October to November and March to May are prime - clear skies, crisp air, and flowers blooming across the slopes. June to September brings heavy monsoon rain, which transforms everything green but makes trekking slippery and visibility poor. Check before you go, as exact conditions vary by elevation and route.

Popular multi-day treks and private tours (especially in peak season) fill up 4-6 weeks ahead, so planning early pays off. Shorter excursions and eco-village stays tend to have more flexibility, but booking at least 2-3 weeks in advance keeps your options open.

Yes - the region's cultural richness (monasteries, tea estates, local villages) and trekking logistics benefit hugely from someone who knows the terrain and can translate conversations. Most multi-day tours and treks come with guides built in, and solo travelers often pair up with others to share a private guide's cost.

Nearly all visitors book pre-arranged tours that handle transport from Bagdogra airport. If you're mixing independent travel with guided sections, hiring a car and driver (often arranged through your tour operator) is simpler and safer than navigating mountain roads solo.

Multi-day packages typically cover accommodation, meals, guides, and transport between stops. Some eco-village stays add activities like farm walks or tea-tasting; trekking tours include equipment and porters where needed. Check the fine print on what's covered, as inclusions vary widely.

Slower paced options like the eco-village tours and heritage tea trails work well for families; serious high-altitude treks demand fitness and acclimatization. Check the age and altitude details of specific tours before booking, and talk directly with operators about what your family can realistically handle.

Four to five days lets you hit a couple of towns and try one short trek or cultural tour. Two weeks is ideal if you want to combine multiple areas (Darjeeling, Sikkim, Kalimpong) and tackle a serious trek like Goecha-La. Even a long weekend gives you a solid taste of the tea estates and foothills.