Darjeeling, the “Queen of the Hills,” is a dreamland where couples can spend romantic time. With hills and mountains covered by a veil of mist, landscapes of tea gardens, and colonial appeal, it is just the right place to relax and build memorable experiences. However, visiting this place does not necessarily have to burn a big hole in one’s pocket. If you are a backpacker planning a budget trip to Darjeeling, the following are your recommended experiences.
In this article, you are going to learn 5 ways through which you can cut on your expenditure while at the same time making your Darjeeling tour package for couples a memorable one.
1. Choose the Right Time to Visit
One of the best strategies to be employed while planning to take a Darjeeling tour package is choosing the right time of the year to do this. However, the town can be visited throughout the year, especially during the high seasons, which are from April to June and from October to December, since the prices for hotels and transport hike.
Best Time for a Budget-Friendly Darjeeling Trip:
- Off-Season (July-September): The tourist arrivals during the monsoon season are relatively low, hence the availability of cheaper accommodation. However, one typical problem associated with the construction of roads is landslides.
- Shoulder Season (February-March): The ideal period with favorable temperatures and inexpensive packages for a couple of tours.
Benefits of Traveling in the Off-Season:
- Lower fares for flights and trains: These are cheaper during other months of the year than those considered busy.
- Availability and reasonable rates: Most hotels have off-peak times when they offer some cut-rate prices.
- Few tourists – See the beauty of Darjeeling without having countless tourists around you.
Traveling to Darjeeling can be even cheaper with relatively low prices if you know when to go.
2. Book Accommodation Wisely
Well, your accommodation is one of the things that determine your expenditure during your stay. It is advisable to avoid expensive hotels as there are always cheap, comfortable alternatives that serve good views.
Budget-Friendly Accommodation Options in Darjeeling:
- Homestays & Guesthouses – cheap and comfortable accommodations staying with local families.
- Budget accommodation – Many 2- and 3-star hotels offer a good standard of service at comparatively lower prices.
- Online Deals & Discounts – You can check out websites, such as Honeymoon Bug, etc to get the cheapest deals.
TIP: If you are planning a Darjeeling tour for a couple, remember to book your accommodation in advance since it can help you avail yourself of early bird discounts on the package deal.
3. Opt for Budget-Friendly Transportation
Fortunately, moving around Darjeeling can be budget-friendly if you plan it properly. Some of the recommended ways include avoiding costly means of transport like private taxis.
Ways to Save on Transportation:
- Toy Train & Shared Taxis: The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway is an affordable means of transport that directs tourists to beautiful sights.
- Shared Cabs – Traveling from NJP or Bagdogra? Compared to private taxi services, shared cabs are quite more affordable.
- Walking & Local Transport: Most of the places of interest located in the town of Darjeeling are easily reachable on foot.
Using local transport also allows you to manage the budget itinerary in Darjeeling very well without hampering the actual experience.
4. Eat Local & Save on Food Expenses
Luxury restaurants can be expensive, and you will spend much more than expected. Instead, savor the authentic flavors of Darjeeling at pocket-friendly local eateries.
Where to Eat on a Budget?
- Kunga Restaurant – Famous for momos & thukpa at reasonable prices.
- Glenary’s Bakery & Café: After an early morning exercise, head downtown and get your breakfast with a great view, not at an excellent price.
- Local Street Stalls: Try budget-friendly delights like aloo dum, sel roti, and egg rolls.
Tip: Choose among hotels offering free breakfast to save more meals!
5. Plan a Smart & Budget-Friendly Itinerary
To make your experience memorable and not a hole in your pocket, here is a budget itinerary for Darjeeling that you should consider sticking to.
Suggested 3-Day Budget-Friendly Darjeeling Itinerary:
Day 1: Arrival & Local Sightseeing:
- While using public transport, one can reach NJP/Bagdogra and hire a taxi to cover the rest of the distance.
- Going to the Peace Pagoda and considering the night views from the Observatory Hill will be useful.
- Have a nice dinner at any restaurant.
Day 2: Itinerary- Nature and Tea Gardens:
- Share an economical car with other guests to Tiger Hill for the sunrise view.
- Batasia loop and War memorial.
- Visit Happy Valley Tea Estate for free.
Day 3: Shopping & Departure:
- Stroll around Chowrasta Mall Road for souvenirs.
- Buy affordable tea & handicrafts.
- Depart in a shared taxi or silent toy train.
- This is a detailed budget plan for three days where you can plan your Darjeeling visit and enjoy all major sightseeing spots.
Final Thoughts
Though a romantic vacation is always costly, this vacation to Darjeeling does not necessarily burn a hole in the couple’s pocket. If you are willing to spend your holidays in Darjeeling, it is possible to have a fantastic Darjeeling tour package for a couple without upsetting your wallet. Selecting the best travel season, eating, and lodging in cheap and otherwise non-costly means of transport are among the aspects that can enrich your magic trip experience without spending much.
Therefore, if you are thinking of having a cheap tour to Darjeeling, start planning immediately to get the best out of your romantic trip.
