Price
Duration
8Night
Tour Type
Hiking,Leisure
Review
Overview
Gangtok, Lachen, Lachung, and Darjeeling are some of the most beautiful and popular destinations in Northeast India. Each offers unique attractions and experiences, making them a favorite among travelers seeking a mix of nature, culture, and adventure. Here’s an overview:
Gangtok (Sikkim)
- Overview: The capital city of Sikkim, Gangtok, is a bustling hill station known for its breathtaking views of the Kanchenjunga range, vibrant monasteries, and a blend of modern and traditional Sikkimese culture.
- Key Attractions:
- MG Marg: A lively pedestrian street with shops, cafes, and local eateries.
- Rumtek Monastery: A significant site for Tibetan Buddhism.
- Tsomgo Lake: A stunning glacial lake surrounded by mountains.
- Nathu La Pass: A historic mountain pass along the Indo-China border.
- Enchey Monastery: A serene and historic monastery.
Lachen (Sikkim)
- Overview: A quaint village in North Sikkim, Lachen is known for its untouched beauty, pristine landscapes, and as a gateway to higher-altitude adventures.
- Key Attractions:
- Gurudongmar Lake: A sacred and mesmerizing high-altitude lake.
- Chopta Valley: Known for its stunning views and rich biodiversity.
- Lachen Monastery: A peaceful spot reflecting Tibetan culture.
- Trekking and Nature Walks: Ideal for exploring the serene surroundings.
Lachung (Sikkim)
- Overview: Another picturesque village in North Sikkim, Lachung is celebrated for its apple orchards, waterfalls, and proximity to the famous Yumthang Valley.
- Key Attractions:
- Yumthang Valley: Known as the “Valley of Flowers,” it offers vibrant blooms and snow-capped peaks.
- Hot Springs: Known for their therapeutic properties.
- Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary: A must-visit during the rhododendron bloom season.
- Lachung Monastery: A tranquil and cultural hub.
Darjeeling (West Bengal)
- Overview: Renowned as the “Queen of the Hills,” Darjeeling is famous for its tea plantations, colonial charm, and stunning views of the Himalayas.
- Key Attractions:
- Tiger Hill: A sunrise point offering spectacular views of Kanchenjunga and Mount Everest on clear days.
- Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (Toy Train): A UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Batasia Loop: A scenic railway loop with panoramic views.
- Tea Gardens: Known for producing world-famous Darjeeling tea.
- Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park: Home to the rare red panda.
Travel Tips:
- Best Time to Visit:
- March to May (spring) and October to December (autumn) for clear skies and pleasant weather.
- Winters (December-February) for snow in Lachen and Lachung.
- Permits: Special permits are required for North Sikkim (Lachen and Lachung).
- Transport: Shared or private taxis are commonly used for intercity travel.
- Altitude Consideration: Carry essentials for high-altitude sickness, especially when visiting Gurudongmar Lake or Yumthang Valley.
- Cultural Respect: Follow local customs and guidelines, especially near monasteries and sacred sites.
These destinations together offer a unique combination of tranquility, adventure, and cultural richness, making them a perfect circuit for nature lovers and explorers.
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 Lachen
After breakfast pick up from hotel (9:30am) & drive to Lachen (8,838 ft./120 km/6 Hours approximately). On the way visit Butterfly/Seven Sister waterfalls, Singhik view point, Naga water falls, Chungthang Dam and confluence. Arrive at Lachen by evening. Overnight stay at Lachen.
- DAY 4: Lachen to Lachung
Early Morning drive from Lachen to Gurudongmar Lake (17,100 ft./3 hours drive). Beautiful Chopta valley is on the way. Return back to hotel for lunch & drive to Lachung (8,910 ft /2 hours drive) Arrive Lachung by evening. Overnight stay at Lachung
- DAY 5: 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 6: Gangtok City Tour
Go for Gangtok full day sightseeing (8:30am to 4:30pm) covering Handicraft Center, Bakthang water falls, Tashi View Point, Gonjang Monastry, Nature Interpretation center, Ganesh Tok, Flower Show, Tibet logy, Chorten Stupa and Banjhakri Water Falls. Overnight stay at Gangtok.
- DAY 7: Gangtok to Darjeeling
After breakfast (08:30am)Proceed from Gangtok to Darjeeling ( 110kms/ 4hrs drive/ 6730 ft approx). Check in at the hotel. Evening free to roam around the Mall Road . Overnight stay.
- 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.
- It is customary to leave a donation at a monastery and to circle shrines in clockwise direction.
- 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.
