The “Queen of Hills,” Darjeeling, has a stunning mix of natural beauty, British charm, and a rich cultural history. Nestled in the beautiful Himalayas, this hill town is a dream spot for tourists looking for a peaceful getaway, exciting activities, and a bit of history. Because of the nice weather, fewer people are in Darjeeling in December, making it a great time to come.
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This detailed guide will review everything you need to know to plan your honeymoon in Darjeeling in December. We will help you with everything from getting around and where to stay to the best sights and things to do. So, let us start our Darjeeling tour package to this beautiful hill station!
How to Reach Darjeeling in December?
Darjeeling is well-connected to major cities in India. Here are the several ways to reach Darjeeling.
By Air: Bagdogra Airport is 95 kilometers away and the closest airport to Darjeeling. From Bagdogra, you can either book a taxi ahead of time or take a car.
By Train: New Jalpaiguri is about 75 kilometers away and is the closest train stop to Darjeeling. From New Jalpaiguri, you can either book a taxi or take a car ahead of time.
By Road: You can get to Darjeeling by road from Siliguri, which has good road connections to other parts of India. To get to Darjeeling, you can take a bus, a taxi, or your own car.
Where to Stay in December in Darjeeling?
Darjeeling has a lot of different types of places to stay, from luxurious hotels with views of the Himalayas to cozy homestays where you can get to know the locals better. It gets pretty cold in December, so finding a pleasant and comfortable place to stay is essential.
Luxury Hotels
There are several luxurious hotels in Darjeeling with lovely views of the mountains, nice furnishings, and excellent service for people who want to treat themselves. Hotels like the Mayfair Darjeeling, the Windamere Hotel, and the Glenburn Tea Estate have top-notch comfort. The heating systems in these hotels ensure you are warm on cold December nights.
Mid-range Hotels
Some reasonably priced hotels, such as Cedar Inn, Elgin Darjeeling, and The Retreat, are still comfy. These hotels provide good service and are comfortable. These hotels usually have heating systems and warm beds in the winter to make your stay more pleasant. A lot of these places also have beautiful views of Kanchenjunga.
Homestays
A homestay in Darjeeling is a more personal way to see the area. Many people in the area let you stay in their houses, giving you a cozy, real experience. You can also connect with the locals, experience their hospitality, and sometimes even eat home-cooked local food when you stay in a homestay. Happy Valley Homestay and Vimal Gardens are two well-known homestays.
Budget Options
There are also cheap hotels and guesthouses for tourists and people who are traveling on a tight budget. These simple rooms are clean and warm but not very fancy. Some affordable hotels might not have internal heating, but you can usually rent portable heaters for a small extra fee. You can stay at the Hotel Seven Seventeen or the Dekeling Hotel in the main town.
What to Eat in Darjeeling?
Darjeeling is a great place to eat because it has excellent food from India, Tibet, and Nepal. Here are some foods you should try:
Momos: Momos are steamed dumplings that are very popular in Darjeeling. They can be filled with meat or veggies, among other things.
Thukpa: The Tibetan noodle soup called thukpa is a hearty and warming meal, especially when it is cold outside.
Gundruk: This dish of pickled vegetables is one of a kind and tastes excellent.
Tea from Darjeeling: You cannot go to Darjeeling without trying the popular tea from there.
Top Places to Visit in Darjeeling in December
There are many beautiful places in Darjeeling, and the month of December is the most magical. There is something for everyone, whether you are interested in plants, people, or history. Here are some must-visit places in Darjeeling in December:
1. Tiger Hill
Tiger Hill is one of the most well-known places in Darjeeling in December. It is famous for stunning sunrise views over Kanchenjunga, the world’s third-highest mountain. You can also see Mount Everest on clear December days. The best time to see this nature show is sunrise, so get up early.
2. Batasia Loop and War Memorial
This spiral train track is about 5 km from Darjeeling town and has stunning views of the mountains all around. When the winter fog comes in December, it makes the place feel mysterious. It is an excellent spot for a slow walk. The War Memorial here is a memorial to the Gorkha soldiers who died in wars after India got its freedom.
3. Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (Toy Train)
The famous Toy Train is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the best ways to see the area. From Darjeeling, the trip to Ghum or Kurseong is beautiful, with views of forests, mountains, and tea farms. There is no better time than the holidays to ride the Toy Train when the cold weather makes the ride even more magical.
4. Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park
If you like animals, you have to go to this zoo. The zoo is a great place to learn about the wildlife in the area because it is home to rare species like the red panda, snow leopard, and Tibetan wolf. The animals are usually busier in December because it is more relaxed.
5. Peace Pagoda
The Peace Pagoda, which is on the side of Jalapahar Hill, stands for peace and unity. There is peace at the tower, and you can see Darjeeling from there. It is a great place to meditate or think quietly in the cold winter months.
Things to Do in Darjeeling in December
There are many things to do in Darjeeling that are good for all kinds of tourists. Darjeeling in December has something for everyone, whether you are looking for excitement, a place to relax, or a love of nature.
1. Tea Estate Tours
A trendy thing to do in Darjeeling is to visit the tea plantations that make famous Darjeeling tea. Many tea gardens have trips where you can learn about everything from picking the leaves to putting them in bags. Some farms, like Happy Valley Tea Estate, also let you taste tea. It is excellent to go in December because the cool air improves the experience.
2. Ride the Darjeeling Ropeway
Take a ride on the Darjeeling Ropeway to see the tea fields, valleys, and mountains from above. From the cable car, you can see amazing views of the area. If you go in December, you might even see snow-covered hills. The ropeway starts in Singamari, which is about 3 km from the town center. Everyone who comes to Darjeeling should take the ride.
3. Trekking and Hiking
If you like to try new things, December is a great month to go trekking in Darjeeling. Many people love to trek the Sandakphu path because it gives them amazing views of four of the world’s five highest peaks: Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, and Makalu. The trek can be challenging in the winter because of the cold, but the clear skies and snow-covered paths make it an unforgettable experience.
4. Explore Local Markets
People come to Darjeeling to shop for gifts, handicrafts, woolen clothes, and tea. The local markets are bustling. Many people like to shop in the Chowrasta and Mall Road areas. It is easy to find gifts for family and friends in December because the stores are full of holiday decorations.
5. Visit Monasteries
Several Buddhist temples in Darjeeling show off the area’s rich spiritual history. Many people like to visit Ghoom Monastery, Yiga Choeling Monastery, and Dali Monastery. These temples are a quiet place to escape the busy city, and peace is even more vital in December.
Weather in Darjeeling in December
In December, temperatures in Darjeeling range from 2°C to 10°C, making the weather very cold and crisp. Most days are excellent, with clear clouds and cool air, but it can get freezing at night, especially near the end of December. Take a close look at Darjeeling’s weather in December:
Temperature
Daytime: The temperature stays between 8°C and 10°C, which is excellent for touring and doing things outside.
Nighttime: At night, the temperature drops a lot. On freezing nights, it can get as low as 2°C.
Traveling Tips to Darjeeling in December
If you want to visit Darjeeling in December, here are some tips:
Book Your Accommodation Early: December is a busy month for visiting Darjeeling, so it is best to book your accommodation early to get the best deals and options.
Pack Warm Clothing: When you go in December, the weather can get cool, so bring warm clothes.
Bring Shoes That Are Comfortable: You will be walking around and discovering a lot, so make sure you bring comfortable shoes.
Try the Local Food: Do not miss the chance to try the tasty local food, especially the Tibetan and Nepalese foods.
Respect Local Customs: Darjeeling is a culturally rich place. Thus, it is essential to respect local customs and traditions.
The Closing Note
To wrap up, Darjeeling in December is a beautiful place to visit, with peaceful surroundings, stunning views of the Himalayas, and fresh mountain air. Darjeeling is a great place to go in the winter, whether you want to see the tea fields, ride the Toy Train, or just take in the views of Kanchenjunga.
You can have a comfy and memorable vacation in this beautiful hill station if you plan and prepare beforehand. From the friendly people who live there to the excellent food and stunning scenery, December in Darjeeling is like no other time of the year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Darjeeling a decent spot to travel in December?
Yes, Darjeeling is amazing in December, with bright skies, cool weather, and a festive atmosphere. However, expect low weather and intermittent fog.
Does it snow in Darjeeling during December?
While snowfall in Darjeeling is uncommon, it does occur in higher-altitude places such as Sandakphu. Visit these places to increase your chances of seeing snow.
What should I pack for my December trip to Darjeeling?
Pack warm, layered gear such as thermals, jackets, scarves, gloves, wool socks, and durable shoes. Do not forget windproof clothing and a thick cap.
How do I get to Darjeeling in December?
You can fly into Bagdogra Airport or take the rail to New Jalpaiguri (NJP). You can take a taxi or a shared jeep to Darjeeling from there.
What are the best places to visit in Darjeeling during December?
Must-see places are Tiger Hill, Batasia Loop, the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (Toy Train), and Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park.
Are Darjeeling's hotels pricey in December?
Hotel charges often rise throughout the holiday season in December, particularly around Christmas and New Year. To get the most excellent rates, book far in advance.
