Book an early-morning flight Chennai -> Bagdogra so all three can meet in the forenoon; this saves driving time and fits the 4-day window. Flight times vary by airline; arrive by late morning if possible.
Scenic 4–5 hour drive (100–120 km depending on route) with tea/photostops; private cab from Siliguri/Bagdogra to Gangtok is the most efficient for a 4-day trip. You’ll be dropped near MG Marg/Gangtok town center.
MG Marg is Gangtok’s pedestrian heart—shops, cafes, live music and views. Short ropeway ride gives skyline views; perfect for a relaxed first evening and couple-friendly photo spots. Open daily; ropeway timings depend on operator (usually till sunset).
Try steamed/pyaji momos, thukpa (noodle soup) and local tea—comforting after travel. Popular eateries on MG Marg serve authentic Tibetan-Nepali fare into the evening.
Tsomgo (Changu) Lake is an alpine glacial lake ~40 km from Gangtok with stunning high-altitude scenery; combine with Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir en route. Start early to avoid afternoon clouds and traffic. Note: Nathula pass is open only on specific days and requires separate permits—confirm in advance (Nathula often closed Mon/Tues and to foreign nationals without special clearances).
Walk the lakeshore, take photos and optional short yak rides; the lake sits at high altitude so keep hydrated and avoid strenuous activity. Visitor hours typically early morning to late afternoon; avoid visiting late in the day.
Return drive and time to rest before dinner; consider a short spa or hot tea at a café. Permits and weather can affect timing—flexible buffer is essential.
Early start for a 5–7 hour scenic drive (approx 120–140 km depending route) crossing river valleys, waterfalls (Seven Sisters), and terraced villages; road can be narrow—expect exciting mountain driving. Check weather and road conditions before departure.
Lachung is a quaint mountain village—walk narrow lanes, interact with homestay hosts, and enjoy sunset views over the valley. Couples-friendly, peaceful evenings and great stargazing on clear nights.
Homestays here serve homemade Nepali/Sikkimese specialties—ask hosts for specialties like gundruk tarkari, chhurpi tea, and local pork or vegetarian stews; intimate and authentic couple-friendly setting.
Yumthang (the ‘Valley of Flowers’) is 25–40 minutes from Lachung by road; start very early to catch morning light and, if weather permits, visit Zero Point further up (often closed in winter/subject to snow and permits). Check Zero Point status locally—roads beyond Yumthang can be closed or limited.
Walk the meadows, see rhododendron forests (seasonal), and take photos; there’s a small hot spring area—carry layers and sun protection. Visitor access usually daylight hours; avoid late arrivals.
Begin the long return towards Bagdogra—you can aim to reach Bagdogra by late evening to catch a night flight. Alternate option: overnight Gangtok and fly next morning if flights don’t align.
If timing is tight, have a packed local meal en route; if you reach Siliguri early enough enjoy a simple North-Indian/Nepali meal before the flight. Always confirm your evening flight time and leave buffer for mountain traffic.
Evening/night flights to Chennai will complete the loop; confirm flight timings and airport transfer drop-off in advance. If flights don’t match, consider an overnight in Siliguri/Gangtok and fly next morning.