Darjeeling Tour Package for 5 Days: Must-See Attractions and Itinerary

Darjeeling, known as the "Queen of the Hills," is an iconic destination nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas. With its cool climate, lush green tea gardens, stunning views of the Kanchenjunga mountain range, and colonial charm, Darjeeling attracts tourists from all over the world. A 5-day tour package to Darjeeling is perfect for those looking to unwind in nature’s lap, explore the rich culture of the region, and enjoy adventurous activities. Here’s a detailed itinerary to help you make the most of your 5 days in Darjeeling.

Day 1: Arrival in Darjeeling

Your adventure begins the moment you arrive at Bagdogra Airport or New Jalpaiguri Railway Station. From there, you'll embark on a scenic 3-4 hour drive to Darjeeling, covering about 70 km. As you ascend the hills, you'll be greeted by lush greenery, winding roads, and misty mountain views. En route, take a break at Kurseong, a small town known for its tea plantations and scenic beauty.

Upon reaching Darjeeling, check into your hotel and spend the evening exploring the Mall Road (Chowrasta), the heart of Darjeeling town. Take a leisurely stroll, shop for local handicrafts, and enjoy a hot cup of Darjeeling tea while admiring the views. Return to your hotel for a relaxed evening and overnight stay.

Key Highlights:

Arrival and transfer to Darjeeling

Exploring Mall Road

Overnight stay at the hotel

Day 2: Darjeeling Sightseeing - Tiger Hill and Ghoom Monastery

On Day 2, rise early to catch the breathtaking sunrise from Tiger Hill, one of the most famous viewpoints in Darjeeling. On a clear morning, you can witness the first rays of the sun illuminating the snow-capped peaks of Mount Kanchenjunga. On rare occasions, you can even spot the majestic Mount Everest from this vantage point.

Afterward, visit the Ghoom Monastery, one of the oldest Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in Darjeeling, famous for its large statue of the Maitreya Buddha. On your way back to town, stop by the Batasia Loop, a unique railway loop with panoramic views of the town and surrounding mountains.

After a hearty breakfast, continue exploring Darjeeling with visits to the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, known for its conservation of endangered species such as the red panda and snow leopard, and the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute (HMI), where you can learn about the history of mountaineering in the region.

Key Highlights:

Sunrise at Tiger Hill

Visit to Ghoom Monastery and Batasia Loop

Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park and HMI

Day 3: Explore the Famous Tea Gardens and Rock Garden

Your third day will be dedicated to exploring Darjeeling’s famed tea estates. Start with a visit to the Happy Valley Tea Estate, one of the oldest and most scenic tea gardens in Darjeeling. Take a guided tour of the tea factory to learn about the intricate process of tea production, from plucking the leaves to the final packaging. Don’t forget to buy some freshly packed Darjeeling tea as a souvenir!

Afterward, head to the Rock Garden, a beautiful terraced garden built around a natural waterfall. It’s an ideal spot for photography and soaking in the serene ambiance. If time permits, you can also visit the nearby Ganga Maya Park, known for its colorful flowers and boating facilities.

In the evening, return to your hotel and unwind after a day full of exploration.

Key Highlights:

Happy Valley Tea Estate tour

Rock Garden and Ganga Maya Park visit

Day 4: Day Trip to Mirik

On Day 4, take a day trip to Mirik, a small hill station located about 50 km from Darjeeling. Famous for its picturesque Sumendu Lake, Mirik is a tranquil spot surrounded by forests, tea gardens, and orange orchards. You can take a boat ride on the lake or enjoy a pony ride along its banks. The Bokar Monastery, situated on a hill, offers stunning views of the surroundings and is worth a visit.

On the way back to Darjeeling, you can stop at the Pashupati Market, located at the Indo-Nepal border, to shop for clothes, electronics, and other goods at bargain prices. By evening, return to your hotel in Darjeeling for an overnight stay.

Key Highlights:

Day trip to Mirik

Boat ride at Sumendu Lake

Visit to Pashupati Market

Day 5: Departure

On your final day, enjoy a leisurely breakfast and take some time to soak in the last views of the Darjeeling hills. Depending on your departure time, you can either visit local markets for some last-minute shopping or relax at your hotel. You will then be transferred back to Bagdogra Airport or New Jalpaiguri Railway Station, bringing an end to your 5-day Darjeeling tour.

Key Highlights:

Departure from Darjeeling

Best Time to Visit Darjeeling

The ideal time to visit Darjeeling is during the months of March to May and September to November, when the weather is pleasant, and the skies are mostly clear, offering the best views of the mountains. Summers (March-May) are perfect for sightseeing, while the post-monsoon period (September-November) is ideal for enjoying the lush greenery and clear skies. Winter (December-February) can be chilly, but it's a good time for those who enjoy the cold and want to experience snowfall in the region.

Tips for Your Darjeeling Tour

Carry warm clothing: Even in summer, the mornings and evenings in Darjeeling can be chilly, so it’s essential to pack warm clothes.

Book in advance: Darjeeling is a popular tourist destination, so it's advisable to book your hotels and transport in advance, especially during peak season.

Sustainable travel: Darjeeling is an eco-sensitive region, so avoid littering and be mindful of the environment during your trip.

Local cuisine: Don’t miss out on trying local delicacies like momos, thukpa, and traditional Nepali and Tibetan dishes at the local restaurants.

Conclusion

A 5-day tour to Darjeeling is the perfect way to experience the charm of this Himalayan town. Whether you’re a nature lover, adventure seeker, or someone looking to relax, Darjeeling offers a little something for everyone. With its stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and friendly locals, Darjeeling will leave you with memories that last a lifetime.