Family Adventure in the Scenic Hills of Darjeeling

Day 1: A Sunrise Spectacle and Culinary Journey in Darjeeling

Our first day in Darjeeling was nothing short of magical. It was a sensory explosion, blending the awe-inspiring beauty of the Himalayas with the comforting tastes of home and the thrill of discovering new flavors. Today was a reminder of why I love to travel – to witness nature's grandeur and immerse myself in the local culture, one delicious bite at a time.

The day began before dawn, a concept still foreign to Leela, but she perked up at the promise of adventure. Bundled in layers, we set off with Thomas in our hired jeep towards Tiger Hill. The air was crisp, carrying the scent of pine and damp earth, a stark contrast to the familiar city air of Heidelberg. The drive itself was an experience, winding through narrow roads, the darkness punctuated by the headlights of other vehicles making the same pilgrimage.

Reaching Tiger Hill, we joined a throng of fellow travelers, all huddled together, anticipation palpable in the cold morning air. The sky was a canvas of deep indigo, slowly giving way to streaks of violet and rose. And then, it happened. The sun peeked over the horizon, painting the snow-capped peaks of Kanchenjunga in hues of gold and crimson. It was a sight that took my breath away, a moment of pure, unadulterated beauty that I will cherish forever. Leela, wide-eyed, pointed and exclaimed, Mama, it's like a dream! Even Thomas, usually stoic, was visibly moved. It was truly a spectacle to behold, one of the most breathtaking experiences in the Himalayas.


Witness breathtaking sunrise views over the Himalayas from Darjeeling's highest point, a truly unforgettable experience.

Sometimes, the most beautiful things in life are the ones you have to wake up early for.

After soaking in the sunrise, we drove back to Darjeeling, our hearts full and our stomachs rumbling. Our first stop was Glenary's, a name synonymous with Darjeeling itself. The bakery, restaurant, and pub exuded an old-world charm, a relic of the British colonial era. The aroma of freshly baked bread and brewing coffee was intoxicating, a welcome assault on the senses after the cold morning air. We settled into a cozy corner and ordered a hearty breakfast. I opted for the classic Darjeeling breakfast of fried eggs, bacon, and sausages, while Thomas chose a cheese burger. Leela, of course, wanted a chocolate doughnut, which she devoured with gusto, chocolate smeared across her face. The food was comforting, familiar, a taste of home away from home. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, a perfect start to the day.


Discover Glenary's in Darjeeling: A charming bakery and restaurant offering delicious cuisine and stunning views in a heritage setting.

With our bellies full, we decided to explore the famous Darjeeling Mall, also known as Chowrasta. This bustling square is the heart of Darjeeling, a place where locals and tourists mingle, where the past meets the present. Leela was immediately captivated by the ponies, their colorful decorations adding to the vibrant atmosphere. We strolled along the Mall, browsing the shops selling everything from traditional handicrafts to warm woolens. I picked up a beautiful Pashmina shawl, a reminder of our trip, while Leela chose a small, intricately carved wooden elephant.


Experience the vibrant shopping culture and stunning views at Darjeeling Mall, a must-visit destination for every tourist in Darjeeling.

For lunch, we ventured to Kunga Restaurant, a local favorite known for its Tibetan fare. Tucked away on a side street, the restaurant was small and unassuming, but the aroma wafting from its kitchen was irresistible. We ordered momos, thukpa, and wonton soup, all classic Tibetan dishes. The momos were juicy and flavorful, the thukpa warm and comforting, and the wonton soup a burst of savory goodness. Leela, initially hesitant, soon warmed up to the momos, declaring them yummy dumplings. The food was simple, authentic, and incredibly satisfying.


Discover authentic Tibetan and Chinese cuisine at Kunga Restaurant in Darjeeling, where every meal is a taste of tradition amidst stunning Himalayan views.

In the late afternoon, we returned to the Darjeeling Mall for some more shopping. I was determined to find some authentic Darjeeling tea to bring back to Germany. We visited several tea shops, each offering a dizzying array of blends and flavors. I finally settled on a few packets of first flush tea, its delicate aroma promising a taste of the Himalayas back in Heidelberg.

As the day drew to a close, we decided to try some authentic Nepali cuisine for dinner. After researching online, I found The Locals - Authentic Nepali Cuisine. According to online reviews, they offer Nepali Thali, and other Ala carte dishes. While the restaurant was a little far from the main market, but close to the mall road market area, we decided to try it. It was the perfect way to end our first day in Darjeeling, a culinary journey that reflected the rich cultural heritage of the region.


Experience authentic Nepali flavors at The Locals in Darjeeling - a culinary journey through traditional dishes and warm hospitality.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway and the Batasia Loop. I am excited to experience these iconic landmarks and delve deeper into the history and culture of this enchanting town.

Before heading back to the hotel, we stopped by a local vendor selling steaming cups of chai. As I sipped the sweet, milky tea, I watched the lights of Darjeeling twinkle against the darkening sky. It was a moment of contentment, a feeling of being exactly where I was meant to be. Darjeeling had welcomed us with open arms, and I knew that the next ten days would be filled with unforgettable experiences.