Darjeeling Mall

4.5

Location : 27V9+W3X, Chauk Bazaar, Darjeeling, West Bengal 734101, India

Estimated Visiting Time: 1 hour.

It is considered the hub of all kinds of activities in Darjeeling and is one of the best places to visit. The mall is where four roads meet; the word ‘Chow’ means four, and ‘Rasta’ means road.

Attraction

The Darjeeling Mall, popularly known as Chowrasta, is a destination that guarantees a memorable and enriching experience in the heart of Darjeeling. The mall boasts stunning panoramic views of the majestic Himalayan mountain range, leaving visitors spellbound and in awe of nature’s beauty. Its well-preserved colonial architecture takes you back, creating an immersive experience.

The mall is also a shopper’s paradise with various local goods and handicrafts. You can taste the regional and international cuisine from the numerous food stalls, cafes, and restaurants. The cultural performances held here are worth watching and give you an insight into the region’s rich cultural heritage.

The mall offers horse riding opportunities for those seeking adventure, an exciting way to explore the region. Photography enthusiasts can capture breathtaking pictures of the stunning views and the mall’s serene ambiance, making it a perfect spot for photography.

History

The Darjeeling Mall is a historic promenade in the Indian state of West Bengal that dates back to the mid-19th century. The leisurely space was designed for British residents to stroll and enjoy the views of the Himalayan mountains. Over time, it became a social center for cultural events and recreational activities. Today, it remains a hub for commerce, culture, and tourism, featuring a mix of traditional shops, modern boutiques, cafes, and restaurants.

Inside/Outside Views

Apart from enjoying the scenic beauty of Mall Road Darjeeling, there are also some fun activities for kids. Children can spend their time here with pony rides or horse riding. Tourists can take a short ride up to Rangmanch Bhawan on horseback.

If you enter the mall via Nehru Road, you will find famous traditional shops like Oxford Book Store and Habib Mallick & Sons Curio Shop on your left. The curio shop established itself in 1819. Mall Road has nice little cafes and restaurants to spend your evening. Several tea shops and the Sunset Lounge are at the Mall Road entrance.

You can have a cup of famous Darjeeling tea and delicious cakes here. Mall Road has several shops where you can buy things or taste local food. Just behind Darjeeling Mall Road, you will find Keventer’s Restaurant. It is one of the famous restaurants in Darjeeling, established in 1911.

Filmmakers shot the renowned movie “Kanchenjunga” here. You can indulge in a refreshing morning tea and authentic English breakfast at this restaurant’s open terrace. In the evenings, you can enjoy live music performances at the mall. Mall Road is Darjeeling’s most merriment and a must-see.

Opening Hours

Everyday 10 AM–7:30 PM

Entry & Others Fees

There is no entry fee.

Near Restaurants

Near Hotels

How to Reach

By Air: Bagdogra Airport, which is 90 km away from Darjeeling, is the nearest airport connected by flights to major cities.

By Train: Apart from Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Station (88 KM from New Jalpaiguri Railway Station), the two nearest railway stations are Siliguri and New Jalpaiguri. These railway stations have direct rail connectivity with Kolkata, Delhi, Guwahati, and other major cities in India.

By Road: The road via Siliguri connects Darjeeling to all major cities in India, and there are bus services available from Siliguri. Smaller vehicles are also available for seat sharing/hire from airports, railway stations, motor syndicates, and police motor stands. You can also avail of pre-paid taxi stands at NJP Railway Station and Bagdogra Airport. The four routes from Siliguri to Darjeeling are: i) Tyndharia-Kursiong route ii) Dudhia-Mirik route iii) Rohini route iv) Pankhabari.