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Sikkim, Darjeeling & Kalimpong Family-Friendly 7-Day Itinerary - September 16-22, 2023

Saturday, September 16: Arrival in Sikkim

Welcome to Sikkim! Start your trip by arriving at Bagdogra Airport and then driving to Gangtok, the capital city of Sikkim. In the morning, visit the Enchey Monastery, known for its beautiful architecture and serene surroundings. In the afternoon, explore the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, where you can learn about Tibetan culture and history. In the evening, take a leisurely walk along MG Marg, the city's main street, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

  • Enchey Monastery: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1 hour
  • Namgyal Institute of Tibetology: Cost - INR 20, Time Spent - 2 hours
  • MG Marg: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours
Sunday, September 17: Exploring Gangtok

Today, visit the beautiful Tsomgo Lake, located at an altitude of 12,400 feet. In the morning, enjoy a scenic drive through the rugged mountain landscape to reach the lake. Spend some time by the lake, surrounded by snow-capped mountains. In the afternoon, visit the nearby Baba Mandir, a significant pilgrimage site. In the evening, return to Gangtok and explore the local markets for handicrafts and souvenirs.

  • Tsomgo Lake: Cost - INR 200 (permit fee), Time Spent - 2 hours
  • Baba Mandir: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
  • Local Markets: Cost - Varies, Time Spent - 2 hours
Monday, September 18: Journey to Darjeeling

Leave Gangtok in the morning and embark on a scenic drive to Darjeeling. On the way, stop at the famous Teesta River for some picturesque views. Upon reaching Darjeeling, visit the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute to learn about mountaineering history and marvel at the Tenzing Rock. In the evening, take a leisurely walk through the beautiful tea gardens and enjoy a cup of Darjeeling tea.

  • Teesta River: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1 hour
  • Himalayan Mountaineering Institute: Cost - INR 40, Time Spent - 2 hours
  • Darjeeling Tea Gardens: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1 hour
Tuesday, September 19: Exploring Darjeeling

Start your day early to witness the breathtaking sunrise from Tiger Hill. After enjoying the panoramic views, visit the Ghoom Monastery, famous for its ancient Tibetan Buddhist manuscripts. In the afternoon, take a ride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the evening, explore the Mall Road and indulge in some shopping and local street food.

  • Tiger Hill: Cost - INR 40 (entrance fee), Time Spent - 2 hours
  • Ghoom Monastery: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1 hour
  • Darjeeling Himalayan Railway: Cost - INR 500 (joy ride ticket), Time Spent - 2 hours
  • Mall Road: Cost - Varies, Time Spent - 2 hours
Wednesday, September 20: Excursion to Mirik Lake

Take a day trip to the picturesque Mirik Lake, surrounded by lush green hills and offering stunning reflections. Enjoy a boat ride on the lake and explore the beautiful gardens nearby. In the afternoon, visit the Pashupati Market, located at the India-Nepal border, for some shopping. Return to Darjeeling in the evening and relax.

  • Mirik Lake: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours
  • Pashupati Market: Cost - Varies, Time Spent - 2 hours
Thursday, September 21: Departure to Kalimpong

Leave Darjeeling in the morning and drive to Kalimpong. Visit the famous Zang Dhok Palri Phodang Monastery, known for its stunning architecture and panoramic views. In the afternoon, explore the flower nurseries and orchid gardens that Kalimpong is famous for. In the evening, take a stroll through the local market and try some delicious local cuisine.

  • Zang Dhok Palri Phodang Monastery: Cost - INR 20, Time Spent - 1 hour
  • Kalimpong Flower Nurseries: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1 hour
  • Local Market: Cost - Varies, Time Spent - 2 hours
Friday, September 22: Exploring Kalimpong

Spend your last day in Kalimpong visiting the Deolo Hill, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. In the afternoon, visit the famous Dr. Graham's Homes, a school founded in 1900, and explore its campus. In the evening, take a leisurely walk along the Rinkingpong Road and savor the serene atmosphere.

  • Deolo Hill: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours
  • Dr. Graham's Homes: Cost - INR 50 (entrance fee), Time Spent - 2 hours
  • Rinkingpong Road: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1 hour

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Sikkim, Darjeeling, and Kalimpong, make sure to visit the picturesque Tashiding Monastery in Sikkim. In Darjeeling, don't miss out on the Himalayan Tibet Museum, which showcases the rich Tibetan culture. Finally, in Kalimpong, indulge in some delicious momos (dumplings) from the local street vendors.

For hotel and flight prices, you can check here.

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