On arrival at Bagdogra Airport (IXB) or New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP), you'll be greeted and transferred to Gangtok, the charming capital of Sikkim. The drive takes about 4-5 hours, passing through lush green hills and the Teesta river. After checking into your hotel, you have the evening free to explore MG Marg, where you can enjoy local snacks or simply witness the vibrant life of this mountain city. Overnight stay in Gangtok.
Start your day with an exciting excursion to Tsomgo Lake (12,400 ft), a glacial lake held sacred by the people of Sikkim. The lake is often frozen in winter and surrounded by wildflowers in summer. Later, visit the New Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir, built in memory of the brave Indian soldier. You can also opt for a visit to the Indo-China border at Nathula Pass (subject to permits and extra cost). Return to your hotel in Gangtok for the night.
After breakfast, check out and transfer to Pelling (approx. 4 hours). On the way, stop at Ravangla to visit the magnificent Buddha Park, home to a 130-foot tall statue of Lord Buddha. Pelling is famous for its panoramic views of the Kanchenjunga range. After checking in, spend your evening admiring the breathtaking sunset over the mountains. Overnight stay in Pelling.
Explore the hidden gems of Pelling today. Visit the Rimbi Waterfalls, Sewaro Rock Garden, and the thunderous Kanchenjunga Waterfalls. Later, seek blessings at the sacred Khecheopalri Lake, believed to hold the power of fulfilling wishes. Don't miss the Pemayangtse Monastery, one of the oldest in the state, and walk through history at the Rabdentse Ruins. If time permits, experience the Pelling Skywalk. Overnight stay in Pelling.
Today, you'll travel from Pelling to Darjeeling (approx. 4 hours). Darjeeling is world-renowned for its pristine tea gardens and the spectacular Himalayan views. En route, stop at the Peshok View Point to witness the confluence of the Teesta and Rangit rivers. After checking into your hotel, spend the evening strolling around Chowrasta (The Mall Road). Overnight stay in Darjeeling.
Wake up early (around 4 AM) for a drive to Tiger Hill to witness a spectacular sunrise over Mt. Kanchenjunga and Mt. Everest. On the way back, visit Ghoom Monastery and the Batasia Loop. Post breakfast, head out for a city tour including Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, Ropeway, Tibetan Refugee Self-Help Center, and a walk through a tea estate. Evening is free for leisure. Overnight stay in Darjeeling.
Bid farewell to the mountains as you check out from your hotel after breakfast. You will be transferred to Bagdogra Airport (IXB) or New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP) for your return journey, taking home a bag full of wonderful memories from your Best of Sikkim & Darjeeling tour.