The Ultimate Guide to Trekking in Darjeeling for 2025: Trails, Tips, Weather & Treasures
Trekking in Darjeeling, located in the Indian state of West Bengal, is a perfect destination for travelers all over the world. Darjeeling located in the northeastern part of India sharing its borders with Nepal, Bhutan, and Sikkim, offers trekking routes with breathtaking views of the world’s four highest peaks: Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga, Makalu, and Lhotse. The best trekking trails in Darjeeling are centered around the Singalila ridge, which also straddles the Singalila National Park. Trekking on the Singalila Ridge is not only about conquering Sandakphu and Phalut which are the two highest peaks in Darjeeling, but also about enjoying the richness and grandeur of the Singalila National Park. Darjeeling, to say the least, has some beautiful trekking routes that mark this place as one of the best trekking destinations in the Indian Himalayas.
Trekking in Darjeeling is more than just a walking activity, it’s a journey of the soul. Darjeeling in India, is without a doubt one of the best travel destinations for trekking in India. Some of the best trekking routes in Darjeeling are all located in the Singalila Ridge which forms a divide between India and Nepal. Running at the border with Nepal the Singalila Ridge provides the hiker with multiple trekking choices, from a relaxed one-day trek to a moderate trek of four to six days.
The trekking trails here in Darjeeling which traverses across the Singalila National Park is both vibrant and diverse. Home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, trekking in the lush rhododendron forests filled exotic wildlife, like the red pandas make trekking here in Darjeeling a journey of discovery.
The most popular five day Sandakphu trek and the extended Sandakphu Phalut Trekking routes are moderate in nature, and can be attempted by both new and seasoned trekkers. In addition to it’s moderate trekking trail, the charm of these two treks in Darjeeling are the panoramic views of the Himalayas.
In conclusion trekking in Darjeeling is not only about the himalayan views but is also about trekking through charming villages and visiting century old monasteries that enriches the soul of every visitor. These cultural landmarks offer a deeper understanding of Darjeeling’s history and spiritual significance. Whether it’s a short day hike or an extended trek, Darjeeling promises an unforgettable trekking adventure.
Treks here range from light walks suitable for beginners to more challenging trekking routes for seasoned trekkers. Darjeeling’s trekking culture dates back to the early 20th century and was institutionalized as an organized activity by Father Richard Macdonald in the 1960s.
Top Trekking Trails for you to Explore in 2025
The Sandakphu Trek is the most popular undertaken four-day and 51 km-long Himalayan trekking adventure in Darjeeling. This trek is known for its moderate nature and breathtaking 180-degree Himalayan view from the highest peak in Darjeeling, Sandakphu, including the Everest and the Kanchenjunga.
Looking at Everest and Kanchenjunga Ranges from Sandakphu is just the icing on the cake, as the real high is the dawning and the desert end of the day there. These magnificent sights of the grand Himalayan mountains are awe-inspiring during these times, and are often considered the peak of trekking in Darjeeling, leaving trekkers with memories that last a lifetime.
Apart from its gorgeous Himalayan views, the Sandakphu Trek has for long remained a nature trek celebrated for rich biodiversity. The trekking trail running through the Singalila National Park is home to numerous plants and animals, including 28 types of rhododendrons, magnolias, and 200 species of birds and animals. This provides a perfect place for not only nature lovers but also photographers.
Furthermore, the trekking route goes through small villages that are places for hikers to be part of the local culture and meet the friendly villagers, thus providing the hikers with knowledge of their centuries-old life style. The idea of local culture represents another touch to get to know the society of Darjeeling through trekking as well as cultural exploration. To sum it up, Sandakphu Trek in Darjeeling is a combination of pristine natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and cultural wealth, and it is, therefore, the most magnificent trekking route in the Singalila Ridge in Darjeeling. Want to Know More? Click Here.
Have you ever thought about trekking in Darjeeling? trekking here is like walking through the clouds in the Singalila Ridge. Well, let me take you on a journey to Sandakphu Phalut, the two highest peaks in Darjeeling, and as well in West Bengal, where the mountains whisper tales of beauty and adventure.
Picture yourself being on a high mountain at an elevation of 3,636 meters with the soft whooshing of himalayan wind, surrounded by the beautiful Himalayas inhaling the fresh mountain air. Isn’t it a dream? No, this is not your regular trekking trail in Darjeeling; it is a heavenly experience that you should not miss if you love trekking in Darjeeling. To trek along the Sandakphu Phalut Trekking trail in Darjeeling is a paradise for trekkers because it provides spectacular views of the top four highest mountains in the world: Mt. Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, Makalu. Can you believe it? Four giants stand before you.
Trekking in Darjeeling is a pathway to serenity, where each step takes you deeper into Darjeeling’s Singalila Ridge, and as you trek further to Sandakphu and Phalut through the Singalila National Park, you’ll encounter a rich variety of flora and fauna. From the 28 varieties of rhododendron flowers to the elusive red panda, trekking here in Darjeeling is walking through a biodiversity hotspot. Did you know that the Singalila National Park is home to over 200 species of birds? Keep your binoculars handy for some incredible birdwatching! To Know more about this Trek Please Click Here
Darjeeling, a picturesque hill station in West Bengal, India, is globally renowned for its tea plantations and famous trekking trails in the Singalila Ridge that provides breathtaking views of the Himalayas. However, beyond the popular trekking trails is the Red Panda Trek in Singalila National Park, that offers a unique experience for adventurers seeking to explore Darjeeling’s rich animal life in the Singalila National Park.
The Darjeeling Red Panda Trekking Tour is an unforgettable adventure that takes you to the Tinchulay (Teen Chulay) Forest, located in Nepal and adjacent to the Singalila National Park. This trekking experience offers an exceptional opportunity for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and photographers to immerse themselves in Red Panda sightings in their natural habitat in one of the most biodiverse regions of the Eastern Himalayas.
The Tinchulay Forest lies adjacent to the Singalila National Park in Darjeeling, which spans across parts of West Bengal, Sikkim, and Nepal. The Singalila National Park along with the Tinchulay Forest nestled at an altitude ranging from 7,000 feet to 12,000 feet above sea level, creates an ideal habitat for red pandas and other wildlife species to thrive.
This trekking tour also offers breathtaking views of some of the world’s highest peaks which can be seen in a single glance on a clear day from Sandakphu.
One of the main highlights of this trekking tour in Darjeeling is encountering the elusive red panda in its natural habitat. Known as “Firefox,” red pandas are endangered species found primarily in the Eastern Himalayas and southwestern China.
Red pandas are most active during afternoons or early evenings when they forage for food—primarily bamboo shoots—and occasionally consume eggs or insects. The Tinchulay Forest provides an excellent opportunity to observe these animals up close. Learn More About This Trek
Birdwatching enthusiasts will find this region equally rewarding with over 300 bird species recorded here. Notable birds include blood pheasants, satyr tragopans, kalij pheasants, rose finches, laughing thrushes, golden-breasted fulvettas, fire-tailed myzornis, and more. Read More
The Neora valley trek also known as the Rachela Pass Trek in the Kalimpong District of the Darjeeling hills is like walking through a living, breathing postcard. If you’re a nature lover, the Neora Valley Trek might just be your dream come true! This trek isn’t just about trekking in Darjeeling, it’s an adventure trekking through the well preserved Neora Valley bio-diversity park teeming with a variety of flora and fauna and stunning landscapes that Mother Nature has to offer.
Trekking through the lush greenery of Neora Valley is a walk among giants. Surrounded by towering trees that stretch toward the sky, their leaves whispering secrets of the forest. That’s exactly what you get to experience while trekking in the Neora Valley in Darjeeling. Home to over 600 species of flora, from vibrant orchids to the different variety of rhododendrons, and the rich fauna from the red panda to the Himalayan black bear, the rich biodiversity of this park is simply mind-blowing! Read More
Best Day Trekking Trips in Darjeeling
Darjeeling, with its breathtaking view of the mighty Kanchenjunga mountain range on the northern horizon, miles of lush tea gardens, historical monuments, and the scenic Singalila ridge is a paradise for trekking enthusiasts! If you’re looking for some of the best day trekking trips in Darjeeling, then we have an array of the best hiking trails for day trekking in Darjeeling for you to consider. Here are some fantastic options that will leave you in awe of nature’s beauty.
The Dhotrey Tonglu Tumling Manebhanjyang circuit is a picturesque 17 km day trekking route in Darjeeling, perfect for those seeking a leisurely yet scenic adventure. This one-day trek offers a glimpse of the breathtaking landscapes that Darjeeling is renowned for.
This day-trekking trip begins with a two-hour drive from Darjeeling to the quaint village of Dhotrey. From here, the trekking trail leads you on an easy 5 km hike to Tonglu. As you walk, you’ll pass through a serene forest dominated by towering conifer trees, eventually reaching the Tonglu ridge at an impressive elevation of 3001 meters above sea level.
After enjoying the panoramic views at Tonglu, the trail descends gently to Tumling and Chitray, two small villages inside Nepal. The trek concludes in the border town of Manebhanjyang. From Manebhanjyang, it’s just an hour’s drive back to Darjeeling, rounding off a perfect day trekking trip in Darjeeling.
This route is ideal for nature lovers and those looking to experience the natural beauty of the region without the challenges of a strenuous hike. Trekking in Darjeeling has never been more accessible or rewarding.
Trekking in Darjeeling offers a remarkable experience, with the one-day hiking trip to Tiger Hill standing out as a highly favored and emblematic choice. This day trekking trip in Darjeeling combines stunning natural landscapes, rich cultural encounters, and invigorating physical activity, attracting a diverse array of visitors. The adventure kicks off with an early morning drive to catch the breathtaking sunrise at Tiger Hill, followed by a picturesque hike through pine forests, charming villages, and sites of historical interest.
While many consider it among the best day hikes around Darjeeling due to its spectacular sunrise views over Kanchenjunga and Everest (if weather permits), cultural highlights like the Alubari Monastery, the Ghoom Monastery and its suitability for hikers of all abilities, the title of “the best” day trekking ultimately varies based on individual tastes. Factors such as crowd size, weather conditions, desired challenge level, and interest in other trails like Dhotrey Tonglu Trek or the Darjeeling Chatakpur trekking play a crucial role in determining one’s personal preference.
Why is the Trek to Chatakpur in Darjeeling the Best Day Trekking Experience in Darjeeling? The trek to Chatakpur in Darjeeling is considered one of the best day trekking experiences for several compelling reasons.
One of the most significant highlights of the Chatakpur trek is its breathtaking views of some of the tallest peaks in the world. Apart from a watchtower near Chatakpur as well as Tiger Hill, hikers will be able to see the spectacular snow-capped massif of Kanchenjunga, the third-highest in the world and sometimes even a small part of Everest on the clear blue days.
The trek offers panoramic views of mountain ranges sweeping over 180 degrees, therefore, this is a nearly perfect chance to savor the most splendid views of the Himalayas and enjoy a day trekking expedition without requiring a tough multi-day trek.
The trekking trail also passes through the thick forests of Senchal Wildlife Sanctuary which is famous for the diversified fauna and flora there. The opportunity to sight wildlife species like the Great Himalayan black bear, mountain leopards, barking deer, and the various bird species including Blue Magpies, Himalayan Bulbuls, Rufous Sibias, and Verditer Flycatchers purposefully exists for the trekkers.
Compared to other trekking routes in Darjeeling the trek to Chatakpur is relatively short and, therefore, much easier to handle and is also available nearby. Talking more about the path, the trekking trail is well-graded by forest authorities. For this reason, the day trekking trip to Chatakpur is an interesting option for beginners and also for people looking for a short and yet satisfying trekking experience in Darjeeling.
Of course, one of the best parts of Chatakpur is the fact that it contains only a few families who actually live there, and yet, they live completely in nature. Overnight stay in one of the homestays located in Chatakpur is a possible choice which offers you another perspective on this day-trekking trip in the Darjeeling hills. The local pond not so far from Chatakpur is a religious place for the residents adding cultural heritage to the trek.
Discover the perfect blend of Heritage, history, nature, and culture on this immersive heritage day trekking tour in Darjeeling. Designed for adventure seekers and culture lovers alike. Heritage Day walking tours in Darjeeling combine historical landmarks and cultural experiences. It is in fact a fantastic way to explore in and around Darjeeling without committing to multi-day treks. Heritage walking tours in Darjeeling are generally moderate in difficulty, making them accessible to most travelers. They are perfect for those who want to enjoy Darjeeling’s beauty, culture, and Heritage without the need for an extensive trekking trip.
For instance, you can take a walk to the Ghoom Monastery and Batasia Loop: A cultural and scenic hike that combines history, spirituality, and panoramic views of the mountains.
Tea Garden Walks: Many tea estates around Darjeeling, like Happy Valley Tea Estate, offer guided walks through their lush plantations, providing insight into tea production. where you can admire the rolling hills covered in neatly trimmed tea bushes. Learn about the tea-making process and snap some photos of the serene landscape during this refreshing walk.
A walking tour to the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute (HMI), Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park (Zoo), and other historical sites in Darjeeling is a delightful way to immerse yourself in the town’s rich history, culture, and natural beauty.
Take a walking tour at this iconic institute, which celebrates the legacy of mountaineering in the Himalayas. The museum here showcases mountaineering equipment, photographs, and artifacts, including those from Tenzing Norgay’s historic Everest expedition.
Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park: Adjacent to the HMI, this zoo is home to rare and endangered Himalayan species like the red panda, snow leopard, and Himalayan wolf. It’s a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts.
Darjeeling War Memorial: Located near the Batasia Loop, this memorial honors the Gorkha soldiers who sacrificed their lives in various wars. The site also offers panoramic views of the mountains.
Darjeeling Mall (Chowrasta): A leisurely walk to the heart of Darjeeling, the Mall is a bustling square surrounded by shops, cafes, and colonial-era buildings. It’s a great spot to soak in the local vibe.
Visit the St. Andrew’s Church: A short walk from the Mall, this historic church, built in 1843, is a beautiful example of colonial architecture and a peaceful place to visit. Also, visit the Tea Planters Club and the Gymkhana Club significant for its colonial past.
Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR) Museum: Located at the Ghoom station, this museum provides insights into the history of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed “Toy Train.”
Trek downhill along scenic trails to the Tibetan Refugee Self Help Centre, one of the most unique and inspiring stops. Explore the workshops where skilled artisans craft traditional Tibetan items like carpets, woodworks, and woolen garments. Take the opportunity to engage with the community and learn about their stories of resilience. You can also support their work by purchasing beautiful handmade souvenirs.
A walking Heritage tour like this combines history, culture, and nature, making it a well-rounded Day trekking experience in Darjeeling.
Embarking on a day trek in Kalimpong is more than just a physical endeavor; it’s a journey into the stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural tapestry of this quaint hill station nestled in the Darjeeling hills. Kalimpong seamlessly combines adventure with peace, promising experiences that linger long after. Key highlights of a trekking tour include:
Deolo Hill
As Kalimpong’s highest point, Deolo Hill offers awe-inspiring panoramas of the mountains and valleys that surround it. Ideal for picnics, the area features a park with vibrant gardens and a viewpoint perfect for witnessing breathtaking sunsets.
Kalimpong Arts & Craft Centre
This center celebrates the area’s artistic heritage, featuring local handicrafts like handwoven textiles, wood carvings, and traditional paintings. It’s an excellent spot for purchasing souvenirs and supporting local artisans.
Monastery Visits: Kalimpong is home to several monasteries, ideal for exploration on a day trek. Among them, Durpin Monastery (Zang Dhok Palri) stands out as the largest and is popularly known as Durpin Monastery. Thongsa Gumpa, rooted in Bhutanese heritage and part of the Nyingmapa sect, is one of Kalimpong’s oldest Buddhist monasteries. The Sakya Muni Monastery, founded by His Holiness the 42nd Sakya Trizin, Ratna Vajra Rinpoche, serves as a Buddhist education center for aspiring monks.
Buddha Pada Centre: This tranquil Tibetan Buddhist retreat offers a Zen-inspired space for meditation, focusing on Classical Indian Wisdom Traditions through the teachings of Longchenpa, Trenpo Sherab Ozer, and Jigme Lingpa.
Mangal Dham
Dedicated to Lord Krishna, Mangal Dham is renowned for its intricate carvings and serene ambiance. The temple is encircled by meticulously maintained gardens, enhancing its peaceful allure.
Flower Nurseries
Kalimpong is famous for its flower nurseries, especially those featuring orchids and exotic plants. Exploring these nurseries provides insight into the region’s diverse flora and local gardening techniques.
Experience Kalimpong Day Trekking within the picturesque Darjeeling hills and immerse yourself in its captivating blend of nature and culture.
Best Season to Visit Darjeeling for Trekking and Tours
Darjeeling located in the lesser Himalayas within the Kanchenjunga Range, at an elevation of 2300 m above mean sea level, is a hill station famous for its breathtaking Himalayan views and moderate trekking trails. So, if you are interested to undertake Trekking Tours in Darjeeling, then there are two prime seasons to plan your visit: spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November).
The spring season in Darjeeling with its mild temperatures and dry weather conditions is very conducive for trekking. The vibrant rhododendron blooms during these months and the crisp, unobstructed views of the Himalayas make trekking very captivating. With temperatures ranging from 11°C to 20°C, the weather is perfect for outdoor activities. Trekking routes such as Sandakphu and Phalut on the Singalila ridge are adorned with colorful rhododendrons and magnolias.
The Autumn season (September to November) is particularly the best time for those planning to do some trekking and tours in Darjeeling, because of the post-monsoon clarity. Autumn is an excellent time for trekking in Darjeeling if your interest are clear mountain views. Temperatures during the autumn months range between 10°C and 18°C, and the air is crisp and fresh after the three months of monsoon rains, marking another peak season for trekkers.
The Monsoon months from June to August is best avoided in Darjeeling as it brings heavy rains, therefore this period is not ideal for trekking. Moreover, the Singalila National Park will remain closed for three months, from 15 June to 15 September to outside visitors.
Winter Season (December to February): Although winter in Darjeeling is picturesque, with snowfall at higher elevations on the Singalila Ridge, however, temperatures often drop below 5°C. This makes trekking trails icy and challenging, reducing convenience for outdoor adventures.
