Itinerary
Itinerary
Itinerary
Day 2
Half Day Sightseeing and Then Transfer From Kalimpong to Gangtok
Deolo Hill
This is the major attraction in East Kalimpong. The tourism department has created an 8-
acre lush parkland with manicured flower gardens and several viewpoints with breathtaking
views of Kanchenjunga, Durpin hill, Kalimpong Township, and the valley with rivers flowing
through them. Deolo hill is the highest point of Kalimpong with an altitude of about 5,500ft.
There is a GTA (erstwhile DGHC) lodge here and a multi-cuisine restaurant. Children can
also take pony rides. At one corner of the lawn are stalls offering coffee and snacks. Overall a
great place to have a picnic or just relax. Entry fee: Rs. 10/- for day visitors.
Durbin Monastery
This Tibetan monastery is located on Durpin hill and hence its name. The actual name is Zang
Dog Palri monastery. It was built in 1972 and has some rare Buddhist scripts that were
brought here by the Dalai Lama from Tibet. From the upper terrace of the monastery, you
get magnificent views of Kalimpong town with Kanchenjunga in the background, the valley
and the plains, Teesta & Reang rivers flowing down, and lovely tea estates of the Peshok
area.
Transfer from Kalimpong to Gangtok
The journey from Kalimpong to Gangtok promises an enchanting ride through the verdant
landscapes of the Eastern Himalayas. Covering approximately 75 kilometers, the drive
typically takes around 3 to 4 hours, subject to road conditions and traffic.
The route meanders through picturesque terrain, offering captivating views of rolling hills,
dense forests, and quaint villages along the way. While the road is generally wellmaintained, travelers may encounter
occasional twists and turns, so it's advisable to travel
during daylight hours for added safety.
As you ascend towards Gangtok, prepare to be mesmerized by panoramic vistas of snowcapped peaks and cascading
waterfalls, adding to the allure of the journey.
Whether by private car or shared taxi, the road trip from Kalimpong to Gangtok is an
unforgettable experience, immersing travelers in the natural beauty and tranquility of the
Himalayan region.
Day 3
Full Day Excursion of Tsomgo Lake & Baba Mandir (Nathula
Optional)
(Distance: 120 Km Total Excursion time (including travel time): 8/9 hours)
After a heavy breakfast, we take you to the famous Tsomgo Lake at 12000 ft (3600M). We
start around 8.30-9.00am in the morning from the hotel. You have the whole day to enjoy
the snow and Yak ride at the scenic high altitude alpine lake near the Indo-Tibet border.
The 1 km long and 15m deep lake is considered sacred to the local people. The pristine
clear water remains frozen during winter. Have fun with snow and enjoy an exciting Yak
ride around the lake.
Tsomgo Lake, also known as Changu Lake is a glacial lake in Sikkim. The name Tsomgo means 'Source of water'. It's located 40kms from Gangtok town and leads all
the way to
Nathula Pass. This is one of the few high-altitude lakes in India. Prior to 1962, this was
part of the old trade route between India and China. It takes about 2 hours by car from
Gangtok to reach the lake, the home to the red panda and the blood pheasant with
Rhododendron and other alpine trees along the road - Situated at an elevation of 3753 meters / 12310 feet - The Lake is oval shaped lake nearly 50 feet deep -
Generally covered
in snow for most of the year the year. This lake is home to the Brahminy ducks & many
migratory birds. Enjoy playing in snow and Yak Ride. Proceed further to Legendary Baba
Harbhajan Singh Mandir (Hero of Nathula '' An Indian soldier who was awarded the MahaVir Chakra medal for his bravery and known for doing his duty still after
death).
Nearby is the sacred Baba Mandir known to be a very holy site for all.You can take a ride
on colorfully adorned yaks and ponies. There is also a 957-meter long ropeway (cable car)
that carries passengers from the lake to a hilltop nearby. You should reach Tsomgo lake
before noon because in the afternoon the weather here usually starts getting bad.
Additionally, Nathula Pass (14,140 ft) which is the Indo Chinese border can be combined
in this trip on request by the passengers at an extra cost.
Kindly note the following points regarding visit to Nathula
2. This is a restricted area and special permits are required to visit the same. Permits are
granted only between Wednesday and Sunday and can be cancelled anytime for security
or weather conditions.
3. If permits are issued, the additional cost to be paid by the passengers is approx. Rs.
5000 - Rs. 5500 +5% GST (The rate might go on higher side due to rush and nonavailability of passes)
5. Nathula Pass are subject to availability of permits & once the permit is issued and
guests are not able to visit due to some natural calamities/Security reason, then the
amount is non-refundable
6. If you have breathing problems, you are advised to consult a doctor before visiting these
places (particularly Nathula) because of low oxygen at such high altitudes. Portable
7. To reach Nathula from base is approx 7kms , both ways, the vehicle will be on a sharing
basis.
8. The documents required for Tsomgo Lake, North Sikkim and Nathula are driving
license/voter id/passport. Please note Aadhar card & pan card does not work.
Day 4 Gangtok Full Day Sightseeing Handicraft Center
This is the building of the Directorate of Handicraft & Handloom including a Sales emporium
Bakthang Waterfalls
and a Museum showcasing many different handicraft items and artwork created by the local
artists and craftsmen. (Open Timings : - 10:00am - 4:30pm) (Closed On Saturday & Sunday)
The Bakthang waterfall is only 20 minutes drive from Gangtok town to a place called
Swastik, adjacent to the army cantonment area. A serene waterfall cascades down the rock
forming a small pool down below. It is located along the 31A National Highway connecting to Plant Conservatory
North Sikkim. In local language ‘Bak’ means a forest and ‘thang’ meaning meadow or place.
The Plant Conservatory at Bulbulay near Gangtok stands in semi-wilderness on the road
The natural spring water source of this falls originates from the dense vegetation above this
that connects Gangtok to Hanuman Tok. For the layperson, the conservatory is merely an
site which is preserved as a Smriti Ban by the Forest Department.
exotic garden growing naturally on the hillside. Placards give away the academic intent of
this place and help visitors put names to the trees. The trees are interspersed with flowering
plants like Hydrangeas, Orchids, Rhododendrons, Azaleas, Magnolias, and Daylilies. When in
Do Drul Chorten full bloom, this garden is a multi-sensory treat. The conservatory is home to beautiful ponds
and bridges and is surrounded in greenery wherever the eyes go. With a backdrop of the mighty
Do Drul Chorten is one of the most important stupas in Sikkim, nestled in the stunning Himalayas, this Plant Conservatory’s picturesque setting is worth a visit. (Open
valleys of Gangtok. Built-in 1945 under the supervision of the late Trusushi and Rimpoche, Timings : - 10:00am - 4:00pm)
the Stupa has around 108 Mani Lhakor or prayer wheels. These wheels are engraved with
important mantras which can be chanted by rotating them. The quaint serenity and Ropeway (Cable Car)
calmness of Do Drul Chorten have attracted tourists and devotees for years. (Open Timings :
- 10:00am - 5:00pm A bi-cable Jig-back Passenger Aerial ropeway of 935 meters long from Deorali Bazar to
Tashiling Secretariat via Sikkim Legislative Assembly was built in the year 2003. The visitors
can have a panoramic view of the full Gangtok city while taking a ride in this ropeway. (Open
Ganesh Tok
Timings : - 9:30pm - 5:00pm)
Situated close to Tashi View point, Ganesh Tok is a sanctuary devoted to Ganesha. The
Tashi View Point
sanctuary is popular among vacationer. Individuals visit the sanctuary to offer petitions and
furthermore to partake in the wonderful view. There is a roundabout overhang around the Tashi View Point is one of the significant vacation spots of Gangtok and is situated a ways off
sanctuary and a viewing lounge to absorb the view. (Open Timings : - 09:00am - 6:00pm) of 7 km from Gangtok city. The spot is a must-visit for nature sweethearts as it offers
incredible perspectives on the overwhelming Himalayan mountains, explicitly Mount
Kanchenjunga and Siniolchu.
Embarking on a journey from Namchi to Pelling via Ravangla offers a scenic passage through Sikkim's verdant landscapes. The approximately 5 to 6-hour journey unveils a tapestry of diverse flora
and fauna, characteristic of the Eastern Himalayas. Namchi, with its serene ambiance, serves as a tranquil starting point, while Ravangla enchants with its panoramic vistas and vibrant culture.
Travelers can relish the enchanting views of rolling hills, lush forests, and meandering rivers along the way. The route not only presents a visual feast but also provides an opportunity to witness the
rich biodiversity of the region, including rare orchids, rhododendrons, and diverse bird species. This journey offers a respite from the bustling city life, allowing one to immerse in nature's tranquility
and rejuvenate the senses. With its blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences, traversing from Namchi to Pelling via Ravangla promises an enriching exploration of Sikkim's splendor.
A new Buddhist pilgrimage site at Pelling in West Sikkim is all set to attract tourists since Occupying a small section of beauty at the higher end of western Sikkim, a renowned monastery
November 1, 2018 as it plays host to the world’s tallest 137-feet Chenrezig statue. A of Pemayangtse is located. The word Pemayangtse means ‘Perfect Sublime Lotus’
destination park with the 41.758 m tall statue of Chenrezig and a new complex with a and it is a famous tourist attraction and widely visited by many travelers all year round. With
skywalk, café and a gallery have been built at SangaChoeling in Pelling at a cost of Rs 46.65 a mere distance of 2 kilometers from Pelling, this attraction is an easy walk. You can unravel
crore. The project was started in 2009, funded and constructed under the supervision of the Sikkim’s prime beauty by visiting during the spring-summer season when the sky clears. This
Department of Culture and the Department of Buildings and Housing. (Open Timings : - Mon- is so, as you can not only enjoy the holistic site but also witness the enthralling beauty of the
Sun : 09:00am - 5:00pm) Himalayas as well. This place radiates with spirituality, you can simply delve into the calmness of
the place and admire the Pemayangtse Monastery.
Khangchendzonga Waterfalls
Rabdentse Ruins
Khangchendzonga Waterfall is a tourist hotspot offering an awe inspiring view of its gushing
chilled water enthusiastically splattering through the rich green vegetation; amidst the Rabdentse Ruins is the archeological site that tells Sikkim’s story of glory. The place is a must
jagged surface of the hill. This waterfall is fed by the streams formed by the melting glaciers see for the history-enthusiasts who want to dig into the state’s past in between the
of Mt. Khangchendzonga and one has to climb up a little to reach the base of the fall, and feel spectacular view of Kanchenjunga peak and the gushing river flowing through the foothills.
the striking water shaping the granite rocks underneath. A ropeway is built for the The ruins of Rabdentse Palace are just a walk away from the Pemayangtse Monastery
adventure enthusiasts, to feel the thrill of crossing the stream hanging from a harness. through the dense forest on the way to Pelling. As one enters the gate, the chestnut trees
Khangchendzonga Waterfall is approx 25 km away from Pelling welcome the visitors by dropping mosses on them and lead to the stone throne consisting of
three standing stones known as ‘Namphogang’ where the judges used to pronounce the final
Khecheopalri Lake judgment. (Open Timings : - Sat -Thur : 10:00am - 5:00pm: - Fri : 10:00am - 4:00pm)
As the prayer flags flutter in the wind and the calming sounds of bells ring one after the
other, you know you have your bliss at the Khecheopalri Lake, which is a sacred pilgrimage Rimbi Waterfalls
site, considered holy by both Buddhist and Hindu. This religious place is believed to fulfill
one’s wishes. The legend has it, if someone prays and sprinkles the water on oneself, his On the way to Khecheopalri and Yuksam, near Darap Village Rimbi Waterfall is found. The
wishes are likely to come true. It is also said that no leaves can be seen afloat the lake despite waterfall leads to the Rimbi River and is famous for recreational activities like fishing. Spend
being located amidst dense forest as the birds remove the fallen leaves from the water. some memorable moments with your loved ones here. Decent footfall of tourists is seen
Similarly, many legends revolve around the lake. A beautiful place, Khecheopalri Lake is a here during the summer months.
paradise for nature lovers and trekkers. There are short forest routes to get here, en route
you can sightsee rare flora and fauna. While here, you can enjoy the peaceful sounds of
nature and simply relax.
Day 7 Transfer From Pelling to Darjeeling
After having a hearty meal we continue our journey to the QUEEN OF HILLS
'DARJEELING board your vehicle to Darjeeling. After reaching and checking in to your
hotel and freshening up, come up to Chowrasta Mall, sit on a peripheral bench for a while,
relax & enjoy the ambience and watch the activities. Then take a stroll along the scenic
Mall Road (BhanuSarani) and complete a circle. If you reach in the morning half or early
afternoon, you will have time to walk up the Observatory Hill behind the Mall and go to the
famous Mahakal Temple on top and enjoy the views & sunset.
Day 8 Darjeeling Full Day Sightseeing Ghoom Monastery
You will visit one of the oldest Buddhist monasteries of Darjeeling located at a scenic
Tiger Hill location in Ghoom area. It houses a12-foot tall statue of Mayetriya Buddha which
represents the Buddha of the future.This one of the biggest and oldest statues of Buddha
Who doesn't know about the magnificent view of sunrise from Tiger Hill. You will need to in Darjeeling area. This statue was created with clay that was all brought from Tibet. In
wake up by 3:30am and take a vehicle. But the rewards are awesome. You can see the front of the Buddha's statue there are two huge oil lamps that keep burning all the time
changing colors of thecolossalKanchenjunga snow peaks as the light strikes,it's a place and all through the year. No entry fee but donation required for taking photos inside.
where you can soak yourself with Himalayan beauty. On a clear day you can also get a
glimpse of Mount Everest, Mount Makalu and one of the most beautiful peaks of the world, Himalayan Mountaineering Institute - Darjeeling Zoo -
Tibet's ChomolHari. Tiger Hill is 11kms away and at an altitude of more than 8,400ft. It takes Natural History Museum
about 40 minutes to reach the top where there is a view tower for watching the sunrise.
There is an entry fee. These are three attractions co-located in the same large compound. The Himalayan
Mountaineering Institute was built to honor Tenzing Norgay's triumph to Everest and is
dedicated to provide mountaineering and rock climbing lessons to students from all over the
world. There is a mountaineering museum as well. The highlights of this museum include the
Batasia Loop and the War Memorial
artifacts from various Himalayan expeditions, the Everest section showcasing Tenzing's
personal belongings, an eagle found dead at 26,000 feet during the 1960 Everest expedition,
Batasia Loop is an engineering marvel located in Ghoom area. This is where the toy train makes a a high power telescope that once belonged to Hitler and was used by the Institute etc.
double spiral loop to negotiate a drop of 1000 ft as it moves towards Darjeeling Darjeeling Zoo has many high altitude Himalayan animals including Snow Leopard, Tibetan
town. Amidst the beautiful garden where the railway track is laid in the form of a loop, there Wolf, Himalayan Black Bear, Red Panda, yaks etc. (CLOSED ON THURSDAY) (Open Timings :
is also a War Memorial. You can walk along the track and complete the loop yourself. I do it - 08:00am - 05:30pm (Closed on Thursdays)
every time I am there. Or take the many pathways in the garden and walk around, enjoying
the many flowers and the surroundings. It was constructed in honour of the Gurkha soldiers
Japanese Temple & Peace Pagoda
who sacrificed their lives in service of the nation. There is a nominal entry fee. Don't miss the
Samosas (fried vegetable pastries) that are sold near the entrance of Batasia Loop in the morning.
Close to the Darjeeling town and in a scenic setting there is a temple built in a traditional
(Open Timings : - 06:00am - 05:00 pm)
Japanese style. About 100 yards away and in the same complex, there is a large Peace
Pagoda that showcases four avatars of Buddha. The view of the mountain range and
Darjeeling Ropeway (May or May Not Be Operational) Darjeeling town from the top of the pagoda is spectacular. No entry fee. Caution: In order to
save time, some drivers try to treat these two attractions as separate ones and count 2
You will board the cable car from Singamari located 3km away from the town center. The 45 instead of one. Don't be deceived or you will miss out on one of the following.
minutes ride takes you from an altitude of 7,000ft to 800ft with wonderful vista of a valley
around Rangeetriver, tea estates and sweeping views of the snow peaks of Himalayan range
Tea Garden
including Kanchenjunga. Tickets need to be purchased. During the high season, there may be
long queues. So try to book in advance. (Open Timings:- Wed-Sat: 09:30am-4:00pm , Tue: Chitrey tea garden,outskirts of Darjeeling.The already popular tourist stopover place,
10:00am-4:00pm:- Sun-Mon: 09:30am-4:30pm) Chitrey, about 7Km from main town.Situated amongst the lush green tea garden with one of
the best views of the Khangchendzonga,the added attraction for tourists there are the
bamboo shacks of locals there selling Darjeeling tea, and local cuisine.
Tibetan Refugee Self Help Center
A center and a factory established by the Tibetan refugees who fled Tibet and took refuge in
Darjeeling. They not only live here, but also produce varieties of exquisite handicraft items
to make their living. The hand crafted items include jackets, carpets, gloves, aprons, bags,
curios, cards, pouches, carved wooden items, Tibetan paintings etc. This is a great place to
buy a gift or a souvenir for your friends and relatives. There is no entry fee.
Day 9
Transfer From Darjeeling to Bagdogra Airport
(Distance: 70 Km Travel time: 3 hours) After early morning breakfast, depart for (IXB)
Bagdogra Airport / NJP Railway Station for the onward connection.