Arrive at Bagdogra Airport (IXB) or New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP). The scenic drive to Darjeeling takes you through winding roads, tea gardens, and small villages. The change in altitude and landscape is breathtaking.

Check into your hotel and take some time to acclimatize to the high altitude (approx. 6,700 ft). Choose a hotel with views of the Kanchenjunga for a memorable stay. Mid-range options like Mayfair or heritage hotels like Windamere offer great experiences.

Head to the iconic Keventer's for a classic Darjeeling lunch. Famous for its English breakfast platters (served all day), sausages, and hot chocolate. The open-air terrace offers stunning views of the Kanchenjunga range on a clear day.

Explore the vibrant heart of Darjeeling, the Chowrasta or Mall Road. This flat promenade is a hub of activity, lined with colonial-era buildings, curio shops, and benches. It's the perfect place for a leisurely walk, pony rides, and soaking in the local atmosphere.

A short uphill walk from the Mall leads to Observatory Hill, home to the Mahakal Temple. This unique shrine is sacred to both Hindus and Buddhists, with a palpable spiritual energy. The hill offers panoramic views of the town and the Himalayas.

Enjoy dinner at another Darjeeling institution, Glenary's. The ground floor is a bakery and cafe, while the upstairs restaurant serves a mix of Continental, Chinese, and Indian cuisine in a classic, old-world setting. Their baked goods are a must-try.

Wake up before dawn for a trip to Tiger Hill (8,482 ft), the highest point in the area. Witness the magical sunrise as the first rays of light hit the peaks of Kanchenjunga and, on a very clear day, even Mount Everest. The changing colors on the snow-capped mountains are an unforgettable sight.

On your way back from Tiger Hill, stop at the historic Ghoom Monastery. It's one of the oldest Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in the region and houses a 15-foot high statue of the Maitreya Buddha (the 'Coming Buddha').

This ingenious railway loop is where the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (Toy Train) makes a 360-degree turn. It features a beautiful garden and a Gorkha War Memorial. The spot offers a stunning panoramic view of Darjeeling town with Kanchenjunga in the background.

Return to your hotel for a well-deserved breakfast and a short rest after your early morning adventure.

Experience a piece of living history with a ride on the UNESCO World Heritage Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. The most popular option is the 'Joy Ride' on a steam-engine-pulled train from Darjeeling to Ghoom and back, which includes a stop at Batasia Loop.

For lunch, dive into the local Tibetan cuisine. Kunga Restaurant is a small, family-run place renowned for its delicious momos (dumplings), thukpa (noodle soup), and Tibetan bread. It's a cozy and authentic experience.

Visit one of Darjeeling's oldest and most famous tea gardens. Take a guided tour to learn about the tea-making process, from plucking the leaves to the final packaging. The tour culminates in a tea tasting session where you can sample different flushes of authentic Darjeeling tea.

Visit this center established to support the Tibetan refugee community. You can watch artisans at work, weaving carpets, crafting wooden items, and making other traditional handicrafts. It's a great place to buy high-quality, authentic souvenirs while supporting a good cause.

For dinner, explore some of the smaller local restaurants around town. Places like Dekevas or Sonam's Kitchen offer delicious, home-cooked food and a cozy atmosphere. Try some local Nepali or Sikkimese dishes.

Spend the morning at two co-located attractions. The Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park is renowned for its successful conservation breeding programs for Red Pandas, Snow Leopards, and Tibetan Wolves. Right next door, the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute (HMI) has a fascinating museum detailing the history of mountaineering expeditions on Everest and other peaks.

Enjoy a final meal in Darjeeling. You could revisit a favorite spot or try somewhere new like the Revolver Restaurant, known for its Naga cuisine and Beatles-themed decor.

If you have more time, consider extending your trip to nearby destinations. 1. **Mirik (1.5-2 hrs away):** Famous for its serene Sumendu Lake, surrounded by a forested park. Ideal for a day trip. 2. **Kalimpong (2-2.5 hrs away):** A quieter hill station known for its flower nurseries, monasteries like Zang Dhok Palri Phodang, and panoramic views from Deolo Hill. Requires at least one extra day. 3. **Kurseong (1-1.5 hrs away):** Located on the way to Darjeeling, it's known for its colonial schools, tea gardens like Makaibari, and viewpoints like Eagle's Crag.

Begin your journey back to Bagdogra Airport (IXB) or NJP Railway Station for your onward travel, filled with memories of the majestic Himalayas and the aroma of fresh tea.