Hello friends! My name is Vishal, and today I’m excited to share the story of my trip to Darjeeling with three of my friends. Darjeeling, often hailed as the “Queen of the Hills,” is a charming hill station nestled in the eastern part of India. Renowned for its stunning landscapes, tea gardens, and vibrant culture, Darjeeling promises an unforgettable experience. Here’s a detailed account of my recent trip to this enchanting destination.
A Night Train Journey to Darjeeling:
Our adventure began at Anand Vihar Railway Station with a train departure at 8 PM. We reached Jalpaiguri the following morning at 9 AM, with each ticket costing ₹1500. Upon arriving in Jalpaiguri, we took a shared taxi to Darjeeling, which cost us ₹2000 for all four of us. The journey took about 2-3 hours due to traffic and multiple stops.
Settling into the Serenity of Darjeeling:
Finally, we reached Darjeeling and checked into our hotel, Dekeling Hotel, at ₹2500 per night. After settling in, freshening up, and grabbing a bite to eat, we went to bed, eager to explore the next day.
Day 1: Tiger Hill Sunrise and Local Delights of Darjeeling
We started our day early, leaving for Tiger Hill around 4 AM to catch the sunrise. Also, the view was absolutely breathtaking, and we enjoyed hot tea and samosas there, which were delicious. To get from the hotel to Tiger Hill, you can take a taxi.
Day 2: Exploring Darjeeling
On our second day, we took a ride on the famous Toy Train, costing around ₹1500 per person. The journey offered captivating views of the entire Darjeeling valley. From the hotel to the Toy Train station, you can use an autorickshaw.
After the Toy Train ride, we visited Batasia Loop, a garden known for its panoramic views of Darjeeling. We savoured local momos and thukpa there, which were incredibly tasty. To travel from the Toy Train station to Batasia Loop, you can take the Toy Train.
Next, we explored the Japanese Peace Pagoda. The serene environment provided a peaceful respite and made for a relaxing visit. To reach the Japanese Peace Pagoda from Batasia Loop, a taxi is the best option.
Day 3: Tea Gardens and Farewell
On our final day, we toured the Darjeeling Tea Gardens, where we saw the tea plantations and enjoyed some fresh tea. We even bought some tea to bring back home. Finally, to get from the hotel to the Darjeeling Tea Gardens, you can take a taxi.
Adventure Tips and Packing for an Amazing Trip:
- The best season to visit Darjeeling is March to May or October to December, when the weather is pleasant. Also, it can get chilly, so carry warm clothes.
- Also, essential packing for Darjeeling Warm clothing, comfortable walking shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a good camera.
- Moreover, start early for Tiger Hill to catch the sunrise, and book Toy Train tickets in advance.
Must Know: The budget for 4 people on a round trip is approximately 34,500 INR. Start with train tickets from Delhi to Jalpaiguri and back, costing 12,000 INR in total. Next, shared taxis from Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling and return add up to 4,000 INR. Then, hotel accommodation for 3 nights costs 7,500 INR. Additionally, toy train tickets total 6,000 INR. Finally, the budget is around 5,000 INR for food and local travel.
Darjeeling’s allure lies in its ability to blend natural beauty with cultural richness, offering something for every traveller. From the breathtaking views to the warm hospitality, my journey to Darjeeling was truly memorable. I left with a heart full of memories and a promise to return to this beautiful hill station.So, explore the mesmerising world of travel narratives at https://sowl.in/stories. Each story invites you to dream of distant lands and breathtaking scenery.
