Darjeeling!! Often called the “Queen of the Hills,” it has always fascinated me. Known for its beautiful views, tea gardens, and old-world charm, this small town in the Himalayas was calling my name. But what made my trip special were the lesser-known places near Darjeeling and the warm welcome at Kaleege House Homestay. Let me take you on my wonderful journey from Mumbai and the hidden gem I discovered during this trip to the mountains of West Bengal.
My adventure started early in the morning as I left the bustling city of Mumbai for the peaceful hills. I caught a flight from Mumbai to Bagdogra, excited about the journey ahead. The flight was smooth, and I reached Bagdogra by afternoon.
From the airport, I hired a cab and started for a scenic drive. The road trip was fantastic, with winding roads, lush green tea gardens, and quaint villages along the way. As the sun set, I finally arrived and checked into Kaleege House Homestay – a Farmstead overlooking the rolling tea gardens of the Rangli Rangliot belt in Takdah Cantt, located between the towns of Darjeeling and Kalimpong.
The Tamang family welcomed me warmly, and I settled into my cozy room with a beautiful view of the mountains. After a delicious dinner, I went to bed early, eager to start exploring the next day.
Day 1 – I woke up to a stunning sunrise and a hearty breakfast at Kaleege House. Today, I decided to visit Tinchuley, a serene village not far from Darjeeling. The drive to Tinchuley was short and pleasant. The village was surrounded by lush forests and tea gardens, perfect for nature walks and bird watching. I spent the morning strolling through the village, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere and taking in the panoramic views of the Himalayas.
In the afternoon, I had a picnic lunch while soaking in the tranquillity of the place. I returned to the homestay in the evening, where the Tamang family shared stories about their culture and history over dinner. Their warmth made me feel right at home.
Day 2 – After another delicious breakfast, I set out for Lamahatta Eco Park, located about 23 kilometers from Darjeeling. The park was beautifully decorated with colorful prayer flags and neat gardens. I spent the morning hiking through the pine forests, reaching stunning viewpoints that offered breathtaking vistas of the surrounding hills and valleys.
I relaxed by the tranquil lake in the park, enjoying the serene environment. After a day of exploration and relaxation, I headed back to Kaleege House, where a hot cup of Darjeeling tea awaited me. The evening was spent chatting with the Tamang family and planning the next day’s adventures.
Day 3 – Today was all about tea! I visited the Makaibari Tea Estate, one of the oldest and most famous tea estates in Darjeeling. The guided tour took me through the entire tea-making process, from plucking the leaves to the final brew. It was fascinating to learn about the rich history and tradition behind Darjeeling tea.I even got to taste some of their finest teas, which was a real treat. After the tour, I spent some time walking through the beautiful tea gardens. Back at the homestay, I shared my experiences with the Tamang family over dinner and enjoyed another peaceful night in the mountains.
Day 4 – I woke up early today before dawn and headed to Batasia Loop to catch the sunrise. The spiral railway track offered a 360-degree view of Darjeeling, and the sight of the first light hitting the Kanchenjunga peaks was magical. The War Memorial at Batasia Loop was also beautifully maintained and added to the charm of the place.
After returning to Kaleege House for breakfast, I spent the rest of the day relaxing and packing up. I took a leisurely walk around the homestay and enjoyed the cool mountain air. In the evening, the Tamang family organized a small farewell dinner, making my last night in their home special.
I woke up on my last morning in Kaleege House, feeling a mix of happiness and nostalgia. After a final breakfast, I packed my bags and said goodbye to the Tamang family, thanking them for their incredible hospitality.
The drive back to Bagdogra was filled with reflections on my wonderful journey. As I boarded my flight back to Mumbai, I knew that the memories of misty mountains, fragrant tea gardens, and the genuine warmth of the people would stay with me forever.
Darjeeling, with its hidden gems and the cozy charm of Kaleege House Homestay, had captured my heart. If you’re planning a trip to this beautiful place, I highly recommend exploring beyond the common paths—you might discover the true essence of the region near Darjeeling just like I did.
