On arrival at Pakyong airport / Bagdogra airport, received by our representative and transfer to Gangtok.

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.

Evening take a stroll on MG road, picking up some souvenirs or sample few local delicacies.

Overnight in Gangtok (Altitude 1,650m / 5,410 ft).

After breakfast, the sightseeing in Gangtok includes:

Rumtek monastery: It is 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 XVIthGyawla 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.

Return to town to continue local tour of following places:

Ban Jhakri Falls: Ban Jhakri Falls is located approx. 11 km from Gangtok is a waterfall which cascades from a rocky height of almost 40 feet and plunges down with intense force. Around the waterfalls gardens have been beautifully landscaped and the place is further adorned with several statues of Ban Jhakri (traditional healer or Shaman) and other ethnic sculptures and figurines depicting Jhakri (Shaman) culture. The figurine in the park illustrates rituals, some healing ceremonies and others the induction process in the life of a shaman.

Do Drul Chorten: Built in 1945 by Trulshi Rinpoche, head of Nyingma order of Tibetan Buddhism, it is regarded as one of the most important stupas of Sikkim and possess sacred gold-topped shikhara with 108 prayer wheels. This highly revered Chorten is also characterized by complete mandala sets of Dorjee Phurba (Bajra Kilaya), a set of Kan-gyur relics (Holy Books), complete Zung (mantras) and other religious objects.

Namgyal Institute of Tibetology: Regarded as the highest seat of learning amongst the Mahayana Buddhist scholars, this Institute was built in 1958 and is a famous global centre for the study of Buddhist philosophy and religion today. It houses the world's largest collected works and rare manuscripts on the theme of Mahayana Buddhism. Apart from this collection, the museum has more than 200 Buddhist icons, antique paintings, thangkhas, statues, shrines, tapestries, masks and other religious works of Tibetan Art. The Institute also has in its keep around 30,000 volumes, most of them in the form of xylographs. (Closed on Sunday)

The Directorate of Handloom and Handicrafts Centre: The Directorate of Handloom and Handicrafts Centre was established in the year 1957 with the sole purpose of promoting and preserving the fine ethnic arts and crafts of Sikkim. The Directorate is a unique combination of training-cum-production with its similar units spread over 20 centres in Sikkim. (Closed on Sunday)

Flower Exhibition Centre: Situated at a walking distance from the MG Marg Gangtok, Flower Exhibition Centre showcases flowers from the different parts of Sikkim together under a single roof which makes it a heaven for all the nature lovers. Though the flowers are displayed here all through the year, the annual flower show which is held from April to May during this time, the management gathers here and presents numerous varieties of orchids along with other flowers from around the state.

Rest of the time can be spent taking stroll on MG Road.

MG Road is the heart of Gangtok and the central shopping hub of this beautiful state capital with various shops, restaurants, and hotels lined up along both sides of the road. This is a great place to take a leisurely stroll or just sit on the benches and revel in the eclectic ambience.

Overnight in Gangtok (Altitude 1,650m / 5,410 ft.).

Today embark on a fascinating excursion to Changu Lake (Tsomgo Lake) & Baba Mandir:

Tsomgo also known as Changu, is an oval-shaped glacial lake, embedded in steep and rugged mountain terrain. At an elevation of 3,753m, this placid lake remains frozen with the area covered in snow during winter and melts during the summer to form a water body. Associated with many legends and myths, Tsomgo is revered as a holy lake by the people of Sikkim. Rope way and a Yak ride around the Lake is one of the key activities.

Located between Nathula and Jelepla pass at an altitude of 13,123 ft, Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple is a unique destination and another important visit of the day. It is believed that Baba’s spirit protects every soldier in the inhospitable high-altitude terrain of the Eastern Himalayas. The legend of Baba goes back 35 years when Sepoy Harbhajan Singh of the 23rd Punjab Regiment went missing. A manhunt was launched, and it took the army three days to find his body. It is believed that he himself led the soldiers to the site. The soldiers raised a Samadhi in his name and till date people in the area believe that Baba’s sprit protects the soldier posted here. The Indian Army treated Baba as a soldier who never died, and he was retired with full honours in December 2016.

Optional: Excursion to Nathu La pass:

Nathu La pass (4,310m) is one of the three trading border posts between China and India; the other two are Shipkila in Himachal Pradesh and Lipulekh (or Lipulech) in Uttarakhand. Sealed by India after the 1962 Sino-Indian War, Nathu La was re-opened in 2006 following numerous bilateral trade agreements. The opening of the pass is expected to bolster the economy of the region and play a key role in the growing Sino-Indian trade. Nathu means ‘listening ears’ and La means ‘pass’ in Tibetan.  Nathu La is on one of the highest motorable breath-taking road and is covered with rich alpine flora and fauna while the landscape in and around the pass remains dotted with army settlements owing to its one of the agreed Border Personnel meeting points for Indian and Chinese armies.

Overnight in Gangtok (Altitude 1,650m / 5,410 ft.).

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, 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.

On arrival at Pelling check into hotel.

Rest of day at leisure or stroll around this tiny little charming village.

Overnight in Pelling (Altitude 2,150m / 7,200 ft).

Yuksom was the first capital of Sikkim, where according to the historical records, the first Chogyal of the Kingdom of Sikkim was consecrated in 1641 A.D. by three learned lamas. The evidence of the consecration ceremony is still intact at Norbugang Chorten in the form of stone seats and a footprint of the Head Lama on a stone. Since the history of the state began from this place, this area now considered sacred by the people of Sikkim.

Explore Darap Village, an ethnic Limboo Community village while other small communities like the Lepchas, Chettries, Gurungs, Bhutias, Tamangs, Rais are also settled here.

En route visit Rimbi Waterfalls: Located near the village of Darap, Rimbi Waterfalls is a beautiful tourist attraction in Pelling. It is surrounded by the emerald-green vegetation and blessed with a calm ambiance; these waterfalls are an astonishing place where tourists can refresh their tired senses by spending some intimate time with nature. Located close to the waterfall is one of the oldest hydro power stations in Sikkim.

Khecheopalri Lake: This lake is considered as one of the sacred lakes of this state both by Buddhist and Hindus. The lake remains hidden in the rich forest cover. It is believed that birds do not permit even a single leaf to float on the lake surface.

Continue drive to visit Kanchenjunga Waterfall. This mighty waterfall is believed to have originated high up in the ice glaciers of the majestic Mt. Kanchenjunga, giving it a perennial flow throughout the year. With water gushing down from a height of over a hundred feet, this towering spectacle is a sight for sore eyes.

Later in the afternoon drive to visit ruins of the old Rabdentse Palace with a moderate hike. Rabdentse was the second capital of Sikkim established by the second Chogyal in the latter half of the 17th century and it has been the capital of the erstwhile kingdom until 1814 A.D. The old palace and monastery complex are in ruins, and now Archaeological Survey of India is maintaining and undertaking the restoration works. The scenic view from the top of the ruins scanning across deep valley to the mystic heights of Kanchenjuna ranges is something to be cherished and etched in memory.

Upon return visit the Pemayangtse Monastery located on top of a hillock. Built in 17th century, it is the paramount seat of Nyingmapa monasteries and regarded as Sikkim’s most prestigious centre of learning.

Optional: Skywalk experience

The skywalk has been built to provide an exquisite view of the gorgeous Chenrezig statue and it will lead you to golden prayer wheels on both sides and give you a panoramic view of mighty the Himalayas.

Overnight in Pelling (Altitude 2,150m / 7,200 ft).

After breakfast, drive to Darjeeling enjoying wonderful natural scenery, river valleys, green hills & meandering rivers.

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, take a stroll around 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.

Optional: Darjeeling Himalayan Railways (DHR) Toy Train Joy Rides

It's roughly a 2-hour round trip from Darjeeling up to Ghoom and back via Batasia Loop covering a total distance of 14kms. Accorded the UNESCO World Heritage Site status in December 1999, Darjeeling Himalayan Railways (DHR) is an icon of heritage of Darjeeling since the colonial days and an engineering marvel. It offers a wonderful way of absorbing the picturesque Himalayan scenes as you traverse along the slopes of the hills.

Overnight in Darjeeling (Altitude 2,000m / 6,560 ft).

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 4th, 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 (Altitude 2,000m / 6,560 ft).

After breakfast at the hotel, transfer to Bagdogra Airport or New Jalpaiguri for your onward journey.