What To See & Do In Darjeeling, India

If you are a morning person, the Tiger Hill sunrise is a life changing experience you should not miss. It is so magnificent that tourists queue up as early as 4am to witness this panoramic view.

This spiral train track surrounded by manicured gardens gives a 360 degree view of Darjeeling’s landscape. The snow clad mountains on one side offer a beautiful backdrop to the journey. The railway station is called Ghoom and it is the highest railway station in India.

This one of a kind zoo specializes in breeding animals that survive in alpine conditions. The snow leopard, the endangered Himalayan wolf and the red panda are found here. If you are an ardent animal lover, this zoo is not to be missed.

If you don’t eat at least one meal at Glenary’s, your Darjeeling trip will remain incomplete. Located conveniently at the mall, this old English bakery and café has local and international fans. As soon as you enter, the aroma of freshly baked goodies will warm your heart. Try the chicken roast and you will not be disappointed.

Chowrasta is a bustling square and the town’s favorite hangout spot. You can shop for local trinkets, semi precious stones, handicrafts, clothes, food items and so much more. The best part of Chowrasta is that no cars are allowed and pure, smoke free air is guaranteed. It’s an ideal place for evening strolls. Just a short walk from here is the very popular local eatery, Kunga. It is run by a Tibetan family and is one of the best places in town for all your momo cravings. After all a plate of hot, steaming momos and cool weather are a match made in heaven.

One cup of fresh Darjeeling brew and you will know why it is so popular all over the world. Nathmulls Tea Shop located on Laden La Road gives you the opportunity to taste and buy many blends of Darjeeling tea. This experience will turn you into a tea lover for sure. They also have small gift boxes which you can carry back for your friends and family.

The Monastery of Ghoom, popularly known as the Yiga Choeling Monastery, is located at 8,000 feet above sea level. It is one of the oldest Buddhist monasteries in Darjeeling and was built in the year 1850, and contains a beautiful statue of Maitreya Buddha.