Darjeeling Travel Guide

Darjeeling (Nepali: दार्जिलिङ Dārjiliṅ, Bengali: দার্জিলিং Dārjiliṁ) is a hill station in the northern region of West Bengal. It used to be a lovely Victorian town built among the Himalayan foothills, the remnants of which are still visible around the Chowrasta. The main attractions are the cultural diversity of the Tibetan and Nepali populations. The town is also a jumping-off point for travellers heading to Sikkim.

The nearest international airport is Bagdogra (IXBIATA) in Siliguri, 96 km from Darjeeling town. There are flights fromBangkok,Paroand to most major cities in India.

Darjeeling is a small town, and the salubrious climate means walks around town are an extremely enjoyable means of getting around. For longer trips, taxis are available in stands near the entrance to the supermarket.

There has been a surge of tourists visiting Darjeeling in the last few years. Earlier, there was continuous turmoil and political disturbance in thehills. But since the establishment of the new government in 2011, the political stability has been restored and life came back to normal.

Darjeeling has a large number of hotels and lodges. However, on the whole, budget accommodation is of poor value compared to elsewhere in India. Most places target groups coming in from West Bengal; backpacker-oriented accommodation is sparse and you probably won't get touts coming to pick you up at the bus stop so it pays to have a few ideas in advance.