In addition to its tea, which sometimes grows on precipitous hillsides, Darjeeling is also well-known for the Toy Train, a narrow-gauge railway formally known as the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), and beautiful summer estates once home to the British colonial elite. Because of its location, Darjeeling is populated by a variety of hill tribes and Himalayan peoples, among them Nepalese Gurkhas, Tibetans, Anglo-Indians, and Sherpas.
A handpicked selection of experiences endorsed by our experts. If you can’t see what you’re looking for, let us know, as our extensive network of local contacts can open many doors.
Drive through the Simbong Forest to the River Rung Dung and into the Badamtam Forest. Walk along the forest path, following the River Rungeet. On the way, your guide will help you identify the birds, butterflies, occasional animals, and the rich plant life to be found in the forest.
Have a private tour of the Ghoom Monastery, built in 1875 by Lama Sherab Gyatso. On occasion, Remote Lands can arrange for visitors to have tea with senior resident monks, who can offer a special blessing. There are several hand-written Buddhist manuscripts here, which were compiled in volumes, carefully wrapped in cloth and stacked beside the main altar. The structure itself is a fine example of Himalayan architecture, with its exquisitely colored exterior and slanted roofs.
Tour the tea plantations at Glenburn Tea Estate, which will include a walk through the neat rows of tea, a tour of the factory and lunch. You will be met by a tea expert and manager of the property, who will assist you with selecting a special blend of tea tailored to your personal tastes.
Visit Hayden Hall, a non-profit organization that has been helping families break the cycle of poverty since its founding in 1969. Hayden Hall focuses on empowering women to achieve self-sufficiency through a variety of methods, from vocational training to providing small savings and loan plans.
Cross the Manjitar Suspension Footbridge, which spans the River Rungeet into the old royal kingdom of Sikkim. This impressive structure was built by the British in 1902 after the original cane bridge was washed away by the floods of 1899. Measuring about 200 feet (61 meters) across and at least 100 feet (30 meters) above the river, crossing this footbridge is an adventure in itself.
Cross the bridge into Sikkim and wander around Manjitar Village, stop for a cup of tea in one of the village dhaabas (tea shops), and visit the local Shiv Temple.
Stop at the Tibetan Refugee Self-Help Center, which was established in 1959, and meet the Tibetan people as they go about their business of knitting sweaters, woollens and other interesting crafts.
Take a ride on the charming Toy Train, so-called because it is the world’s narrowest gauge railway at only two feet wide. A UNESCO World Heritage Site built in 1881, the Toy Train travels to the world’s highest train station at 7,400 feet (2,256 meters) and is one of the world’s most curious railway wonders.
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With Remote Lands you'll travel with people who have made Asia the solitary focus of their own lifelong adventure. As our guest, you'll discover Asia on a journey that is completely, authentically your own, adapted from our own remarkable experiences and adventures over the years.
With Remote Lands you'll travel with people who have made Asia the solitary focus of their own lifelong adventure. As our guest, in the continent that our north American founders Catherine and Jay have adored and explored for decades, you'll discover Asia on a journey that is completely, authentically your own, adapted from our own remarkable experiences and adventures over the years.
Multi-Country Specialists
Remote Lands
Choose somewhere you’d like to visit, something you’re interested in, and when you’re planning to travel and we’ll suggest sample itineraries to inspire your bespoke journey.
An Asia-focused magazine brought to you by Remote Lands – a platform for adventure, luxury, and authenticity from experts and explorers around the continent.
The Tibetan Refugee Center is a rundown, underused facility in Darjeeling. It’s not just a place for the best momos in India; it’s a testament to the resilience of the refugees who fled and the heritage of those who stayed.
To the lover of all things North India, Glenburn Estate is a sanctuary of tea, peace, and an abiding history that defines the region.
In Nepal, India, Bhutan, China, and beyond, the unique landscapes and cultures of the Himalayas are a paradise for travelers looking for peace — from the wildlife and mountains to the history and spirituality.
Here is a small selection of the kind words our guests have said about us, as well as features by journalists and travel writers.
From the moment I happened upon the REMOTE LANDS website over a year ago, browsed the options, I knew that this would be well worth it. The entire staff is nothing less than professional with service that made us feel like royals.
This was truly the trip of a lifetime. Magical destinations, the most luxurious hotels in the world, and the most wonderful travel companions we could’ve wished for. We were treated like family everywhere we went and we have 14 new best friends.
We have used some of the top rated travel specialists all over the world and, without question, Catherine Heald and Remote Lands are at the very top of the list!
