21 Best Darjeeling Offbeat Places for Adventure
People often imagine Darjeeling with its iconic Tea Gardens, the toy train and mesmerizing views of The Mighty Himalayas. So much so, that there is a Darjeeling beyond the touristy places. I realized this when I visited Darjeeling Offbeat Places. Below we have rounded up these secret spots and enjoy them lightly while you can experience a true sense of adventure, tranquillity or closeness with nature! Allow me to guide you through the 21 offbeat places near Darjeeling that I have recently discovered. There will be villages and treks where you can just unwind, take in a deep breath of mountain air in isolated places.
In this article, I will share a complete list of 21 offbeat destinations around Darjeeling and how to reach there by road along with distance/altitude/stay.
Looking for unique adventures in Darjeeling? Here are the 21 best offbeat places to explore! Start your journey with serene villages like Tinchuley, Lamahatta, and Chatakpur, offering panoramic views of the Himalayas. Discover the colonial charm of Takdah, or immerse yourself in the orange orchards of Sittong. Nature lovers will adore the tranquil beauty of Lepchajagat and the birdwatching haven of Latpanchar. For trekking enthusiasts, Manebhanjan, the gateway to Sandakphu, is a must-visit, along with the picturesque hamlets of Rimbik and Bijanbari. Experience spiritual serenity at Meghma and explore the scenic trails of Dawaipani. Families will love the peaceful retreats of Jorpokhri, known for its twin lakes, and Mirik, famous for Sumendu Lake. Kalimpong, Pedong, and Lolegaon are perfect for cultural exploration and breathtaking landscapes, while Kurseong charms visitors with its misty tea gardens. Adventure seekers can visit Bara Mangwa, Bunkulung, and Rongo for thrilling outdoor activities, serene riversides, and lush forests. These hidden gems in and around Darjeeling offer a perfect mix of tranquility, adventure, and cultural richness, making them must-visit spots for offbeat travelers. Ready to explore beyond the usual? Start planning your Darjeeling adventure today!
History and Significance
Darjeeling is a hill station one of the remnants from British colonial rule in India. Darjeeling height in feet-> Darjeeling is located at an elevation of approximately 6,700 feet (2,042 meters) above sea level. This picturesque hill station in West Bengal is renowned for its stunning views of the Himalayas, lush tea gardens, and cool climate. Numerous Offbeat places near Darjeeling which was earlier part of the British lands such as Tea estates or hill stations. Today, these places are a reflection of the cultural and scenic glory that lies hidden in this part of India.
1. Tinchuley
Distance from Darjeeling: 28 km
Altitude: 5,500 feet above sea level
Transportation: 1.5 hours by road from Darjeeling. Take the route via Jorebungalow and Lopchu Tea Estate.
Accommodation: Homestays with mountain views.
Tinchuley village has beautiful views of the Teesta River and the Kanchenjunga Mountain. Tinchuley is a small village and nested within the hills and it is one of the offbeat places in West Bengal provide you great view of Teesta River. At first, we have chosen to visit this village. The peace of nature is here unmatched. We have spent some time walking through the village while chatting with locals and enjoying their lifestyle. It is the hidden treasure of offbeat places in Darjeeling. The sunrise is magnificent here the first ray of sun makes Himalayan peaks in golden colour.
2. Lamahatta
Distance from Darjeeling: 21 km
Altitude: 5,700 feet above sea level
Transportation: 45 minutes by road via Hill Cart Road and Peshok Road.
Accommodation: Eco-tourism huts and cottages.
Lamahatta is a beautiful eco-friendly destination where we enjoyed the peace and natural beauty of gardens and forest. The Eco Park in Lamahatta is famous for picnic and a peaceful walk. It’s also a great place for trekking with trails leading to scenic viewpoints and hidden lakes. It is one of the beautiful places in Darjeeling and offbeat places near njp.
3. Chatakpur
Distance from Darjeeling: 20 km
Altitude: 7,800 feet above sea level
Transportation: 1 hour by road via Hill Cart Road and a small detour to the forest area.
Accommodation: Eco-cottages and homestays.
Chatakpur is located within the Senchal Wildlife Sanctuary. It is one of the most peaceful offbeat places near Darjeeling that we have visited. It is a small eco-friendly village where you can see various birds and animals due to Sanctuary. The people of this village are welcoming and warm and we have stayed in one of the eco-cottages here. Waking up with the chirping of birds in the morning.
4. Takdah
Distance from Darjeeling: 28 km
Altitude: 4,000 feet above sea level
Transportation: 1.5 hours by road via Jorebungalow and the Takdah Tea Garden route.
Accommodation: Colonial bungalows and homestays.
Takdah is used to be a British cantonment area, and the colonial bungalows still stand here which adding charms to this village. It makes it one of the beautiful villages near Darjeeling which is perfect for history lovers. We have explored tea gardens and old monasteries in Takdah learning the rich history of this area. Takdah is a true Offbeat Location Near Darjeeling to visit worthwhile.
5. Sittong
Distance from Darjeeling: 35 km
Altitude: 4,500 feet above sea level
Transportation: 2 hours by road via the Mungpoo route.
Accommodation: Homestays offering traditional Nepali meals.
When we have visited Sittong village the entire village was covered with orange orchard and the colour of village was bright hues. It is one of those offbeat destinations in North Bengal where you can enjoy rural life. We have spent our time with walking locals and enjoying the fresh, juicy oranges. It is a kind of lifetime adventure.
6. Lepchajagat
Distance from Darjeeling: 19 km
Altitude: 6,956 feet above sea level
Transportation: 45 minutes by road via Ghoom.
Accommodation: Homestays and forest guest houses.
Our next destination was Lepchajagat. It is a fascinating village surrounded by dense forest and great place for nature lovers, with beautiful trekking trails and bird-watching opportunities. In this village we stayed in a guest house and spent our days walking through the forest with the views of Kanchenjunga. It is also a one of the best offbeat places near Darjeeling to visit.
7. Manebhanjan
Distance from Darjeeling: 26 km
Altitude: 7,054 feet above sea level
Transportation: 1 hour by road via Ghoom and Sukhiapokhri.
Accommodation: Simple lodges and guest houses.
If you want to trek at famous Sandakphu trek, then Manebhanjan is the starting for it. We didn’t go for trek, but we explored the nearby area and took short hikes. The view of the said Sleeping Buddha Mountain from here is truly breathtaking. This make it’s one of those offbeat places near Darjeeling which is perfect for adventurers.
8. Mirik
Distance from Darjeeling: 49 km
Altitude: 4,900 feet above sea level
Transportation: 2 hours by road via Sukhiapokhri and Pashupati Nagar.
Accommodation: Lakeside hotels and resorts.
Mirik is famous for lush tea garden and peaceful lake. In this small town we enjoyed relaxing boat ride on Mirik Lake and explored nearby temple and garden making it a perfect offbeat tourist place near Darjeeling.
9. Bara Mangwa
Distance from Darjeeling: 35 km
Altitude: 4,000 feet above sea level
Transportation: 1.5 hours by road via Teesta Bazaar.
Accommodation: Organic farm stays and homestays.
Our next destination was Bara Mangwa and we stayed in a homestay that offered us fresh and organic food from their farm. Bara Mangwa is famous for its organic farm and natural beauty. If you prefer for a peaceful retreat, then you must visit Bara Mangwa the offbeat destination near Darjeeling.
10. Latpanchar
Distance from Darjeeling: 40 km
Altitude: 4,200 feet above sea level
Transportation: 2 hours by road via Mungpoo.
Accommodation: Homestays with traditional cuisine.
If you are a bird watcher, then Latpanchar is a one of the perfect offbeat places near Mirik. During our visit we spotted the rare Rufous necked Hornbill. The noiseless village, surrounded by forest is a haven for nature lover and whom seeking and offbeat places to stay in Darjeeling.
11. Kurseong
Distance from Darjeeling: 30 km
Altitude: 4,864 feet above sea level
Transportation: 1.5 hours by road via Hill Cart Road.
Accommodation: Heritage hotels and guesthouses.
Kurseong is often overlooked by tourists, but it known as the “Land of White Orchid”. We take a walk through the tea garden and visit the old British-era schools. It’s one of the most charming offbeat places near Kurseong.
12. Meghma
Distance from Darjeeling: 30 km
Altitude: 9,500 feet above sea level
Transportation: 1.5 hours by road via Manebhanjan.
Accommodation: Basic lodges and homestays.
On the way to Sandakphu you will cross by Meghma a small colony. The village has its natural beauty and covers in clouds most of the time, giving it a strange feel. It is one of the most peaceful and remote offbeat locations near Darjeeling.
13. Rimbik
Distance from Darjeeling: 56 km
Altitude: 7,200 feet above sea level
Transportation: 3 hours by road via Manebhanjan.
Accommodation: Simple lodges and homestays.
Near Singalila National Park Rimbik is a peaceful town, making it an important destination for trekkers and nature lovers. We stayed here after a short trek and enjoyed the peace of nature. We have included this place in our Offbeat Locations Near Darjeeling
14. Bijanbari
Distance from Darjeeling: 32 km
Altitude: 2,600 feet above sea level
Transportation: 1.5 hours by road via Ghoom and a steep descent to the valley.
Accommodation: Riverside camps and guest houses.
If you want to enjoy peace of nature and riverside camps, then visit Bijanbari. After visiting Bijanbari we spent time camping by river and hiking in the nearby forests. It is a great place for adventure lovers and this is one of the best locations Near Darjeeling
15. Dawaipani
Distance from Darjeeling: 18 km
Altitude: 6,500 feet above sea level
Transportation: 1 hour by road via Hill Cart Road.
Accommodation: Homestays and lodges.
Dawaipani is an unseen village near Darjeeling with magnificent views of Kanchenjunga. We stayed in a small homestay, enjoying the local food and peaceful atmosphere. It is one the most peaceful offbeat locations in Darjeeling.
16. Jorpokhri
Distance from Darjeeling: 21 km
Altitude: 7,400 feet above sea level
Transportation: 45 minutes by road via Ghoom.
Accommodation: Forest guest houses.
Jorpokhri is known for its twin lake and peaceful place. The lake is surrounded by pine forests, and we enjoyed the peace of the place. It is perfect for a peaceful day trip.
17. Kalimpong
Distance from Darjeeling: 50 km
Altitude: 4,101 feet above sea level
Transportation: 2.5 hours by road via Peshok Road.
Accommodation: Resorts, hotels, and homestays.
Kalimpong is a great blend of adventure and culture. It is hill station with unique charm. We visited the old monasteries, flower nurseries and enjoyed the view from Deolo Hill.
18. Pedong
Distance from Darjeeling: 60 km
Altitude: 4,500 feet above sea level
Transportation: 2.5 hours by road via Kalimpong.
Accommodation: Eco-cottages and homestays.
Pedong is for adventure seekers who love trekking and exploring old forts and monasteries. It is a small town near Kalimpong. We loved the peaceful surroundings and the magnificent views of the surrounding hills.
19. Lolegaon
Distance from Darjeeling: 55 km
Altitude: 5,500 feet above sea level
Transportation: 3 hours by road via Kalimpong.
Accommodation: Forest guest houses and cottages.
Lolegaon is famous for its amazing sunrise views of Kanchenjunga. We enjoyed the calm atmosphere and took a nature walk through the forests. It’s one of those offbeat tourist places near Darjeeling that offers pure peace.
20. Bunkulung
Distance from Darjeeling: 35 km
Altitude: 3,000 feet above sea level
Transportation: 1.5 hours by road via Mirik.
Accommodation: Riverside cottages and homestays.
We stayed in a riverside cottage in Bunkulung, enjoying the peaceful and simple lifestyle. It is a unseen valley surrounded by terraced fields and rivers. It is and ideal place for those looking for a rural experience.
21. Rongo
Distance from Darjeeling: 45 km
Altitude: 5,500 feet above sea level
Transportation: 2.5 hours by road via Kalimpong.
Accommodation: Basic lodges and homestays.
Rongo is located near Bhutan border and has beautiful views of Himalayan range. Here we explored the tea gardens and forests and enjoyed the peace and calmness of nature.
Conclusion
Discovering a different side of Darjeeling and exploring offbeat locations near Darjeeling was a marvellous experience for us. Each place provides its own unique beauty, charm, adventure and peace. If you are a looking for an exploration of peaceful nature, trekker, and adventure these small and beautiful places are perfect for these activities.
FAQ
Where is the best offbeat place to see Kanchenjunga?
The Icchey Gaon is the best offbeat pleace to see Kanchenjunga. It is just 17 kilometres away from Kalimpong.
Which is the zero waste village in Darjeeling?
Three villages — Rajhatta, Bara Mile and Naya Busty, have been named ‘Zero Waste’ villages.
Which is the best offbeat place in Darjeeling?
There are several offbeat places near Darjeeling such as Tinchuley, Lamahatta, Chatakpur, and Lepchajagat, all offering a peaceful escape from crowded tourist spots.
Which is the most beautiful village near Darjeeling?
Some of the most beautiful villages near Darjeeling include Tinchuley, Sittong, Lamahatta, and Takdah. These villages offer scenic landscapes, serene environments, and warm hospitality.
Which is the offbeat hill station in North Bengal?
Tinchuley. Tinchuley is a hidden jewel of Darjeeling region famous for virgin forests of alpine trees & exotic birds.
Can I find offbeat tourist places near Darjeeling?
Yes, there are many offbeat tourist places near Darjeeling, such as Bara Mangwa, Latpanchar, Rimbik, and Bijanbari, all of which offer scenic beauty and unique experiences.
Which is better mirik or lamahatta?
If you are peace lover then go to lamahatta. Mirik is more populated and commercialised.
What is the nearest offbeat place from Siliguri?
The nearest offbeat places from Siliguri is Kurseong.
What is the best time to visit offbeat destinations near Darjeeling?
The best time to visit the offbeat destinations near Darjeeling is from March to May (spring) and October to December (autumn). The weather is pleasant, and the skies are clear, offering the best views of the surrounding hills and mountains.
How far is Mirik from Darjeeling?
Mirik is approximately 49 km from Darjeeling. It takes around 2 hours to travel by road, and the drive is very scenic.
What are the offbeat places to stay in Darjeeling?
There are several offbeat places to stay in Darjeeling, such as eco-resorts in Tinchuley, homestays in Chatakpur, and forest guesthouses in Lepchajagat. These places offer peaceful accommodations with beautiful views.
How high is Darjeeling in feet?
Darjeeling is situated at an altitude of approximately 6,700 feet (2,042 meters) above sea level.
What are some offbeat destinations in North Bengal?
Some offbeat destinations in North Bengal include Dooars, Buxa Tiger Reserve, Samsing, and Jayanti. These places are known for their natural beauty, wildlife, and peaceful environments.
Which peak is seen clearly from Darjeeling?
To Kanchenjunga full range also called sleeping buddha mountain is seen clearly from Darjeeling.
