Day 01: Arrive in Delhi.
Arrival at Delhi International Airport, where you will be met by our representative. After providing you with any assistance that you may require, we will transfer you to your hotel to rest and sleep off the jet lag.
Day 02: Delhi to Siliguri via Bagdogra.
Delhi to Siliguri via Bagdogara, by air & surface. Fly to Bagdogra. Upon arrival transfer to your hotel in Siliguri (14 km). During the afternoon visit the toy train steam locomotive shed at New Jalpaiguri Station and watch the engine drivers preparing the engines of this World Heritage train which has been operating since 1878 on 2 foot gauge track. Return to hotel after visiting Salugara Monastery and ISKCON Hare Krishna Temple. Overnight in Siliguri.
Day 03: Siliguri to Darjeeling via Mirik, 80 Km/2hrs 30mins.
Morning drive to Darjeeling, en route visit Mirik – a nest in the hills, amidst fascinating alpine setting and a glittering lake reflecting the magnificence of the eastern Himalayas. Darjeeling nestles amongst the world-renowned tea estates and an abundance of wild flowers, Orchids and Rhododendrons. Relax and unwind. Overnight in Darjeeling.
Day 04: In Darjeeling.
Early morning excursion to Tiger Hill to view the sunrise over the Himalayan mountains, including Mt. Khangchendzonga. On the way back visit the famous Ghoom Monastery. In the afternoon visit a tea estate to see the prepration of tea for export and sample some of it. Overnight stay.
Day 05: In Darjeeling.
Day at leisure for independent activities. Optional: morning ride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (declared world heritage by UNESCO) from Darjeeling to Ghoom railway station (at extra cost, not included in our quote). Overnight stay.
Day 06: Darjeeling to Pemayangste 75 Km/1 hr.
Early morning depart for the distant monastery of Pemayangste, built in 1705 in Northern Sikkim, land of the Yeti andabominable snowman. Surrounded by picturesque monk’s quarters, the austere monastery is a treasure trove of beautiful thangas, murals and images. During the afternoon visit the Sikkim’s oldest monastery; Sangachoeling located on a hilltop, commanding a magnificent panoramic view of the Himalayan ranges and the surrounding hills and countryside. Stay 2 nights in Pemayangste.
Day 07: Pemayangste. Excursion to Khecheopalri.
Morning excursion to Khecheopalri Lake (18 Km) considered a sacred lake both by Hindus and Buddhists. The lake remains hidden in the rich forest cover.
Day 08: Pemayangste to Gangtok 127 Km/ 6 hrs.
Drive through stunning scenery arriving at Gangtok, for a 3 night stay. The capital of Sikkim, Gangtok reflects extraordinary ethnic diversity. Lepchas live alongside Tibetans, Bhutias, Nepalese and Indians. Time at leisure.
Day 09: In Gangtok.
Visit the orchid sanctuary which boasts of over 200 species of orchid. Visit Enchey Monastery whose large prayer hall is full of exquisite mural, images and religious objects. The evening is at your leisure.
Days 10 & 11: In Gangtok.
Visit Rumtek monastery (24 Km), home to the Yellow Hat Sect with magnificent murals, icons, rare manuscripts and displays richly carved painted woodwork. Explore the city on your own.
Day 12: Gangtok to Kalimpong, 80 Km/3 hrs.
Drive to the frontier town of Kalimpong in West Bengal. Check in at your hotel. During the afternoon visit the Thonga Monastery and Kalimpong town – famous for its exotic nurseries producing orchids, gladioli, lily and cacti. Entire hillsides are ablaze with a riot of colour during the blooming season.
Day 13: Kalimpong to Delhi via Bagdogra. 83 Km/3 hrs & by Air.
Drive to Bagdogra airport and fly to Delhi. Upon arrival transfer to your hotel in Delhi for a 2 night stay.
Day 14: In Delhi.
Full day sightseeing tour of Delhi. Explore the Qutab Complex which houses India’s biggest single tower Qutab Minar and the 4th century rust free Iron Pillar, Mughal citadel named Lal Qila (Red Fort) and Lutyens Delhi. Also visit the grand Jama Masjid and Humayan’s Tomb – the only monument ever built by a lady in memory of her beloved husband.
Day 15: Depart Delhi.
Transfer to the airport to board your onward flight.
Date and price to suit individual arrangements based on 2 people sharing. Breakfast included. Private air-conditioned car and driver with English speaking guides for sightseeing.
