Record Number of Visitors Flock to Darjeeling

Darjeeling Sees Tourist Influx this Christmas

Darjeeling is experiencing a significant increase in tourist numbers this Christmas, following a slump in footfall during Durga Puja. This surge has brought relief and joy to the travel and tourism industry. Local tour operators and hotels report at least a 20% increase in tourist arrivals in Darjeeling. To celebrate the year-end festivities, the hill town has been beautifully decorated for Christmas, creating a festive atmosphere for visitors. The slopes are adorned with blooming mistletoes, and the sounds of choir music resonate through the hills. The enticing aroma of baked goods fills the air. Officials from the Darjeeling Hoteliers Association (DHA) have confirmed an increase in bookings compared to the Durga Puja season.

While occupancy during Durga Puja typically hovers around 70%, this year it dropped to below 40%. However, there was a sense of relief as footfall during Christmas increased to approximately 60%, indicating a positive trend and renewed hope for the hospitality sector in the hill station, according to a member of the DHA.

Pradeep Lama, the general secretary of DATA, attributes the rise in tourism to North Sikkim’s improved accessibility. Data from the permit cell shows that North Sikkim recorded its highest tourist count for the 2024 season on December 23, welcoming 2,628 visitors in 486 vehicles. Lama noted that hotels are offering significant discounts to attract guests.

“A hotel rate that was Rs 3,800 during the festive season has been reduced to between Rs 2,200 and Rs 1,800. There are now more spot bookings than advance reservations,” he said.