Sikkim and Darjeeling 4-Day Itinerary

  1. Day 1: Tsomgo Lake, Sikkim
    Estimated time from Bagdogra Airport: 5 hours (125 km)

    Discover the mesmerizing Tsomgo Lake nestled in the Eastern Himalayas at an altitude of 12,400 feet. Enjoy the views of the snow-capped mountains and the beautiful blue waters of the lake. You can also take a yak ride or visit the nearby Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary.

  2. Day 2: Darjeeling Himalayan Railway and Tiger Hill, Darjeeling
    Estimated time from Tsomgo Lake: 4.5 hours (99 km)

    Experience the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding hills, villages, and tea gardens. Then, head to Tiger Hill to witness the sunrise over the majestic Kanchenjunga and Everest peaks. Don't miss out on visiting the nearby Ghum Monastery and the Tibetan Refugee Center.

  3. Day 3: Rumtek Monastery and Nathula Pass, Sikkim
    Estimated time from Darjeeling: 5 hours (97 km)

    Visit the Rumtek Monastery, the largest and most important monastery in Sikkim, renowned for its stunning architecture and religious significance. Then, head to Nathula Pass, a strategic border between India and China, and witness the picturesque views of the Himalayas. You can also do some shopping at the nearby markets in Gangtok.

  4. Day 4: Tea Tasting and Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, Darjeeling
    Estimated time from Nathula Pass: 4.5 hours (120 km)

    Visit one of the famous tea estates in Darjeeling and indulge in a tea-tasting session to explore the unique tastes of Darjeeling tea. Then, head to the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park to see the rare and endangered species of the Himalayan fauna, including the iconic snow leopard and the red panda.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Tsomgo Lake (2-3 hours, free)
  • Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (2-3 hours, INR 1500 per person)
  • Tiger Hill (2-3 hours, INR 1200 per vehicle)
  • Rumtek Monastery (2-3 hours, free)
  • Nathula Pass (3-4 hours, INR 500 per person)
  • Tea tasting (1-2 hours, INR 500 per person)
  • Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park (2-3 hours, INR 100 per person)
  • Total Estimated Costs: INR 3800 per person

Useful Tips

If you have more time, you can explore the nearby places like Pelling, Kalimpong, and Mirik. If you have less time, you can skip the tea-tasting session and the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park. It is advisable to wear warm clothing and comfortable shoes as the temperature drops significantly in the evenings.

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