Speaking of snow peaks, serenity and vibrancy of the misty hills, there's possibly no better destination than Darjeeling. Towered over by ethereal Khangchendzonga, Darjeeling is one of the definitive Indian hill stations of India. This heavenly retreat still holds on to the colonial-era architecture and Buddhist monasteries impersonating a quaint destination for travellers of every age. Eight to octogenarian can indulge in the 140-year-old steam-billowing Darjeeling Himalayan Railway and suffuse in a dreamy journey. Whether you want to take a ride on mountain bike around the hills or wish to explore the trek to Singalila Ridge, there is a lot to take back from this mountain destination.
Explore & Travel darjeeling
darjeeling Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)
- #BEST TIME TO VISIT
- #CLOTHES
- #DOMESTIC FLIGHTS
- #ELECTRICITY
- #FAIRS AND FESTIVALS
- #FOOD
- #GENERAL
- #GUIDES
- #HEALTH, WELLNESS AND HOSPITALS
- #HOTELS
- #INSURANCE
- #LANGUAGE
- #MONEY AND CREDIT CARDS
- #MONUMENTS
- #MOVING AROUND
- #NIGHT LIFE
- #PHOTOGRAPHY
- #RELIGIOUS PLACES
- #SAFETY
- #SHOPPING
- #TELEPHONE AND MOBILE/SIM CARDS
- #THINGS TO DO
- #TIPPING
- #VACCINATIONS
- #VISA
- #WATER AND DRINKS
- #WEATHER
BEST TIME TO VISIT
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Q.Which is the best time to visit Darjeeling?A.April to June are the ideal time to travel to Darjeeling.
CLOTHES
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Q.Which type of clothes should we carry while travelling to Darjeeling?A.Carry light woollens for the evenings such as a shawl, light full sweater, or a jacket. Comfortable daywear includes jean and t-shirts/salwar’s or tunics. Carry a sturdy pair of shoes or sneakers with socks.
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Q.Suggest the type of clothing needed to visit the religious places in Darjeeling.A.Try to wear covered clothes.
DOMESTIC FLIGHTS
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Q.How much baggage is allowed in the domestic flights?A.Generally, the cabin baggage allowance in Economy Class is 15 kg while the carry-on hand baggage is 7 kg. Get the updated guidelines from the airlines’ guideline.
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Q.Is it safe to travel by domestic flights and how expensive are airfares?A.The nearest airport to Darjeeling is Bagdogra and is frequented by both domestic and international tourists. The airport authority knows how to give priority to customer safety.
India Tours can help you get tickets at reasonable prices. -
Q.Are the domestic airlines safe and punctual?A.Bagdogra sees mostly punctual domestic flights unless there is some severe weather condition.
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Q.Do the domestic airlines offer meals or snacks?A.Most of the domestic airlines are budget carriers so you will not get complimentary meals however, you can buy it on board.
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Q.How early should I reach the airport counter?A.The check-in counters for domestic airlines close 45 minutes prior to departure.
ELECTRICITY
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Q.Is the electricity 110 v or 220 v and which type of power points/plugs/sockets are used in Darjeeling?A.Carrying a universal travel adapter is advisable that will fit every socket in the country. Check the label; if it reads "125/250V | 50/60Hz", it can be used all across. Power plugs and sockets are of type C, D and M in India.
FAIRS AND FESTIVALS
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Q.Which are the fairs & festivals in Darjeeling?A.Teesta Tea And Tourism Festival, Darjeeling Carnival, Darjeeling Orange Festival, New Year Celebrations and Losha are popular festivals celebrated all through the year.
FOOD
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Q.Can I get food according to the specific dietary requirements?A.Yes. Please mention your requirements to our representative while booking.
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Q.Are raw fruit or vegetables available in the streets of Darjeeling?A.Yes. Seasonal fruits and vegetables are available.
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Q.Is the food spicy in Darjeeling?A.From street foods to the restaurants, there are plenty of options for spicy food.
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Q.Is vegetarian food or vegan food available in Darjeeling?A.Yes. Tourists can find vegetarian food here.
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Q.Is meat or fish available in Darjeeling?A.Yes. From seafood to various types of meat, Darjeeling is a paradise for food lovers.
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Q.Is kosher food available in Darjeeling?A.Yes. There are some loved kosher restaurants.
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Q.Is Halal food available in Darjeeling?A.Yes. The shops and restaurants particularly mention the availability of Halal food.
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Q.Is non-spicy European food available in Darjeeling?A.A lot of European tourists come here so there’s plenty of options for European restaurants as well.
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Q.Are there Pizza Huts/Dominos/Mc Donald in Darjeeling?A.There are many globally popular food chains in Darjeeling.
GENERAL
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Q.What to pack while travelling in India?A.Most stores in urban cities will have almost everything you need. Try packing:
• Quality spinner suitcase, locks and cable
• Comfortable sturdy walking shoes
• Layered clothes (woollen or long-sleeved dresses for cold and heat weathers respectively)
• Sunscreen, power bank, mosquito repellent, universal adapter
• Particular prescription drugs -
Q.Etiquette for visitors in India I should be aware of.A.Religious Etiquettes: Menstruating women are usually not allowed inside religious places. Covering head is must for Gurudwara or a Mosque. Leather items are not allowed in Jain temples. Don’t photograph cremation ceremonies.
Table Etiquettes: Food is generally eaten with hands. Hindus usually avoid beef. 5%-10% tipping is common in restaurants.
Greeting: Bow head and fold hands to greet elderly people
Business Etiquettes: Business meetings in India are slightly less formal than the occidental. -
Q.Can the physically challenged visit the monuments?A.Physically challenged people are allowed to visit monuments; however, you should discuss with India Tours what kind of accessibility you will need.
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Q.Are tourists allowed to visit the local educational institutions?A.Tourists are required to have proper permission for visiting both private and government educational institutions.
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Q.Is it okay to pay the beggars?A.Although not illegal, it’s best to avoid the panhandlers.
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Q.Top five basic Hindi words I should know while travelling.A.• Hello – Namaste or Pranam
• Thank you – Dhanyavad
• What is your name – Aap ka Naam kya hai
• What’s this – Ye kya hai
• Can you help me – Kya aap meri madad karenge -
Q.What are the major religions in India?A.India is a secular country where Hinduism, Buddhism, Christianity, Islam, Jainism, and Sikhism are popularly practised.
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Q.Common styles of toilet in India.A.Traditional squatting pan and the western commode are the two main types of toilet you find in India. In general, you will find water to wash, instead of toilet paper.
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Q.Is India safe for LGBT travellers?A.In 2018, the Supreme Court of India decriminalised homosexuality but it is always wise to remain vigilant in a socially traditional country like India.
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Q.What are some of the lesser-known places of India/ Darjeeling?A.Places to visit in India
• Magnetic Hill in Ladakh
• Roopkund – The Skeleton Lake
• Jatinga – Mass Bird Suicides
• Floating Islands of Loktak Lake, Manipur
• Karni Mata Mandir – Temple of Rats in Rajasthan
Darjeeling
• Batasia Loop
• Padmaja Naidu Zoological Park
• Peace Pagoda
• Ghoom Monastery
• Rock Garden -
Q.Is India safe as a family destination?A.Speak with India Tours representatives to make the arrangements accordingly. By large, India is a safe family destination.
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Q.What is the pollution condition in Darjeeling and other parts of India?A.Most of the urban cities in India are also polluted but Darjeeling is a lesser polluted destination than the other metros.
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Q.Can I wear shorts and not get eyes on me?A.Darjeeling is a very popular destination that sees the footfall of many international travellers. But try to dress appropriately to avoid unnecessary stares.
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Q.Will I get tourist police if needed?A.Although there are designated tourist polices, it is better to keep the contact number of local police stations handy.
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Q.What is the chance of seeing snake charmers, cows, camels, elephants, bears and other wild animals on the street?A.Chances are rare to find any such wild animals on urban settlements.
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Q.Do Indian roads have stray dogs, cats and other animals?A.Yes. Dogs, cats, cows are commonly found and are otherwise harmless.
GUIDES
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Q.Can I hire linguistic tour guide in Darjeeling?A.Yes. Visit https://www.india-tours.com/ to know more.
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Q.I need women travel guide. Can you help?A.Yes. India Tours can help you arrange the right woman travel guide.
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Q.Can I get audio guides while visiting the India / Darjeeling monuments?A.There are apps available that serve as audio guides in Darjeeling.
HEALTH, WELLNESS AND HOSPITALS
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Q.Are there good hospitals in Darjeeling?A.There are health care options that offer state-of-the-art facilities.
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Q.Is Medical Treatment - Dentistry, Cosmetic Surgery, Oncology, Cardiology, MAS-Laparoscopy, Hair Transplant, etc. available in Darjeeling?A.You can find modernized medical treatment options in some of the nursing homes.
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Q.I need regular medicines. Are they available over the counter in the pharmacies in Darjeeling?A.Mostly yes. However, some vaccines or particular medications might not be available which is why it is better to carry.
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Q.Are there good Ayurveda Treatment Centers in Darjeeling?A.Our representatives will help you get appointments for the Ayurveda Treatment Centers.
HOTELS
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Q.What international hotel chains are there in Darjeeling?A.You can find the major international hotel chains in Darjeeling as it is a popular tourist destination.
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Q.Is Darjeeling an expensive option for regular tourists?A.India Tours will help you get the best deals on accommodation based on your budget.
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Q.What is the average cost for accommodation?A.Get all sorts of options – from airbnbs to five-star hotels in Darjeeling. Visit https://www.india-tours.com/ to know about the promotional offers.
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Q.Are there old palace, heritage hotels in Darjeeling?A.Yes, there are heritage hotels in Darjeeling providing world class services.
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Q.Will I find proper hygiene and modern amenities in Darjeeling?A.Most hotels and resorts have standard amenities and hygiene.
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Q.Are the hotels safe in Darjeeling?A.There are surveillance cameras in entire public space for the safety and security of tourists and residents. The Airbnbs and mid-budget hotels also have surveillance in place.
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Q.Are Darjeeling hotels safe for women travellers?A.High-end properties have special in-room facilities. But solo women travellers must remain observant to avoid any uncalled-for situation.
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Q.Are there handicapped friendly hotels in Darjeeling?A.Yes, you can find disabled friendly hotels with all the required facilities. Ask https://www.india-tours.com/ to help arrange the same.
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Q.Are there handicapped friendly toilets in hotels in Darjeeling?A.The hotels with disabled-friendly rooms offer state-of-the-art facilities for handicapped friendly toilets.
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Q.Can I find western toilets in public places?A.Mostly yes.
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Q.Are the bars and restaurants open all night?A.You can expect most places to take last orders by 9:30 pm.
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Q.What is the easiest way to book a hotel or holiday in Darjeeling?A.Reach out to us at http://www.india-tours.com/ for all sorts of travel query.
INSURANCE
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Q.Do we need medical and travel insurance for travelling to Darjeeling?A.Travel insurance will cover everything from lost luggage to medical emergencies, so it is good to get the insurance done.
LANGUAGE
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Q.Do the local people speak English in Darjeeling?A.Mostly yes.
Learn some basic languages in Bengali.
Google translator can help you in easier communication.
MONEY AND CREDIT CARDS
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Q.Can I withdraw foreign currencies from ATM machines?A.You can use the international debit and credit cards to withdraw Indian rupees in 2000, 500, 200, 100, 50, 20, 10 denominations.
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Q.Which is the best place to exchange Euros, Sterling Pounds, US Dollars, Canadian Dollars, Australian Dollars in Darjeeling?A.There are forex offices to get your money exchanged but our representatives can also suggest you get it done.
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Q.Can I exchange Sterling Pounds or US Dollars or Canadian Dollars or Australian Dollars or Euros in the banks or hotels in Darjeeling?A.Yes, you can exchange foreign currencies. Make sure to carry the necessary documents.
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Q.Is the use of credit card common? Are they safe to use?A.Usually, it is safe to use the credit cards in the hotels, shops and restaurants but does not share the personal details of the card with anyone.
MONUMENTS
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Q.Which days are the monuments closed and the timings in Darjeeling?A.• Bengal Natural History Museum
• Himalayan Mountaineering Institute
• Roy Villa
• Step Aside - Deshbandhu Museum
• DHR Ghoom Museum
• Darjeeling Old Cemetery -
Q.Are there public conveyances available at the monuments in Darjeeling?A.Yes.
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Q.Are there wheel chairs available at the monuments in Darjeeling?A.Most of the forts and monuments are not wheel chair accessible but you can ask India Tours to help arrange the same.
MOVING AROUND
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Q.Which is the best way to travel in Darjeeling?A.You will get public transport. Many tourists also choose to hire cars or bikes while they stay.
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Q.Is it advisable to rent a self drive car in Darjeeling?A.Since the terrain is difficult, it’s better you choose to have an experienced driver
NIGHT LIFE
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Q.Are there cinemas, classical programs or a night life in Darjeeling?A.Being a hilly place, there’s not many options for nightlife although some bars and pubs are open till late at night.
PHOTOGRAPHY
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Q.Can we take photographs in the public places of Darjeeling?A.Mostly yes. There are clear signs of restriction/prohibition of photography where you must obey the instruction to avoid penalty.
RELIGIOUS PLACES
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Q.Major Churches, mosques and temples in Darjeeling.A.Churches
• St. Andrew’s Church
• St. Columba’s Kirk
• St. Jude Catholic Church
• Immaculate Conception Church
Mosques
• Badi Masjid
• Masjid Ground
• Choti Masjid Fakirdeep– Oldest Mosque in Darjeeling
Temple
• Dhirdham Temple
• Japanese peace pagoda
• Kali Temple -
Q.Is there a dress code to visit religious places in Darjeeling?A.When visiting religious sites, wear covered clothes.
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Q.Are all the religious places open for foreign tourists in Darjeeling?A.Mostly yes. If there are any specific regulations, there will be clear signage.
SAFETY
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Q.Is it safe for a single woman or a girl or a family to travel to Darjeeling?A.Darjeeling is a famous and safe destination for solo women travellers.
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Q.Should we accept if young boys/men ask for selfie with women traveller?A.It is always advisable to avoid complete strangers.
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Q.Is it safer to go out in the night if invited by local people?A.Avoid going out at night with unknown people.
SHOPPING
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Q.What can I buy in Darjeeling?A.• Hand knitted items at New Mahakal Market
• Cheap electronics at Chowk Bazaar
• Carpets at Tibetan Self Help Center
• Handicrafts & Souvenirs at Chowrasta
• Woollen clothes at Dragon Market
• Great deals at Rink Mall -
Q.Is haggling allowed in Darjeeling?A.Yes. While shopping local, tourist love to bargain.
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Q.Are cigarettes or cigars or tobacco easily available in Darjeeling?A.Smoking in public places was prohibited all across the nation in 2008 but you can find tobacco stalls in Darjeeling.
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Q.Should we visit tourist shop suggested by driver?A.You can go to the shops shown by the guide or driver but look for other options as well before buying.
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Q.Can you help us suggest what to shop?A.Our representatives will tell you about the specialities of Darjeeling.
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Q.Are the shops genuine?A.Roadside stalls might have counterfeit products, but the government cooperative shops or the malls will not feign on their quality.
TELEPHONE AND MOBILE/SIM CARDS
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Q.Is it easy to buy a SIM card or a mobile phone?A.There are both postpaid and prepaid cellular connections available. You can find branded mobile stores as well.
THINGS TO DO
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Q.Can we visit the local markets in Darjeeling?A.Yes, you can explore the local life of Darjeeling without hesitation.
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Q.Can we attend a culinary class in Darjeeling?A.Yes. If your stay time permits, India Tours arrange such classes.
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Q.Can we attend Yoga classes or naturopathy/wellness/ayurveda therapies in Darjeeling?A.Yoga and naturopathy is common in Darjeeling.
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Q.What are things to do in Darjeeling?A.There’s plenty of scope for heritage sightseeing, religious tours, cultural tours, business and MICE tourism, adventure travel here. Visit https://www.india-tours.com/ for more.
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Q.Can we contact NGOs or schools or hospitals or orphanages, old age homes for charity activities.A.Yes. Charity or aid tourism and voluntourism can be arranged upon request by https://www.india-tours.com/.
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Q.Can we learn classical Indian Dances in Darjeeling?A.There are lesser options but India Tours can help.
TIPPING
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Q.What amount should we tip in Darjeeling?A.5 – 10% of tipping is common in Darjeeling. There are, however, no guidelines on the amount as such.
VACCINATIONS
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Q.Tell me the common vaccinations required before travelling to Darjeeling.A.The common courses or boosters usually advised for visitors travelling to Darjeeling includes Diphtheria, Hepatitis A, Tetanus, and Typhoid. Selective vaccines of Cholera and Japanese Encephalitis is advised for individuals.
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Q.Which vaccinations are not necessary but recommended to travel to Darjeeling?A.Oral polio vaccine (OPV), Typhoid vaccine, Varicella vaccine, Yellow fever (YF) vaccine are some of the recommended vaccines.
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Q.Which medicines should we carry when travelling to Darjeeling?A.Analgesic tablets, Antihistamine tablets, Cold and flu tablets, Cough Medicine, Motion sickness tablets, Diarrhoea Medicine, Antacid, Antiseptic Solution and Ointment are some of the common medications tourists are advised to carry.
VISA
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Q.With the E-Visa can I arrive in Darjeeling?A.E visas are available for international tourists.
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Q.What is the validity of E-Visa in Darjeeling?A.E-Tourist visas and e-Business visas are now valid for one year from the date of grant.
WATER AND DRINKS
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Q.Can we drink bottled water in Darjeeling?A.Yes.
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Q.Is it safe to drink tap water in Darjeeling?A.Not always. It’s always good to drink water particularly from sources labelled as ‘drinking water’
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Q.Can we get bottled water in Darjeeling?A.Yes.
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Q.Can we brush our teeth with tap water in Darjeeling?A.Yes, people use tap water for all sanitary purposes.
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Q.Can we buy whiskey, vodka, gin, wine, beer in shops or restaurants or bars or hotels?A.Yes. Alcohol is available.
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Q.Is it safe to drink tea and coffee in Darjeeling?A.Yes. There are plenty of cafes.
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Q.Is it safe to drink milk in Darjeeling?A.Yes.
WEATHER
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Q.Which is the best time to travel to Darjeeling?A.April to June are the ideal time to travel to Darjeeling but if you prefer winter months, go within October to December
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Q.Give more information on weather.A.Darjeeling has a temperate climate with wet summers.
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Q.When are the monsoons in Darjeeling?A.June, July and August are usually the peak monsoon time.
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Q.Does it rain all the time during monsoons and when are the monsoons in Darjeeling?A.There is generally incessant raining for some days in the monsoon season. Carry your umbrella.
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