Price
Duration
8Night
Tour Type
Hiking,Adventure
Review
Overview
Here’s a brief overview of Gangtok, Lachung, Pelling, and Darjeeling, four popular destinations in the northeastern region of India:
1. Gangtok (Sikkim)
- Overview: The capital city of Sikkim, Gangtok is a bustling hill station nestled in the eastern Himalayas. It is known for its stunning views of Kanchenjunga, vibrant markets, and serene monasteries.
- Key Attractions:
- MG Marg: A lively pedestrian street with shops, cafes, and restaurants.
- Rumtek Monastery: A significant Buddhist monastery with beautiful architecture.
- Tsomgo Lake: A glacial lake located at an altitude of 12,400 feet.
- Nathula Pass: A high-altitude mountain pass on the Indo-China border.
- Activities: Cable car rides, trekking, and exploring Buddhist culture.
2. Lachung (Sikkim)
- Overview: A quaint village in North Sikkim, Lachung is famous for its picturesque valleys, snow-capped mountains, and apple orchards. It serves as a base for visiting the Yumthang Valley.
- Key Attractions:
- Yumthang Valley: Known as the “Valley of Flowers,” it offers stunning landscapes with blooming rhododendrons (in season).
- Zero Point: A high-altitude area with snow and panoramic views.
- Lachung Monastery: A peaceful Buddhist site amidst the mountains.
- Activities: Nature walks, snow experiences, and photography.
3. Pelling (Sikkim)
- Overview: A serene town in West Sikkim, Pelling is a hub for travelers seeking majestic views of Mount Kanchenjunga. It is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty.
- Key Attractions:
- Pemayangtse Monastery: One of the oldest monasteries in Sikkim.
- Rabdentse Ruins: Historical remains of the second capital of Sikkim.
- Skywalk: India’s first glass-bottom skywalk, offering spectacular views.
- Kanchenjunga Falls: A stunning waterfall surrounded by greenery.
- Activities: Trekking, exploring monasteries, and bird watching.
4. Darjeeling (West Bengal)
- Overview: Known as the “Queen of the Hills,” Darjeeling is a classic hill station offering lush tea gardens, colonial charm, and magnificent views of the Himalayas.
- Key Attractions:
- Tiger Hill: Famous for sunrise views over Kanchenjunga.
- Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (Toy Train): A UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Batasia Loop: A scenic railway loop with a war memorial.
- Japanese Peace Pagoda: A serene site promoting world peace.
- Activities: Tea tasting, riding the toy train, and shopping for handicrafts.
Best Time to Visit
- Spring (March to May): For blooming flowers and pleasant weather.
- Autumn (October to December): For clear views of the Himalayas.
- Winter (December to February): For snow experiences in Lachung and the colder parts of Sikkim.
Ideal Itinerary
- Gangtok (2-3 days): Sightseeing, Tsomgo Lake, and local exploration.
- Lachung (2 days): Yumthang Valley and Zero Point.
- Pelling (2 days): Monasteries, waterfalls, and scenic views.
- Darjeeling (2-3 days): Tiger Hill, tea gardens, and the toy train.
These destinations offer a mix of adventure, tranquility, and cultural exploration, making them a must-visit in Northeast India.
Tour Itinerary :
-
DAY 1: NJP / IXB/Siliguri to GangtokAfter 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 to Lachung
After breakfast pick up from hotel(9:30am) & transfer to Lachung (8,910 /116 km/6 hours approximately). On the way visit Butterfly/Seven Sister waterfalls, Singhik view point, Naga water falls, Chungthang Dam and confluence, Bhim Nala. Arrive at Lachung by evening. Overnight stay at Lachung.
- DAY 4: Lachung to Gangtok with Yumthang
Early Morning, drive to Yumthang Valley (11,800 ft. Known as Valley of Flowers). Return back to the hotel for lunch and transfer to Gangtok and overnight stay. Optional at an extra cost Zero point (Yumesamdong) 16,000 ft.
- DAY 5: Gangtok to Pelling
After breakfast, (8:30am) drive to Pelling (7,000 ft./120 km approx/5 hours drive). On arrival check-in to your hotel & rest of the day at leisure. Overnight stay at Pelling.
- DAY 6: Pelling full day city tour.
After Breakfast,Start sightseeing at Pelling (08:30am to 4:30pm) covering Orange Garden, Rimbi waterfalls, Khangchendzonga waterfalls, Khecheopalri Lake, Pemayangtse Monastery & Rabdentse Ruins. (Optional - Sky walk at extra cost). Overnight stay at Pelling.
- DAY 7: Pelling to Darjeeling
After breakfast,(08:30am) head towards Darjeeling (110 Kms/6 Hrs/6,730ft). Check in at the hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure.After breakfast,(08:30am) head towards Darjeeling (110 Kms/6 Hrs/6,730ft). Check in at the hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure.
- DAY 8: 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 9: 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.
- Please note that Gurudongmar Lake is at an altitude of 5,425 metres and can cause altitude sickness. It is advisable that you consult with your doctor prior to the visit and take necessary precautions as well.
- Pack a few woollen clothes, even in the summer season, since Sikkim is frigid all year round.
