There are many getaways from Darjeeling. Its recommended exploring new and exciting places/resorts around Darjeeling which offer something different.
Kalimpong - One important getaway from Darjeeling is Kalimpong. It is a lovely and exquisite hill station. This hill town is situated in North Bengal and can be easily reached from Darjeeling. It is situated at an altitude of 1250 meters. The climate of the hill town is temperate all through the year. Kalimpong is connected to Darjeeling by road through buses, jeeps and private taxis. Another getaway from Darjeeling is the tea plantations.
Kurseong - Kurseong is mid way between Siliguri and Darjeeling. The way from Darjeeling to Kurseong is generally open through out the year. So, the toy train is not coming to Siliguri then you can come up to Kurseong. This place is equally beautiful and is full of natural splendour.
Mirik - Mirik is 52 kms from Siliguri and 55 kms from the nearest Airfield of Bagdogra. Mirik is being developed as a new hill station in the mountains. Mirik is surrounded by tea estates, orange orchards and cardamom plantations. It has all the facilities to fulfill the needs of a tourist.
Siliguri / New Jalpaiguri - The twin Cities of Siliguri and New Jalpaiguri are the departure point to Darjeeling, Sikkim and the North Eastern States. Being the nodal point this place has become very busy and crowded. This area has got population over 2.5 lakh people. Siliguri also acts as a transit point for Nepal. This place is not very pleasant to stay as there are always long lines of buses and trucks. These trucks and vehicles might be good for business but they provide very ugly sight. Tourists come to Siliguri and New Jalpaiguri mainly to change bus or catch trains. If you have time then visit the almost forgotten wild life sanctuary of Jaldhapara. The best season to visit this park is between October and May. This the time when the new grass has come up and animals are out there. The sanctuary has elephants, dears, tigers and other animals but the main attraction is the Rhinos which are threatened by the poachers. Elephant Safari can be taken from Hollong.
