
Price

Duration
5Night

Tour Type
Hiking,Leisure & Adventure
Review






Overview
Gangtok, Pelling, and Darjeeling are three popular destinations in the northeastern region of India, each offering unique experiences surrounded by the natural beauty of the Himalayas. Here’s an overview of each place:
1. Gangtok (Sikkim)
- Location: The capital city of Sikkim, situated at an altitude of 5,410 feet (1,650 meters).
- Best Time to Visit: March to June and September to December.
- Attractions:
- Rumtek Monastery: One of the largest and most significant Buddhist monasteries in Sikkim.
- MG Marg: A vibrant promenade with shops, cafes, and restaurants.
- Tsomgo Lake: A glacial lake about 38 km from Gangtok, known for its serene beauty.
- Banjhakri Falls: A picturesque waterfall located in a forest area.
- Nathula Pass: A historic mountain pass located on the Indo-China border (requires special permits).
- Culture: Gangtok is a blend of traditional Sikkimese culture with Tibetan influence, offering a mix of Buddhist monasteries, vibrant festivals, and local traditions.
2. Pelling (Sikkim)
- Location: Situated in West Sikkim, about 115 km from Gangtok at an altitude of 7,200 feet (2,200 meters).
- Best Time to Visit: March to May and September to December.
- Attractions:
- Khecheopalri Lake: A sacred lake, revered by both Buddhists and Hindus.
- Pemayangtse Monastery: One of the oldest and most prominent monasteries in the region.
- Kanchenjunga Viewpoint: Offers breathtaking views of the third-highest mountain in the world, Mount Kanchenjunga.
- Rabdentse Ruins: The historical remains of the second capital of the Kingdom of Sikkim.
- Sangachoeling Monastery: Located on a hilltop with panoramic views of Pelling and the surrounding area.
- Culture: Pelling is known for its peaceful environment, religious sites, and stunning Himalayan vistas, making it ideal for nature lovers and spiritual seekers.
3. Darjeeling (West Bengal)
- Location: Situated in the Darjeeling Himalayan range in West Bengal, at an altitude of 6,710 feet (2,050 meters).
- Best Time to Visit: March to June and September to December.
- Attractions:
- Tiger Hill: Famous for sunrise views of Mount Kanchenjunga and the surrounding peaks.
- Batasia Loop: A unique railway loop where the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway passes through a spiral track.
- Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (Toy Train): A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the toy train offers a nostalgic and scenic ride through the hills.
- Peace Pagoda: A Buddhist monument offering panoramic views of Darjeeling and the mountains.
- Tenzing Rock and Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park: For adventure and wildlife enthusiasts, with opportunities for rock climbing and seeing endangered species like the snow leopard.
- Culture: Darjeeling is a blend of British colonial influence and Tibetan culture, known for its tea gardens, breathtaking views, and charming atmosphere. The region is also known for its diverse culture and cuisine, including Tibetan, Nepali, and Bengali influences.
Travel Tips:
- Accessibility: All three places are connected by road, with Gangtok and Pelling being well-connected by shared taxis or private vehicles. Darjeeling is well-connected by both road and the toy train from New Jalpaiguri.
- Permits: If you are planning to visit areas near the Indo-China border (like Nathula Pass), permits are required. Check with local authorities or tour operators beforehand.
- Weather: The weather can vary greatly in these regions, with Gangtok and Pelling generally being cooler than Darjeeling. Carry warm clothing even in the summer months, especially for higher altitudes.
In summary, these destinations are perfect for travelers looking for scenic beauty, cultural immersion, and adventure in the lap of the Himalayas. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or someone who enjoys scenic train journeys, these places offer a variety of experiences to explore.
Tour Itinerary :
- DAY 1: NJP / IXB/Siliguri to Gangtok
After being received at IXB/NJP/Siliguri, proceed to Gangtok (5,410 ft) which is 120 km away and takes 4.5 hours approximately.After reaching Gangtok, check-in at the hotel. Overnight stay.
- DAY 2: Tsomgo Lake and New Baba Mandir
After early breakfast,(7:30am) start for a full day excursion to Tsomgo lake (12,400ft) and New Baba Mandir (13,200ft).Pease note Nathula pass (Indo Chinese border) situated at 14,500 ft. is an optional sightseeing point for Indian Nationals only, which is not a part of this package. Special Permit is required for Nathula and is done on extra cost and is totally dependent in the issuance of permit by the Sikkim tourism Dept which is issued on the day of travel only. Valid documents need to be provided seven days prior for Nathula permit. Once the permit is issued the amount is non refundable It is closed for visitors on Mondays and Tuesdays. Permits may be granted in clubbing basis. Note – Alternative sightseeing provided incase of Tsomgo lake permit not issued due to natural calamity or political disorder.
- DAY 3: Gangtok half day city tour and transfer to Pelling.
After breakfast ,start for a half day trip of Gangtok city (08:30 to 12:30) covering Handicraft Centre, Flower show, Chorten Stupa, Institute of Tibetology & Bhakthang/Banjhakri Water falls. Afternoon drive to Pelling (7,000 ft.). On arrival check-in at the hotel. Overnight stay at Pelling.
- DAY 4: Pelling half day sightseeing and Transfer to Darjeeling
Proceed for half day sightseeing covering Pemayangtse Monastry, Rabdantse Ruins, and Skywalk. After sightseeing proceed to Darjeeling(6730 ft.). On arrival check-in at the hotel. Overnight stay at Darjeeling.
- DAY 5: Darjeeling city tour
Wake up early in the morning (3:30am) to witness the sunrise from Tiger Hill (2,590 meters/13 KM/45 min). On the way back, visit the famous Ghoom Monastery and the Batasia Loop. Proceed for half day city tour around Darjeeling (09:00 am to 3:30)covering The Japanese Temple and Peace Pagoda,P.N. Zoological Park (Thursday closed), Himalayan Mountaineering Institute (Thursday closed), Tenzing Rock, Tibetan Refugee self-help Centre (Sunday closed)and outer view of Tea Garden (Chitrey).
- DAY 6: Darjeeling to IXB/NJP/Siliguri
Proceed from Darjeeling to Bagdogra Airport (IXB)/NJP (Railway Station)/Siliguri (for onward journey (70 KM drive/3 Hours approx).
Know Before You Go
- ID Proof is mandatory for each individual guest at the time of booking, and upon arrival. PAN Card will not be considered as a valid identity proof.
- Please note that the driver might turn off the vehicle’s ACs while driving in hilly areas to optimise engine performance.
- It is recommended that you always carry an umbrella and warm clothes to avoid unexpected rainfall and temperature drops.
- Please note that necessary permits will be required to enter restricted areas.
- Carry back all non-degradable litter such as empty bottles, tins, plastic bags, etc. These must be disposed of in municipal dustbins only.
- Ask for prior permission before taking a photograph of local people.
- Pack a few woollen clothes, even in the summer season, since is frigid all year round.