Adventurous Exploration in South Sikkim, Namchi, Ravangla, Pelling, Gangtok, Kalimpong, Nathula, and NJP
Sunday, December 24: South Sikkim
Start your adventure in South Sikkim by visiting the picturesque town of Namchi. In the morning, hike up to the famous Samdruptse Hill to witness the awe-inspiring statue of Guru Padmasambhava and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Afternoon is reserved for a thrilling river rafting experience on the Teesta River. In the evening, explore the vibrant local markets in Namchi.
River Rafting on Teesta River: Estimated cost - INR 1500 per person, Time spent - 3 hours
Local Markets in Namchi: Estimated cost - Variable, Time spent - 2 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Namchi is Cafe Amigo, known for its delicious sandwiches and freshly brewed coffee. The average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Pleasure Garden Restaurant, where you can enjoy a variety of local and international cuisines. The average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
In the evening, treat yourself to a sumptuous dinner at The Orchard Retreat & Spa, offering a serene ambience and a wide range of culinary delights. The average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Monday, December 25: Ravangla
Embark on an adventurous journey to Ravangla. Start your day with a trek to the famous Tendong Hill, surrounded by lush green forests and offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas. In the afternoon, visit the Buddha Park to marvel at the 130-foot statue of Buddha and enjoy the serene atmosphere. As the evening sets in, go for a thrilling paragliding experience over the beautiful landscape of Ravangla.
Tendong Hill Trek: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 4 hours
Buddha Park: Estimated cost - INR 50 per person, Time spent - 2 hours
Paragliding: Estimated cost - INR 2500 per person, Time spent - 1 hour
Restaurants
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Cafe 19. This cozy café offers a variety of delicious breakfast options, from scrambled eggs to pancakes and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, head to The Dragon's Den, a popular restaurant serving authentic Tibetan and Chinese cuisine. Enjoy their delectable momos, fried rice, and hot soups. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Indulge in a delightful dinner at The Cliffside Restaurant, known for its panoramic views of the mountains and mouthwatering dishes. Feast on their specialties like grilled fish, sizzlers, and barbecued meats. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Tuesday, December 26: Pelling
Head to the charming town of Pelling and start your day with an exhilarating hike to the famous Khecheopalri Lake, considered sacred by the locals. Afternoon is dedicated to exploring the Pemayangtse Monastery, known for its ancient Buddhist artifacts and stunning architecture. In the evening, witness the mesmerizing sunset from the Sangachoeling Monastery viewpoint.
Khecheopalri Lake Hike: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 4 hours
Pemayangtse Monastery: Estimated cost - INR 20 per person, Time spent - 2 hours
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at The Melting Point, a cozy café offering a variety of options ranging from pancakes to sandwiches. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For a delightful lunch experience, head to Dalley's Café, a popular eatery known for its scrumptious momos and Tibetan delicacies. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Indulge in a flavorful dinner at The Cliff dhaba, a charming restaurant serving authentic Indian and Sikkimese cuisine with a breathtaking view. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Theha Village Restaurant, known for its local delicacies like thukpa and momos. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
Indulge in a sumptuous lunch at Magic View Restaurant, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Try their mouthwatering dishes like chicken tikka and butter naan. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
For a memorable dinner experience, head to Melting Point Restaurant which serves a variety of cuisines including Indian, Chinese, and Tibetan. Don't miss their delectable dishes like mutton stew and vegetable fried rice. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Wednesday, December 27: Gangtok
Proceed to the capital city of Gangtok and start your day with an adrenaline-pumping adventure by trying river rappelling at the Teesta Adventure Park. Afternoon is reserved for exploring the Enchey Monastery, an important religious site with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. In the evening, take a cable car ride to the Tashi Viewpoint for breathtaking panoramic vistas of Gangtok.
River Rappelling at Teesta Adventure Park: Estimated cost - INR 1000 per person, Time spent - 3 hours
Enchey Monastery: Estimated cost - INR 50 per person, Time spent - 2 hours
Tashi Viewpoint Cable Car Ride: Estimated cost - INR 60 per person, Time spent - 1 hour
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Gangtok is The Coffee Shop, known for its delicious freshly brewed coffee and a variety of breakfast options. The average cost for a meal is about 200 rupees per person.
For lunch, head to The Taste of Tibet, a cozy restaurant serving authentic Tibetan cuisine and momos. The average cost for a meal is about 300 rupees per person.
A must-try dinner spot in Gangtok is The Square Restaurant, offering a range of Indian and international dishes in a modern and elegant setting. The average cost for a meal is about 500 rupees per person.
Thursday, December 28: Kalimpong
Explore the scenic town of Kalimpong by starting your day with an adventurous hike to the famous Deolo Hill, offering stunning panoramic views of the Himalayas. In the afternoon, visit the Zang Dhok Palri Phodang Monastery, known for its beautiful murals and serene ambiance. As the evening approaches, explore the local markets to indulge in some shopping and try delicious local street food.
Deolo Hill Hike: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 3 hours
Zang Dhok Palri Phodang Monastery: Estimated cost - INR 20 per person, Time spent - 2 hours
Local Markets and Street Food: Estimated cost - Variable, Time spent - 2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Sher-e-Punjab, a popular restaurant known for its wide range of Indian and Punjabi dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Lhasa Restaurant, a cozy eatery serving authentic Tibetan cuisine. Don't miss out on their momos and thukpa. Average cost for a meal is about 350 INR per person.
Indulge in the flavors of Sikkimese cuisine for dinner at The Orchid, a charming restaurant offering a variety of local dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Friday, December 29: Nathula
Embark on an adventurous journey to the famous Nathula Pass, located at an altitude of 14,140 feet. Explore the scenic beauty and enjoy the panoramic views of the snow-covered peaks. Spend the day indulging in snow activities, such as snowboarding and making snowmen. In the evening, return to Gangtok and relax at your hotel.
Nathula Pass: Estimated cost - INR 500 per person, Time spent - 6-8 hours
For breakfast, head to Cafe Live & Loud in Gangtok. This trendy cafe offers a wide range of breakfast options, including delicious pancakes and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
For lunch, try The Square in Gangtok. This multi-cuisine restaurant serves a variety of dishes, from Indian to Chinese. Enjoy their mouthwatering thukpa and momos while admiring the beautiful view from the terrace. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
For dinner, visit The Elgin Silver Oaks Hotel in Kalimpong. This elegant restaurant offers a cozy ambiance and serves delectable Indian and international dishes. Don't miss their signature chicken tikka masala. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Saturday, December 30: NJP
End your adventurous journey in South Sikkim with a visit to NJP. Take a leisurely walk along the riverfront and enjoy the scenic beauty. In the afternoon, explore the nearby Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary, known for its rich biodiversity. As the evening sets in, relax and reflect on your memorable journey through the enchanting landscapes of Sikkim.
Walk along the NJP riverfront: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary: Estimated cost - INR 100 per person, Time spent - 3 hours
Restaurants
The Coffee Shop: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at The Coffee Shop, a cozy cafe known for its freshly brewed coffee and delicious sandwiches. Average cost for a meal is about $8 per person.
Taste of Sikkim: Indulge in a sumptuous lunch at Taste of Sikkim, a popular restaurant that offers an extensive menu of traditional Sikkimese delicacies. Average cost for a meal is about $12 per person.
Candlelight Dinner: For a memorable dinner experience, head to Candlelight Dinner, a romantic restaurant known for its elegant ambiance and delectable multi-cuisine dishes. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
If you're an adventure seeker, head to Singalila National Park for a multi-day trek, offering stunning views of the Himalayas and the opportunity to spot rare wildlife. Another off-the-beaten-path attraction is the Kirateshwar Mahadev Temple in Legship, known for its unique architecture and spiritual significance. Locals also love exploring the lush tea gardens in Temi, where you can learn about tea cultivation and enjoy the serene surroundings.
Check hotel and flight prices for your adventurous journey through South Sikkim, Namchi, Ravangla, Pelling, Gangtok, Kalimpong, Nathula, and NJP here.