What is the best places to stay in darjeeling?


Best Places to Stay in Darjeeling: A Complete Guide for Every Traveler

Darjeeling, the "Queen of the Hills", nestled in the lap of the Eastern Himalayas, is a dream destination for nature lovers, honeymooners, families, and adventure seekers. From waking up to views of the majestic Kanchenjunga to sipping authentic Darjeeling tea in colonial-era hotels, the town offers experiences that are nothing short of magical.

But before you book your tickets, one of the most important things to consider is — Where should you stay in Darjeeling? Whether you're looking for luxury resorts, budget guesthouses, heritage hotels, or homestays with local charm, this guide will help you discover the best places to stay in Darjeeling.

🌄 Why Choosing the Right Stay in Darjeeling Matters

Darjeeling isn’t a flat town. The terrain is steep, and attractions are spread out. Some areas are bustling with markets and nightlife, while others offer peace and panoramic views. Choosing the right area to stay can enhance your trip, save you time, and offer unforgettable experiences.

🗺️ Top Areas to Stay in Darjeeling

1. Mall Road / Chowrasta

  • Best for: First-time visitors, shoppers, families

  • Why: It’s the heart of the town, full of cafes, bookstores, street food, and easy access to attractions like Observatory Hill and Bhutia Market.

2. Ghoom

  • Best for: Peace lovers, monastery visits, toy train lovers

  • Why: Ghoom is quieter than the town center and is famous for the Ghoom Monastery and Batasia Loop.

3. Lebong Cart Road

  • Best for: Scenic mountain views, luxury resorts

  • Why: Offers breathtaking views of the valleys and a peaceful retreat from crowds.

4. Tukvar / Happy Valley

  • Best for: Tea lovers, photographers

  • Why: Located near tea gardens, especially the famous Happy Valley Tea Estate.

🏨 Best Luxury Hotels in Darjeeling

1. The Elgin, Darjeeling

  • Category: Heritage Luxury

  • Why Stay Here: Once the summer residence of the Maharaja of Cooch Behar, The Elgin oozes colonial charm.

  • Highlights: Fine dining, spa services, wood-paneled rooms, Kanchenjunga views.

2. Mayfair Darjeeling

  • Category: 5-Star Resort

  • Why Stay Here: A blend of Victorian architecture and modern luxury.

  • Highlights: Library, spa, tea lounge, kids’ play area.

3. Cedar Inn

  • Category: Boutique Luxury

  • Why Stay Here: Located at a higher altitude, it offers serene views and elegant rooms.

  • Highlights: Balcony rooms, fine dining, gardens, quiet atmosphere.

🛏️ Best Budget Hotels in Darjeeling

1. Hotel Seven Seventeen

  • Category: Budget Heritage Hotel

  • Why Stay Here: Offers Tibetan décor and warm hospitality.

  • Ideal For: Backpackers and small families.

2. Hotel Shangri-la Regency

  • Category: Mid-Budget Hotel

  • Why Stay Here: Centrally located, cozy interiors, Kanchenjunga-facing rooms.

  • Extras: Rooftop bar with panoramic views.

3. Revolver Hotel

  • Category: Unique Budget

  • Why Stay Here: Inspired by The Beatles and offers a quirky experience.

  • Highlights: Affordable, books, games, and a British vibe.

🏡 Best Homestays in Darjeeling

1. Singalila Jungle Lodge

  • Location: Near Tumling

  • Why Stay Here: Eco-friendly, off-the-beaten-path, perfect for bird watchers and trekkers.

2. Vandana’s Bed and Breakfast

  • Why Stay Here: Homely meals, personalized care, and comfortable rooms.

  • Extras: Views of tea gardens and local cultural interactions.

3. Yang’s Inn

  • Location: Near Chowrasta

  • Why Stay Here: Family-run, ideal for short stays, warm hospitality.

  • Extras: Homemade local food.

🧒 Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Darjeeling

1. Central Heritage Resort

  • Why Stay Here: Play areas, garden, proximity to Mall Road.

  • Family Friendly Features: Suite rooms and kid-friendly meals.

2. Little Tibet Resort

  • Why Stay Here: Tibetan-themed interiors, close to major attractions.

  • Highlights: Cultural décor and family-sized rooms.

💕 Best Hotels for Honeymoon in Darjeeling

1. Windamere Hotel

  • Why Stay Here: One of the oldest colonial hotels in India.

  • Romantic Touch: Fireplaces, candlelit dinners, vintage ambiance.

2. Dekeling Hotel

  • Why Stay Here: Cozy, scenic, and centrally located.

  • Extras: Panoramic Kanchenjunga views from rooms.

🧗 Best Places for Adventure Seekers

1. Tumsong Tea Retreat

  • Why Stay Here: Set amidst a 150-year-old tea estate.

  • Activities: Nature walks, tea tasting, plantation tours.

2. Ziro Stay

  • Why Stay Here: Offbeat, rustic, and surrounded by mountains.

  • Activities: Hiking, mountain biking, stargazing.

🍽️ Hotels with Great Food

1. Glenary’s Hotel

  • Why Stay Here: Attached to the iconic Glenary’s bakery.

  • Must-Try: English breakfast and Darjeeling tea.

2. Sinclairs Darjeeling

  • Why Stay Here: Multi-cuisine restaurant with mountain views.

  • Extras: Great buffet and in-room dining.

📸 Hotels with the Best View of Kanchenjunga

1. Hotel Villa Everest

  • Why Stay Here: Offers some of the best sunrise views in Darjeeling.

  • Tip: Book rooms facing the mountains.

2. Summit Swiss Heritage Hotel

  • Why Stay Here: Wooden rooms, open lawns, and panoramic views.

  • Season Tip: Best views in early winter or March-April.

📅 Best Time to Visit and Book Your Stay

  • March to May: Spring blossoms and clear skies.

  • October to December: Cool, festive, and ideal for honeymooners.

  • June to September: Avoid monsoons unless you love the mist and fewer crowds.

Pro tip: Book hotels at least 1 month in advance during peak seasons like Christmas, New Year, and summer holidays.

🚂 How to Reach Darjeeling

  • By Air: Nearest airport – Bagdogra (70 km)

  • By Train: Nearest railway station – New Jalpaiguri (NJP)

  • By Road: Shared jeeps and taxis available from Siliguri, NJP, and Bagdogra.

✅ Things to Check Before You Book

  1. Room view – Always ask if it’s mountain-facing.

  2. Heating options – Essential in winter months.

  3. Water supply – Some budget stays may face shortages.

  4. Proximity to Mall Road – Choose based on your itinerary.

  5. Wi-Fi speed – Can be slow in higher altitudes.

💡 Final Tips for Choosing the Best Stay

  • For luxury seekers: The Elgin and Mayfair are unbeatable.

  • For peace and nature: Choose Ghoom or tea estate retreats.

  • For budget travelers: Hotel Seven Seventeen and Revolver are great picks.

  • For couples: Windamere and Dekeling offer timeless charm.

  • For families: Go with Central Heritage or Little Tibet.

  • For solo adventurers: Homestays like Yang’s Inn are perfect.

📝 Conclusion

Darjeeling is not just about where you go, but where you stay. Your accommodation can turn a good trip into a great one. From sipping tea on colonial balconies to waking up to snow-kissed Himalayan peaks, the right place to stay will offer you memories that last a lifetime.

No matter your budget or travel style, Darjeeling has something to offer for everyone. So, pack your bags, book your ideal stay, and get ready to explore one of India’s most charming hill stations.

Have you stayed in Darjeeling before? Share your favorite place in the comments below!


Location: Darjeeling, West Bengal, India

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