Sikkim and Darjeeling Family Friendly Itinerary - July 2023

1. Day 1: Gangtok
   10 minutes (1.3 miles) from Bagdogra Airport

   Morning: Visit the Enchey Monastery to experience the peaceful Buddhist culture.

   Afternoon: Explore the beautiful flower gardens and recreational activities at the Banjhakri Falls and Park.

   Evening: Take a leisurely stroll along the MG Marg, Gangtok's famous pedestrian street, and enjoy local delicacies.

2. Day 2: Tsomgo Lake
   2 hours (40 miles) from Gangtok

   Morning: Enjoy the breathtaking views of Tsomgo Lake and admire the surrounding snow-capped mountains.

   Afternoon: Visit the nearby Baba Mandir and seek blessings at this revered shrine.

   Evening: Return to Gangtok and indulge in some shopping for traditional handicrafts and souvenirs.

3. Day 3: Pelling
   4 hours (73 miles) from Gangtok

   Morning: Head to Pelling and witness the majestic sight of the Kanchenjunga Range from the Pelling Skywalk.

   Afternoon: Explore the ancient ruins of Rabdentse, the former capital of Sikkim, and learn about its rich history.

   Evening: Relax and unwind in the peaceful ambiance of the Pemayangtse Monastery.

4. Day 4: Darjeeling
   3 hours (70 miles) from Pelling

   Morning: Visit the Tiger Hill to witness the mesmerizing sunrise over the Himalayas.

   Afternoon: Take a joyful ride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, also known as the Toy Train.

   Evening: Explore the vibrant local markets and try some delicious Darjeeling tea.

5. Day 5: Darjeeling
   In and around Darjeeling

   Morning: Visit the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park to see rare Himalayan animals like the Snow Leopard and Red Panda.

   Afternoon: Explore the beautiful Happy Valley Tea Estate and learn about the tea-making process.

   Evening: Enjoy a peaceful boat ride on the serene Mirik Lake.

6. Day 6: Kalimpong
   2 hours (38 miles) from Darjeeling

   Morning: Explore the famous flower nurseries and orchid gardens of Kalimpong.

   Afternoon: Visit the magnificent Zang Dhok Palri Phodang Monastery and admire its intricate architecture.

   Evening: Take a leisurely walk along the picturesque Deolo Hill and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.

7. Day 7: Gangtok
   3 hours (47 miles) from Kalimpong

   Morning: Visit the Rumtek Monastery, one of the largest and most significant monasteries in Sikkim.

   Afternoon: Explore the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology and gain insights into Tibetan culture and history.

   Evening: Enjoy a traditional cultural show at the Flower Exhibition Centre.

Recommendations

Consider visiting the Nathu La Pass for a day trip from Gangtok, subject to permits and weather conditions. You can also plan a day trip to the picturesque Yumthang Valley from Gangtok for a breathtaking experience. To maximize your fun, indulge in local cuisine, participate in adventure activities like river rafting, and savor the tranquility of nature during your journey.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Enchey Monastery (2 hours, free)
• Banjhakri Falls and Park (2 hours, INR 50)
• Tsomgo Lake (4-6 hours, INR 2000 - includes car and permit)
• Baba Mandir (1 hour, free)
• Pelling Skywalk (1-2 hours, INR 20)
• Rabdentse Ruins (1-2 hours, INR 50)
• Pemayangtse Monastery (1-2 hours, INR 50)
• Tiger Hill (2 hours, INR 40)
• Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (2-3 hours, INR 600 - includes round trip)
• Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park (2 hours, INR 100)
• Happy Valley Tea Estate (1-2 hours, INR 100 - includes guided tour and tea tasting)
• Mirik Lake (1-2 hours, INR 50)
• Flower nurseries and orchid gardens of Kalimpong (2 hours, free)
• Zang Dhok Palri Phodang Monastery (1-2 hours, INR 50)
• Deolo Hill (1-2 hours, free)
• Rumtek Monastery (2-3 hours, INR 100)
• Namgyal Institute of Tibetology (1-2 hours, INR 20)
• Flower Exhibition Centre (1 hour, INR 10)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 3,480 - 4,240

For hotel and flight bookings, you can check prices here.