Trip to Lamahatta and Darjeeling (India)

Darjeeling

One of the most common tourist places in North Bengal is Darjeeling and Lamahatta is a small mountain village 26km from Darjeeling and a lovely eco-tourism place with amazing natural surroundings and views. It is a perfect place for a small weekend trip for couples/young people. But for the family with infants/toddlers/aged people, it may be a bit difficult. Though I traveled with a family of 6 which includes 62 years and 2 years and we enjoyed overall.



We went for just three days. Two nights we stayed in Lamahatta and 1night in Darjeeling. For both places, we booked the room online before going. Lamahatta sightseeing was arranged by the homestay owner with some extra cost. 

Once we reached in the early morning to the new Jalpaiguri railway station just outside the station we found one local travel agent office. They arranged transport from Newjalpaiguri to Lamahatta, Lamahatta to Darjeeling with Darjeeling sightseeings, Toy train tickets from Darjeeling to Karsheong and Kursheong to New Jalpaiguri by private car. 

But I will suggest you stay in Darjeeling and Visit Lamahatta if you want a budget trip. As Lamahatta homestays are costlier than hotels in Darjeeling. But Lamahatta is much peaceful compare to Darjeeling.

Toy train

How to reach Lamahatta and Darjeeling

The nearest airport is Bagdogra. The nearest Railway station is NJP (New Jalpaiguri). From both the railway station and the airport a lot of cars/ buses are available. Without booking also it will not be a problem in offseasons.

The most wonderful journey from NJP to Darjeeling is through Toy train (DHR). If you have time then you must take this journey. It will be memorable for a lifetime. UNESCO declared DHR as a world heritage site. Book the ticket before to get a hassle-free journey. Always check the timings from the Indian railway's site as timings may change. 



Have a look at this wonderful journey

Lamahatta can be reached directly from the NJP  railway station or Bagdogra airport by road. If you come out of the station there will be a lot of cabs available at a reasonable price.

Hotels in Darjeeling

From a budget hotel to a luxurious resort all kinds of staying and food options are available in Darjeeling. Nowadays there are many homestays available with facilities like a three-star hotel. We stayed in the Hotel Shangrila Regency. Nice hotel with big rooms and a balcony. Room heater facility available. We booked through booking.com .

Hotels in Lamahatta

In Lamahatta staying options are limited and costly compared to Darjeeling. This place is still developing. There are only a few hotels. Only Homestays are available. Food option is also limited. Homestay provides all the necessary food and drinks with cost. We stayed in Everest homestay. It was a really pleasant place to stay. But in homestay 24hours hot water or room heater facilities will not be available. It is always advised that you book before you travel.

Lamahatta food and accommodation cost is higher than Darjeeling. It is only 26 km from Darjeeling so you can stay in Darjeeling and visit to Lamahatta for a full day. 

Those who are looking for a peaceful stay away from city life Lamahatta is a good option for them.

Best places to see in Darjeeling

There are a number of places to see in Darjeeling. But I will mention the 8 most important places to visit in Darjeeling.

1. Darjeeling Rock garden

2. Darjeeling ropeways

3. Himalayan Mountaineering Institute (HMI) and Darjeeling Zoo.

4. Tiger hill

5. Shanti stupa (Japanese peace pagoda)

6. Toy train (DHR)  & Batasia loop

7. Darjeeling Mall (Chowrasta). 

8. Tea garden

Best places to see in Lamahatta

Truly speaking when you reach Lamahatta the place itself is a beauty to feel. Take a deep breath..feel nature. Best places to see in Lamahatta

1. Lamahatta park.
2. Trek to the Sacred water body from Lamahatta park.
3. Botanical garden
4. Tinchuley village
5. Takdah Tea garden
6. Lamahatta monastery


Best time to visit Darjeeling and Lamahatta


Summer is always best to visit for any hill station. During summer (April -May) temperature will be between 15 to 28 degree. 

In winter (Dec to Feb) temp below 10 degree and may the temperature can drop down to 2d-3 degree Celsius.

It is good to avoid traveling during the rainy season (June to Sept)

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Most important tips for the trip

1. In Lamahatta once it is dark you can't go out of your homestay for your own safety.

2. Lamahatta is a remote area. Carry baby food/ diapers if you are traveling with todler/baby.

3. Carry the necessary medicine for hill diarrhea, fever, vomiting, and first aid.

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4. carry the torch in Lamahatta as I mentioned before after sunset it will be dark outside.

For photos check the video below

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