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7-Day Itinerary: Gangtok, Darjeeling, Kolkata

Friday, December 1: Arrival in Gangtok

Morning: Start your trip by arriving in Gangtok, the capital city of Sikkim. Explore the Enchey Monastery and soak in the serene atmosphere of this Buddhist temple.

Afternoon: Visit the Gangtok Ropeway and enjoy breathtaking views of the city and surrounding mountains as you ride on the cable car.

Evening: Take a stroll along MG Marg, the main street of Gangtok, lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes. Enjoy local cuisine and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere.

  • Enchey Monastery: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour
  • Gangtok Ropeway: Estimated cost - INR 110 per person, Time spent - 1 hour
  • MG Marg: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
Saturday, December 2: Darjeeling

Morning: Travel from Gangtok to Darjeeling. Wake up early to witness the mesmerizing sunrise from Tiger Hill, which offers panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayas.

Afternoon: Visit the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park to see rare Himalayan species like the red panda and snow leopard.

Evening: Explore the vibrant markets of Darjeeling and indulge in some tea tasting at the famous Happy Valley Tea Estate.

  • Tiger Hill: Estimated cost - INR 40 per person, Time spent - 2 hours
  • Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park: Estimated cost - INR 100 per person, Time spent - 2 hours
  • Happy Valley Tea Estate: Estimated cost - INR 100 per person, Time spent - 1 hour
Sunday, December 3: Darjeeling

Morning: Take a toy train ride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Experience the charm of the narrow-gauge tracks as the train chugs through picturesque landscapes.

Afternoon: Visit the Peace Pagoda, a Buddhist stupa that offers panoramic views of Darjeeling and the surrounding mountains.

Evening: Explore the Mall Road and enjoy shopping for local handicrafts, jewelry, and souvenirs.

  • Darjeeling Himalayan Railway: Estimated cost - INR 900 per person, Time spent - 2 hours
  • Peace Pagoda: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour
  • Mall Road: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
Monday, December 4: Travel to Kolkata

Morning: Travel from Darjeeling to Kolkata. Upon arrival, visit the iconic Victoria Memorial, a magnificent white marble structure that showcases the grandeur of the British Raj.

Afternoon: Explore the Indian Museum, the oldest and largest museum in India, housing a vast collection of art, archaeology, and natural history artifacts.

Evening: Take a leisurely boat ride along the Hooghly River and witness the beautiful sunset over the Howrah Bridge.

  • Victoria Memorial: Estimated cost - INR 30 per person, Time spent - 2 hours
  • Indian Museum: Estimated cost - INR 20 per person, Time spent - 2 hours
  • Hooghly River Boat Ride: Estimated cost - INR 200 per person, Time spent - 1 hour
Tuesday, December 5: Kolkata

Morning: Visit the iconic Kalighat Kali Temple, one of the most sacred Hindu temples in Kolkata. Experience the spiritual ambiance and witness devotees offering prayers.

Afternoon: Explore the Marble Palace, a stunning mansion filled with exquisite artwork, sculptures, and antiques.

Evening: Discover the bustling New Market, a shopper's paradise offering a wide range of clothes, accessories, and souvenirs.

  • Kalighat Kali Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour
  • Marble Palace: Estimated cost - INR 20 per person, Time spent - 2 hours
  • New Market: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
Wednesday, December 6: Kolkata

Morning: Take a heritage walk in the charming neighborhood of Kumartuli, known for its traditional idol-making workshops. Observe the skilled artisans at work.

Afternoon: Visit the Howrah Bridge, an iconic symbol of Kolkata, and enjoy panoramic views of the city and the Hooghly River.

Evening: Experience the cultural extravaganza of a Bengali dance performance at the Rabindra Sadan Auditorium.

  • Kumartuli: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
  • Howrah Bridge: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour
  • Rabindra Sadan Auditorium: Estimated cost - INR 100 per person, Time spent - 2 hours
Thursday, December 7: Departure

Morning: Explore the serene grounds of the Belur Math, a spiritual hub that combines different religions and offers a peaceful atmosphere.

Afternoon: Visit the Science City, an interactive science museum that will engage and educate visitors of all ages.

Evening: Say goodbye to Kolkata and depart for your onward journey.

  • Belur Math: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
  • Science City: Estimated cost - INR 50 per person, Time spent - 2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Gangtok, don't miss the opportunity to visit the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, a renowned research center dedicated to Tibetan studies. The institute also houses a museum showcasing a vast collection of Tibetan artifacts.

In Darjeeling, venture off the beaten path and visit the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, where you can learn about the history of mountaineering in the Himalayas and even try your hand at rock climbing.

In Kolkata, make sure to explore the charming neighborhood of College Street, known as the "Boi Para" or Book Market. It is a haven for book lovers, with numerous bookstores offering a wide range of books, including rare and antique editions.

For more information on hotel and flight prices, you can check here.

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