pleasant, and you can enjoy clear views of the Himalayan peaks. Spring brings blooming flowers, while autumn offers vibrant foliage. However, keep in mind that these are also the busiest times, so be prepared for some crowds. If you prefer quieter moments and don't mind cooler weather, you can also consider visiting in the winter for snowfall or the monsoon season for lush green landscapes.