Darjeeling

Khush Alaya

Khush Alaya is located just a kilometer away from Ghoom Monastery and allows the guest to have a happening vacation amid sheer tranquility. The rooms speak class and the food is tempting. Cuisines range from Indian and Tibetan to Chinese and European. The clubhouse is well-equipped with snooker table, table tennis, badminton and more. No matter who you are traveling with, this is the best resort in Darjeeling for honeymoon, family outing, and getaway with friends .

What’s special: The General Lloyd Restaurant

Tariff: INR 4,599 – 7,099 per night

Dekeling Resort at Hawk’s Nest

Dekeling provides a peaceful stay, coupled with ample of open spaces. The resort is a complete Wi-Fi zone, so that while connecting with nature, you can connect with the world too. The lawns of the resort are adorned with exotic Himalayan flora. Sitting here, you can gaze at soul-stirring sunrise and sunset views. The massive book collection keeps just about any bibliophile hanging around. Tea lover? This place is your heaven! Darjeeling’s tea, a pleasant sitting area and the Kanchenjunga Mountain Range singing the song for you.

What’s special: Dekevas Restaurant exhibits exquisite Tibetan interiors and mouth-watering food.

Tariff: INR 3,800 – 5,000 per night

Central Heritage Resort and Spa

The main appeal of this hotel is the magnificent views of Kanchenjunga it provides from all its 20 rooms. And integrating that with support and standard services makes it a very pleasing location for the visitors. The rooms are lay out across four levels (no elevators though). Taxis won't arrive up to the hotel, it requires 2-3 minutes’ walk from nearest point where taxis would drop you.  Out of many resorts in Darjeeling, this justified to be on your priority list.

What’s special: In the evening, enjoy the serene ambiance as a pianist plays soothing tunes.

Tariff: INR 2,900 – 5,300 per night

Central Nirvana Resort

Central Nirvana Resort in Darjeeling is capably named as being here is an occurrence indistinguishable to accomplishing Nirvana. Being a 100-year-old property, there appears to be an attracting balance between the ancient and present-day. Most rooms provide an amazing sight of sun-kissed, fully covered with snow Kanchenjunga range as tourists sip coffee in their beds.

What’s special: Ravine on some Momos and Thukpa at the in-house restaurant and taste the local flavors like never before.

Tariff: INR 2,600 – 3,000 per night

Central Gleneagles Heritage Resort

A few minutes’ walk from the Mall (town center), this is a heritage property - an old house of British era which has been changed into a hotel. The hotel owned by the Central group and provides nice Luxury, Club and Suite rooms with nice valley and mountain scenes. The hotel is also worthy for families with kids as it has a small play ground, table tennis, board games, dart etc. Children Park has everything to gratifying the kids, while adults enjoy the scenic environs.

What’s special: The walk from Chowrasta to the hotel is a great experience, thanks to pollution-free perfect surroundings. The restaurant accepts off-menu requests.

Tariff: INR 2,400 – 5,300 per night

Mayfair

These outstanding legacy belongings used to be the summerhouse of Maharaja of Nazargunj. As you walk along the Mall road on the left, right opposite to the Governor house you will observe a gate secured by guard. A bridle path from here leads to this charming hotel that has 44 perfect rooms, cottages and family suites all having amazing views of the valleys or the beautiful garden. Being one of the leading worldly goods of Darjeeling, Mayfair provides all the modern services that you can imagine. 

What’s special: The amazing in-house spa that offers massages and spa.

Tariff: INR 12,000 – 20,000 per night

Cedar Inn

This is also an amazing exclusive hotel but situated high above the main town. While it may not be an easy uphill walk from the downtown, in return what you get are outstanding views and mountain panoramas that are rare to get from elsewhere in Darjeeling. Most rooms provide extensive view of Kanchejunga peaks. Everyone is allured with the structure of the building and the outstanding green lawn outside. The comfortable rooms of Cedar Inn please you with many amenities and modern interiors.

What’s special: The Terrace Cafe is acclaimed for its authentic Darjeeling tea, and scenic views.

Tariff: INR 9,300 – 18,500 per night

The Elgin

Elgin justifies being in the priority site among perfect resorts in Darjeeling. The resort is an old summer residence of Maharaja of Cooch Behar and brags of an ample history of 125 years. This genuinely was the property of Maharaja Cooch Behar. Even until 1950s, the property was run and managed by the British businessmen who obtained the property on contract. Other than good views of the valley from individual rooms and regions of the hotel, it provides an amazing garden and several heritage amenities that dictate time to enjoy. So this hotel like Windermere is not meant only for a one night stay. 

What’s special: The hotel arranges adventure activities such as paragliding, hot air ballooning and walking trails.

Tariff: INR 9,500 – 10,650 per night

Little Tibet

As you walk for one or two minutes downhill (about 250 meters) along the limited CR Das road that breeze down the Mall from one side, you won't miss this nice beautiful property on the right. As you mount down one or two stairs from the main gate and enter the property, the first thing you will observe is a long amazing garden with fountains, monuments and statues. The rooms are nice with wood furnished interiors. 

What’s special: Rooftop Sun Deck cum Coffee Parlour is the best place to be.

Tariff: INR 6,200 – 12,750 per night

The Nettle and Fern Resort

As one of the most popular budget resorts in Gangtok, Nettle and Fern Hotel is an ideal place for romantic and cozy honeymoon. This resort is known for incomparable hospitality and services, and its 17 spacious modern rooms offer splendid views of the distant hills and valleys. The in-house restaurant offer incredible Indian and global cuisines. You will have the best time here and will not be disappointed by the variety of things Gangtok has to offer you.

Whats special: Explore the souvenir shop and take advantage of the travel desk

Suggested suite: Super deluxe family suite (Valley-view)

Tariff: INR 2700 per night onwards

Teesta - Go River Rafting

If you want to take one of the best experiences of river rafting then head to the Teesta River. It is one of the best things to do in Darjeeling for all who is seeking the thrill of adventure! Here you will find this activity is loaded with series of rapids with varying intensities, ranging from Grade 1 to 4, which are only allowed to seasoned, trained and experienced rafters because of the level of danger involved in it. This is one of the best adventure activities in Darjeeling. If you visit Darjeeling, make sure you must enjoy the Teesta River Rafting.

Cost- INR 900 - INR 1500 

Sandakphu - Trek the Peak

If you are seeking forward to entertain in more adventure activities in Darjeeling. A trekking trip to Sandakphu is really necessary for all adventure freaks. It is the highest point in the state of West Bengal and is a standard stop for trekking enthusiasts. It is located at an astoundingheight of 3,636m, it is known for offering the best scenic views of the gripping Mt Everest and the Kanchenjunga Peak.

Cost: INR 9000-INR 10000

Best Time: April May, October and early December

The Toy Train - Take A Joy Ride

Toy Train Ride is must in Darjeeling. You can start your ride from the Ghoom and get down at Kurseong, to have many food items, for Darjeeling sightseeing wherein you get a breathtaking beautiful view of the surrounding hills that move you into a world of romance. It is one of the best activities in Darjeeling which cannot be missed.

Location:Ghoom, Darjeeling

Cost: INR 100 - INR 1300

Timings: NA

Himalayan Mountaineering Institute - Learn Rock Climbing

The hill station of Darjeeling has a different number of attractions in which The Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, one of the leading institutions that tourists just love. It is situated at Jawahar Parvat in Darjeeling, and conducts a large number of mountaineering and adventure courses at various levels ranging from beginners to expert. They have trained over 50,000 students, so it is the perfect place to get certified. This place offers a great insight to the equipment and skills needed to rout some of the highest peaks in the world.

Location: Jawahar Parvat, Darjeeling, West Bengal

Cost:  Costing starting from INR 4000/- per person

Timings: 9 AM - 5 PM

Tattoos - Get Inked

Darjeeling is much like Goa in terms of providing opportunities for body art. Permanent and temporary tattoo parlours, offering to convert a part of your body into a brilliant masterpiece, are available at almost every nook and corner of the town, adding a hippie influence to this scenic and serene location. And the best part, they go incredibly easy on your budget.

Tattoo shops: Pradhan Studio, Tattoo 29, Samink Tattoo Studio

Have a picnic at Nightingale Park

This lovely park was known as the Shrubbery. It was a private lawn and has since been updated and has been open for the public to enjoy since 2011. The project took four years to complete and every corner has been designed to evolution – this once destroyed garden is now a major spot for tourists to enjoy. You must-see things here include the huge statue of Shiva along with a musical fountain and manicured parks

Go on a cable car ride at Darjeeling Ropeway

There’s no other way to see this green hill station than from above. And a cable car is one of the best ways to get this view! This is a tourist activity that is built in 1968 and is open through the year. Once you hop onto the cable cars, you will get to see stunning images of the charming hill stations, rolling hills striking manicured tea, landscapes and snow-capped mountains. Make sure you carry your camera to capture the sights.

Spot leopards at Padmaja Naidu Zoological Park

Padmaja Naidu Zoological Park is Located in the famous town of Darjeeling. It is one of the best things to do near Darjeeling.Get ready to meet the endangered Himalayan wolf, Snow leopards and the Red Panda and more. If you’re an animal and nature lover, then must visit this park which is world famous for its breeding and conservation programs. It’s best to visit during summerseason as the greenery is especially charming.

Have a picnic at Nightingale Park

This lovely park was known as the Shrubbery. It was a private lawn and has since been updated and has been open for the public to enjoy since 2011. The project took four years to complete and every corner has been designed to evolution – this once destroyed garden is now a major spot for tourists to enjoy.You must-see things here include the huge statue of Shiva along with a musical fountain and manicured parks.

Paragliding – Feel Like You Are On Top Of The World

We were not born with wings but the desire to fly never really left our conscious. It made us reach out for a substitute and we fondly called it a paraglider. Paragliding is one of the adventurous things to do in Gangtok has become immensely popular given that it boasts of breathtaking views of the Himalayas and the vivid nature in its backdrop. To go paragliding in Gangtok you really dont need to be a pro. There are plenty of operators, and all of them offer complete safety. A certified pilot accompanies all enthusiasts, thus taking care of the entire flight and its navigation.

Location: The starting point for Medium Fly is Baliman Dara, and for High Fly is Reshithang village.

Charges: Between INR 2000 and 5000, varies from operator to operator

Bhutia Market

Known as the New Mahakal Market, this place is popular for its woolen items like shawls, caps, and sweaters. Bhutia Market in Darjeeling offers hand-knitted items which are not only of great quality but also are very reasonably priced. Visiting a hill station and getting some woolen shawls is a must and you will the get the best ones at this market.

Location: College Para, Hakim Para, Siliguri, West Benga

Nehru Road

This market has small shops that is Located on the Hill Cart Road, which have been set up by the local population of Darjeeling. This market offers a pleasant street shopping experience for shopaholics. In recent years, various branded stores have also opened their channel. The State Government added a Handicrafts Emporium recently for those who love arts and crafts, make sure that you should pick up some different stunning paintings for your home. You should keep cash because most of the shopkeepers do not accept cards here.
What to Buy: Darjeeling tea, handicrafts, leather handbags, books, woolens, paintings, Khukree or Gorkha knives, Buddha statues
Timings: 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM

Batasia Loop Market

This Batasia Loop Market gets its name as a result of its location.This market is located on Ghum and Darjeeling's loop-line. If you are an ardent shopper who is aware of the bargaining tricks, then this is the best shopping place for you.You can buy goods without burning a hole in your pocket. There is also a toy train line starting from here which will surely increase your experience of shopping in Darjeeling.
What to Buy:  Woolen wear, Accessories and House décor items.
Timings: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Chowk Bazaar

A lot of activities of Chowk Bazar, also attracts travellers in large numbers. You will get fresh and green vegetables in this market that will make your soul light up. You must try freshly brewed tea that is served by the Quirky tea stalls. Bustling with people, the back street of Chowk Bazaar sell rugs, hand-woven textiles, brassware, fur caps, brilliantly carved boxes, masks and silverware.
Timings: 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM

The Mall Road

Mall Road is the best place for shopping that you must visit in Darjeeling. You can get everything from here that you want to shop here. Be sure of having enough time for visiting this market. You will lose lot of time with the endless tempting options at The Mall Road. If you happen to be interested in shooting, then Mall Road will offer you some exciting items for your next adventure.

What to Buy: Fancy jewellery items, woolen cloths ranging from shawls, scarves, jackets and sweaters, Tibetan masks and other handmade souvenirs.
Timings: 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM

Teesta Bazaar

Teesta Bazaar is suited along the banks of Teesta River near the industrial town, Melli. It is surrounded by a natural beauty, tourists while on their way to Darjeeling, on the Siliguri - Gangtok highway, stop by this market. Handcrafted items are sold by the locals at a different price.

You can get all items at reasonably priced as well as costly ones that are prepared with great efforts and time. You should try piping hot mommas while you enjoy shopping experience in Darjeeling.

What to Buy: Hunting equipment, wall paintings, copper wares, crockery, silverware, lanterns and footwear called 'Thangkas'
Timings: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

MG Road Gangtok

One of the main commercial areas of Sikkim, MG Road in Sikkim is located in MG Marg, Gangtok. It is an open mall in the heart of the city, and acts as the hotspot for all major shops, restaurants etc. in Gangtok. MG Road is largely famous for traditional Sikkimese cups, Thangkas and Choksi table designs. Apart from that, you can also shop for garments, souvenirs, trinkets, accessories, footwear and more. It is surely one of the best places for handicrafts shopping at Sikkim. Drop in anytime of the day before 7 p.m.

Ghoom Monastery Market

The best time to visit the Ghoom Monastery market in the vicinity is early mornings and the evenings because the sunrise and sunset from here are simply memorizing.The colorful bunting banners beautify the streets, and gives pleasant vibes. Buddhist monks walking in the area will have a great effect on you while you shop Tibetan souvenirs from the Ghoom market.
What to Buy: Tibetan artifacts including singing bowls, prayer flags, prayer wheels, Thangkas (a form of Tibetan wall paintings), bags for women
Timings: 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM

Old Market Gangtok

One of the main commercial areas of Sikkim, MG Road in Sikkim is located in MG Marg, Gangtok. It is an open mall in the heart of the city, and acts as the hotspot for all major shops, restaurants etc. in Gangtok. MG Road is largely famous for traditional Sikkimese cups, Thangkas and Choksi table designs. Apart from that, you can also shop for garments, souvenirs, trinkets, accessories, footwear and more. It is surely one of the best places for handicrafts shopping at Sikkim. Drop in anytime of the day before 7 p.m.

Pashupati Nagar Market

Near the serene town of Mirik, Pashupati Nagar Market is enclosing in the calm of green hills. In other market if you import goods from Thailand, it will offer cheap bargains.Very close to the Nepal border, Pashupati Nagar Market will show some unique natural sights that will help you to double the shopping fun. One can get all electronic items at very reasonable price from here.

What to Buy: Woolen jackets, Small souvenirs, shawls and sweaters, Gorkha knives, books and Darjeeling Tea
Timings: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM