Meet your driver at Bagdogra and drive up the scenic Hill Road to Darjeeling (approx 3–4 hours). The route climbs through tea gardens with several short photo stops possible.
Popular bakery-café near Chowrasta serving Continental and local dishes; great for a relaxed first meal and cakes. Glenary's is typically open all day (08:00–21:00) but hours can vary seasonally.
Guided tea-tour and tasting at one of Darjeeling's established estates; open generally 09:00–16:30 — good for an afternoon walk among tea bushes and to learn orthodox tea processing.
Panoramic viewpoint and looping railway track with war memorial — excellent for sunset photos and views over Darjeeling. Site is open year-round and easily reachable from central Darjeeling.
Try hearty Tibetan food (momos, thukpa) or Nepali specialities; both options are well-liked and open in the evening. Confirm current opening times locally.
Drive to Tiger Hill for the sunrise over Kanchenjunga (pickup typically 4:00am); arrive before dawn for best views. Small crowds but bring warm layers; transport arranged by hotel/driver.
High-altitude zoo specialising in snow leopard, red panda and Himalayan species; the zoo is open around 09:30–16:30 so arrive in the morning when animals are active.
Scenic cable-car ride over tea gardens to observe spectacular valley views; usually runs 09:30–16:00 but check on-the-day as operations can close in poor weather.
Full-day excursion to Tsomgo (Changu) Lake and Baba Mandir across the ridge; permits are required for the trip and often arranged by your vehicle/agent. Road takes about 2 hours each way depending on weather.
High-altitude glacial lake with stunning reflections; site is usually open 08:00–16:00, but visiting hours and vehicle limits can change — check permit & timings beforehand.
If traffic/time permit, stop at Rumtek Monastery (usually open 09:00–17:00) for one of Sikkim’s most important monasteries with rich architecture and prayer halls.
Nathu La (beyond Tsomgo) requires a separate Inner Line Permit and can be closed on short notice or to outsiders; Nathu La is often closed on Mondays/Tuesdays — confirm permits well in advance.
Return drive to Bagdogra/Siliguri (approx 4–5 hours); leave early to allow for traffic and airport check-in times. Stop for tea and short breaks en route.
Arrive with sufficient time for domestic flight check-in (recommend 2 hours prior). If you have a late flight you can request a stop in Siliguri for last-minute shopping.