Morning: Arrive at Bagdogra Airport and transfer to Gangtok (≈4 hrs). After checking in, enjoy a leisurely walk through the **MG Road** market, sampling local momos and tea.
Afternoon: Visit the historic **Namgyal Institute of Tibetology** and the nearby **Enchey Monastery**, where you can learn about Buddhist culture and admire stunning mountain vistas.
Evening: Stroll along **Rooftop Park** for panoramic views of the Kanchenjunga range, then dine on traditional Sikkimese dishes at a local restaurant.
Find HotelsMorning: Depart early for **Tsomgo Lake**, a glacial lake at 3,750 m. Enjoy a short hike around the lake and optional yak ride.
Afternoon: Continue to **Nathu La Pass** (season‑dependent). Experience the historic Indo‑China border crossing and soak in the high‑altitude scenery.
Evening: Return to Gangtok, relax at your hotel, and explore the vibrant **Maharani Market** for souvenirs.
Find HotelsMorning: Drive from Gangtok to Darjeeling (≈6 hrs), crossing the picturesque **Singalila Pass** and enjoying tea‑garden vistas along the route.
Afternoon: After checking in, take a heritage walk to the **Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (Toy Train) Station** and explore the **Darjeeling Mall** with its colonial charm.
Evening: Visit the **Peace Pagoda** on the Observatory Hill for sunset views over the Himalayas, followed by dinner at a rooftop café.
Find HotelsMorning: Ascend to **Tiger Hill** before sunrise to witness the first rays illuminate Kanchenjunga and Everest. Afterwards, stop at the **Ghoom Monastery**.
Afternoon: Ride the **Batasia Loop** for a spiraling railway view of the valley, then tour a working **tea plantation** (e.g., Happy Valley) with a tasting session.
Evening: Wander through the bustling **Chowrasta** square, shop for handicrafts, and enjoy a traditional Nepali dinner.
Find HotelsMorning: Drive to the serene **Mirik Lake**, where you can row a boat and stroll around the flower‑lined promenade.
Afternoon: Explore the nearby **Pashupati Temple** and enjoy a picnic with views of the surrounding hills.
Evening: Return to Darjeeling, relax at your hotel, and consider a nightcap at a local bar with live folk music.
Find HotelsMorning: Visit the **Tibetan Refugee Handicrafts Centre** to watch artisans create traditional thangkas and carpets.
Afternoon: Take a short excursion to the **Lama Maharani’s House** and the **Japanese Peace Pagoda**, learning about the town’s multicultural heritage.
Evening: Attend a cultural show featuring Sikkimese and Nepali dance performances, followed by a farewell dinner.
Find HotelsMorning: Free time for last‑minute shopping or a relaxed coffee at **Kunga Cafe**.
Afternoon: Transfer to Bagdogra Airport (≈3 hrs) for your onward journey.
Evening: Fly home with memories of the Eastern Himalayas.
Find HotelsFor a more relaxed pace, add an extra night in Gangtok to explore the nearby **Yumthang Valley** and **Bhalu‑Gong** rhododendron sanctuary. If you’re short on time, skip the Nathu La Pass and Mirik Lake; the itinerary can be condensed to a 5‑day whirlwind covering the highlights of both regions while still enjoying tea garden experiences and sunrise at Tiger Hill.