Day 1: Arrival in Gangtok

Route: Bagdogra Airport/NJP Station to Gangtok
Approx. Distance: 125 km | Estimated Travel Time: 4-5 hours

Upon your arrival at Bagdogra Airport or NJP Station, you will be warmly greeted by your driver. Set off on a scenic journey to Gangtok, the lively capital of Sikkim, renowned for its beautiful landscapes and rich culture. Check into your hotel and relax for a while. In the evening, stroll through MG Marg, the central shopping and cultural hub, or explore the charming local markets. Overnight stay in Gangtok.

Day 2: Gangtok City Tour

Date: Thursday, 17th October 2024

After breakfast, embark on a full-day exploration of Gangtok’s cultural and natural attractions:

• Banjhakri Falls: A picturesque waterfall within a lush forest, featuring cultural sculptures that represent the local folklore.
• Gunjan Monastery: A serene spot for reflection and a glimpse into the region’s spirituality.
• Namgyal Institute of Tibetology: An important center dedicated to preserving and studying Tibetan culture and Buddhism.
• Enchey Monastery: A historic monastery known for its peaceful ambiance and spectacular views.
• Do Drul Chorten Stupa: A prominent stupa surrounded by prayer wheels, perfect for a tranquil visit.
• Plant Conservatory: A paradise for botany lovers, displaying a variety of rare plants and flowers native to Sikkim.
• Ganesh Tok: A small but scenic temple that offers panoramic views of the city and mountains.
• Ropeway: Enjoy an optional cable car ride over Gangtok for a bird’s-eye view of the surroundings.

In the evening, explore MG Marg’s vibrant atmosphere with its shops, cafes, and handicrafts. Return to the hotel for an overnight stay.

Day 3: Excursion to Tsomgo Lake & Baba Mandir

Date: Friday, 18th October 2024

Start the day with an early breakfast and head out for a mesmerizing excursion:

• Tsomgo Lake: A glacial lake located 38 km from Gangtok, Tsomgo’s crystal-clear waters reflect the surrounding snow-capped mountains. Relax and take in the tranquility or go for a yak ride around the lake.
• Baba Mandir: A revered shrine dedicated to Baba Harbhajan Singh, an Indian Army soldier honored for his spirit and protection of the region.

For an additional cost, you can visit Nathula Pass, a high-altitude mountain pass connecting India and Tibet. Note that Nathula Pass requires a special permit and is subject to weather conditions; please confirm permit availability in advance.

Return to Gangtok in the evening, where you can relax or further explore the town. Overnight stay in Gangtok.

Day 4: Transfer to Pelling via Namchi & Ravangla

Date: Saturday, 19th October 2024

Depart from Gangtok in the morning and journey to Namchi and Ravangla:

• Namchi: Visit Char Dham, a sacred complex featuring replicas of four important pilgrimage sites in India.
• Ravangla: Known for its tranquil beauty, visit the Buddha Park (Tathagata Tsal), which is home to a towering statue of Lord Buddha and offers expansive views of the Himalayas.

Arrive in Pelling by evening, where you can spend time exploring local markets or unwinding at the hotel. Overnight stay in Pelling.

Day 5: Pelling Full Day Sightseeing

Date: Sunday, 20th October 2024

After breakfast, embark on a day filled with cultural and natural wonders in Pelling:

• Pemayangtse Monastery: A historic monastery with intricate wooden carvings and breathtaking views.
• Rabdentse Ruins: Once the capital of Sikkim, these ancient ruins offer a glimpse into Sikkim’s past.
• Khecheopalri Lake: A sacred lake revered by both Buddhists and Hindus, renowned for its calm surface that locals believe never allows a single leaf to float on it.
• Kanchanjanga Waterfall: Witness the cascading icy waters amidst lush greenery.
• Sky Walk (optional): A newly added attraction that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape from a transparent walkway.

After a fulfilling day, return to your hotel in Pelling to unwind. Overnight stay in Pelling.

Day 6: Transfer to Darjeeling

Route: Pelling to Darjeeling
Approx. Distance: 96 km | Estimated Travel Time: 4-5 hours

Depart from Pelling in the morning and travel to Darjeeling. Enjoy the stunning mountain vistas along the way, arriving in Darjeeling by late afternoon. You can spend the evening at leisure, exploring the local shops or relaxing at your hotel. Overnight stay in Darjeeling.

Day 7: Darjeeling Full Day Sightseeing

Date: Tuesday, 22nd October 2024

Begin your day early with a visit to Tiger Hill for a sunrise view over the majestic Kanchenjunga. Continue with visits to:

• Batasia Loop: A scenic railway loop with beautiful gardens and a war memorial.
• Ghoom Monastery: An ancient monastery featuring a 15-foot-tall statue of Maitreya Buddha.
• Himalayan Mountaineering Institute: Dedicated to mountaineering, it includes a museum with mountaineering gear and information.
• Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park: Home to rare animals like the red panda and snow leopard.
• Tibetan Refugee Self-Help Centre: A cultural center where you can learn about Tibetan crafts and culture.
• Japanese Peace Pagoda: A peaceful spot offering stunning panoramic views and a serene environment.

In the evening, explore Darjeeling’s bustling local markets for shopping and dining. Overnight stay in Darjeeling.

Day 8: Departure via Mirik Lake & Pashupati Market

Route: Darjeeling to Bagdogra Airport/NJP Station

On your way to Bagdogra or NJP, make stops at:

• Pashupati Market: Located at the Indo-Nepal border, this market is known for affordable shopping and unique local products.
• Mirik Lake: Enjoy a peaceful boating experience (boating fees not included) at this beautiful lake, surrounded by lush tea gardens and pine forests.
• Gopal Dhara Tea Estate & Simana Viewpoint: Take in the breathtaking landscapes of the surrounding tea estates and distant views of Mount Kanchenjunga.

After a delightful journey through Sikkim and Darjeeling, you’ll be dropped off at NJP Station or Bagdogra Airport for your onward journey, carrying beautiful memories of the Himalayas and the vibrant cultures of Northeast India.