The ultimate itinerary to explore Bengal’s most beautiful hill stations from Kolkata, Delhi, Bangalore, Mumbai
Explore the hill stations of Darjeeling, Kalimpong, and Lava-Lolegaon from Belgium, USA, UK, Norway, Sweden, France, Spain, Mexico, and other international destinations
West Bengal is home to some of the most picturesque hill stations in India. Each of these offer a unique blend of natural beauty, colonial charm, and cultural vibrancy. Among them, Darjeeling, Kalimpong, and Lava-Lolegaon stand out as the top destinations for travelers seeking an escape into the serene Himalayas.
If you’re planning a hillside retreat in Bengal, this guide will help you choose the perfect destination while ensuring a memorable experience.
Why Visit Darjeeling with tour packages from Kolkata, Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and other national and international destinations?
Famous for its rolling tea gardens, stunning Himalayan views, and colonial charm, Darjeeling is a must-visit for anyone exploring the best hill stations in Bengal. The town is also home to the world-renowned Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Top Attractions in Darjeeling:
- Unhindered views of Mount Kanchenjunga, provided days are clear
- Tiger Hill
Sunrise view of Kanchenjunga range from Tiger Hill
- Batasia Loop
- Darjeeling Tea Estates
- Himalayan Mountaineering Institute & Zoo
- Rock Garden & Ganga Maya Park
Best Things to Do in Darjeeling:
- Take a ride on the Darjeeling Toy Train.
- Go for a tea estate tour and sip on the world-famous Darjeeling Tea.
- Enjoy shopping in Chowrasta & Mall Road for handicrafts and woolens.
- Try the local delicacies like momos, thukpa, and Darjeeling tea cakes.
Time to Visit Darjeeling:
- March to May (Spring) – Pleasant weather, rhododendron blooms.
- October to December (Autumn-Winter) – Clear mountain views, festive vibes.
Why Visit Kalimpong with tour packages from Kolkata, Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and other national and international destinations?
A view as seen from the guest house on Deolo Hill, Kalimpong
Unlike the bustling Darjeeling, Kalimpong offers a serene escape with stunning vistas, Buddhist monasteries, and lush nurseries. It is perfect for those who want to enjoy peaceful walks, birdwatching, and heritage sites.
Top Attractions in Kalimpong:
- Deolo Hill – The highest point in Kalimpong with breathtaking sunrise views.
- Durpin Dara Viewpoint – Offers a stunning view of the Teesta River and Kanchenjunga.
- Zang Dhok Palri Monastery – Houses rare Buddhist scriptures and paintings.
- Cactus & Orchid Nursery – Explore exotic Himalayan flora.
- Mangal Dham Temple – A beautiful Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Krishna.
- Morgan House – A colonial bungalow known for its haunting history.
Things to Do in Kalimpong
- Visit pine view nurseries for exotic orchids and cacti.
- Take a leisure walk through colonial-era churches and homes.
- Enjoy river rafting in Teesta River for an adrenaline rush.
- Relish local cuisine like Chhurpi soup, Sel Roti, and Nepali Thali.
Time to Visit Kalimpong
- March to June (Spring-Summer) – Ideal for sightseeing and nature walks.
- September to December (Autumn-Winter) – Crisp weather with great views.
Why Visit Lava-Lolegaon with tour packages from Kolkata, Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and other national and international destinations?
REd Panda at Neora Valley National Park, Lava-Lolegaon
For travelers seeking an offbeat hill station in Bengal, Lava & Lolegaon offer an untouched paradise of dense forests, wildlife, and mystical views of the Himalayas. These twin hamlets provide an opportunity to disconnect from city life and immerse in pure nature.
Attractions in Lava-Lolegaon:
- Lava Monastery (Kagyu Thekchen Ling Monastery) – A peaceful Tibetan retreat.
- Neora Valley National Park – Perfect for trekking & spotting red pandas.
- Lolegaon Canopy Walk – This is a thrilling experience amid tall pine forests.
- Changey Waterfalls – A hidden gem for nature lovers.
- Rishop Village – A serene place for a short trek with spectacular views.
Best Things to Do in Lava-Lolegaon:
- Birdwatching & trekking in Neora Valley.
- Take a leisurely walk through dense forests and experience tranquility.
- Visit Changey Falls, a scenic hidden waterfall.
Changey Falls
- Enjoy a campfire under the starry sky in Lolegaon.
Time to Visit Lava-Lolegaon:
- October to April – Best for clear views, birdwatching, and trekking.
Darjeeling vs. Kalimpong vs. Lava-Lolegaon: Which One to Choose?
| Features | Darjeeling | Kalimpong | Lava-Lolegaon |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scenery | Tea gardens & mountains | Valleys & nurseries | Forests & waterfalls |
| Tourist Density | High (crowded) | Medium (less crowded) | Low (serene & peaceful) |
| Best For | Families, Honeymooners, Adventure Seekers | Couples, Nature Lovers, Heritage Explorers | Offbeat Travelers, Birdwatchers, Trekking Enthusiasts |
| Top Attraction | Tiger Hill Sunrise | Deolo Hill Viewpoint | Neora Valley National Park |
| Best Time to Visit | Throughout the year except monsoon | Throughout the year except monsoon | Throughout the year except monsoon |
Final Thoughts: The Best Hill Station in Bengal for You
- If you love bustling hill stations with colonial charm, Darjeeling is the best choice.
- For a quiet escape with monasteries and nature, Kalimpong is perfect.
- If you seek adventure and offbeat destinations, Lava-Lolegaon is the ultimate retreat.
The Ultimate 7-day tour itinerary for exploring Darjeeling, Kalimpong, and Lava-Lolegaon:
Day 1: Arrival in Darjeeling – Exploring Colonial Charm & Tea Estates
Day 2: Darjeeling – Sunrise, Tea Gardens & Monasteries
Day 3: Transfer to Kalimpong – Monasteries, Viewpoints & Orchids
Day 4: Kalimpong – Local Exploration & River Rafting in Teesta
Day 5: Transfer to Lava – Into the Misty Forests
Day 6: Explore Lolegaon – The Hidden Paradise
Day 7: Departure – Back to Bagdogra/NJP
Book Your Darjeeling-Kalimpong-Lava-Lolegaon Tour Today!
This 7-day itinerary ensures a perfect blend of scenic landscapes, adventure, and relaxation in the best hill stations of Bengal. Whether you’re sipping tea in Darjeeling, exploring Kalimpong’s monasteries, or trekking through Lava-Lolegaon’s forests, this tour promises unforgettable moments in the lap of the Himalayas!
Ready to explore the best hill station in West Bengal with Excursion2India? Check out https://www.facebook.com/Excursion2india and https://www.instagram.com/excursion2india/. Treat yourself to customized tour packages from anywhere in the world – India, Belgium, Norway, Sweden, USA, Spain, Mexico, France or the UK – with Excursion2India!
Please feel free to contact Excursion2India at [email protected]. You can also reach Excursion2India over WhatsApp at +91- 9875310291. You can also call Excursion2India for the best tour packages at +91-9163580464.
Please request to join one of WhatsApp Groups of Excursion2India for best deals on tours in India and foreign countries.