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

7-Day Nature Itinerary: Delhi to Darjeeling, Sikkim, and Gangtok

Tuesday, September 26: Delhi to Darjeeling

Start your journey by flying from Delhi to Bagdogra Airport in Siliguri, West Bengal. From there, embark on a scenic drive to Darjeeling, a charming hill station known for its tea gardens. In the morning, explore the lush greenery of Happy Valley Tea Estate and learn about the tea-making process. In the afternoon, visit the famous Tiger Hill to witness the breathtaking sunrise over the Kanchenjunga mountain range. In the evening, take a leisurely walk along Mall Road, enjoying the colonial architecture and local shops.

  • Happy Valley Tea Estate: Cost estimate: INR 100, Time spent: 2 hours
  • Tiger Hill: Cost estimate: INR 50, Time spent: 3 hours
  • Mall Road: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: 2 hours
Wednesday, September 27: Darjeeling

In the morning, take a scenic toy train ride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. In the afternoon, visit the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, home to various endangered species, including the snow leopard. End your day with a visit to the Peace Pagoda, a Buddhist monument offering peaceful surroundings and panoramic views of Darjeeling.

  • Darjeeling Himalayan Railway: Cost estimate: INR 500, Time spent: 3 hours
  • Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park: Cost estimate: INR 100, Time spent: 2 hours
  • Peace Pagoda: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: 1 hour
Thursday, September 28: Darjeeling to Gangtok

Travel from Darjeeling to Gangtok, the capital city of Sikkim. In the morning, explore the Enchey Monastery, known for its beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere. In the afternoon, visit the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology to learn about Tibetan culture and history. In the evening, take a stroll along MG Marg, the main street of Gangtok, lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants.

  • Enchey Monastery: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: 1 hour
  • Namgyal Institute of Tibetology: Cost estimate: INR 20, Time spent: 2 hours
  • MG Marg: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: 2 hours
Friday, September 29: Gangtok

Start your day by visiting the Rumtek Monastery, one of the most significant Buddhist monasteries in Sikkim. Explore its impressive architecture and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. In the afternoon, take a cable car ride to the Tashi Viewpoint for panoramic views of the snow-capped mountains. End your day by visiting the Banjhakri Falls, a beautiful waterfall surrounded by lush greenery.

  • Rumtek Monastery: Cost estimate: INR 20, Time spent: 2 hours
  • Tashi Viewpoint: Cost estimate: INR 100, Time spent: 2 hours
  • Banjhakri Falls: Cost estimate: INR 50, Time spent: 1 hour
Saturday, September 30: Gangtok

In the morning, visit the Tsomgo Lake, a glacial lake situated at an altitude of 12,400 feet. Enjoy the serene beauty of the lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains. In the afternoon, explore the flower-filled meadows of the Yumthang Valley, also known as the "Valley of Flowers." Immerse yourself in the colorful blossoms and tranquil atmosphere. Return to Gangtok in the evening and spend some time exploring the local markets.

  • Tsomgo Lake: Cost estimate: INR 200, Time spent: 3 hours
  • Yumthang Valley: Cost estimate: INR 2000 (including transportation), Time spent: 6 hours
  • Local Markets: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: 2 hours
Sunday, October 1: Gangtok

Embark on a day trip to the Nathu La Pass, a mountain pass on the Indo-China border. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the Himalayas and visit the Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir, a shrine dedicated to an Indian soldier. Experience the unique blend of nature and history. In the afternoon, take a leisurely walk through the beautiful Hanuman Tok, a Hindu temple offering panoramic views of Gangtok.

  • Nathu La Pass: Cost estimate: INR 4000 (including transportation and permits), Time spent: 6 hours
  • Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: 1 hour
  • Hanuman Tok: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: 2 hours
Monday, October 2: Gangtok to Delhi

Take a flight from Bagdogra Airport back to Delhi, concluding your nature-filled journey to Darjeeling, Sikkim, and Gangtok. Reflect on the beautiful landscapes, serene monasteries, and the rich culture you experienced during your trip.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For nature enthusiasts, a visit to the Singalila National Park near Darjeeling is highly recommended. This lesser-known gem offers stunning views of the Himalayas, diverse wildlife, and numerous trekking trails. Another off-the-beaten-path attraction is the Khecheopalri Lake in Sikkim, revered as a sacred lake by the locals. Surrounded by dense forests, it is believed to fulfill wishes of those with a pure heart.

Check hotel and flight prices here.

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