Visiting Darjeeling? Here’s the Best Things to Do in Darjeeling You Can’t Miss!

Tincluley

Tinchuley is now a somewhat popular mountain village in Darjeeling, which is one of the great escapes to some of the best offbeat tourist places near Darjeeling. It is one of the hidden gems in the list of numerous Darjeeling Tourist places, which is a quaint and quiet mountain village, which feels to tourists nothing short of scenery right out of a postcard. Tinchuley is popular among visitors for its serene ambience and magnificent views of the distant mountain range. This is considered mostly an offbeat location near Darjeeling which is perfect for visitors to soak in nature, with the splendid tea gardens, tranquil trails and orange orchards. This is also a great place to see the sunrise, beside Tiger Hills. So, don’t miss this! This viewpoint has a spectacular range of colours to wonder at, during sunrise. This is a peaceful getaway for visitors. What is interesting about this place is that this small village is surrounded by three hilltops, which from a distance, replicate the shape of 3 ovens, which is popularly called Chullahs, in the Indian language. Here are a few attractions and activities in and around Tinchuley, like visiting Nirmal’s Orange Orhard, Tinchuley Monastery, the Sunrise Point, which is just a few walks away from the Tinchuley Monastery, Gumbadara Viewpoint, Peshok tea Estate and Lover meet Viewpoint. 

Lamahatta

If you are in search of a romantic place in and around Darjeeling, Lamahatta is one of the best offbeat tourist places near Darjeeling. This place has recently developed into a renowned eco-tourism spot, with vast stretches of pine and dhupi forests, surrounded by jaw-dropping peaks. You can cherish some of the attractions in and around Lamahatta like their Eco Park, Lamahatta Monastery, and a short trek of 3km to Gari Danda Fort. Visiting here during the Autumn/Spring season is considered best, to enjoy the scenic pleasures. 

Chatakpur 

Chatakpur is one of the eco-friendly villages near Darjeeling and is considered one of the best offbeat tourist locations near Darjeeling, for its mindblowing wilderness and the pristine nature of this quaint village. One of the best facts about this Darjeeling village is its efforts around promoting organic farming through terrace cultivation. There are a few attractions and activities here in Chatakpur like the Chatakpur Viewpoint which has a jaw-dropping sunrise, as good as Tiger Hills. So, if you miss out on Tiger Hills, don’t be disheartened! Chatakpur has your back. The Eco Huts are unmissable and so is the Kalipokhri pond. 

Takdah

Want to avoid the congested tourist places when on your next Darjeeling tour? We can suggest Takdah as one of the best offbeat tourist places near Darjeeling. Takdah is a beautiful village in Darjeeling, filled with coniferous trees. It is a secret treasure near Darjeeling, which was once a military cantonment during colonial times, which now has remains of many British-era bungalows, which are now renovated as guesthouses for accommodating tourists/visitors. You can explore the beautiful tea gardens across Takdah, Orchid Centre, Takdah Monastery, Gielle Bhanjyang Bazaar or even drive a short distance of approximately 3km to experience Tinchuley or nearby Mongpu.  

Lepchajagat

If you are searching for a romantic getaway near Darjeeling or even a nature lover, then Lepcha Jagat is a must-try among some of the offbeat tourist places near Darjeeling. A portion of this place is secured as a reserved forest area. While you are on your visit to Lepcha Jagat, you will be mesmerised by the panoramic views of the majestic Kanchenjunga peak, the tranquillity of this village, pine and oak forest or the magnificent Hawa Ghar, which is a nature walking trail and the Ghum Rock, which is a fantastic sunset point, besides a wonderful view of the Balsan Valley. 

Sittong

Sittong is speedily catching up in the race to become popular amongst tourists. However, this untouched and tranquil village is still a great offbeat tourist location near Darjeeling, so far. If you are wondering what to see while in Sittong, then let us guide you. The fantastic waterfalls, unique species of birds, excellent viewpoints and numerous picturesque orange orchards. You can also explore Ahaldara Viewpoint, which will leave you amazed by the 360° panoramic hill view. Namthing Lake is also an excellent spot to explore Salamanders. If you plan to visit higher up in altitude, you can explore Sittong Lepcha Monastery. 

Srikhola

Srikhola is an amazing mountain village, which is a great place to avoid the bustling crowd of Darjeeling and thus, makes Srikhola one of the best options amongst the top offbeat tourist places near Darjeeling.  There are some fascinating things to see in Srikhola like the Hanging wooden bridge, the bouncy Srikhola River, Singalila National Park and bird watching. You will also be thrilled to explore Srikhola village, which will make you feel so close to nature. Srikhola is also a great place for trekkers who prefer the impressive Sandakphu trek. 

Kolakham

Kolakham is a fantastic hamlet located near the Neora Valley National Park, which is also an interesting offbeat tourist place near Darjeeling, with mountain views, the peaceful ambience of the village and the sprawling lush green forests. After the cosy night stay at Kolakham, you will wake up to the beautiful chirping of birds, and the peaceful walking trails and can explore the nearby places like Charkhole, Lava or Pedong, which is just a few kilometres away from Kolakham.