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Darjeeling, also known as the ‘Queen of the Hills,’ is the best location for camping since it embodies the ideal fusion of tranquil landscapes and unspoiled beauty. Tucked down in the shadow of the Eastern Himalayas, camping in Darjeeling provides a cool escape from the traffic and busy lifestyle of the metropolis. Darjeeling is blessed by the virtue of its location and landscape. It offers a plethora of options for adventure sports and activities to ensure that the vacations of thrill-seekers and nature lovers are truly unforgettable.
10 Places For Camping In Darjeeling
Here are the top 10 camping places in Darjeeling that promise an unforgettable experience, each with its charm.
1. Tinchuley Village
Photo: Yaroslav Y / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Tinchuley Village in the Darjeeling district is renowned for its breathtaking views of Kanchenjunga, the Teesta and Rangeet river’s confluence. This village is a tranquil getaway for campers and environment enthusiasts, encircled by thick forests and tea gardens. It’s a place to find peace, with possibilities for bird viewing, nature walks, and trips to the centuries-old orange orchards and Tinchuley Monastery. The homestays provide a cosy, comfortable environment that allows guests to fully immerse themselves in the local way of life while savouring freshly made, organic meals. This is one of the best camps in Darjeeling.
Where To Camp: Homestay Camping and Village Eco-Camp
Timings: Open all year round
Cost/Person: ₹500 – ₹1500
2. Sandakphu
Photo: solarshakti / Wikimedia Commons
With an elevation of 3,636 metres, Sandakphu is West Bengal’s highest peak and offers unparalleled camping experiences. This area, known as ‘Trekkers’ Wonderland,’ offers breathtaking vistas of Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, and Makalu, the world’s tallest peaks. Begin in verdant forests with dense foliage and work your way up to rough routes and alpine meadows on the Sandakphu trails. Sandakphu offers luxury camping in Darjeeling, with views of the Himalayas at sunrise and sunset. Photographers and animal lovers can spot endangered species like the Himalayan black bear and the red panda here.
Where To Camp: Trekker’s Campsite and Hilltop Camping
Timings: March to May and September to November
Cost/Person: ₹1000 – ₹2000
3. Lamahatta
Photo: T6 Adventures / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Nestled amongst thick pine forests and waving prayer flags, Lamahatta is a tranquil eco-tourism hotspot. Located 23 kilometres from Darjeeling, Lamahatta is a serene haven encircled by breathtaking vistas of valleys and mountains. The area’s main draw is Lamahatta Eco-Park, with pathways for nature walks, well-kept gardens, and a lovely lake. The calm environment makes it easier for the camper to meditate or simply take in the local plants and animals. The eco-friendly campsites and homestays in Lamahatta are designed to offer comfort while maintaining harmony with nature. Lamahatta is ideal for camping in Darjeeling for family.
Where To Camp: Eco Park Campsite and Pine Forest Camp
Timings: Open all year round
Cost/Person: ₹700 – ₹1500
4. Chatakpur
Photo: Temo Berishvili / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Situated at about 7,887 feet above sea level, Chatakpur is a little settlement in the Senchal Wildlife Sanctuary that provides a great place to camp among unspoiled nature. This environmentally conscious town is encircled by thick forests teeming with many wildlife species, including deer and leopards. The hamlet offers guests a genuine experience while adhering to ecotourism principles with minimal environmental impact. In addition to hiking forest trails and visiting the village’s herbal and medicinal plant nurseries, you can take in the breathtaking panoramic view of the Kanchenjunga range. The homestays in Chatakpur offer cosy accommodations and organic meals.
Where To Camp: Forest Camping and Wildlife Camp
Timings: Open all year round
Cost/Person: ₹800 – ₹1500
5. Jorpokhri
Photo: Markus Spiske / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Jorpokhri, which is 7,400 feet above sea level, is well-known for its twin lakes and serene environs, making it one of the most popular places to camp. The precise translation of the term ‘Jorpokhri’ is ‘twin ponds,’ which also happen to be the home of the critically endangered Himalayan salamander. A wide range of avian and amphibian species indicates a strong biodiversity. Visitors can also relax, meditate, and enjoy nature hikes in this serene setting. The Lepchajagat woodland and the Buddhist monastery in Mirik are two more sites worth seeing in and near Jorpokhri.
Where To Camp: Lakeside Campsite and Eco Camping
Timings: Open all year round
Cost/Person: ₹600 – ₹1200
6. Rimbick
Photo: Rabhimbh Bardhan / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
The remote village of Rimbick is situated close to Singalila National Park. This location provides adventure seekers with a distinctive camping experience. The surrounding scenery is incredibly stunning, featuring terraced fields and sweeping views of the Himalayas in emerald-green valleys. Many trekking routes start and end at Rimbick, including the Sandakphu trail. Campers can explore the region’s natural beauty, visit the local waterfalls, and interact with the friendly villagers. In addition to being a location with a notable diversity of life, it offers opportunities to see avian and feral species. It is a great choice for budget camping in Darjeeling.
Where To Camp: Village Campsite and Mountain View Camp
Timings: Open all year round
Cost/Person: ₹700 – ₹1400
7. Srikhola
Photo: Suvendra.nath / Wikimedia Commons
Srikhola, a little settlement near the Srikhola River, offers tranquil camping amid untamed settings. The surroundings, with their verdant foliage and the soothing murmur of the river, are ideal for camping for individuals who enjoy solitude. In addition, it serves as an ideal resting place for trekkers descending from Sandakphu, providing a serene and revitalising environment. Fishing and going on nature hikes to observe the local fauna are examples of some of the activities visitors can enjoy here. Srikhola’s cosy riverbank campsites provide views of the surrounding hills and trees.
Where To Camp: Riverside Camping and Forest Edge Camp
Timings: Open all year round
Cost/Person: ₹600 – ₹1300
8. Mangwa
Photo: Anikó Liptai / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Mangwa is a beautiful campsite tucked away among orange orchards and terraced fields. This town is well-known for its wide views of the Teesta River and the surrounding hills. In addition to providing a peaceful haven from the busy metropolis, Mangwa offers opportunities for nature hikes, bird watching, and visits to neighbouring tea farms. The local rustic homestays and campers provide warm, unwinding experiences for their guests by serving fresh, organic food from neighbouring farms. Interacting with the locals and learning more about their farming habits and way of life is also welcomed.
Where To Camp: Orchard Camping and Hilltop Camp
Timings: Open all year round
Cost/Person: ₹500 – ₹1200
9. Takdah
Photo: Quang Nguyen Vinh / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Takdah is one of the areas that were once part of the British cantonment. The region, surrounded by lush vegetation and colonial elegance, is home to old British homes, tea gardens, and deep forests. Camping at Takdah allows visitors to share this beautiful place’s history and tranquillity. The tea estates in the area provide guided tours. One gets to sample some of the best Darjeeling tea and learn about the tea-making process during these outings. The Takdah forest’s paths are excellent for taking nature hikes and seeing birds. They offer some breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and mountains.
Where To Camp: Tea Garden Campsite and Forest Retreat Camp
Timings: Open all year round
Cost/Person: ₹700 – ₹1500
10. Tonglu
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Tonglu has the nicest camping areas and views of the Himalayas since it is located on the Singalila Ridge. At sunrise and sunset, the 3,070-metre-high viewpoint at Tonglu is just breathtaking. Tonglu serves as a crucial stopover for hikers travelling the Sandakphu trail. This provides peaceful surroundings and great views of the surroundings. Tonglu campsites offer all basic amenities so that guests can experience the peace and beauty of the Himalayas up close. Additionally, one can go to nearby attractions like the Tonglu Monastery and Singalila National Park.
Where To Camp: Ridge Campsite and Mountain View Camp
Timings: March to May and September to November
Cost/Person: ₹800 – ₹1600
Darjeeling provides an unmatched chance to camp and take in the Himalayan region’s tranquil beauty and varied scenery. Camping in Darjeeling offers a unique and immersive experience, from the serene orange orchards of Mangwa to the historical beauty of Takdah. These camping areas display the region’s rich biodiversity and cultural legacy in addition to Darjeeling’s breathtaking natural beauty. With TripXL, create your itinerary and add unique touches to your trip.
Cover Photo: Joy Amed / Unsplash
