Darjeeling, Queen of the Himalayas, is a beautiful hill station that is home to people of diverse cultures. There are numerous tourist places to visit in Darjeeling– an awesome town located on the foothills of the Himalayas. Though Darjeeling is a year-round destination but visiting Darjeeling in January is a double delightful experience. The temperature in Darjeeling during the winter season is bearable and pleasant, with fewer crowds. The best part about Darjeeling in January is that one can enjoy exploring the city with winter snow in January. The untouched beauty of this incredibly beautiful town is far away from the bustling city life and thus, lures visitors from the entire country.
The city of Darjeeling has rich architecture, Buddhist monasteries, a 140-year-old Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, and many emerald-green tea plantations that are worth paying a visit to. Some of the places to visit in Darjeeling in January include Darjeeling’s Ropeway, Batasia Loop, Ghoom Monastery, Rock Garden, Peace Pagoda, and much more.
Weather in Darjeeling in January
The bearable cold and pleasant weather turn Darjeeling into a haven in January for winter lovers. The average temperature in Darjeeling in January varies from 2.5°C to 11.2°C, and most of the key places are open. In fact, January is the best time to visit Darjeeling in case you want to see snow.
Best Places to Visit in Darjeeling in January
Tiger Hill
One of the most famous mountain peaks in Darjeeling- Tiger Hill is best known for its trekking routes and panoramic views of Mt. Everest and Kanchenjunga. The travelers coming to Darjeeling in January can walk or drive through the oldest tea plantations to reach Tiger Hill. Enjoy the first rays of the sun on Mt. Everest.
- Location: Tiger Hill, Darjeeling
- Famous for Spectacular sunrise view
- Other activities to Do: Hiking, Photography
Batasia Loop
Batasia Loop is an elevated area below Ghum having spiral railway tracks. A beautifully decorated garden area adds charm to the place. The wide expanse of planned greenery makes Batasia Loop one of the most preferred places to visit in Darjeeling in January.
- Location: West Point, Darjeeling, West Bengal 734102
- Famous for Witnesstoy train meandering over the loopy tracks.
- Things To Do: Sightseeing
Peace Pagoda
Peace Pagoda located closer to Nipponzan Myohoji Buddhist Temple lure people from all religion. If you also look for spiritual serenity, then you must visit this place in Darjeeling in January.
- Location: West Point, Darjeeling, West Bengal 734102
- Key attractions: Have the panoramic bird’s eye view of Darjeeling including Kanchenjunga from the summit of the Pagoda.
- Things To Do: Sightseeing
Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR)
One of the most famous places to visit in Darjeeling is DHR which is a 2 feet narrow gauge train track covering the distance between New Jalpaiguri and Darjeeling. This close to 90 km long railway track is known for its toy train which runs amid the misty hillside and gives gorgeous views of the valley. Also, it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999.
- Location: Darjeeling
- Key attractions: Scenic greenery, toy trains
- Things To Do: Train ride
Activities to do in Darjeeling in January
Enjoy Sunrise and Sunset from Tiger Hill
Travelers can visit Tiger Hill in the early morning to catch the glimpse of sun rays kissing Mt Kanchenjunga. Travelers can reach the place by hiking which is one of the best things to do in Darjeeling in January. But to enjoy the sunrise, travelers must reach there early morning, almost 3 AM in the morning to grab the best view.
Enjoy Darjeeling’s Festivals
Two major festivals are celebrated in Darjeeling during the winter season including, The Teesta Tea & Tourism Festival. Another festival celebrated in Darjeeling is Darjeeling Orange Festival, where villagers from more than 50 villages participate in this festival offering fresh produce from their gardens.
Trekking
Darjeeling is one of the most popular places to trek to some of the highest peaks in the world. Since the temperature of Darjeeling in January is quite pleasant, so walking or trekking around will bring you close to nature.
Enjoy some Local Cuisines
While in Darjeeling, you must not forget to try some of the popular North-Eastern dishes. Also, from North Indian to Nepali to Tibetan food, Darjeeling is a paradise for foodies from across the world. The street food here is the perfect snack for beating the bone-chilling weather in Darjeeling in winter.
Take a Toy Train Ride
The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway which was built between 1879 and 1881 provides a comprehensive Darjeeling sightseeing tour. While visiting Darjeeling in January, don’t forget to take this ride which offers breathtaking panoramic views of the snow-capped hills, huge tea plantations, and much more
Visit Buddhist Monasteries
Zang Dhok Palri Phodang/ Lava Monastery is one of the most beautiful and famous monasteries in Darjeeling. The Lava Monastery is home to many rare scriptures that were brought into India post the invasion of Tibet in 1959. The monastery has some beautiful architecture, serene locations, and magnificent views making it a must-visit attraction.
Book Darjeeling Ropeway Ride
If you want to experience the panoramic views of Darjeeling with your loved ones, then take the Darjeeling Ropeway. This 45-minute cable car ride will take you up to an altitude of 7,000 ft and is thus among the best ways to witness the snowy landscapes and ice-covered peaks of Darjeeling in January.
Clothes to carry during your trip to Darjeeling in January
- Darjeeling is a hill station nestled located on the foothills of the Himalayas and becomes very cold in January. During the winter season, travelers must carry enough woolen clothes, jackets, and coats with them.
- Also, while going on trekking, make sure you carry some comfortable trekking or running shoes or rubber-soled shoes, mosquito repellents, toilet paper, etc.
- Carry waterproof luggage bags as it might rain on certain days in January.
How To Reach Darjeeling in January
By Air: The closest airport to Darjeeling is 95 km away in Bagdogra. The airport is connected with some direct flights from major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Guwahati, and Kolkata to Darjeeling.
By Road: The travelers can either take a bus or drive to Darjeeling from towns like Bagdogra, Kalimpong, and Gangtok. Darjeeling is well-connected with Kolkata as well. Private and state-run buses ply from all the nearby cities and take travelers through scenic routes.
By Train: The nearest railway station to Darjeeling is New Jalpaiguri which connects the city with all the rest of India. The New Jalpaiguri railway station in Darjeeling is connected with all the major parts of the country and trains from cities like Delhi, Chennai, Mumbai, Bangalore, Kolkata, Guwahati, and Kochi operate regularly here.
Conclusion
The best of the North Eastern Himalayas can be explored with a relaxed holiday in Darjeeling in January. If you look for a memorable honeymoon trip to Darjeeling in January, Honeymoon Bug has the best packages for you. Explore the key attractions in Darjeeling with Honeymoon Bug’ Darjeeling Tour Packages.
Darjeeling Tour Packages from Indian Cities
FAQs About Darjeeling Trip in January
Should I visit Darjeeling in January?
Yes, Darjeeling is an amazing place to visit in January. The temperature varies from 2.5°C to 11.2°C. For snow lovers, January is an ideal time to visit Darjeeling.
Why is Darjeeling famous?
The town of Darjeeling is popular for its toy train, tea gardens, and for panoramic views of Mt. Kanchenjunga. In fact, the toy train of Darjeeling has been declared a UN heritage. The lush greenery of tea plantations and pleasant weather make Darjeeling an awesome place for tourists to visit.
Which are the most beautiful places to visit in Darjeeling in January?
Some of the most beautiful places to visit in Darjeeling in January include Batasia Loop, Observatory Hill, Tiger Hill, Singalila National Park, etc.
Does Gangtok receive snow in January?
Snowfall is not very common in the town of Gangtok. However, one can enjoy snowfall in Darjeeling at places like Tsomgo lake and Nathula Pass Places as they are located at higher altitudes.
Is Nathula Pass open in Darjeeling in January?
There are higher chances that roads might get closed due to heavy snowfall. In case you want to visit Nathula Pass, then make plans for some months.
Do we need winter clothes in Darjeeling in January?
During the winter season, carry enough warm woolen clothes, jackets, and coats. If you are visiting Darjeeling in January, also carry warm socks and shoes.
When does the winter season begin in Darjeeling?
Winter season begins in full swing in mid-November and ends by January. During these months, the average temperature varies from 7 and 5 degree Celsius.
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