If you are located anywhere in Eastern India, then Darjeeling is one name you must have heard while growing up. A favourite vacation spot for Bongs across the country, there is no best time to visit Darjeeling. I mean, you can definitely go during Summer like most bongs to escape the heat.
But be prepared to encounter lots of other tourists, long queues outside restaurants, and even probable ticket cancellations. Instead, you can choose to be a little more adventurous and maybe consider travelling to Darjeeling during the latter half of the year and witness something magical like some snow (but only if you are very lucky).
Keep reading to find out how I witnessed the most beautiful snow of all time.
Exploring The Unexplored: Screw The Itinerary
Are you still wondering what is the best time to visit Darjeeling? There are two ways to go about it – either you could visit like most of the country during Summer or drop in during the winter months for a crowd-free experience. The first thing that I did once I set foot at Darjeeling was screwing the itinerary.
Because you might think that the place’s done and dusted, but it’s so not, considering all the offbeat places to visit in Darjeeling! Scroll down and find out the places I visited on my solo trip to Darjeeling last Summer!.
Spend A Weekend At Dhotrey:
Location
104k.m from Siliguri
Costing (Stay And Meals)
1500/- night
Transportation
Reserved Car or Shared Taxi from Siliguri
Nearby Treks
Sandakphu, and Phalut via Tonglu
Number Of Days
2 Days (excluding time for the trek)
If you have never heard about Dhotrey, it’s because this beautiful hamlet is one of the smallest villages in Darjeeling – and it’s not just small, not many people even know about this place. There is no best time to visit Dhotrey, considering it’s always free of crowds!
The locals are friendly, and I even ended up making lifelong friends with Manoj and his wife. Manoj was my guide who let me stay at his house since there were no rooms in either of the two homestays in this village. His wife cooked yummy meals for me and even made a comfortable, warm place for me to sleep in – she almost tucked me in that night…
The best part? The village was breathtakingly beautiful, with lush, green landscapes on different sides, and it also happens to be the starting point for the even more popular Sandakphu trek. You can spend a whole weekend at Dhotrey and embark on the Sandakphu trek for a more adventurous approach to your trek.
Hike To Tonglu:
Location
2.5 hours from Darjeeling at 10,130 feet
Costing (Stay And Meals)
1000/- night
Transportation
Walk from Dhotrey village via Singalila Forest
Nearby Treks
Sandakphu, and Phalut
Number Of Days
1 or 2 Days (excluding time for the trek)
If you are already spending a weekend at Dhotrey, then you can easily hike to Tonglu – it’ll take you somewhere between an hour and a half to double the time, depending on your speed stamina, and the weather. Walking to Tonglu was perhaps my first hiking experience, and it was so cold!
If Manoj had not offered to help me out with my heavy backpack, I would have probably given up on the hike! Yes, my boyfriend did carry my bag too, but then again, he adapts to mountain weather far better than I will ever be able to do.
The most astonishing thing about visiting Tonglu during winter was the bone-chilling cold, the hot food, and the WIND! At night, it felt like a woman was running around screaming in a high-pitched, shrilly voice – but it was the wind making all that noise, a kind of sound I had never heard before.
Instead of finding out the best time to visit Darjeeling for honeymoon, you can always spend your honeymoon at Tonglu – you can always walk to the equally beautiful nearby village of Tumling– also, I witnessed my first snowfall at Tonglu since it was January and boy was it cold!
Gorge On The Best Darjeeling Has To Offer:
If you are spending a few days in Darjeeling, the best thing that you need to do is gorge to your heart’s extent on the delicacies that Darjeeling has to offer! Experiment with traditional cuisines from the different local communities such as the Gorkhas, Sherpas, Lepchas, and Khampas.
Instead of typing ‘Darjeeling best time to visit’ on Google, have you considered finding out the dishes you must try here? Here you go!
Thukpa
Kunga Restaurant (51, Gandhi Road, Chauk Bazaar, Darjeeling) and Devekas Restaurant (Chauk Bazaar)
Depends from stall to stall
Traditional Nepali Thali
Revolver Restaurant (110 Gandhi Road, Behind Union Chapel, Darjeeling)
300 to 400/-
Naga Cuisine
Revolver Restaurant (110 Gandhi Road, Behind Union Chapel, Darjeeling)
300 to 400/-
Churpee
Keventer’s (Keventer’s, 1 Nehru Road, Darjeeling)
400/-
Momos
Kunga Restaurant (51, Gandhi Road, Chauk Bazaar, Darjeeling) and many places in and around Darjeeling
100 to 200/-
Aloo Thukpa
Local vendors, and Hasty Tasty (Chauk Bazaar, Darjeeling)
200/-
Sael Rotis
Local vendors
Depends from stall to stall
Shafaley
Nawangs Restaurant (No 7 Robertson Road | Clubside, Darjeeling)
100 to 200/-
Chaang
Hot stimulating cafe (Lebong Cart Rd, Richmond Hill, Darjeeling)
100 to 200/-
Lots of Darjeeling Tea
The House of Tea Address (11, Nehru Road, Chauk Bazaar, Darjeeling) and Nathmulls Tea & Sunset Lounge (The Rink Mall (Opp. GPO), 19, Ladenla Road, Darjeeling)
Depends from stall to stall
If You Still Want To Know About The Best Time To Visit Darjeeling!
Darjeeling has primarily two tourist seasons. Ask anyone! They are either planning a trip between April to June, or they are up for an autumn trip between September to November.
In both these seasons, Darjeeling has clearer skiers and longer sunny hours. Further, the days of precipitation go down during these months. So, the chances of landslides, mudslides, or road blockages are less in autumn and spring.
Moreover, with better clarity, Darjeeling, in these seasons,
Having said that, Darjeeling has something to offer to its visitors across all seasons. So, let’s find out the seasonal attractions of Darjeeling.
1. Spring Season (March to May)
Spring is the best time to visit Darjeeling if you want to see rhododendrons, orchids and other famous flowers of the region in full bloom.
Many photography enthusiasts flock to Darjeeling this season to capture the beauty of these flowers in red, pink, and white.
Further, there are dedicated trek routes to Sandakphu and Tonglu, where you will find beautiful rhododendron flowers in full bloom.
In this season, you can even enjoy a ride in the Darjeeling Himalayan Railways or Toy Train to have the best view of the tea gardens and lush greenery.
2. Summer (May To June)
With decent sunny hours, charming weather, and cloud-free skies, May to June or, in fact, April to June is the best time to visit Darjeeling.
Further, this is the season for going on a trek to Sandakphu. Sandakphu is the highest mountain peak in West Bengal. Once you conquer Sandakphu, you will get an amazing view of Mount Kanchenjunga, Mount Everest, Makalu, and Lhotse.
3. Late September To December (Fall And Winter)
September comes to Darjeeling with post-monsoon beauty. You can enjoy the lush greenery in these months minus the continuous days of precipitation.
Further, from October to early December, you can explore the trekking routes in Darjeeling, including Sandakphu and Tonglu.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
1. Which Month Is Off-Season In Darjeeling?
The winter months are usually off-season in Darjeeling. The months of December and January happen to be the least humid, with temperatures dropping to 2 to 7 degrees, and in some cases, even below zero degrees in January. In addition, there are no chances of floods or landslides, making it the perfect time to visit for a crowd-free experience.
2. How Many Days Is Good For Darjeeling Trip?
You can easily spend four to five days in Darjeeling if you have no plans of checking out the nearby trekking routes or even villages. But make sure you have at least 4 days in your hands for touring Darjeeling, otherwise, it’ll be a complete waste of time and money.
3. Can We See Snow In Darjeeling?
Snowfall is rarely a possibility in Darjeeling, but if you are fortunate, you might just get snowfall in case temperatures to fall down to negative 2 degrees celsius. But if you visit the nearby areas in winter, there are a hundred possibilities that you might just witness some snow.
Bitten By The Wanderlust Bug: Can’t Stop Travelling!
If you are planning to visit Darjeeling, extend your trip to include surrounding locations such as Gangtok, Kalimpong, and even Kurseong for a long vacation.
The best time to visit Darjeeling and Gangtok depends on the kind of travelling you want to do – if you love spending time away from crowds then winter is your season, and if it’s too hot to stay during Summer, it’s better to escape the heat!
In the meantime, don’t forget to share your thoughts and experiences (if you have already been to Darjeeling) on the same in the comments below.
Barsha Bhattacharya is a senior content writing executive. As a marketing enthusiast and professional for the past 4 years, writing is new to Barsha. And she is loving every bit of it. Her niches are marketing, lifestyle, wellness, travel and entertainment. Apart from writing, Barsha loves to travel, binge-watch, research conspiracy theories, Instagram and overthink.
4 responses to “Which Is The Best Time To Visit Darjeeling? Darjeeling Tourism Guide”
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Finding the ideal marriage venue is seldom easier stated than done. If the difficulty isn't with the size of a venue or the curfew time, a lot of them can often just feel the same. A lot of the time, venue hire fees also pose a problem for couples looking for a cost-effective solution (especially an issue if they are looking for a wedding venue in London). But, if you are looking for a unique venue for your wedding day, there are loads of different options that don't break the bank. So, you are looking for a wedding venue that is a little more unusual, then you have got to the best place. Read on to discover some of the most unique wedding venues in the UK.
The Most Unique Wedding Venues in The UK:
The Gherkin
If you're looking to achieve the wow factor on your big day, then this iconic landmark in the heart of London will undoubtedly deliver just that. The Gherkin can accommodate weddings on level 39 with breath-taking views of London's skyline.
Carnglaze Caverns
The Carnglaze Caverns in Cornwall offer four different locations to get married to your partner with one of them being on the shores of a candlelit underground lake. It is licensed to hold weddings for up to 35 guests, but there is a larger cavern that has enough space for 400 people.
Hedingham Castle
Hedingham Castle is a Norman Keep that was built in 1140 and located in the heart of the Essex countryside. Couples can get married in the banqueting hall then choose to have their reception outside on the lawn or keep it inside the castle.
Nash Point Lighthouse
If you are resembling for an unusual venue that's right by the sea, then look no very than Nash Point Lighthouse. It is located in a beautiful area of South Wales and is perfect for small intimate unique wedding ceremonies of up to twenty-five companies.
The National Marine Aquarium
The National Marine Aquarium in Plymouth can accommodate unique wedding receptions of up to 130 guests with a beautiful backdrop of their Eddystone Reef exhibit. Your actual unique wedding ceremony cannot be hosted here, but you can have a reception that your guests will remember for a long time.
Tutbury Castle
Located in Staffordshire, Tutbury Castle dates all the way back to the 11th century. Within the grounds, there are some stunning views and ruins that are fantastic for your wedding photos.
The Victoria Baths
Having your guests sit in a swimming pool while you get married sounds completely bonkers, but when it comes to The Victoria Baths in Manchester, one is forgiven. You can choose to have your wedding ceremony at the bottom of the Gala Pool (empty of course) while there are five different areas where you can have your reception.
The Royal Navy Submarine Museum
Located in Hampshire, The Royal Navy Submarine Museum gives you the unique opportunity to tie the knot on HMS Alliance. Your wedding ceremony can be onboard the submarine itself, or you can just choose to have a guided tour with your guests while there is a separate room close by John Fieldhouse building where you can have your receptions.
The Aviator Hotel
Also located in Hampshire is The Aviator; a boutique hotel that specializes in contemporary aeronautics designs and themes. There is a sky lounge and atrium and an in-house wedding service that can go as luxurious as you want.
Castell Coch
Castell Coach is located in Cardiff and is a gothic castle that is surrounded by beautiful woodland. It has a colorful interior, lavish furnishings that will make any couple feel like royalty. You can have your unique wedding ceremony in the drawing-room, but there is only enough space for 30 guests, and you will need to find another location for your reception.
The Little Theatre
Getting married in The Little Theatres in Bath can be a truly magical and cinematic experience. You can have truly bespoke wedding invites by using old school wedding tickets and choose to have popcorn served by ushers throughout your wedding ceremony.
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So, you've decided to take the plunge and trade the grey skies of Britain for the sun-drenched beaches of Australia? Congratulations! Making the move Down Under can be an exhilarating adventure, but it also comes with its fair share of challenges and uncertainties. Fear not, though, because I'm here to guide you through the process every step of the way.
1. Visa Essentials: Crossing The First Hurdle
Understanding Visa Options
Before you start packing your bags, you'll need to navigate the often perplexing world of Australian visas. Here's a brief rundown of some common visa options for Brits:
Skilled Visas - If you possess skills that are in demand in Australia, you may be eligible for a skilled visa.
Working Holiday Visa - Ideal for young Brits looking to explore Australia while also working part-time.
Family Visas - If you have family members in Australia, you might be able to obtain a family visa.
Seek Professional Advice
Navigating the Australian visa system can be a daunting task, so don't hesitate to seek professional advice. Immigration consultants or migration agents can help you understand your options and guide you through the application process. And don't forget, once you're in Australia, you'll need to renew your passport every 10 years still. Good news; there are experts to help you renew a British Passport in Australia too!
2. Financial Planning: Budgeting For Your Big Move
Cost Of Living
Australia isn't exactly known for being a budget-friendly destination, so it's essential to crunch the numbers and budget accordingly. Keep in mind factors such as accommodation costs, transportation expenses, and healthcare costs when planning your budget.
Exchange Rates And Currency Conversion
With the pound sterling being stronger than the Australian dollar, you'll want to keep a close eye on exchange rates and factor in currency conversion fees when transferring money between accounts.
3. Finding Your Dream Home Down Under
Researching Different Suburbs
Australia is a vast and diverse country, with each city boasting its unique vibe and culture. Take the time to research different suburbs and neighborhoods to find the perfect place to call home.
Renting Vs. Buying
Deciding whether to rent or buy a property in Australia is a big decision that depends on various factors such as your budget, long-term plans, and lifestyle preferences.
Navigating The Rental Market
If you're planning to rent, be prepared for stiff competition in Australia's rental market, especially in major cities like Sydney and Melbourne. Start your search early, and be ready to act fast when you find a property you like.
4. Healthcare Matters: Staying Healthy Down Under
Understanding The Healthcare System
Australia boasts a world-class healthcare system, but it operates differently from the NHS in the UK. Familiarize yourself with the Australian healthcare system and consider taking out private health insurance for added peace of mind.
Medicare: Australia's Public Health Insurance
As a permanent resident or eligible visa holder, you may be entitled to access Medicare, Australia's public health insurance scheme. Medicare provides coverage for essential medical services, but you may still need private health insurance for additional benefits and services.
5. Embracing The Aussie Lifestyle: Tips For Settling In
Embracing The Outdoors
With its stunning natural landscapes and year-round sunshine, Australia is the perfect place to embrace the great outdoors. Take advantage of the countless beaches, national parks, and outdoor activities on offer.
Getting Involved In The Community
One of the best ways to settle into your new life in Australia is by getting involved in the local community. Whether it's joining a sports team, volunteering, or attending community events, making connections with fellow Aussies can help you feel at home.
Cultivating Work-Life Balance
Australians are known for their laid-back attitude and emphasis on work-life balance. Take a cue from your Aussie counterparts and prioritize leisure time and relaxation alongside your professional pursuits.
6. Dealing With Homesickness: Coping Strategies For Brits Abroad
Stay Connected With Loved Ones
Moving to the other side of the world can be tough, but thanks to modern technology, staying connected with friends and family back home has never been easier. Schedule regular video calls, send care packages, and plan visits to help ease feelings of homesickness.
Explore Your New Surroundings
Combat homesickness by immersing yourself in your new surroundings and embracing all that Australia has to offer. Whether it's exploring a new city, trying out local cuisine, or embarking on weekend getaways, there's always something new to discover Down Under.
Seek Support When Needed
If feelings of homesickness become overwhelming, don't hesitate to seek support from friends, family, or professional counselors. Remember that it's entirely normal to feel homesick when adjusting to life in a new country, and there's no shame in asking for help when you need it.
Conclusion: Your Australian Adventure Awaits!
Making the move from Britain to Australia is a thrilling and life-changing experience, but it's essential to approach it with careful planning and preparation. By understanding the visa requirements, budgeting wisely, and embracing the Aussie lifestyle, you'll be well on your way to making a smooth transition to your new home Down Under. So, what are you waiting for? Your Australian adventure awaits!
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We need to get the notion out of our heads that tropical island holidays are only for the rich and famous. These are destinations that are available to everyone. It doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg to get there. It is true to say that these are islands out in the ocean.
So, we need a particular form of transport to get to them. I suppose it would be fair to say that the rich and famous do charter speedboats. They actually own them themselves to get to where they want to go. However, this doesn’t restrict the rest of us from enjoying the Tropical Island Vacation experience.
Getting Started With Your Tropical Paradise Vacation
We can always take advantage of the Koh Samui to Koh Phangan ferry. In other words, it will it take us and our family members but our vehicles as well. This means we save significant amounts of money when you want to travel around the islands. Therefore, we have our very own transport.
If you’ve never really considered a tropical island vacation before now. Yet, this has piqued your interest then the following are just some of the reasons. Due to this, you need to choose such a destination this year and every year.
10 most common tropical islands you must definitely consider visiting in 2024 are:
Rottnest Island, Australia
Trobriand Islands, Papua New Guinea
Australia’s Normanby Island
Savaii Island in Samoa
Fitzroy Island in Australia
Australia’s Bruny Island
Philipines’ Boracay Island
Maui in Hawaii
Solomon Islands
Okinawa in Japan
The Beaches Are Amazing
The downside of going to a standard beach is that it is usually full of people and there isn’t any space to sit down and relax. The wonderful thing about beaches on a tropical island is that they are incredibly secluded and so there is lovely white sand and a pristine beach on which to put down your towel and rid your body of any of the stress and anxiety that it is currently carrying around.
From enjoying the mesmerizing beach view to experiencing a nomadic lifestyle, there’s so much more to enjoy on this vacation. So, make the most of it!
The Weather Is Great
One of the main selling points of taking a vacation in Thailand is that the climate is generally good all year round. Even in the rainy season, the heat is fantastic, so even if you get wet, you will be dry in just a matter of moments.
We all know that sunshine is good for the immune system, so your body will get everything it needs to stay fit and well. Between 20 to 40℃ or 70 to 105℉, the weather is pretty much pleasurable.
You can literally bask in the sun for an entire day without worrying about getting a sunburn. July to October are the best months to travel on these islands.
There Are Many Different Activities To Enjoy
Because the island is surrounded by water, many of the activities involve the ocean itself and so you can learn to be a scuba diver or maybe you would just like to take part in some snorkeling to see the beautiful coral reefs and the fish below the water level. There are many different kinds of activities to choose from and so you will not be bored.
From wildlife patrolling on a mini safari to playing archery at the campsite- there are literally endless fun activities to do here. Do not forget to rent a bicycle and explore every nook and corner.
Tropical Islands You Must Visit Once In Your Lifetime
Remember how I talked about 10 tropical islands that deserve a trip in 2024? Well, adding to that, here’s a comprehensive list to give you a much better idea:
1. Trobriand Islands
Located in Papua New Guinea, the Trobriand Islands are every traveler’s paradise. Dive deep into a tribal life where subsistence farming is the way of life.
Best time to visit: Mid-May to October.
Estimated expenses: $6,224 approx. for each person.
2. Rottnest Island, Australia
There’s no reason not to visit this hidden gem in Australia. From cute quokkas roaming all around the island to pleasant weather all through the year- Rottnest Island is loved by all.
The best time to visit: is June to August.
Estimated expenses: Trips start from $5,000/ person.
3. Egadi Island, Italy’s Camouflaged Jewel
Egadi Island is the epitome of Italy’s culture and traditions. It is a collection of three islands spreading across Sicily’s western coast. From snorkeling to basking in the sun, there’s so much more to do in this strategic location.
Best time to visit: May-September.
Estimated expenses: Egadi is actually cheaper than its other counterparts.
4. Bohol, Philippines
Unlike other commonly visited Philippian islands, Bohol is not frequently visited. Firstly, because it is not very easil accessible. Secondly, it is a bit deserted.
But it can be one of your choices if you prioritize serenity over everything else.
The best time to visit: is November to April.
Estimated expenses: Php 5,000.00 – 6,000.00.
5. Anami Oshima Islands
Wanna see Japan from a different angle? Anami Oshima’s tropical retreat calls you out! Unless you visit it, you can never discover what it’s like to sit in the lap of nature- 1000 kms away from the hustle-bustle.
Best time to visit: Spring (March to April), Autumn (October to November)
Estimated expenses: 30,070 yen · 34,840 yen
Now you have some reasons to justify booking you and your family a tropical island holiday this year and every year. You only get one family vacation every single year so make the most of it and be sure to visit the beautiful Koh Samui and Koh Phangan and see what many don’t.
Concluding Words
Now, you have some reasons to justify booking a tropical island holiday for you and your family this year and every year. You only get one family vacation every single year, so make the most of it.
Be sure to visit the beautiful Koh Samui and Koh Phangan and see what many don’t. So, what’s stopping you from booking your flight and traveling to an unknown land?
This comprehensive guide has all the details you will need. So, save it up, read it later, and start planning your trip now! Thank you for reading.
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Nice blog! Is your theme custom made or did you download it from somewhere? A theme like yours with a few simple adjustements would really make my blog shine. Please let me know where you got your theme. Cheers
Thank you so much. I took the help of Viacon.com and they provided me with quality and reasonable themes for this site. You can reach them if you need any budget theme or website development-related issues.
Thanks for helping out, excellent info .
Thanks for your valuable comment. Till then stay tuned for upcoming posts…