Backpacking India 26/129: Journey to Darjeeling travel from Kolkata to Darjeeling

Backpacking India 26/129: Journey to Darjeeling from Kolkata

I am mr.hotsia, who has been following travels in India for a long time. This time I chose the route from Kolkata to Darjeeling, a small town in the Himalayas with a unique charm and one of the destinations I have long wanted to experience.

Kolkata is a large, lively, and bustling city. But when I started traveling north through Siliguri, located amidst the Mahananda River and the Himalayan foothills, this place is truly the gateway to tourism in Darjeeling and Sikkim.Siliguriis an important connecting hub where I didn’t want to miss stopping to experience the local lifestyle and cultural diversity here.

Traveling from Kolkata to Darjeeling: mr.hotsia’s real experience

The route from Kolkata to Darjeeling is not as simple as taking a direct flight because Darjeeling has no major airport for international flights. I chose to fly into Siliguri first, then take a jeep up the mountain to Darjeeling. Negotiating the jeep fare is very important. I recommend walking out of the airport building to the parking lot and negotiating yourself to get a cheaper price than taxis or renting cars through airport officials.

The winding mountain road and the scenery on both sides showing misty, complex mountains made me excited and love backpacking even more as it allows close contact with nature.

Arriving in Darjeeling: The tea town embraced by the Himalayas

Darjeeling is located at about 2,000 meters above sea level with cool weather all year round. The town is famous for its world-renowned tea and the old steam train still running—one of the world heritage sites I had the chance to experience myself (watch my travel clip atBackpacking India 26/129: Journey to Darjeeling)

The first feeling walking on the main street of the town was a peaceful atmosphere mixed with the scent of tea leaves and local food aromas drifting in. I explored a small fresh market along the main road, where locals buy and sell fresh and dry goods at reasonable prices. There were not many tourists. This is another side of Darjeeling I really liked because I could see the real lifestyle of the people.Fresh Market, Darjeeling MarketHere you can find fresh vegetables, fruits, and local herbs easily.

Eating in Darjeeling: Deliciousness not to be missed

If you come and don’t tryMOMOyou haven’t really been to Darjeeling. MOMO is like steamed or fried buns with various fillings including pork, chicken, and vegetables, with rich and mellow flavors. I tried a small local shop recommended by locals. It was simply delicious and memorable.

Besides MOMO, restaurants in town also offer fried rice, Mongolian chicken, which are tourist favorites, and there are fresh coffee shops selling freshly baked bread with beautiful views to relax comfortably. There is also KFC for those who want to try Western food.Darjeeling local cuisineThis variety made me worry-free about food.

Accommodation in Darjeeling: I stayed at Dekeling Hotel

I stayed atDekeling Hotelwhich is located in the city center, not far from restaurants and viewpoints. The usual price is about 2,200 baht per night, but I went during the rainy season and managed to negotiate it down to only 800 baht per night! It was a great value and had a warm local atmosphere. Walking around the hotel, I found an old church and a parking lot where locals often spend time chatting.

Strolling in town and mr.hotsia’s feelings

Darjeeling is a city with high cultural diversity, with Nepali, Tibetan, and indigenous Indian people blending harmoniously. I enjoyed walking in areas less frequented by tourists because I could see the real daily life and feel the friendliness of the locals more.

Traveling here reminded me of the mid-19th century when this town was a British colonial city. The old architecture and the running old steam train remain charms attracting tourists worldwide, including Indians and Thais who often send their children here to study with intensive English programs.

If you want to know this town more deeply, you can readTraveling Darjeeling on your ownthat I wrote. You will see clearer pictures and details.

Summary

This trip from Kolkata to Darjeeling is another experience I, mr.hotsia, want to recommend everyone to try. The beauty of nature, local lifestyles, and diverse food and culture make Darjeeling uniquely charming.

If you are looking for a destination with both tranquility and interest, Darjeeling is the answer you should not miss.