Darjeeling and Sikkim Adventure Itinerary

  1. Friday July 7: Darjeeling Tea Gardens
    10 minutes (1.3 miles) from Darjeeling City Center

    Explore the lush tea gardens of Darjeeling in the morning, where you can learn about the tea-making process and enjoy scenic views. In the afternoon, visit the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute to learn about mountaineering history. In the evening, take a stroll at Chowrasta Mall Road and savor local delicacies.

    • Darjeeling Tea Garden Tour: ₹500, 2 hours
    • Himalayan Mountaineering Institute: ₹200, 1.5 hours
  2. Saturday July 8: Tiger Hill
    1 hour (10 miles) from Darjeeling City Center

    Start your day early and witness the breathtaking sunrise at Tiger Hill, offering panoramic views of Kanchenjunga and the eastern Himalayas. In the afternoon, visit the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park to see rare Himalayan animals. Spend the evening exploring the vibrant Tibetan Refugee Self Help Centre.

    • Tiger Hill Sunrise Experience: ₹800, 4 hours
    • Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park: ₹200, 1.5 hours
    • Tibetan Refugee Self Help Centre: Free, 2 hours
  3. Sunday July 9: Gangtok City Tour
    3 hours (44 miles) from Darjeeling City Center

    Explore the capital city of Sikkim, Gangtok, in the morning. Visit the Enchey Monastery and Hanuman Tok for spiritual bliss. In the afternoon, explore the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology to learn about Tibetan culture and history. Spend the evening at MG Road, the bustling marketplace of Gangtok.

    • Enchey Monastery: ₹100, 1 hour
    • Hanuman Tok: Free, 30 minutes
    • Namgyal Institute of Tibetology: ₹50, 1.5 hours
  4. Monday July 10: Nathula Pass
    1.5 hours (35 miles) from Gangtok City Center

    Embark on an adventurous trip to Nathula Pass, located on the Indo-China border. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Himalayas and visit the Baba Harbhajan Singh Memorial. In the afternoon, explore Tsomgo Lake, a serene glacial lake. Spend the evening at MG Marg and indulge in local street food.

    • Nathula Pass Excursion: ₹2,500, 6 hours
    • Baba Harbhajan Singh Memorial: Free, 1 hour
    • Tsomgo Lake: ₹200, 2 hours
  5. Tuesday July 11: Yumthang Valley
    6 hours (120 miles) from Gangtok City Center

    Embark on a scenic road trip to Yumthang Valley, also known as the Valley of Flowers. Marvel at the enchanting alpine meadows and hot springs. In the afternoon, visit the Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary, home to numerous species of rhododendrons. Spend the evening enjoying local Sikkimese cuisine.

    • Yumthang Valley Exploration: ₹3,000, 8 hours
    • Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary: ₹100, 1.5 hours
  6. Wednesday July 12: Rumtek Monastery
    1 hour (18 miles) from Gangtok City Center

    Visit the Rumtek Monastery, one of the most significant and largest monasteries in Sikkim. Immerse yourself in the serene ambiance and witness the beautiful architecture. In the afternoon, explore the Ranka Monastery and enjoy panoramic views of Gangtok. Spend the evening shopping for local handicrafts.

    • Rumtek Monastery: ₹100, 2 hours
    • Ranka Monastery: Free, 1 hour
  7. Thursday July 13: Darjeeling Toy Train
    3.5 hours (68 miles) from Gangtok City Center

    Experience a heritage joyride on the Darjeeling Toy Train (Darjeeling Himalayan Railway). Enjoy the scenic beauty as the train chugs through the hills. In the afternoon, take a walk at Rock Garden and Ganga Maya Park. Spend the evening at Batasia Loop, admiring the panoramic views of Darjeeling.

    • Darjeeling Toy Train Ride: ₹1,200, 2.5 hours
    • Rock Garden and Ganga Maya Park: ₹50, 2 hours
    • Batasia Loop: Free, 1 hour

Recommendations

For additional adventures, consider paragliding in Kalimpong, river rafting in Teesta River, or trekking to Sandakphu. Take a day trip to Pelling to witness the majestic Kanchenjunga Range from Pelling Hill. To make the most of your trip, book a local guide for personalized experiences and explore local markets for unique souvenirs.

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