Darjeeling is set among mountains and is famous for its look, tea gardens and the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. But to understand Darjeeling better, you need to know about its weather. We will cover all that in this post – seasonal changes, temperatures, rainfall and best time to visit.
Darjeeling is called the “Queen of Hills” and is at an altitude of 2,050 meters (6,710 feet) above sea level. Being in the eastern Himalayas, it’s cool all year round. Darjeeling has four seasons – spring, summer, monsoon and winter. Each season is different and that’s why Darjeeling is a year-round destination.
Overview of Darjeeling
Let’s take a moment to soak in the natural beauty and culture of this lovely hill station before we get into the nitty gritties of Darjeeling weather. The world famous Darjeeling tea is grown on the tea gardens which are the crown jewels of Darjeeling. The third highest peak in the world, Kanchenjunga and the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway both are in the town itself.
DARJEELING WEATHERSeasonal Patterns in Darjeeling Weather
Darjeeling has different weather in each season and that’s what makes it beautiful throughout the year. Let’s see:
Spring (March to May)
Spring is when everything is new and pretty. Weather gets warmer and flowers bloom. Temps are 6°C (43°F) to 17°C (63°F) and perfect to walk around and enjoy outdoors. See rhododendrons bloom and Himalayas with snow.
Summer (June to August)
Summer in Darjeeling is a relief from the heat of Indian plains. Temps are 11°C (52°F) to 19°C (66°F) and perfect to escape summer heat. Cool mountain wind and misty look is so peaceful. Note that summer is peak season in Darjeeling so crowds will be more.
Monsoon (September to November)
Monsoon in Darjeeling brings showers and the whole place is fresh. September to November, hills are green and waterfalls are flowing. Temps are 8°C (46°F) to 15°C (59°F). Rain showers are frequent but short and you have time to walk between showers. Carry umbrella and be prepared for outdoor activity disruptions.
Winter (December to February)
Winter in Darjeeling is enchanting when the mist lingers and the landscape is shrouded. Temperatures are 1°C (34°F) to 10°C (50°F). The cold adds to the romance and gives snow-capped peaks in view. Warm clothing is a must for winter visits to Darjeeling.
Temperatures and Rainfall
Darjeeling is moderate throughout the year due to its height. 2°C (36°F) to 20°C (68°F) is the annual average temperature. Monsoon affects the rainfall; 3000 mm (118 inches) is the annual rainfall. Monsoon months get the most rain, winter and spring are dry.
Best Time to Visit Darjeeling
It all depends on you and what you want to experience. Spring and autumn (October to November) is good for mountain views, weather and flowers. Summer is heat relief and to walk around the town without winter clothing. Winter with mist is for romantics and peace. Check the weather and plan before visiting Darjeeling.
Best Time to Visit
Time to visit Darjeeling is according to you and what you want to see. Spring and autumn (October to November) is view, weather and flowers. Summer is heat break and to walk around the town without winter clothes. Winter with mist is for romantics and quiet. Weather check and then plan for Darjeeling.
Charms of Darjeeling in Different Seasons
Darjeeling has so much to offer in every season. Here are some things to do in each season:
- Spring: Take a leisurely walk through the tea gardens, visit Tiger Hill for sunrise and the Darjeeling Botanical Gardens for the variety of flora.
- Summer: Take a joyride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, visit Ghoom Monastery and have a cup of Darjeeling tea while soaking in the view.
- Monsoon: See the monsoon beauty at Batasia Loop, go for nature walks to see the flowers bloom and visit the local markets for handicrafts.
- Winter: See the snow at higher altitudes, have a hot cup of traditional Darjeeling tea by the fireplace and visit the Peace Pagoda for the snow-capped peaks.
Weather
The weather in Darjeeling is misty in the mornings, with intermittent rain showers and occasional blue skies. Monsoon season is from June to September with moderate to heavy rainfall. Carry an umbrella or raincoat during this period.
For an accurate forecast of the weather in Darjeeling, check out weather websites (e.g. accuweather.com) or mobile apps that provide real time information. They provide detailed reports on temperature, precipitation, wind speed and cloud cover so you can plan your day accordingly.
Darjeeling Packing List
When you are packing for Darjeeling, you need to consider the weather and the activities you will be doing. Here are a few things to pack:
- Warm clothes, jackets and sweaters for winters
- Raincoat or umbrella for monsoon
- Comfortable shoes
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- Medicines for altitude sickness if required
- Camera to capture the views
Bottomline
Darjeeling with its beautiful views, nice climate and rich culture is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The ever changing weather only adds to the charm of this hill station making it a year round destination. Whether you visit in spring, summer, monsoon or winter Darjeeling will leave an imprint on your heart.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is Darjeeling weather suitable for outdoor activities throughout the year?
Yes, Darjeeling offers outdoor activities throughout the year. However, it’s advisable to check the weather conditions and plan accordingly, especially during monsoon and winter.
What is the best time to witness the sunrise over the Kanchenjunga?
The early morning hours of spring and autumn provide the best chances to witness the majestic sunrise over the Kanchenjunga.
Are there any precautions to take during the monsoon season in Darjeeling?
It’s recommended to carry appropriate rain gear and be prepared for occasional disruptions due to heavy rainfall. It’s also advisable to check road conditions before venturing out.
Can I see snowfall in Darjeeling during winter?
While snowfall is not guaranteed in the town itself, higher altitudes around Darjeeling experience snowfall during the winter months, offering a beautiful sight for visitors.
What are some must-visit attractions in Darjeeling?
Some must-visit attractions in Darjeeling include Tiger Hill, Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, Batasia Loop, Ghoom Monastery, Darjeeling Botanical Gardens, and the Peace Pagoda.
What is the temperature like in Darjeeling during the monsoon season?
The temperature during the monsoon season in Darjeeling usually ranges from 12°C to 20°C (54°F to 68°F), accompanied by moderate to heavy rainfall.
