Embark on a captivating journey through the eastern Himalayan gems, beginning with the vibrant city of Kolkata and culminating in the serene hill stations of Darjeeling and Gangtok. Experience a perfect blend of cultural richness, breathtaking landscapes, and spiritual heritage.
Arrive by flight in Kolkata, the cultural capital of West Bengal. Receive a warm traditional ‘Swagat’ (welcome) from our representatives who will assist you with your airport transfer to the hotel. Known as the “City of Joy,” Kolkata stands as one of India’s major metropolitan hubs alongside Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai. Unlike ancient Delhi, Kolkata grew from a modest 17th-century village into a thriving city, largely influenced by British colonial expansion. The city still proudly showcases stunning colonial-era architecture and regal Raj-era edifices.
Overnight stay at hotel in Kolkata.
After breakfast, enjoy a half-day tour of Kolkata’s iconic landmarks. Visit the ornate Lakshmi Narayan Temple and the serene Botanical Gardens. Explore Eden Gardens, one of the world’s oldest cricket stadiums, and Fort William, a grand British fortification. Walk across the legendary Howrah Bridge, an engineering marvel and the world’s third-largest cantilever bridge, opened in 1943. This impressive structure spans 71 feet wide and accommodates eight lanes of traffic alongside pedestrian footpaths, offering panoramic views of the Hooghly River.
Overnight stay at hotel in Kolkata.
Transfer to the airport for your flight to Bagdogra. Upon arrival, enjoy a scenic drive to Darjeeling, often called the “Queen of Hill Stations.” Nestled amid rolling tea gardens, Darjeeling captivates visitors with its Victorian charm and breathtaking mountain vistas. Its emerald-hued tea estates ripple gracefully over layered slopes, creating a mesmerizing landscape.
Overnight stay at hotel in Darjeeling.
Early morning, visit Tiger Hill to witness a spectacular sunrise over the snow-capped peaks of Kanchenjunga, Mt. Everest, and other eastern Himalayan summits. On your return, stop at Ghoom, a quaint Tibetan village shrouded in mist and home to the serene Yiga-Choling ‘Yellow Hat’ Buddhist Temple, where monks can be heard playing traditional Gyeling pipes. Visit the two historic Buddhist monasteries, Chholing and Darli.
After some rest, embark on a ride aboard the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway’s famous toy train, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit the Mountaineering Institute, founded by legendary Sherpa Tenzing Norgay, showcasing mountaineering gear and memorabilia. Explore the Tibetan Handicraft Centre and the fragrant tea gardens. Conclude the day with a visit to Observatory Hill, locally known as Makal-Babu-Ko-Thaan, a site where both Hindu and Buddhist temples coexist, echoing tales of resilience and harmony.
Overnight stay at hotel in Darjeeling (Breakfast and Dinner included).
After breakfast, drive to Gangtok, the enchanting capital of Sikkim perched on steep mountain slopes. Surrounded by lush rice terraces, rushing rivers, and distant snow-capped peaks, Gangtok offers a mesmerizing blend of nature and culture. Originally a small hamlet, it blossomed into a spiritual and cultural center with the establishment of Enchey Monastery in 1840.
Enjoy a half-day city tour visiting the renowned Research Institute of Tibetology, a hub for Tibetan studies housing rare manuscripts, ancient Buddhist art, and priceless tantric documents.
Overnight stay at hotel in Gangtok.
Begin with an excursion to the sacred Tsomgo Lake, a pristine high-altitude lake revered by locals and a haven for bird watchers spotting species like Blue Whistling Thrush and Brahminy ducks. Visit the exquisite stupas of Do Drul Chorten, commemorating spiritual triumphs and revered monks.
Next, explore Rumtek Monastery, the principal monastery of the Kagyud sect, known as the ‘Black Hat’ lineage of Tibetan Buddhism, built in 1959 as a replica of the original monastery in Tibet.
Later, visit the Himalayan Zoological Park, home to endangered species like the Red Panda, and the Government Institute of Cottage Industries, where authentic Sikkimese crafts including handwoven Tibetan carpets and intricately carved furniture are created.
Explore Lal Bazaar, a vibrant market where diverse ethnic groups gather to barter and showcase their colorful crafts.
Overnight stay at hotel in Gangtok (Breakfast and Dinner included).
After breakfast, your memorable East Himalayan tour concludes with a transfer to Bagdogra airport for your onward journey. We thank you for choosing this journey with us and hope to welcome you again soon.
