Adventure in Meghalaya, Sikkim, and Darjeeling

Embark on an exhilarating 7-day adventure in Meghalaya, Sikkim, and Darjeeling, starting on Monday, October 30, 2023. Get ready to explore breathtaking landscapes, engage in thrilling activities, and immerse yourself in the local culture. Check here for hotel and flight prices.

Day 1: Shillong, Meghalaya

Morning: Start your journey by visiting the picturesque Umiam Lake, also known as Barapani, where you can enjoy boating or simply relax by the tranquil waters.

Afternoon: Head to the Laitlum Grand Canyon for a thrilling trek. Marvel at the breathtaking views of the deep gorges and lush greenery surrounding the canyon.

Evening: Explore the vibrant markets of Police Bazaar in Shillong, where you can shop for local handicrafts, traditional garments, and delicious street food.

• Umiam Lake: Estimated cost - INR 100, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Laitlum Grand Canyon: Estimated cost - INR 200, Estimated time spent - 4 hours
• Police Bazaar: Estimated cost - Variable, Estimated time spent - 2 hours

Day 2: Cherrapunjee, Meghalaya

Morning: Visit the iconic Seven Sisters Falls, a magnificent waterfall formed by seven separate streams. Feel the mist on your face as you admire its grandeur.

Afternoon: Explore the Living Root Bridges in Mawlynnong Village, a unique marvel of bioengineering created by the Khasi tribe. Enjoy a refreshing walk through the dense forests.

Evening: Experience the thrill of caving in the Mawsmai Cave, famous for its limestone formations and underground streams.

• Seven Sisters Falls: Estimated cost - INR 50, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Living Root Bridges: Estimated cost - INR 100, Estimated time spent - 3 hours
• Mawsmai Cave: Estimated cost - INR 100, Estimated time spent - 1.5 hours

Day 3: Gangtok, Sikkim

Morning: Start your day with a visit to the awe-inspiring Rumtek Monastery, one of the largest and most significant monasteries in Sikkim.

Afternoon: Indulge in an adrenaline-pumping river rafting adventure on the Teesta River, surrounded by breathtaking Himalayan landscapes.

Evening: Explore the bustling MG Marg, a pedestrian-only street known for its shops, eateries, and vibrant atmosphere.

• Rumtek Monastery: Estimated cost - INR 50, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• River Rafting on Teesta River: Estimated cost - INR 1500, Estimated time spent - 3 hours
• MG Marg: Estimated cost - Variable, Estimated time spent - 2 hours

Day 4: Tsomgo Lake and Nathula Pass, Sikkim

Morning: Embark on a scenic drive to Tsomgo Lake, a glacial lake nestled amidst snow-capped mountains. Take a yak ride or simply soak in the serene surroundings.

Afternoon: Continue your adventure to Nathula Pass, a high-altitude mountain pass on the India-China border. Marvel at the majestic views and soak in the unique ambiance.

Evening: Return to Gangtok and visit the Enchey Monastery, known for its architectural beauty and serene atmosphere.

• Tsomgo Lake: Estimated cost - INR 200, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Nathula Pass: Estimated cost - INR 200, Estimated time spent - 3 hours
• Enchey Monastery: Estimated cost - INR 50, Estimated time spent - 1 hour

Day 5: Darjeeling, West Bengal

Morning: Rise early and witness the breathtaking sunrise at Tiger Hill, where the first rays of light illuminate the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas.

Afternoon: Embark on a thrilling trek to the picturesque Singalila National Park, known for its diverse flora and fauna, including the elusive red panda.

Evening: Visit the famous Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, also known as the Toy Train, and take a joyride along the scenic mountain tracks.

• Tiger Hill: Estimated cost - INR 100, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Singalila National Park: Estimated cost - INR 200, Estimated time spent - 4 hours
• Darjeeling Himalayan Railway: Estimated cost - INR 500, Estimated time spent - 2 hours

Day 6: Tea Gardens and Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary, West Bengal

Morning: Explore the enchanting tea gardens of Darjeeling and learn about the tea-making process at one of the renowned tea estates.

Afternoon: Embark on a thrilling jungle safari in the Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary, home to diverse wildlife including elephants, leopards, and various bird species.

Evening: Visit the famous Batasia Loop, a spiral railway track offering panoramic views of the surrounding hills and the Kanchenjunga mountain range.

• Tea Gardens: Estimated cost - Variable, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary: Estimated cost - INR 200, Estimated time spent - 3 hours
• Batasia Loop: Estimated cost - INR 50, Estimated time spent - 1 hour

Day 7: Darjeeling Himalayan Mountaineering Institute and Peace Pagoda, West Bengal

Morning: Visit the Darjeeling Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, established to promote mountaineering and adventure sports. Explore the museum and learn about mountaineering history.

Afternoon: Take a leisurely stroll to the Peace Pagoda, a beautiful Buddhist shrine offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Evening: End your adventure by exploring the vibrant markets of Darjeeling and shopping for unique souvenirs.

• Darjeeling Himalayan Mountaineering Institute: Estimated cost - INR 100, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Peace Pagoda: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent - 1.5 hours
• Local Markets: Estimated cost - Variable, Estimated time spent - 2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For adventure enthusiasts, Meghalaya offers thrilling opportunities for spelunking in the numerous limestone caves scattered across the state. Don't miss exploring the Mawphlang Sacred Grove, a dense forest with unique plant species and ancient rituals.

In Sikkim, adventure seekers can try paragliding in Gangtok, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas from above. Visit the Tashi Viewpoint for a panoramic vista of the snow-clad peaks.

In Darjeeling, venture off the beaten path and hike to the enchanting Senchal Lake, nestled amidst dense forests. Get a taste of local life by visiting the vibrant Tibetan Refugee Self Help Center.