Shri Praween Prakash, IPS, Superintendent of Police, Darjeeling, officially announced the festival, which will be organized by Darjeeling Police in collaboration with the Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (GTA), with Manipal Hospitals as the official partner for the Darjeeling Hill Marathon.

Event Dates:

Darjeeling Melo Tea Fest: 11th – 13th December 2025 Darjeeling Hill Marathon (12th Edition): Sunday, 14th December 2025

Prize Details:

Darjeeling Hill Marathon : ₹9.8 lakh Total Prize Money English & Nepali Rock Band Competitions : ₹28 lakh Total Prize Money

The Melo Tea Fest is a vibrant celebration of music, art, tea, local cuisine, tradition and culture, showcasing the true spirit and identity of the Queen of Hills. Hosted at Chowrasta, the event beautifully blends local traditions with modern creativity, featuring tea-tasting sessions, artisan markets, cultural displays, a fashion showcase, adventure , regional cuisine stalls, and open-air concerts.

The festival will resonate with unforgettable performances by celebrated music artists and iconic bands, turning the hills of Darjeeling into a stage of global rhythm and harmony.

This year’s highlight includes English and Nepali Rock Band Competitions with a Total Cash Prize of ₹28 lakh, offering a platform for emerging and established artists to perform before a global audience.

The Darjeeling Hill Marathon, a legacy event of Darjeeling Police, celebrates its 12th Edition this year, with Manipal Hospitals as the official partner. The marathon continues to inspire fitness, endurance, and unity, attracting runners from across India and abroad, with a Total Prize Money of ₹9.8 lakh.

Together, the Darjeeling Melo Tea Fest and the Darjeeling Hill Marathon will celebrate the rhythm, endurance, and indomitable spirit of Darjeeling, bringing together communities, artists, athletes, and visitors in a shared celebration of culture, adventure, and pride.