On arrival at Bagdogra airport, received by our representative and transfer to Darjeeling.
Nestling among the rolling mountains with glistering Mount. Kanchenjunga towering over the azure sky, Darjeeling, fondly called ‘Queen of Hills’ is the land of flavoured Darjeeling tea revered by connoisseurs across the globe and the land of the world heritage Darjeeling Himalayan Railway and indeed a perfect gateway to be in harmony with nature.

Later in the day, explore Chowrasta, a historical public square located in the heart of town. Situated on the ridge, during 18th century, it used to be fashionable place of assembly for residents and visitors and in modern times also it remains a focal centre for locals as well as visitors.

Overnight in Darjeeling.

Early morning drive to Tiger Hill to witness majestic sunrise view. Situated at an altitude of 2,590m at a distance of 13km from Darjeeling above the town of Ghoom, Tiger Hill provides enthralling view of a stunning sunrise over Mount. Kanchenjunga and other important peaks of the Himalayas. One can also view the world highest peak, Mount. Everest (8,848m), from here.

On the way back to town visit Ghoom monastery. Also referred as Yiga Choeling Monastery, Ghoom Monastery houses a 15-foot-high Maitreya Buddha statue that captivates the surroundings with its aura. Built in 1850 by Lama Sherpa Gyaltsho, a Mangolian Monk, it is famous for its beautiful Thangkha on the walls, fancy bells, and drums.

En route visit Batasia Loop and War Memorial

This railway loop is an interesting example of engineering feat, which was constructed with the purpose of allowing the toy train to take the sharp drop in altitude between Ghoom and Darjeeling, with ease. From Darjeeling station joy rides in the toy train can be availed of to Batasia Loop and back.

A war memorial was constructed in the space within the loop in 1994. There is also a 30 ft. high triangular cenotaph with the Roll of Honour engrave on it.

It is a fascinating experience to watch the toy train negotiating the loop through the well-manicured gardens of flowers with Kanchenjunga and Darjeeling town in background.

Then return to the hotel for breakfast.

Later in the day visit to:

Later visit Peace Pagoda & Japanese Temple: About 2 km from heart of Darjeeling town & 15-minute drive is dazzling white pagoda situated on the slopes of Jalaphar hill. Established to provide peace & unity amongst different sects of society, this 28.5 metres (94 ft) high Pagoda houses the four avatars of Buddha including Maitreya Buddha. Amidst peace & serenity, the site also offers stunning views including of Mount. Kanchenjunga peak. Japanese temple is located 100 yards away from Peace Pagoda. Also known as Nipponzan Myohoji Buddhist Temple, the shrine was built in 1972. Showcasing classic Japanese style of architecture, this resplendent white building offers visitors a serene and quiet sanctum where one can meditate and seek inner peace.

Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park: It was formerly known as Himalayan Zoological Park and was established on 14th August 1958. This is the only specialized zoo in the country and also internationally recognized for its conservation breeding programmes of Red Panda, Snow Leopards, Tibetan Wolf and other highly endangered animal species of Eastern Himalayan region. (Closed on Thursday)

Himalayan Mountaineering Institute (HMI): It is one of the premier mountaineering institutes in the world and was founded on November 4^th, 1954. Darjeeling is also the hometown of Sherpa Tenzing Norgay, the first human to set foot on the highest peak of Mount Everest along with Sir Edmund Hillary. It was in HMI that Tenzing Norgay spent most of his post-Everest ascent period as Director of Field Training. HMI is now a prominent landmark of Darjeeling and a Centre of tourist attraction with adjoining mountaineering museum for visitors. It commands a magnificent view of Mount Kanchenjunga. (Closed on Thursday)

Tenzing & Gombu Rock: Tenzing and Gombu rocks are situated on Lebong Cart Road and face opposite to each other. The huge Tenzing rock is named after Tenzing Norgay, who is famous for climbing Mount Everest accompanied by Edmund Hillary, in the year 1953. Gombu Rock has got its name after Nawang Gombu. He was Tenzing’s nephew and he had climbed the Everest twice and became the first person to do so. He climbed Everest first in the year 1963 and then in the year 1965.

Tibetan Refugee Self-Help Centre: Established in 1959, as a centre for the refugees who had fled Tibet with Dalai Lama after the Chinese invasion, it has been developed as workshop for artisans, producing carpets, woollen, woodcarvings, leather items etc. This centre has established itself as place for hard work, self-esteem and truth. (Closed on Sunday)

Happy Valley Tea Estate (visit from outside): Established in 1854, it is Darjeeling’s second oldest tea estate, spread over an area of 177 hectares (440 acres) and situated an altitude of 2,100m. The bushes in the garden are really old — the minimum age is 80 years, while some are even 150 years old. Situated around 3 km north of town, this tea estate is the closest to Darjeeling city centre. The months of March to May are the busiest time here when plucking and processing are in progress. The tea estate is open for tourists visit on Tuesday to Saturday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Optional: Darjeeling Ropeway Ride

One of the best ways to experience the panoramic views that Darjeeling is so famous for, is by taking a ride on the ropeway. It's also called the Rangeet Valley Passenger Cable Car because of the spectacular view of the valley around the river Little Rangeet.

Overnight in Darjeeling.

After breakfast, drive to Pelling in West Sikkim. The journey runs through the winding road cutting across the valleys, hills, lovely villages and Tea gardens passing through interstate border town of Jorthang following the course of beautiful Rangeet River. En route take a refreshing break at the viewpoint near Jorthang to watch the magnificent confluence of Rangeet & Rammam rivers. Then the road takes a steep turn upto Geyzing. The view of the entire surrounding widens as one approaches towards Pelling.

Offering magnificent views of the Himalayas and the snow-capped Mount. Kanchenjunga, the third-largest peak in the world, Pelling is a gorgeous tourist destination. With charming houses perched atop a wooded ridge, this hill town is framed by spectacular natural forests, making it a natural paradise. Sitting at a height of 2,150 m, Pelling is a base for several trekking routes. According to Buddhist texts, the word 'Pelling' refers to the religious body formed by Pema Lingpa, the discoverer of ancient Tibetan texts.

Afternoon visit Pemayangtse Monastery, one of the oldest and premier monasteries of Sikkim, built by Lhatsun Chenpo in the 17th century originally. The monastery has a unique depth in its name and the term Pemayangtse means ‘Perfect Sublime Lotus’ and is said to symbolise one of the four plexuses of the human body. Built for ta-tshang or ‘pure monks’ in the times of the monarchy in Sikkim, the monastery’s head lama received the unique privilege of anointing the Chogyals (Kings) with holy water. The Nyingma Order of Tibetan Buddhism is followed by the Pemayangtse Monastery and hence it controls all the monasteries following the same order in Sikkim.

Then explore Rabdentse Ruins. This was the second capital of the erstwhile Kingdom after Yuksom and till the year 1814 A.D., the King of Sikkim ruled from this place. Today, the ruins lie hidden from the main road at a walking distance from the Pemayangtse Monastery. The scenic view from the top of the ruins scanning across the valley to the mystic heights of Kanchenjunga range is something to be cherished and etched in memory.

Overnight in Pelling.

After breakfast, drive to Darap village, located 8km from Pelling, in West Sikkim at an altitude of 5,800 feet above sea level. Darap village is blessed with spectacular landscape with gentle slopes and surrounded by lofty mountains. The village is popularly known by other names like cherry village, ego village and limbo gaon or limbo village where one can experience limbo community culture. The Darap village is also famous for its cardamom cultivation.

After exploring fascinating Darap village drive onto Nambu (1,800m) which is a typical Himalayan village with houses scattered on adjacent hills. From Nambu village, it is a short trek of about 6km to Rambi village

Overnight camp at Rambi village.

Today’s trek commences traversing through a rough motorable section of road for about 2 hours, passing through local villages. Later the trail goes through cardamom fields and ascends to Bhutia village of Chongri, the last inhabited village in the Yambong valley. Remainder of the day spent in bird watching and enjoying nature’s bounty.

Overnight camp at Chongri (Altitude 2,175m).

The trail today is relatively gradual and steady till reaching grassy meadows of Naya Patal from where one can enjoy breath-taking view of the entire valley.  The trek trail passes through forest in abundance with Magnolia, Rhododendron, Birch, Cedar, Pine and Alder trees and run parallel through Sang Khola (river) to Naya Patal.

Overnight camp at Naya Patal (Altitude 3,000m)  

The day starts with challenging uphill climb amidst conifer forests and magnificent views. These forest areas are prime habitat of Monal Pheasant with good chance to spot one. Later the route crosses over the tree line, continuing with a short and gentle climb in the sub-alpine zone and thereafter landscape drastically changes with juniper shrubs and wildflowers.

Overnight camp at Upper Yambong (Altitude 3,735m)

Its relatively a challenging day trek to Dafey Bheer also called Devil pass. The top of the pass is famous viewpoint and provides magnificent view of the world’s highest mountain Mt. Everest towards the left and towards the right is majestic Kanchenjunga range. The viewpoint is also surrounded by 6 alpine lakes at its base. Our campsite is near Jamle Pokhari meaning twin pond.

Overnight camp at Dafey Bheer (Altitude 4,350m)

At sunrise enjoy the stunning views of mighty Everest and other prominent Himalayan peaks namely Makalu, Kumbakarna and the Kanchenjunga range.  Later after breakfast, begin the trek across the narrow mountain pass to the campsite at Yangshep.

Overnight camp at Yangshep (Altitude 3,900m)

From Yangshep it is steep hike to Pangding and a challenging one across high mountain pass. Rest of the day for relaxation.

Overnight camp at Pangding (Altitude 3,950m)

After breakfast continue on the trail heading towards the northeast, descending to a river and cross a plank bridge. The trail passes through lovely forests of juniper, rhododendron and silver fir. Progressing onward and climb to Dzgongri at an altitude of 4,020m from where one can have excellent view of Kanchenjunga from a close range.

Overnight camp at Dzongri (Altitude 4,020m).

Situated at an altitude 4,020m in West Sikkim, Dzongri is trekkers’ paradise and offers the stunning views of Mt. Kanchenjung and Mt. Pandim. On this day, one can get up early to savour the sunrise over Kanchenjunga and Onglathang valley. After breakfast we will take a day hike to Gingay Dara with its panoramic views of the Rathong Valley and Rathong Glacier as well as the snowy peaks of Koktang, Kabru, Frey and mountains to the south of the Kanchenjunga. From Dzongri top, one can capture mesmerising view of Kabru (7353 m), Ratong (6678 m), Kanchenjunga (8534 m), Koktang (6147 m), Pandim (6691 m) and Narsingh (5825 m). Towards the west is the Singalila Ridge, which separates Sikkim from Nepal.

Overnight camp at Dzongri (Altitude 4,020m)

The trek downhill is gradual through dense rhododendron forests to Tsokha village, a Tibetan resettlement centre.

Overnight camp at Tsokha (Altitude 2,900m)

After breakfast, take a final descent to the village of Yuksom through narrow mountain trails. Yuksom, literally meaning the ‘meeting place of three lamas’ is of great historical importance to the Sikkimese. It was here that the first Chogyal was crowned in 1642. The throne made of stones is even today considered sacred as is the footprint of Lhatsun Chenpo, which can be seen close to the throne. 

Afternoon free to explore Yuksom.

Overnight in Yuksom.

Morning visit Dubdi Monastery or Yuksom monastery, a Buddhist hallowed place of Nyingma organization of Tibetan Buddhism. Set up in the year 1701, amid the rule of Chogyal Namgyal, this is one of the most established monasteries in Sikkim. The word ‘Dubdi’ means ‘the retreat’ which can be seen validating itself through its hypnotizing surrounding in the midst of the thick chestnut backwoods. A stroll to this place acquaints visitors with the nature’s wonderland decorated with fine tall trees, exquisite, stoned way, prompting a breath-taking view of the snow crested mountains, and the distant valleys and greenery.

Later visit the imposing Norbugang chorten one of the distinct stupas in Yuksom is related to the first crowning of the Sikkim’s Chogyel dynasty by three wise lamas prophesied by Guru Rinpoche to spread Buddhism in Sikkim. Beside the Chorten remains the Coronation throne and a foot print to be of one of the lamas embedded on the rock.

Then explore part of Kanchenjunga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This high elevation national park is known for its astounding untamed life where fascinating creature species, for example, Red Panda, Snow Leopard, Great Tibetan Sheep, Bharal, Musk deer and so on can be spotted. The recreation centre is home to various species of birds like the Black-necked Crane, Grus nigricollis, Satyr Tragopan, Gray Peacock Pheasant, Himalayan Monal Pheasant, Tibetan Snow Cock, Blood Pheasant, and Himalayan Snow Cock. Kanchenjunga National Park has around 18 icy masses, including Zemu Glacier, which is very celebrated for its huge size. Other than this, the national park likewise has more than 17 elevated lakes alongside a view of around 19 Himalayan mountains crests, among which is the prominent Mount Kanchenjunga.
Afterwards drive to Martam via Ravangla to visit here Buddha Park, built in 2006 to commemorate the 2550th birth anniversary of Gautam Buddha. It features a 130 ft high deity of Gautam Buddha, surrounded by a well-maintained park, from where one can get magnificent views of the Himalayas, floating in the clouds. There’s also the Cho Djo Lake, which completes the natural beauty of the place. Martam is a small village located in West Sikkim and particularly famous for Limboo traditions and customs.

Overnight in Martam

Morning after breakfast, explore idyllic Martam village with fascinating view of Mount. Kanchenjunga and rich variety of flora & fauna. Visit 150-year-old traditional Limbu farm house to experience pristine village life. A short hike from the village leads you to a retreat centre where monks live in isolation, meditating to attain liberation not for oneself alone, but for the benefit of all sentient beings.

Afterwards drive to visit Rumtek monastery, the largest monasteries of Sikkim, reflecting the best of Tibetan architecture. Located 24km from Gangtok town at an elevation of 5000 ft. the serene Rumtek monastery in the beautiful background of majestic hills is the holy seat of XVIth Gyawla Karmapa, the head of the Karma Kagyu order of Tibetan Buddhism. Its architectural design is almost identical to the original Kagyu headquarters in Tibet. The Kagyu (also called Kagyupa or Kagyud) school is one of six main schools of Tibetan Buddhism. Rumtek monastery also serves as one of the most important seats of the Kagyu (Black Hat) sect of Tibetan Buddhism outside of Tibet and is also known as Dharmachakra Centre. Late in the afternoon the courtyard gets vibrant with the monk debating testing each other knowledge on Pram??av?rttika.

The monastery comprises a temple, a school, an aviary, several stupas, a retreat for monks to meditate and other buildings. The main temple is a four-storey building topped by a golden sculpture and decorated by Tibetan-style murals. The shrine hall is decorated with silk banner and thangkhas and houses numerous religious texts as well as a ten-feet-high statue of Sakyamuni Buddha.

Highly alluring, pleasantly boisterous – Gangtok, the capital city of Sikkim, is a fascinating town, a pristine hill station nestled in mountains and in clouds. The name meaning hill-top, Gangtok is perfect blend of ancient traditions alongside modern developments. Rich in natural beauty, the town offers amazing view of Mount. Kanchenjuna, the third highest mountain peak in the world. 

Overnight in Gangtok.

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for onward journey.

Gangtok / Pakyong Airport (30km, approx. 1-hour drive) OR Gangtok / Bagdogra Airport Gangtok (125km, approx. 4.1/2-hour drive)