Summer or Winter? Choose the Best Time to Visit Darjeeling Depending on Your Priorities

Located in the Eastern Himalayas at an average altitude of 2,045 metres, Darjeeling is one of the renowned hill stations in India. The area was developed as a summer retreat for East India Company officials in the early 19th century. Today, Darjeeling is very popular among tourists who visit the place in large numbers.

While you can visit Darjeeling any time of the year, it is advisable to visit the scenic hill station only after knowing the right time or season

What Would Be the Best Time to Visit Darjeeling? 

Darjeeling is open to tourists throughout the year. But, tourists usually avoid visiting the hill town during the monsoon season. This is because the area witnesses heavy rainfall during the monsoon season, which starts in June and can last till August. Sightseeing or other tourism activities are difficult as one could be confined to the hotels because of the continuous rains.

However, both summer and winter seasons are the best time to visit Darjeeling for different reasons.

• Summer Season

The summer season in Darjeeling lasts from April to June. The temperature during this time typically remains within the range of 7°C to 25°C making it the best weather to visit Darjeeling. Unsurprisingly, tourists flock to the place in large numbers during this period. It can be the best season to visit Darjeeling, and you can indulge in sightseeing, excursion, and other outdoor activities as the days are usually clear with bright sunshine.

• Winter Season 

Starting from December, the winter season in Darjeeling can last until the end of February. Winter is extremely cold, and the areas at higher altitudes, like Tiger Hill, experience snowfall. However, this makes December and January the best month to visit Darjeeling for those who want to experience the cold and chilly weather of the North Indian hill stations.

Many tourists like to visit Darjeeling during the last week of December to celebrate Christmas and New year. However, hotels and resorts may be over-booked during this time. So, choose your stay wisely and book in advance. 

You can consider staying at Summit Hermon, a Club Mahindra affiliate resort, one of the most popular resorts in Darjeeling. The resort offers a grand view of Mount Kanchenjunga. You can expect top-notch hospitality during your stay here.

Places to Visit in Darjeeling

While there are many famous tourist places to visit in Darjeeling, the following are some important places you can’t miss.

• Tiger Hill
• Padmaja Naidu Zoological Park (Adjudged India’s best zoological park in 2022)
• Batasia Loop
• Himalayan Mountaineering Institute
• The Mall
• Darjeeling Ropeway
• Rock Garden
• Tibetan Refugee Self-Help Centre
• Happy Valley tea Estate 

One of the popular things to do in Darjeeling is to ride the toy train. Board the train at Darjeeling railway station and go up to Ghoom, India’s highest railway station.

The narrow gauge train will take you through the scenic railway architectural marvel Batasia loop, providing a breathtaking view of the valley. 

Other things to do in Darjeeling

• Go for river rafting at Teesta
• Watch the sunrise at Tiger Hill
• Explore the Tea gardens at Doaars 

Where to Stay in Darjeeling – Summit Hermon Darjeeling 

Once you’ve done your homework, pack some woollen clothes and just set off for Darjeeling. The nearest station is New Jalpaiguri or Siliguri. From there, you can take a private or shared cab to reach Darjeeling. The place will surely rejuvenate your soul.