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Cultural Northeast India Tour: Darjeeling & Sikkim

  • Duration 8
  • Destination Nepal
  • Trip Grade Easy
  • Starts at Bagdogra, India
  • Ends at Bagdogra, India
  • Meals Full Board
  • Accommodation 3-Star Hotel
  • Max. Altitude 2042
  • Activity Tours
  • Group Type Private
  • Group Size 2+
  • Best Season Spring & Autumn
Highlights
  • Darjeeling’s Tea Terraces: Sip tea amid scenic tea estates in Darjeeling, a region famed for its tea production.
  • Sunrise Over the Himalayas: Watch the first rays of sunlight cast over the peaks of Kanchenjunga and Mount Everest from Tiger Hill.
  • Toy Train Journey: Experience the iconic Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Buddhist and Hindu Monasteries: Visit ancient monasteries like the Peace Pagoda in Darjeeling, Pemayangtse Monastery, and the Rumtek Monastery.
  • Tibetan Artifacts at Namgyal Institute: Explore Tibetan culture and Buddhism through rare artifacts and thangkas in Gangtok.
  • Cultural Immersion: Discover traditional handicrafts at the Handloom and Handicrafts Center in Gangtok.
  • Sacred Sites: Explore sacred destinations like Tashiding Monastery, renowned for its spiritual significance and panoramic views.
  • Colonial and Spiritual History: Visit historical sites like Crookety House, once home to Helena Roerich, and MacFarlane Memorial Church in Kalimpong.

Cultural Northeast India Tour: Darjeeling & Sikkim Overview

An unforgettable journey through the culturally rich and lesser-explored region of Northeast India, where the breathtaking Eastern Himalayas meet the diverse influences of Buddhist, Hindu, and Tibetan cultures, will be a lifetime experience. Over the course of eight days, you’ll be immersed in the serene landscapes and ancient traditions of Darjeeling and Sikkim.

Start your adventure in Darjeeling, a charming hill station known for its iconic tea plantations and stunning views of the Himalayas, including the mighty Kanchenjunga. From the early morning sunrise at Tiger Hill to the historic Darjeeling Toy Train ride, this town offers an array of captivating experiences. Explore Buddhist temples and peaceful pagodas, such as the Peace Pagoda, before venturing further into the heart of Sikkim.

In Sikkim, visit ancient monasteries like Pemayangtse and Rumtek, marvel at sacred artifacts at the Namgyal Institute, and enjoy panoramic views of the towering mountains. The vibrant, cultural atmosphere is woven together with visits to quaint towns like Pelling, Gangtok, and Kalimpong, each offering a unique perspective of this enchanting region. From Tibetan religious dances to the legendary Khangchendzonga peak, the cultural diversity and natural beauty of the area will leave you in awe.

This itinerary seamlessly blends history, spirituality, and natural beauty, offering a perfect escape into the tranquil charm of Northeast India. Whether you’re sipping tea among the terraces, exploring ancient monasteries, or enjoying mountain vistas, this journey will captivate your soul.

Day to Day Itinerary
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Arriving at Bagdogra, you will begin your scenic drive to Darjeeling, a charming hill station in West Bengal, nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas. This 3-hour journey offers breathtaking views of tea gardens and the majestic Kanchenjunga peak in the distance. Upon arrival in Darjeeling, you will check into your hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening with dinner. The cool mountain air and colonial-era architecture will introduce you to the unique charm of this popular tourist destination. You can unwind and prepare for an exciting exploration of the town on the following day.

After a hearty breakfast, you will embark on a full day of exploration in Darjeeling. The highlights include a visit to the famous Tiger Hill to witness the sunrise over Kanchenjunga, a tour of the Peace Pagoda, and a ride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, also known as the Toy Train, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You will also explore the vibrant markets, monasteries, and tea gardens that Darjeeling is known for. With a lunch break at a local restaurant, you can enjoy the local cuisine before continuing your exploration. In the evening, relax and enjoy a delicious dinner, reflecting on the day’s experiences.

You’ll drive from Darjeeling to Pelling, a peaceful town in Sikkim, passing through picturesque landscapes of valleys and hills. En route, you’ll visit the historical Rabdentse Ruins, once the capital of the Kingdom of Sikkim. The ruins are situated on a hilltop, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. After the exploration, continue your drive to Pelling. Once you arrive, check into your hotel and take in the serene atmosphere. The rest of the day can be spent relaxing, followed by a delightful dinner with views of the stunning Kanchenjunga range in the distance.

After breakfast, you will embark on a 5-hour journey to Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim, passing through scenic landscapes and lush greenery. En route, you will stop at the Tashiding Monastery, one of the holiest places in Sikkim, perched on a hill overlooking the Rangit River. The monastery’s serene atmosphere and breathtaking views provide a spiritual experience. After the visit, continue your drive to Gangtok, where you will arrive in the afternoon. Check-in at your hotel, and in the evening, explore the local markets and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, preparing for the next day’s exploration of Gangtok’s beauty.

Start your day with a hearty breakfast in Gangtok, a charming hill station nestled in the Eastern Himalayas. The day’s exploration includes a visit to key landmarks such as the Enchey Monastery, a serene site with stunning views of the surrounding hills, and the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, which houses rare Tibetan artifacts. You will also explore the lively MG Road, where local shops offer traditional Sikkimese products. In the afternoon, head to the Tsomgo Lake, a high-altitude alpine lake, perfect for boat rides and enjoying the tranquil surroundings. The evening brings a delicious dinner at a local restaurant, offering Sikkimese specialties, and a leisurely stroll through Gangtok’s lively streets to soak in the local culture.

After breakfast, depart from Gangtok for Kalimpong, stopping en route to visit Rumtek Monastery. This magnificent structure is the largest monastery in Sikkim and an important site for Tibetan Buddhism, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich spiritual heritage. The monastery is home to sacred relics and Tibetan Buddhist scriptures. Continue your journey to Kalimpong, a peaceful hill town known for its colonial charm, picturesque landscapes, and lush greenery. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and take a short trip to Deolo Hill. From this vantage point, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and a mesmerizing sunset. Return to your hotel for dinner and rest, reflecting on the day’s peaceful exploration.

Kalimpong offers a mix of natural beauty, historical charm, and cultural richness, and today’s itinerary will introduce you to its most notable attractions. Start with a visit to the Zang Dhok Palri Phodang Monastery, an important Buddhist site. The monastery houses rare scriptures and offers a peaceful retreat. Then, take a stroll through the colorful local markets, which sell everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. After lunch, head to the lush flower nurseries that Kalimpong is famous for. These nurseries are home to a variety of exotic plants and flowers. The afternoon will be spent enjoying the tranquility of the town, perhaps with a visit to the Durpin Dara Hill, which offers an excellent view of the town and surrounding mountains. The evening includes a delicious dinner and some leisure time to enjoy Kalimpong’s laid-back atmosphere.

After breakfast, embark on your journey to Bagdogra, a small town located at the foothills of the Himalayas, which serves as the gateway to the region. The 80 km drive takes approximately 3 hours, providing a scenic route with views of lush green tea gardens and rolling hills. On arrival in Bagdogra, you’ll have time for a brief visit to the town or surrounding areas, where you can enjoy the calm and serene atmosphere. Depending on your travel schedule, you may head to the Bagdogra Airport for your onward flight.

Our team guides, porters and accompanying staff are locals with a broad knowledge about each and every location that we travel through.

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Cost Includes
  • Accommodation: Comfortable stays in 3-star or equivalent hotels on a twin-sharing basis.
  • Meals: Daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner as per the itinerary (B/L/D).
  • Transportation: Private vehicle with an experienced driver for all transfers and sightseeing as per the itinerary.
  • Sightseeing & Entry Fees: Entry tickets to all mentioned monuments, monasteries, and cultural sites.
  • Guided Tours: Experienced English-speaking local guide for cultural and historical insights.
  • Permits & Taxes: All necessary permits for Sikkim, road taxes, and parking fees.
  • Activities: Toy Train ride in Darjeeling, monastery visits, and cultural experiences.
Cost Excludes
  • International & Domestic Flights: Airfare to/from Bagdogra Airport
  • Travel Insurance: Mandatory and to be arranged by the traveler.
  • Personal Expenses: Tips, laundry, telephone calls, and extra snacks or drinks.
  • Optional Activities: Any additional sightseeing or activities not mentioned in the itinerary.
  • Medical Expenses: Any emergency medical costs or evacuation expenses.
  • Single Supplement Charge: Extra cost for solo travelers requiring a private room.
  • Unforeseen Costs: Expenses due to unforeseen circumstances like roadblocks, natural disasters, or flight delays.
  • Drinks: Any drinks (alcoholic or non-alcoholic) outside of regular meals.
Departure Dates
  • We have daily departures for this trip from March to May and from mid-September to mid-December. You can type in the number of passengers to book a reservation and select a date that is convenient for you. Due to group size, we never cancel a trip once you’ve made a reservation. If you would rather join the group, we will add more travelers on the selected date. You can let us know once you make a reservation or earlier.
Price from:$1000P/P
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