Kolkata: 2-Day Darjeeling Tour with Tea, Train, & Himalayas
ID: GYG1092011-1676795
Category:
Country: India
Duration:
2 days
Description
Discover the beauty of Darjeeling on a 2-day tour from Kolkata. Ride the iconic toy train (when available), visit the Ghoom Monastery, and explore the tea plantations.
Begin your journey with a scenic drive from Kolkata to Darjeeling. Upon arrival, step into the rolling emerald carpets of a Darjeeling tea estate. Walk through the rows of tea bushes, learning the delicate art of plucking only the “two leaves and a bud.”
Inside the factory, see the age-old process—rolling, fermenting, drying—that gives Darjeeling tea its unique “champagne of teas” reputation. End with a tasting session, savoring every golden sip as mist curls across the hills.
The next day, step aboard the iconic blue Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage marvel. The steam locomotive huffs and puffs as it pulls you along narrow tracks through bustling bazaars, past houses with flower-laden balconies, and into misty bends where children wave excitedly.
The highlight is the Batasia Loop, where the train curves dramatically around a manicured garden, with snow-capped peaks forming the backdrop. It’s not just a train ride—it’s time travel. The train is only included when it is available, if tickets are not available then a car ride of the loop is substituted.
Disembark from the train at Ghoom, where prayer flags flutter against the sky. Step into the 19th-century Ghoom Monastery, its giant statue of Maitreya Buddha radiating peace. The scent of incense and the chants of monks add a touch of serenity to your morning.
Next, head to Darjeeling’s Mall Road. Walk past charming colonial-era shops, little cafes serving hot chocolate, and stalls selling woolens. Stop at Chowrasta Square, where travelers have gathered for generations to take in the views of Kanchenjunga, the world’s third-highest peak.
Finally, take a leisurely stroll through Nehru Road, where stalls brim with handwoven shawls, wooden curios, and, of course, packets of world-famous Darjeeling tea to carry home.
Highlights
- Feel the mist of the Himalayas and explore the tea plantations of Darjeeling
- Ride the iconic Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Visit the Ghoom Monastery and see the giant statue of Maitreya Buddha
- Walk through the tea plantations and learn about the art of tea plucking
- Stroll along Mall Road and Nehru Road, and shop for local handicrafts
Guiding languages
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Train tickets for the Darjeeling Railway depend on availability. If train tickets are full, then we will do the tour of the Batasia loop by car.
The tour involves walking, so wear comfortable shoes.
Weather can be chilly, especially in the mornings and evenings, so bring warm clothing.
Sunscreen is recommended due to high altitude exposure.
INCLUDED
- Guided tour of Darjeeling
- Fights for Kolkata-Bagdogra-Kolkata
- 1 night Hotel stay in Darjeeling on double occupancy with breafast
- Private car
- Visit to tea plantations
- Ride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway
- Visit to Ghoom Monastery
- Walk along Mall Road
- Pick and drop from Bagdogra airport
NOT INCLUDED
- Meals
- Pick from and drop to Kolkata airport
- Personal expenses
- Gratuities
When should I book?
To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.
Cancellations
This excursion you can cancel with no cost up to 24 hours before the start of the trip. If you cancel it after 24 hours or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity. Being late on pick-up or departure will be considered as not showing up.