Darjeeling is a beautiful hill station, which is surrounded by lush green tea gardens, rhododendron and orchids gardens, rolling mountain ranges, and great sightseeing attractions. The combination of the age-old colonial charm and modernism here will surely amaze you.
Darjeeling is situated in such as place that it becomes easily accessible to explore various nearby hill stations that offer unspoiled natural beauty and scenic views. To explore the famous attractions in and around the town, you can book a Darjeeling car rental from a reputed agency at affordable rates.
Let’s explore some of the mesmerizing hill stations that you can visit from Darjeeling.
1. Mirik
Mirik is one of the famous hill stations near Darjeeling, which is often visited by tourists on their way to the Queen of the Hills. Climate, natural beauty, easy accessibility, and amazing views of Mount Kanchenjunga are some of the special things about Mirik. Sumendu Lake, Don Bosco Church, and Bokar Monastery are the must-visit places here.
2. Kurseong
Kurseong or the Land of White Orchids is just 1 hour and 20 minutes from Darjeeling. This tranquil town is well-known for its beautiful views, temples, waterfalls, and Buddhist gompas. Some of the sightseeing attractions here are Ambotia Shiv Temple, Dowhill, Eagle’s Creg, and tea gardens.
3. Sandakphu
Sandakphu is a popular place among tourists due to its thrilling trekking trails through the Singalila range. You can book an NJP to Darjeeling car rental to reach the town and start the thrilling trek from Manebhanjan. If you’re lucky then you can get a stunning view of four mountain peaks together such as Makalu, Everest, Lhotse, and Kanchenjunga.
4. Kalimpong
Kalimpong is another hill station that you can visit from Darjeeling. It will take you around 2 hours to reach Kalimpong from the town by road. This place is famous among tourists due to its stunning churches, colonial buildings, and flower markets such as Pine View Nursery, MacFarlane Memorial Church, and Morgan House.
5. Tinchuley
If you are willing to visit Sikkim from Darjeeling then you must visit Tinchuley on your way. This hill station is situated on the border of West Bengal and Sikkim, which will provide you with a spectacular view of the surrounding mountain ranges. The orchards of fresh fruits and lush green tea plantations also add a unique charm.
6. Latpanchar
Latpanchar is also known as the birdwatcher’s paradise because you can find many vibrant migratory and exotic bird species here. The Namthing Pokhri Lake is also famous here due to the population of Himalayan salamanders, which is an endangered species. You also shouldn’t miss a stunning sunrise from Ahaldhara Viewpoint in Latpanchar.
7. Lepchajagat
Lepchajagat is a beautiful offbeat hamlet, which is just 19 km from Darjeeling. This hill station is surrounded by stunning oak and rhododendron forests with awesome views and a serene ambiance. The trekking trails and birdwatching spots are famous attractions here from where you can spot various Himalayan birds.
Along with exploring these nearby hill stations, you must also visit the famous sightseeing attractions in Darjeeling to complete your vacation. Some of the popular spots that you must visit by booking a Darjeeling car rental are Batasia Loop, Ghoom Monastery, Japanese Peace Pagoda, and Rock Garden.
