Offbeat Destinations in Darjeeling – CHECK ONLINE
Discover lesser-known tourist gems near Darjeeling and Sikkim, such as Inchenpong, Kaluk, Hee, and Bermiok, offering stunning views of Kanchenjunga. While Ravangla is gaining popularity, Sikkim boasts even more offbeat destinations like Jorethang-Soreng/Reshi, Rinchenpong, Dentam, Uttarey, and Kaluk, providing unique and tranquil experiences. Immerse yourself in Sikkim’s hidden treasures and explore the road less traveled. Darjeeling, cherished by mountain enthusiasts for its enchanting snow-capped peaks and verdant forests, is a popular tourist destination in West Bengal. While many visitors explore the bustling attractions, some prefer the offbeat charm of lesser-known places near Darjeeling, gaining recognition among global tourists. These hidden gems boast the magic of tea gardens, orange orchards, paddy fields, and pristine lakes, making them ideal for those seeking tranquility amid nature’s beauty.
Traveling is a passion for some and a recreational activity for others, both driven by the desire to unwind in lush greenery, majestic mountains, and serene waterfalls. Darjeeling offers splendid resorts and diverse activities for everyone. The allure of these offbeat destinations lies in their immense and incomparable beauty, providing breathtaking views of the Himalayas. Often dubbed the “Queen of the Hills,” Darjeeling is renowned for its captivating beauty, tranquility, and chilly weather, making it a perfect retreat. It is a paradise for trekkers, thanks to its rolling mountain ranges and pleasant weather, offering an ideal trekking experience. Beyond the well-known spots like Ghoom and Batasia Loop, several offbeat places provide unique and memorable experiences.
For those seeking a quieter escape without the noise and crowds, these offbeat places near Darjeeling are ideal. To explore them, opting for a Darjeeling car rental is recommended. The region, famed for its tea plantations, is a haven for tea connoisseurs. Exploring local marketplaces and vintage malls in Darjeeling adds to the experience, allowing visitors to savor the natural flavors and aromas of the tea. Aside from acquiring tea leaf packets, one can also indulge in purchasing local trinkets like handcrafted products, woolen scarves, hats, fake jewelry, and more from the city’s vibrant marketplaces.
OffBeat Destinations Tour in Darjeeling Tour Packages –
Off-Beat Darjeeling Covering – Darjeeling : 03 Nights – Tumling / Tonglu : 01 Night & Sandakphu : 01 Night :: 05 Nights / 06 Days
Explore Darjeeling, the unrivaled queen of the Himalayas, with its captivating beauty and diverse attractions. Whether you’re seeking the perfect sunrise view, cultural experiences, or natural wonders, Darjeeling has it all.
Must-Visit Places in Darjeeling:
Tiger Hill: Witness the breathtaking sunrise over the Eastern Himalayas from Tiger Hill, situated 11 km from Darjeeling. Marvel at the first light touching the twin peaks of Kanchenjunga, creating a stunning display of colors. On clear days, enjoy panoramic views of Kurseong Town and the plains of North Bengal.
Batasia Loop & War Memorial: Explore Batasia Loop, a remarkable engineering feat of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railways, offering spectacular views of Mt. Kanchenjunga. Visit the War Memorial at the center of the loop, paying homage to the brave Gorkha Soldiers.
Ghoom Monastery: Discover the oldest monastery in the Darjeeling region, Ghoom Monastery (Yiga-Choling Monastery), founded in 1875 by Tibetan Astrologer Lama Sherab Gyantso. Admire the rare handwritten Buddhist manuscripts preserved here.
Himalayan Mountaineering Institute (HMI): Visit the iconic HMI, established by Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru and Dr. B.C. Roy in 1954. Explore the museum with a rich collection of photographs, maps, mountaineering equipment, and the mesmerizing view of the Kanchenjunga massif.
Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park: Experience the natural beauty of one of the highest zoological parks globally, home to rare and endangered species like the Red Panda, Siberian Tiger, and Snow Leopard.
Tibetan Refugee Self Help Centre: Gain insight into the Tibetan culture and craftsmanship at the center established in 1959. Support the refugees by purchasing handmade crafts and learn about their socio-economic initiatives.
Japanese Temple & Peace Pagoda: Visit the Peace Pagoda (Shanti Stupa) outside Darjeeling for a spiritual experience and breathtaking views of snowy peaks. Immerse yourself in the solemn ambiance created by chanting prayers.
Tenzing & Gombu Rock: Challenge yourself with rock climbing courses conducted on Tenzing and Gombu Rocks, located at Lebong Cart Road, also known as “Monkey Rock.”
Happy Valley Tea Garden: Explore one of the oldest tea gardens in Darjeeling, the Happy Valley Tea Garden, and savor the world-renowned Darjeeling tea. Enjoy a stroll through the scenic hills to reach the garden.
Mall or Chowrasta: Relax at Chowrasta, the heart of the city, surrounded by shops, restaurants, and the majestic view of Mt. Kanchenjunga. Take a leisurely walk or enjoy a pony ride while sipping on hot tea or coffee.
Off-Beat Destinations:
Mirik: Journey 45 km from Darjeeling to Mirik, a small town surrounded by tea, orange, and cardamom plantations. Explore Sumendu Lake, offering boating, horse riding, and scenic walks.
Sandakphu: Reach the highest point in West Bengal at Sandakphu, situated on the border of India and Nepal. Enjoy mesmerizing views of Mt. Kanchenjunga, Bhutan, China, and, on clear days, even Mt. Everest. Witness the unique flora and fauna of Singalila National Park, including the elusive red panda.
Offbeat Darjeeling : 02 Nights – Sri Khola : 01 Night – Dhotrey : 01 Night & Lepchajagat : 01 Night – 05 Nights / 06 Days
Nestled in the eastern Himalayas, the enchanting town of Darjeeling stands as the undisputed queen of the mountains, beckoning visitors from across the globe. Situated 80 kilometers from Siliguri, the journey takes approximately three hours, offering a scenic route through the majestic Himalayan landscapes. The omnipresent Kanchenjunga Peak, the third-highest in the world, graces the town with its awe-inspiring presence.
Darjeeling’s allure lies not only in its picture-perfect beauty but also in its trekking trails and breathtaking mountain views. Whether wandering through the city to absorb the local traditions and modern culture or simply basking in the serene ambiance of Darjeeling Mall (Chowrasta), visitors find respite from the heat and stress of city life.
Key Attractions in Darjeeling:
Tiger Hill: Tiger Hill, located 11 kilometers from Darjeeling, stands atop Senchal Hill at an altitude of 8500 feet. Renowned for offering a spectacular sunrise over the Eastern Himalayas, the first rays of the sun cast a mesmerizing pink and orange glow upon the twin peaks of Kanchenjunga. On clear days, the summit commands views of Kurseong Town, the plains of North Bengal, and meandering rivers like Teesta, Mahanadi, Balasun, and Mechi.
Batasia Loop & War Memorial: Situated 5 kilometers before Darjeeling, Batasia Loop provides a breathtaking view of Mt. Kanchenjunga and other snow-capped peaks. The loop showcases the remarkable engineering feat of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railways. At its center, a War Memorial commemorates the brave Gorkha Soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the nation.
Ghoom Monastery: Established in 1875 by Tibetan Astrologer Lama Sherab Gyantso, Ghoom Monastery, or Yiga-Choling Monastery, is the oldest in the Darjeeling region. The monastery preserves rare handwritten Buddhist manuscripts.
Himalayan Mountaineering Institute (HMI): Founded by India’s first Prime Minister, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, and West Bengal’s Chief Minister, Dr. B.C. Roy, in 1954, HMI is a landmark institution. The institute, with its museum, showcases rare photographs, maps, mountaineering equipment, and samples of the Himalayan flora and fauna. The view of the Kanchenjunga massif from HMI is truly captivating.
Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park (Darjeeling Zoo): Established in 1958, this high-altitude zoo is renowned for its natural beauty and captive breeding. It is the only zoo in the world to breed Tibetan Wolf in captivity and the first South Asian zoo to breed snow leopards and Siberian tigers.
Tibetan Refugee Self Help Centre: Formed in 1959, this center provides shelter and support to Tibetan refugees who fled to India following the dramatic escape of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. The center engages in handicraft production, generating income through national sales and exports.
Japanese Temple & Peace Pagoda: The Darjeeling Peace Pagoda, built between 1972 and 1992, is the only one in the East Himalayas. Designed to promote peace among people of all races and creeds, the pagoda offers a spiritual retreat with the humming and solemn chanting of prayers. The panoramic view of snowy peaks, including the mighty Khanchendzonga, is truly breathtaking.
Tenzing & Gombu Rocks: Situated at Lebong Cart Road, also known as “Monkey Rock,” these rocks are named after Tenzing Norgey and Nawang Gombu. The Himalayan Mountaineering Institute conducts rock climbing courses on these challenging rocks.
Happy Valley Tea Garden: Renowned for its unmatched natural beauty, Darjeeling is equally famous for its tea. The Happy Valley Tea Garden, one of the oldest and most renowned, is located just 3 kilometers from the heart of Darjeeling. Visitors can stroll through the scenic hills to reach the garden.
Mall or Chowrasta: The heart of the city, Chowrasta, is a vast flat platform surrounded by benches, offering shops, restaurants, curio dealers, and a vibrant atmosphere. With ponies available for rides, visitors can savor the view of Mt. Kanchenjunga while enjoying a hot cup of tea or coffee.
Sri Khola or Siri Khola: Nestled at an altitude of 6900 feet, Sri Khola offers an ideal destination for nature lovers. Surrounded by pine, fir, birch, and rhododendron trees, this tranquil spot is located beside the Sri Khola River.
Dhotre or Dhotrey: Situated at an altitude of 8550 feet within the buffer zone of Singalila National Park, Dhotre is a serene hamlet surrounded by pine jungles. Offering mesmerizing views of the Kanchenjunga massif, Dhotre is a magical retreat for nature lovers.
Lepchajagat: Meaning “the place of Lepcha people,” Lepchajagat is a small village surrounded by rhododendron, pine, and oak forests. Located at an altitude of around 7000 feet, the village provides a peaceful blend of nature and tranquility, with Mount Kanchenjunga standing proudly in the background. The area is an ideal retreat for nature lovers seeking a serene offbeat experience.
Darjeeling, with its myriad attractions, remains a timeless destination that captivates the hearts of those seeking solace in the lap of the Himalayas.
Offbeat Darjeeling : 02 Nights – Lepchajagat : 01 Night – Sittong : 01 Night & Chatakpur : 01 Night – 05 Nights / 06 Days
Lepchajagat: Lepchajagat, translating to “the place of Lepcha people,” is a serene village nestled in the wilderness at an altitude of around 7000 ft. Surrounded by rhododendron, pine, and oak forests, the village provides a peaceful retreat. With Mount Kanchenjunga looming in the backdrop, Lepchajagat is an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts seeking a harmonious blend of tranquility and natural beauty.
Sittong: Spread across a vast area and comprising a cluster of villages, Sittong, also known as “Sittong Khas Mohol,” is renowned for its numerous orange orchards. During winter, the hills are adorned with a vibrant orange hue. The region, covered with dense forests, has become a haven for bird watchers. Situated at around 4500 ft above sea level, Sittong offers short treks and holds historical significance as Rabindranath Tagore spent a considerable amount of time here.
Chatakpur: Chatakpur, a tranquil hamlet above Sonada town at almost 7900 ft above sea level, offers a panoramic view of Mt. Kanchenjunga and its surrounding peaks. Nestled within the Senchel Reserve Forest, Chatakpur boasts abundant flora and fauna. A short walk to Chatakpur Watch Tower provides an excellent view of Sandakphu and the vast expanse of the Eastern Himalayas. A captivating trek from Chatakpur to Tiger Hill, on a clear day, may even reveal glimpses of Mount Everest.
These offbeat gems showcase the diverse and lesser-explored facets of Darjeeling, inviting travelers to embrace the tranquility and natural splendor that these hidden destinations offer.
Tabakoshi : 01 Night – Tinchuley / Takdah : 01 Night – Rangaroon / Dawaipani : 01 Night – Lepchajagat : 01 Night – 04 Nights – 05 Days
Tabakoshi – a relatively recent addition to the destinations in the Darjeeling district near Mirik Town at Pokhriabong Rangbhang Valley, is nestled within the renowned Gopaldhara Tea Garden at an altitude of approximately 4000 ft. Surrounded by some of Darjeeling’s finest tea gardens, the locale boasts a significant population engaged in the tea industry. The scenic River Rangbhang flows through Tabakoshi, enhancing the valley’s allure. Visitors can explore the tea garden factory to witness the fascinating tea processing, and the area is also an ideal spot for bird watching. For those seeking adventure, short yet captivating treks are available.
Tinchuley – a quaint Himalayan village perched at an elevation of about 6000 ft. in the Darjeeling Hills, has evolved into a popular tourist hotspot. The name “Tinchuley” translates to “Three Chullahs or Ovens,” inspired by the three hilltops that resemble ovens. With the assistance of WWF (World Wide Federation), this once sleepy hamlet has transformed into a model village. The locals, known for their hospitality, welcome tourists to experience abundant natural beauty and the warmth of their homes. The serene surroundings, towering Himalayan peaks including Kanchenjunga, village trails amidst pine and oak trees, and immersion in local culture make a visit to Tinchuley a memorable experience.
Takdah – formerly a British cantonment, has emerged as a newly discovered and popular tourist destination. Situated at an altitude of around 4500 ft, Takdah retains some old British charm while offering a perfect escape from the crowds. The destination features virgin nature, panoramic views of the Teesta River Valley, lush green tea gardens, and a variety of orchids. Misty roads, dense forests, serenity, bird chirping, and numerous waterfalls make Takdah an appealing retreat.
Rangaroon – surrounded by lush green tea gardens, lies at the foothills of the famous Tiger Hill in the back part of Darjeeling. This tea garden village provides a unique experience akin to staying amidst the tea gardens. Offering magnificent views of Mount Kanchenjunga and Darjeeling town in the same frame, Rangaroon is an ideal place for nature lovers and bird watchers alike.
Dawaipani – a newly discovered offbeat destination in the Darjeeling district, provides a commanding view of the snow-clad Himalayas, Namchi-Chardham, and Darjeeling city. Located about 20 km from Darjeeling town, Dawaipani offers an escape from city life amidst the bounty of nature. It serves as an oasis of serenity in the Eastern Himalayas, appealing to nature lovers seeking tranquility.
Lepchajagat – meaning “the place of Lepcha people or Lepcha community,” is a small village in the wilderness with an altitude of around 7000 ft above sea level. Originally from Sikkim, the Lepcha people have spread to Bhutan, Tibet, Nepal, and the Darjeeling hills. Lepchajagat is enveloped by wild forests of rhododendron, pine, and oak, boasting natural beauty. With Mount Kanchenjunga and its surrounding peaks dominating the northeastern skyline, this village is an ideal retreat for nature lovers seeking a blend of tranquility and natural beauty. The only sounds that fill the air are the chirping of numerous birds during the day and the soothing sound of crickets in the evening.
Tabakoshi : 01 Night – Sittong : 01 Night – Rangaroon / Dawaipani : 01 Night – Lepchajagat : 01 Night – 04 Nights – 05 Days
Tabakoshi – nestled in the Darjeeling district near Mirik Town within the Pokhriabong Rangbhang Valley, is a recent addition to the region’s destinations. Positioned at an elevation of approximately 4000 ft, Tabakoshi is situated within the Gopaldhara Tea Garden. Surrounded by some of the finest tea gardens in Darjeeling, the area boasts a thriving tea industry with a majority of the local population engaged in tea cultivation. The scenic River Rangbhang flows through Tabakoshi, enhancing the valley’s allure. Visitors can explore the tea garden factory to witness the intriguing tea processing. Tabakoshi also serves as an ideal locale for birdwatching, and for those seeking adventure, there are short yet exhilarating trekking opportunities.
Sittong – sprawling across a vast expanse and comprised of a cluster of villages collectively known as “Sittong Khas Mohol,” is situated in the Kurseong division. Renowned as the Orange Pot of Darjeeling District, Sittong is adorned with numerous orange orchards, creating a picturesque orange-hued landscape during winter. Beyond its orchards, Sittong is blessed with natural beauty, featuring dense forests that make it a paradise for birdwatchers. At an altitude of approximately 4500 ft above sea level, Sittong also offers short treks in its surroundings. Notably, Mungpo, famous for its Cinchona farmland, has historical significance as Rabindranath Tagore spent a considerable amount of time here.
Rangaroon – enveloped by lush green tea gardens, is positioned at the foothills of the renowned Tiger Hill in the rear part of Darjeeling. Functioning as a tea garden village, Rangaroon provides a unique experience akin to residing within a tea garden. The village affords magnificent views of Mount Kanchenjunga and the Darjeeling town, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and birdwatchers alike.
Dawaipani – a recently discovered offbeat destination in the Darjeeling district, offers breathtaking views of the snow-clad Himalayas, a clear sight of Namchi-Chardham, and the city of Darjeeling. Located approximately 20 km away from Darjeeling town, Dawaipani provides an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, immersing visitors in the tranquility of nature. This oasis of serenity in the Eastern Himalayas is a paradise for nature enthusiasts.
Lepchajagat – translating to “the place of Lepcha people,” is a quaint village nestled in the wilderness at an altitude of around 7000 ft above sea level. Originally from Sikkim, the Lepcha people are now spread across Bhutan, Tibet, Nepal, and the Darjeeling hills. Lepchajagat offers a serene environment with its wild forests of rhododendron, pine, and oak, surrounded by the natural beauty of Mount Kanchenjunga and its neighboring peaks. This offbeat destination is perfect for nature lovers seeking a blend of tranquility and scenic splendor, where the only sounds are the chirping of birds during the day and the soothing hum of crickets in the evening.
Offbeat Darjeeling Itinerary – sittong, darjeeling, rampuria
Day 1: – Pickup from Njp and transfer to sittong via jogighat, mangpu. Night stay at Sittong.
Day 2:- After breakfast go for sittong sightseeing (orangegarden, namthingpokhri lake,ahaldhara etc and transfer to Darjeeling. Night stay in Darjeeling.
Day 3: Early morning go for visit sunrise in tiger hill. After breakfast go for Darjeeling
mixed point sightseeing (batasia loop,ghum monestory, zoo, HMI,rope way, Tenjing rock & peace pagoda). Evening leisure at Mall road. Night stay in Darjeeling.
Day 5: After breakfast check out and drop to njp via mirik, gopaldhara tea garden, simana view point, pasupati fatak sightseeing.
Day 4:- After breakfast transfer to Rampuria via takdah, tinchuley, lamahatta, sightseeing. Night stay in Rampuria.
Day 5 :- After breakfast we leave for NJP.
includes
- Non-AC Cab
- Pick Up & Drop from NJP.
- All sightseeing.
- All toll taxes, driver allowances.
- All currently applicable hotel taxes.
- Accommodation for all travelers (family wise) in home stay & Hotel
Exclude
- Any entrance fees, camera fees, guide charges.
- AP meal plan (4 breakfast, 4 diner & 4 lunch)
- Any Extra services – Permits, Heater, Parking etc.
- Any services not mentioned in the inclusion list.
- Train / Air Fair.
- Rock Garden entry fee.