Best Time To Visit Darjeeling

Weather
This is the primary tourist season in Darjeeling; you can expect the maximum number of travellers here between March and May. It?s not hard to imagine why ? the temperature which ranges from 15°C to 20°C is an absolute delight to be in. The toasty sun warms you just enough to enjoy outdoor activities and sightseeing, while not being too harsh on your skin. The winds are favourable too, and the sound of the breeze whooshing through the pines is music to the ears. As winter fades away, spring brings with it fresh blossoms of magnolia and rhododendrons, and nature comes alive in this pleasant hill station.

Things to Do
March is one of the least humid months of the year, making it the best for sightseeing. The numerous tea plantations spread across the hills woo you with their magic. You can go tea-picking at some plantations too! Witness the entire tea-making process from leaf to brew, and sip on the famed Darjeeling tea with your family. Watch the breathtaking sunrise at Tiger Hill point as the sun emerges out of the Kanchenjunga peak ? the tallest peak in India. Stroll around the Barbotey Rock Garden, gaze at the stars in Darjeeling Observatory, shop for wools and trinkets at Bhutia market and offer prayers at the eclectic Mahakal temple too. The sky is mostly clear, affording breathtaking views of the Himalayas. These fun activities make this time of the year perfect for families to visit Darjeeling. There may be isolated hail showers though, so take an umbrella along. If you plan on visiting Darjeeling in spring/summer, it is best to book your travel and accommodation beforehand, as fares go up as the tourist season approaches and most hotels are overbooked by June.

Autumn marks the beginning of the second tourist season in Darjeeling, although it is not as crowded as the summer. The monsoon refreshes the entire region, making it anew for the autumn breeze. The mercury drops to 10-17°C, and humidity is minimal with few isolated showers. This is the perfect time for adventure enthusiasts and adrenaline junkies to visit Darjeeling, as there is a myriad of activities to keep you busy. Trek up to Sandakphu and watch the sunrise, or go mountain biking along the many curves of the terrain. Conquer the Teesta River as you raft down her waters, or learn to climb rocks at the Darjeeling Mountaineering Institute. Jog along the picturesque valley as the mighty Kanchenjunga looks on. Prices are not as expensive as summer, although it is better to book beforehand to avoid last-minute rushes.

Monsoon sees 93-96% humidity and 700 mm of rainfall in four months, making it the least favourable time of the year to visit Darjeeling. There are chances of landslides as well, although this is restricted to certain passes. With temperatures ranging between 15°C and 20°C, the weather is comfortable. Heavy rains bring some tourist activities to a stop ? the toy train and cable car rides may be temporarily suspended, but the town looks delightful in the showers. If you?re one for scenic sights and enchanting views, Darjeeling is very appealing in the monsoon. The lush, verdant plantations look ethereal in the rain, and the town emanates old-school romantic charm. The misty roads and foggy streets make the town look straight out of a painting, which is ideal for a budding photographer. Test out your photography skills in this picturesque town!

Begin your journey to Darjeeling on the UNESCO-famed Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, and explore the hills like never before! The summer months see many tourists come their way to Darjeeling, although June and July get more rains than the spring months. Do not let this deter you, as there aren?t showers until August. It is advisable to take appropriate clothing and rain gear. With temperatures ranging from 18°C to 25°C, Darjeeling is pleasant in the summer, inviting travellers from all around India and the world. Stroll into the Japanese Peace Pagoda and contemplate life, or walk amidst the locals and experience local culture at Darjeeling Chowrasta. The Ghoom Monastery offers serenity and calm, and it is the perfect place to reflect and rediscover yourself. The sky is relatively clear, giving you magnificent views of the snow-capped Kanchenjunga peak. As you approach July, tourist influx decreases and prices begin to drop ? this is ideal for travellers on a budget.