Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version

Sikkim, Kashmir Shoestring Budget Itinerary

Monday November 20: Arrival in Sikkim

Welcome to Sikkim! Start your adventure by exploring Gangtok, the capital city. In the morning, visit the Enchey Monastery and soak in the peaceful atmosphere. In the afternoon, take a cable car ride to Tashi Viewpoint for breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountains. In the evening, explore the bustling MG Road, filled with shops, cafes, and local handicrafts.

  • Enchey Monastery: Entrance is free, estimated time spent: 1 hour
  • Tashi Viewpoint: Cable car ride costs around ₹100 ($1.5), estimated time spent: 2 hours
  • MG Road: Free to explore, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
Tuesday November 21: Tsomgo Lake and Baba Mandir

Embark on a day trip to Tsomgo Lake and Baba Mandir. In the morning, visit the picturesque Tsomgo Lake, surrounded by snow-capped peaks. Enjoy a yak ride or simply admire the serene beauty. Afterward, head to Baba Mandir, a sacred shrine dedicated to an Indian soldier. Return to Gangtok in the evening and indulge in local cuisine.

  • Tsomgo Lake: Shared taxi costs around ₹400 ($6), estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Baba Mandir: Entrance is free, estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
Wednesday November 22: Pelling Exploration

Today, venture to Pelling, a charming town known for its scenic beauty. In the morning, visit the majestic Pemayangtse Monastery, one of the oldest monasteries in Sikkim. Afterward, hike to the beautiful Khecheopalri Lake, considered sacred by Buddhists. In the evening, witness the panoramic views of the Kanchenjunga Range from the Sangachoeling Monastery.

  • Pemayangtse Monastery: Entrance fee is around ₹20 ($0.3), estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Khecheopalri Lake: Entrance fee is around ₹30 ($0.4), estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Sangachoeling Monastery: Entrance fee is around ₹10 ($0.15), estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
Thursday November 23: Darjeeling Delights

Make your way to Darjeeling, a hill station famous for its tea plantations. In the morning, visit the Tiger Hill to catch the sunrise over the mighty Himalayas. Enjoy a cup of Darjeeling tea and explore the beautiful tea gardens. In the afternoon, take a ride on the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, also known as the "Toy Train." End the day by strolling through the vibrant Mall Road.

  • Tiger Hill: Entrance fee is around ₹40 ($0.6), estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Darjeeling Himalayan Railway: Train ride costs around ₹500 ($7.5), estimated time spent: 2 hours
Friday November 24: Gulmarg Adventure

Today, head to Gulmarg, a paradise for adventure enthusiasts. In the morning, visit the Gulmarg Gondola, one of the highest cable car systems in the world, and enjoy stunning views of the snow-covered peaks. Engage in activities like skiing, snowboarding, or simply take a scenic walk. In the afternoon, explore the charming Gulmarg Market and savor local delicacies.

  • Gulmarg Gondola: Cable car ride costs around ₹740 ($11), estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Adventure activities: Prices vary, estimated time spent: 3-4 hours
Saturday November 25: Srinagar Serenity

Travel to Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir. In the morning, visit the iconic Dal Lake and take a shikara ride, immersing yourself in the serene surroundings. Explore the beautiful Mughal Gardens, including Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh, known for their exquisite architecture and stunning landscaping. In the evening, savor delicious Kashmiri cuisine.

  • Dal Lake: Shikara ride costs around ₹400 ($6), estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Mughal Gardens: Entrance fee is around ₹50 ($0.7), estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
Sunday November 26: Sonamarg Wonder

On your last day, visit the enchanting Sonamarg, also known as the "Meadow of Gold." Explore the stunning Thajiwas Glacier, surrounded by majestic mountains. Enjoy pony rides and indulge in adventurous activities like river rafting. In the afternoon, head back to Srinagar and explore the local markets for souvenirs.

  • Thajiwas Glacier: Pony ride costs around ₹500 ($7.5), estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
  • River rafting: Prices vary, estimated time spent: 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For off the beaten path experiences in Sikkim and Kashmir, explore the quaint village of Lachung in Sikkim, known for its natural beauty and the famous Yumthang Valley. In Kashmir, visit the lesser-known Doodhpathri, a picturesque meadow surrounded by pine forests. These hidden gems offer incredible landscapes and a chance to immerse yourself in the local culture, all within a shoestring budget.

Check here for hotel and flight prices.

0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version