5-Day Itinerary: Bagdogra to Gangtok and back to Bagdogra in July 2024

1. Day 1: Bagdogra to Gangtok via Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary
   3 hours 30 minutes (72.8 km) drive from Bagdogra

   In the morning, visit Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary, home to Bengal tigers, Indian leopards, Indian elephants, and countless bird species. Afternoon, drive to Gangtok, the capital city of Sikkim. Evening, explore the city's bustling market and try out some local delicacies.

2. Day 2: Tsomgo Lake, Baba Mandir and Nathula Pass
   4 hours (40 km) drive from Gangtok

   Start early and head to Tsomgo Lake, a glacial lake located at an altitude of 3,753 meters. Continue to Baba Mandir, a temple built in the memory of an army man. End the day by crossing the Nathula Pass, the Indo-China border at an altitude of 4,310 meters.

3. Day 3: Rumtek Monastery, Banjhakri Falls, and Namgyal Institute of Tibetology
   1 hour 30 minutes (7.9 km) drive from Gangtok

   Begin the day by visiting Rumtek Monastery, one of the most sacred monasteries in Sikkim. Next, take a short drive to the beautiful Banjhakri Falls. In the afternoon, visit the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, a research center on Tibetan language, history, and culture.

4. Day 4: Pelling and Khecheopalri Lake
   4 hours 30 minutes (122 km) drive from Gangtok

   Take a day trip to Pelling, a charming town known for the Pemayangtse Monastery and the Rabdentse Ruins. En route, stop at Khecheopalri Lake, a sacred lake to both Hindus and Buddhists.

5. Day 5: Gangtok to Bagdogra
   3 hours 45 minutes (125 km) drive from Gangtok

   Drive back to Bagdogra airport. Before leaving Gangtok, visit the Enchey Monastery, a 200-year-old monastery with stunning views of the city.

Recommendations

Consider visiting the Tashi Viewpoint, the Flower Exhibition Centre, and the Hanuman Tok temple in Gangtok.

For day trips, you can consider visiting the Yumthang Valley, the Lachung Monastery, and the Teesta River Rafting spot.

To maximize your fun, try to interact with the locals, taste the local food, and take plenty of photos!

Time and Costs Estimates

• Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary (2-3 hours, INR 100-200)
• Tsomgo Lake, Baba Mandir and Nathula Pass (8-10 hours, INR 3,000-5,000)
• Rumtek Monastery (1-2 hours, INR 10-50)
• Banjhakri Falls (1-2 hours, INR 50-100)
• Namgyal Institute of Tibetology (1-2 hours, INR 10-100)
• Pelling and Khecheopalri Lake (8-10 hours, INR 3,000-5,000)
• Enchey Monastery (1-2 hours, INR 10-50)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 6,170-10,550

Check https://booking.tp.st/VhZsadPo to find the best hotel and flight deals for your trip!