Situated on the eastern ridges of the Himalayas, the city of Darjeeling is elevated at a height of 2,045m and is spread along approximately 2,092 sq km of land. Boasting rich wildlife and diverse topography the city of Darjeeling experiences a temperate subtropical climate with cool summers and freezing winters. Sandakhphu is the highest point of this region and is considered to be the coolest region of this area. Filled with lush green forest and rich alpine vegetation, the city also receives ample rainfall approximately 3100mm annually with most of the rainfall taking place during the monsoon seasons of June to September.
Darjeeling having close boundaries with Sikkim, Bhutan and Nepal is home to people from numerous communities making it one of the most diverse cities in North Bengal. Nepalese and Bhutias are the dominant groups of this region; however, the area also inhabits people from other tribes and religions. Hospitality is a major part of their traditions and can be witnessed right as you enter the city. Agriculture and tourism are the major sources of livelihood for these people with the majority of the people being part of the agro sector. Nepali is the most commonly spoken language of Darjeeling followed by Hindi, Bengal and English. The people of Darjeeling are also fond of music and dance forms being home to some of the most popular artists of the generation.
Experience Ropeway
Darjeeling ropeway allows you to glide from one valley to another using a cable car. The 20-40 minutes of journey will offer you to take the birds-eye view of the Darjeeling city along with glimpses of the Himalayas.
River rafting
Tourists can also indulge in a river rafting activity gliding across the high tides of the Rangeet River while witnessing the mesmerizing valleys of Darjeeling during your journey.
Explore religious sites
The city of Darjeeling is home to numerous religious sites such as monasteries, temples and many more. You can embark on a journey to explore these historic sites along with learning about the culture and legendary tales of the city.
Trek to Sandakhphu
Sandakhphu is the highest point of Darjeeling and summiting it is a popular dream of every adventure seeker. There are numerous groups and institutes that offer you to indulge in a trekking adventure in Sandakhphu.
Relish Food
Darjeeling is known for offering some of the best food dishes and cuisines that are different in taste and texture. Try out steaming Momos or freshly baked cookies while sipping a cup of Darjeeling Tea.
Attend festivals
Festivals are one of the most beautiful times to visit Darjeeling. An atmosphere filled with dancing people, musical events, and colourful religious flags offers a sense of positivity.
Northeast India is widely popular for its rich cultures and old age traditions and Darjeeling is a living example of it. Being home to some of the oldest tribes of this region, the city of Darjeeling showcases rich culture and customs that have been passed on to by generations. Hospitality is a major part of the cultural tradition that can be sighted as soon as you land in this city. Music and Dance forms are a major part of their tradition and are mostly performed at the time of celebrations.
The Festival is one of the most vibrant and energetic times of this region during which people from all over the country visit to immerse themselves in a wholesome experience. Being a Hindu-dominant area most of the celebrations are based on Hindu festivals however, the region does celebrate festivals of other religions such as Islam, Christianity and Buddhism. Dashain and Tihar are the largest festivals of Darjeeling and are celebrated with great zeal and zest. Following is a list of some of the most popular festivals in Darjeeling.
Darjeeling is highly admired for its unique cuisines and flavorful food delicacies which makes it a paradise for food lovers of the country. Being under the rule of foreign powers, the city of Darjeeling offers a combination and Indian and European dining experiences. Rice and meat are the part of staple diet that is consumed all over the region although there are ample options for vegetarians as well. Having close proximity to Nepal and Sikkim, the foods of Darjeeling share similarities with the cuisines of this region. Darjeeling Tea is a major highly of this region that is considered to be one of the best in the world popular for its muscatel flavour and golden colour. The majority of the foods are made from homegrown and organic ingredients which gives it a unique taste and aroma offering a unique experience.
Air: Bagdogra International Airport is the nearest airport to the city located at a distance of 68 km. The airport easily connects the city with the rest of the major cities of the country with direct and indirect flights.
Train: Although it may be time-consuming, travelling to Darjeeling via railways is one of the best way possible ways to reach Darjeeling. New Jalpaiguri is the major railway station located at a distance of 73km from the city that offers tourists the toy train Journey.
Road: Tourists can also visit the city of Darjeeling by roadways either by renting a car or using a shared taxi from the city of Siliguri located at a distance of 62 km. National Highway 110 is the major highway that can be used to travel to Darjeeling from any part of the country.