Darjeeling is one of the best places to head in North East India. The destination is unexplored by many globetrotters. It also offers the towering the glorious Khangchendzonga and is a home to a much diverse cultures. If you are thinking of visiting here then there are several best places to visit in Darjeeling in December (Winter).
The location depicts the colonial-era architecture, Buddhist monasteries, a 140-year-old Darjeeling Himalayan Railway followed by the green tea plantations. Darjeeling provides you with the endless opportunities and also new experience.
What to Expect from Darjeeling in December
The month of December in Darjeeling is known for its cool weather, clear skies, and happy mood. Once winter comes, the town has a calm and cozy feel, which makes it a great place to go for a peaceful vacation. The fresh air and beautiful views make it a great place to relax and explore. Fewer people will be around than during the busy summer months, so you can get to know nature and the local culture better. There is also a joyful mood during the holiday season, with parties and decorations adding charm. But it’s important to be ready for the cold weather and the chance that fog or bad road conditions will make driving more difficult.
Darjeeling Temperature in December
In December, winter is in full swing in Darjeeling. The temperature is between 35°F and 10°C (2°C to 50°F). It can freeze early in the morning and late at night, often close to freezing. To stay comfy, you should bring warm clothes like thermal wear, sweaters, jackets, and scarves. Even though it’s cold, the days are usually warm and nice, which makes it great for exploring and doing things outside. Because it is cooler, there is also less humidity, which makes the air even more crisp and clean. Visitors should be ready for quick changes in the weather and ensure they have everything they need to stay warm.
List of 13 Best Places to Visit in Darjeeling in December
- Batasia Loop
- Darjeeling Ranjit Valley Ropeway
- Rimbik
- Peace Pagoda
- Singalila National Park
- Tenzing Rock
- Neora Valley National Park
- Tiger Hill
- Rock Garden
- Kanchenjunga Mountain
- Samthar Plateau
- Chatakpur
- Ghum Monastery
If you want to see a different Darjeeling, then you must visit here at the time of winters so that you could see extraordinary scenes of nature. We have also complied a list for you of the places.
Batasia Loop
Batasia Loop is one of the best places where you can be in Darjeeling. The toy train pathway that was brought into existence to reduce the elevation of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. The destination is amid the lush greenery and offers amazing view from there of Mt. Kanchendzonga. The views that it boasts seem dreamy and you will surely love them. And this place is even looks amazing if you visit in winter.
- Location – Ghum, West Point, Darjeeling 734102 India
- Famous for – Views of Mt. Kanchendzonga.
Darjeeling Rangit Valley Ropeway
The beautiful hill station in Darjeeling, Darjeeling Rangit Valley Ropeway showcases the best views of nature. It is the Best places to go in Darjeeling in December where you can see the exclusive views from the ropeway. From the mesmerizing vistas, verdant tea estates, lush green surroundings, pristine flora and fauna to the Everest and Kanchenjunga; you can see the serenity of the place. In winters, you will see the best views of the place covered with snow and from a height, it even looks amazing. There are around 16 cable cars that can comfortably carry about 6 people in one cable car.
- Altitude – 7,000 Feet.
- Location – Singamari, Darjeeling, West Bengal 734104.
Rimbick
Yet another destination that you visit in winter is Rimbick. The location is a small town nestled in the Singalila National Park. It is also famous for the treks and a lot of people who explore this place are up for this activity. If you are wildlife fanatics then you can visit the national park and get the glimpse of the rare seen species and animals. Singalila National Park and Sandakphu are the famous and busiest routes and one of the best trek routes in the Eastern part of India. While heading to Sandakphu, the trekkers will pass the Singalila National Park. The park is home to the red panda and other animals that are extinct.
- Famous for – Witnessing panoramic views
- Famous activity – Trek
Peace Pagoda
Another destination that you can visit in December in Darjeeling is Peace Pagoda which is a Buddhist shrine and is a part of 30 similar structures located around the world. The white colored building is accentuated with gold painted sculptures. There are four avatars of Buddha located inside the building. It was built in the year of 1885 and 1985 by a Japanese Buddhist monk Nichidatsu Fuji. And if you come here in winters, you will see a lot of beautiful views.
- Location – West Point, Darjeeling, West Bengal 734102, India.
- Important fact – It took around 36 months to build.
Also Read – Top 10 Best Resorts in Darjeeling
Singalila National Park
Singalila National Park is one of the other Best places to visit in December in Darjeeling where you can pay a visit. The park is nestled at an elevation of more than 7,000 feet above the sea level and it is considered one of the highest parks in India. It also offers the splendid views of the valley from this place which also makes it a unique destination to visit. The amazing park is sprawled in around 79 km of total area. Boasting the perfect Rhododendron and flora and fauna views, the park is a perfect blend of misty weather and stunning gorgeous views.
- Location – Singalila ridge, Darjeeling, West Bengal – 734201.
- Animals – Red Panda and Himalayan Black Bear and others.
Tenzing Rock
It is a large natural rock which is named after Tenzing Norway who was the very first man to climb Mt. Everest back in 1953. This area was also served as the training place for both amateurs and professional climbers. Tenzing also practiced here for several time and which is why this place is also popular among tourists’ and among the adventure junkies. Indian Army every year conducts rock climbing competitions at this destination. You are advised to do the climbing with care since the slope might get slippery.
- Location – Jawahar Parbat, Darjeeling, West Bengal 734104.
Neora Valley National Park
Established in 1986, Neora Valley National Park is one of the Best places to travel in Darjeeling in December. If you are a wildlife enthusiast then you must visit to this park to see the glimpse of the extinct animals. Located in Kalimpong District of West Bengal, the park has been spread over a region of 88 sq. km and houses some species, flora, fauna and avifauna. The park will surely be going to soothe your eyes as it is flanked by charming valleys and hills. It is also considered a paradise for photographers. If you visit here in winters then you can also do trekking here.
- Location – Neora Valley, 81 km from Darjeeling.
- Activity – Trekking.
Tiger Hill
The most famous mountain peak in Darjeeling, Tiger Hill is one of the best places to visit in December. You will see a lot of mesmerizing views and can also see the breath-taking views of Mt. Everest and Kanchenzonga. You will have to drive through the beautiful tea estates to reach Tiger Hill. At the destination, you will witness the first rays of sun on the Mt. Everest and it is also said to be a paradise for the photographers. It is also a summit of Ghoom, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Darjeeling.
- Location – Senchal Forest, Senchal Road, Darjeeling, West Bengal 734123, India.
- What to see – Sunrise.
Rock Garden
One of the Best places in Darjeeling in December, Rock Garden will make your vacations even more memorable as it an artificial garden which is flanked by pristine waterfalls, green meadows and flora and fauna. Rock Garden is one of the major tourist attractions in the destination where a lot of people come for picnic with their loved ones. Its Chunar waterfall is a natural cascade that attracts a lot of globetrotters around the globe. Soak into the good vibes of the place and make the most of your holidays.
- Location – Rock Garden Road Bloomfield Tea Garden, Darjeeling, West Bengal 734102.
- Famous for – Waterfall.
Kanchenjunga Mountain
Perched at a height of around 8586 m above the sea level, Kanchenjunga Mountain is one of the popular places to hit in winters. The mountain is said to be the third highest mountains in the world. This towering mountain touches the eastern border of Nepal along with the Indian state of Sikkim. Kanchenjunga is a Tibetan word which means ‘The five treasure houses of snow’ which clearly gives you an idea about what the destination is going to serve you. You can also see the amazing views of the mountain from the popular places like Tiger Hill and Darjeeling War Memorial.
- Famous for – Trekkers.
Also Read – Paragliding in Darjeeling
Samthar Plateau
Another Best destination to visit in Darjeeling in December is Samthar Plateau nestled in the Kalimpong region of West Bengal. A picturesque highland is an ideal place for attracting the adventure enthusiasts. Owing to its undulating terrains, the destination serves as a perfect spot for enjoying the adventure activities. The site also attracts a lot of people who want to escape from the urban chaos and get into the nature exploration. Located at an elevation of about 1,400 m in the foothills of the mighty Himalayas, this place sets the perfect breath-taking views.
- Location – Kalimpong, Darjeeling, 734301, West Bengal.
Chatakpur
Chatakpur is an unexplored destination in Darjeeling where you should surely visit if you are looking for something amazing and for the unique experience. The destination is a scenic village which is nestled at an altitude of 7887 feet in Darjeeling. Around 7 km away from Sonada, this village offers the natural beauty to the tourists. The village comprises around 18 houses in total and you must visit here to explore and have a conversation with the local people.
- Location – 34, Sarat Bose Road, Hakimpara, Siliguri, Darjeeling, 734001, West Bengal.
Ghum Monastery
Nestled at a height of 8,000 feet above the sea level, Ghoom Monastery is one of the top places to see in Darjeeling in December. Also, known as Yiga Choeling, the destination was established by Lama Sherab Gyatso and is said to be one of the oldest Monastery of Darjeeling. The location is quiet famous because of the several Buddhist manuscripts and records of the past. The Ghum Monastery is the best destination where you can visit without any hassle.
- Location – Ghoom, Darjeeling, West Bengal 734102.
- Famous for – Best known for its 15-feet high statue of Maitreya Buddha which is the main hall of the Monastery.
Looking for A Darjeeling Trip in December
Due to the winter weather, planning a trip to Darjeeling in December takes a little effort. Many hotels and homestays may only have a limited number of rooms available, so it’s best to book your stay ahead of time. Make sure that the place where you’re staying has good warmth. There are good road and train connections to Darjeeling, but the only airport that offers flights is Bagdogra, which requires a scenic drive. Bring warm clothes, and you might want to bring extra blankets or thermal wear. Always check the weather report, and be ready for delays due to fog or bad road conditions. Choose a flexible schedule to make changes at the last minute and have a stress-free trip.
Is it Good to Visit Darjeeling in December?
There are good and bad things about going to Darjeeling in December. On the plus side, even though it’s cold, the weather is usually clear and pleasant for touring. Less tourism means that sites are less crowded and the experience is more peaceful. With local events and decorations, the holiday season adds a unique charm. However, the cold weather might not be good for everyone, especially those who are easily chilled. Fog and bad road conditions can also change journey plans. Overall, December can be a great month to visit Darjeeling if you are ready for the cold and don’t mind being flexible with your plans.
Clothes to Wear in Darjeeling in December
If you’re going to Darjeeling in December, make sure you pack warm clothes first. Adding on clothes is the best way to stay warm when the weather changes. First, wear thermal underwear, then jackets, hoodies, or fleece to keep your body warm. It is essential to have a good insulated jacket, gloves, scarves, and a hat to protect you from the cold wind. For walking in areas that might be slippery, you should wear warm, comfortable shoes or boots with a good grip. Also, sunscreen and sunglasses are good because the winter sun can be powerful during the day. Lastly, bring a jacket or umbrella because it can drizzle in December.
Can I See Snowfall in Darjeeling in December?
It doesn’t snow very often in Darjeeling, but it can happen. Heavy snow doesn’t usually fall in December, but higher elevations and nearby areas might get some light snow. If snow is essential to you, you might want to visit nearby places like Sandakphu or Tumling, where it snows more often in December. Remember that getting to these higher elevations can be challenging and needs the right gear and planning. Regularly check the weather and talk to tour companies or local guides to determine when snow will most likely fall. Darjeeling’s winter beauty is beautiful even when it doesn’t snow, so you should go there.
How To Reach Darjeeling
Because Darjeeling is one of India’s most popular hill towns, tourists never have trouble getting there. These are some of the different ways you can travel to Darjeeling in December:
By Air
Bagdogra is 95 km away and is the closest airport to Darjeeling. The airport is the best way to get to most places you want to see in Darjeeling in December. It has direct flights from Delhi, Kolkata, Guwahati, and Mumbai, among other Indian towns. Once you get off the plane at the airport, driving the last three hours to Darjeeling is easy. At Bagdogra, many taxis and buses can take people to Darjeeling for pretty low prices.
By Road:
From cities like Siliguri, Bagdogra, Kurseong, Kalimpong, and Gangtok, you can take a bus or drive to Darjeeling. Buses leave from all of these nearby towns at reasonable prices and take passengers on scenic routes on well-kept roads. You can also take a shared taxi from these towns or drive yourself to Darjeeling for a more comfortable and easy trip.
By Train
There is a train stop in Bagdogra called New Jalpaiguri that is 73 km away from Darjeeling. The train to Darjeeling leaves at 9am every day and arrives at 4:15 p.m. The train ride to Darjeeling is an experience in and of itself, as it goes through beautiful scenery and lush green areas. The New Jalpaiguri railway station has trains going to and from Delhi, Chennai, Mumbai, Bangalore, Kolkata, Guwahati, and Kochi, as well as all the important cities in the country. Taxis and neighborhood buses make getting to Darjeeling from the station pretty easy.
So, what are you waiting for? You can visit these Best places to visit in Darjeeling in December without a doubt and make sure that you make the most of your vacations.
Darjeeling Tour Packages from Indian Cities
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FAQs About Best Places to Visit in Darjeeling in December
Is it safe to travel to Darjeeling in December?
If you are a winter lover and want to seek something different then Darjeeling is go to place. December is the best time to witness snow. Book Darjeeling Tour Packages with us.
Why Darjeeling famous?
Darjeeling is famous for its various things it offers to the people like panoramic views, tea estates, Mt. Everest views and Toy train among others.
Why people visit Darjeeling in winters more than summers?
Most of the globetrotters like to visit Darjeeling in winters because the destination provides a lot of things to see and do. You can see numerous breath-taking views and mountains would be covered with snow which makes the vacations even more blissful.
What are the best places to visit in Darjeeling in winter?
Darjeeling offers several Best places to visit in Darjeeling in winter like Ghoom Monastery, Ride in Toy Train, Kanchenjunga Mountain and much more. Book Darjeeling Packages for Couples with Honeymoon Bug.
