Darjeeling has been a popular tourist destination since the British Raj era. This former summer capital of the Britishers is not only an ideal place for a romantic honeymoon but is also a haven for nature, wildlife, and adventure enthusiasts. The cool climate, view of the snow-capped ranges of Mount Kanchenjunga, lush green tea gardens, and colonial charm are some of the features that attract tourists to Darjeeling throughout the year. You can also visit a room at a lavish hotel in Darjeeling to begin a remarkable vacation on the lap of the Eastern Himalayas.
You might think that planning a vacation in Darjeeling will offer you a laid-back experience but you will be amazed to know that this town can be quite thrilling. This is one of the best locations across Northeast India for adventure sports which can help you enjoy an adrenaline-pumping holiday. Starting from challenging trekking trails and camping under the sky full of stars to offbeat motorbiking and ropeways, there are various activities that you can try in Darjeeling to satisfy your thrill-seeking side.
Best Time For Adventure Activities In Darjeeling
Darjeeling can be visited throughout the year since every season holds unique charm and beauty here. However, if you’re visiting the town to try some thrilling adventure sports then consider planning the trip during March to June and September to November. The summer and autumn months here are perfect for outdoor activities as well as sightseeing as the weather remains pleasant with minimal chances for rainfall.
During these times, the sky also remains clear which enables you to enjoy a magical view of the mountains. However, remember that these are the peak seasons so consider pre-booking a room at one of the best Darjeeling hotels and avoid availability issues.
Adventure Activities To Enjoy During Your Darjeeling Trip
1. Trekking
Darjeeling is a paradise for trekking lovers which is home to some of the most beautiful trekking trails across the globe. The main reason why tourists choose Darjeeling for trekking is the mesmerizing view of the snow-capped ranges of the highest mountain peaks including Mount Kanchenjunga, Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu.
Best Trekking Routes:
- Gorkhey- Gorkhey is a tranquil village in West Bengal and trekking to this place can offer you a heavenly experience. The mountain views, tranquil surroundings, and lush greenery will make this 4 day trek memorable.
- Tonglu- Another popular 2-day trek here is the Tonglu trail. This is one of the highest peaks of this area which is located in the Singalila Ridge and can provide you with a magnificent view of the mountains.
- Chatakpur- If you’re a beginner then you can indulge in a 1-day trek to Chatakpur. This offbeat eco-village in the Senchal Wildlife Sanctuary is perfect for experiencing nature.
- Sandakphu- The most popular trek in Darjeeling is the Sandakphu 4-day trek which starts from Manebhanjan. During this trek, you will walk through dense rhododendron forests, magical meadows, and surprising views at every turn.
2. Paragliding
Flying high like birds in the limitless sky is a dream that we all had once. You can turn this dream into reality in Darjeeling. The valleys, high peaks, and natural beauty here create a perfect landscape of paragliding for tourists.
Best Paragliding Spots:
- St Paul’s to Lebong Route- This paragliding trip starts from the St. Paul’s school in Jalapahar which is basically an elevated point from the mall. This amazing flight lasts for around 15-20 minutes before landing on the Lebong Ground.
- Chisopani, Rohini- This is a newly added paragliding spot near Kurseong. Herein, you have to indulge in a short trek to reach the spot and then enjoy flying like birds with panoramic views.
- Tukvar Tea Garden to Jaumney- The paragliding starting from Tukvar Tea Estate is also perfect to witness a picturesque view of the lush green tea landscapes.
3. Motorbiking
The rugged terrains, offbeat locations, and dense forests of Darjeeling are also perfect for riders. During your Darjeeling trip, you get an amazing opportunity to enjoy motorbiking that will take you to some breathtaking locations and vantage points.
Best Motor Biking Itineraries:
- The sunrise ride- Start the ride early in the morning to reach Tiger Hill. The observatory deck on this hill is perfect for witnessing a magical sunrise when the first rays of sunlight sparkle on the snow-capped Kanchenjunga.
- Off-road ride- If you’re an adventure-seek then try the off-road biking trails in Darjeeling. Some of the hidden gems that you must explore here are Barbotey Rock Garden, Lamahatta, Tinchuley, and Dawaipani.
- Tea estate tour- Explore the tranquil tea gardens of Darjeeling on your bike while cherishing the beauty of colonial bungalows and mesmerizing views. The Castleton and Makaibari are the best tea estates here.
4. Camping
If you want to collect some precious travel memories during your Darjeeling trip then consider arranging camping during your trekking journey. Herein, you can stay at a hotel in Darjeeling and then start your trek to reach some amazing spots for camping offering mesmerizing views and ideal ambiance.
Best Camping Locations:
- Tonglu and Tumling- Both of these locations have good spots where you can enjoy high-altitude camping and witness a sky full of twinkling stars.
- Molley- Molley is a beautiful place only 14 km away from Sandakphu which is a perfect place to camp in a village setting.
- Gorkhey- Gorkhey is known for its Silent Valley Trek which is a hidden gem in Darjeeling. Herein, you can enjoy riverside camping for a perfect experience.
5. Rock climbing
Another adventure activity that is worth trying in Darjeeling is rock climbing. Darjeeling is surrounded by various rock formations which you can climb up and reach the summit for an amazing view. Both beginner and experienced rock climbers can defeat gravity and start the climbing thrill with the support of professional guides.
Rock Climbing Opportunities:
- Outdoor rock climbing- For outdoor rock climbing, you can visit the natural rock formations in Darjeeling such as the Tenzing Norway Rock or the Gomphu Rock. The Bhanu Bhakta Bhawan is another amazing rock climbing spot that is relatively easy.
- Indoor rock climbing- If you’re an inexperienced rock climber indoor climbing is the best option. The Himalayan Mountaineering Institute offers a controlled environment that helps in enhancing climbing skills.
6. Cable car ride
If you’re not into thrilling adventure sports but still want to do some exciting during the Darjeeling vacation then a cable car ride is the best option. Herein, you can plan your stay at a beautiful hotel in Darjeeling and arrange the ropeway ride to attain a panoramic view of the town from above.
Ropeway Location:
- Rangeet Valley Passenger Cable Car: This is the only cable car ride available in the town that starts Singamari. It is a 5 km long ropeway that offers a perfect view of the Little Rangeet River flowing through the valley and lush green tea estates. The ticket price for the ride per head is around Rs. 150 which lasts for almost 30 mins.
7. River rafting
If you’re visiting Darjeeling then you shouldn’t miss white water rafting. This is a perfect adventure sport for all the water babies who love flowing through challenging rapids. The gushing river streams flowing through the Himalayas, mesmerizing view, and peaceful mountain air will surely make your river rafting experience here amazing.
Rafting Spots:
- Triveni: The Triveni River Rafting spot is the confluence of River Teesta and River Rangeet. This spot with foaming white waters and varying rapids is perfect for this activity. Along with rafting, this place also offers opportunities for riverside camping. The average cost for rafting in this location can range from 4-5k depending upon the duration of the trip.
8. Wildlife safari
Another amazing and worth-trying activity in Darjeeling is the wildlife safari. Darjeeling is surrounded by various dense forest areas and national parks with diverse flora and fauna. Exploring these wildlife hotspots will help you spot various endangered and exotic species including red pandas, royal Bengal tigers, and barking deer.
Ideal Safari Spots:
- Singalila National Park- You can hire a jeep and discover the mountain forest areas of Singalila National Park. This park is home to various Himalayan animals such as pangolins, yellow-throated martens, and red pandas.
- Senchal Wildlife Sanctuary- Another wildlife hotspot here is the Senchal Wildlife Sanctuary which is known for India’s first-ever cycle trail. You can indulge in a cycling trip here to spot various high-altitude animals and flowering plants.
Darjeeling is often called Queen of the Hills not just for its natural beauty but also because of its stunning mountain valleys and green forests that are a hub for various outdoor activities. Herein, you can book a room at a hotel in Darjeeling and arrange your adventurous voyage through the magical landscapes of the town.
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