5-Day Family Friendly Itinerary to Sikkim, Darjeeling, Gangtok, and Pelinh in January 2024

1. Day 1: Sikkim
   4 hours 30 minutes (108 miles) from Bagdogra Airport

   Start your trip in Sikkim, a beautiful state in northeastern India. In the morning, visit the stunning Tsomgo Lake and enjoy a peaceful boat ride. In the afternoon, explore the enchanting Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll through the bustling markets of Gangtok.

   • Tsomgo Lake: £5, 2 hours
   • Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple: £3, 1 hour
   • Gangtok Market: Free, 2 hours
2. Day 2: Darjeeling
   3 hours 30 minutes (66 miles) from Gangtok

   Embark on a scenic journey to Darjeeling. In the morning, witness the breathtaking sunrise from Tiger Hill and visit the iconic Ghoom Monastery. In the afternoon, explore the fascinating Himalayan Mountaineering Institute and indulge in a tea tasting experience at Happy Valley Tea Estate. In the evening, take a joy ride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway.

   • Tiger Hill: £7, 2 hours
   • Ghoom Monastery: £2, 1 hour
   • Himalayan Mountaineering Institute: £4, 2 hours
   • Happy Valley Tea Estate: £3, 1 hour
   • Darjeeling Himalayan Railway: £10, 2 hours
3. Day 3: Gangtok
   3 hours 30 minutes (70 miles) from Darjeeling

   Return to Gangtok for another day of exploration. In the morning, visit the serene Enchey Monastery and take in the panoramic views from the Tashi Viewpoint. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the vibrant culture at the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology. In the evening, enjoy a delightful shopping experience at the MG Marg.

   • Enchey Monastery: £3, 1 hour
   • Tashi Viewpoint: Free, 1 hour
   • Namgyal Institute of Tibetology: £5, 2 hours
   • MG Marg: Free, 2 hours
4. Day 4: Pelinh
   3 hours (70 miles) from Gangtok

   Head to Pelinh, a serene town nestled amidst picturesque landscapes. In the morning, explore the magnificent Sangachoeling Monastery and take in the panoramic views from the Pemayangtse Monastery. In the afternoon, embark on a thrilling trek to the Khecheopalri Lake. In the evening, enjoy a peaceful walk through the Rabdentse Ruins.

   • Sangachoeling Monastery: £2, 1 hour
   • Pemayangtse Monastery: £3, 1 hour
   • Khecheopalri Lake: £5, 2 hours
   • Rabdentse Ruins: Free, 2 hours
5. Day 5: Departure
   3 hours (70 miles) from Pelinh to Bagdogra Airport

   It's time to bid farewell to this enchanting region. After breakfast, depart from Pelinh and head to Bagdogra Airport for your return journey.

   • Transfer to Bagdogra Airport: £50, 3 hours

Recommendations

Are there any other local attractions, events, or experiences I should also consider? How about day trips? Any good ideas on how to maximize my fun?

While the itinerary covers the highlights of Sikkim, Darjeeling, Gangtok, and Pelinh, there are a few other attractions worth considering. You can visit the Rumtek Monastery in Gangtok, take a day trip to the scenic Yumthang Valley, or explore the charming town of Kalimpong. To maximize your fun, make sure to try the local cuisine, interact with the friendly locals, and immerse yourself in the rich culture and traditions of the region.

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