Experience the Best of Kolkata, Darjeeling, and Gangtok

Thursday, October 26: Arrival in Kolkata

Welcome to Kolkata, the bustling capital of West Bengal! Start your morning by visiting the iconic Victoria Memorial, a magnificent white-marble structure that showcases the city's rich colonial history. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant markets of New Market, where you can shop for traditional handicrafts and sample delicious street food. Wind down your evening with a leisurely boat ride along the Hooghly River, enjoying the stunning views of the Howrah Bridge.

• Victoria Memorial: Estimated cost - INR 30, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• New Market: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Hooghly River Boat Ride: Estimated cost - INR 200, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Friday, October 27: Darjeeling Delights

Leave Kolkata early in the morning for a scenic train ride to Darjeeling. Upon arrival, head to Tiger Hill to witness the breathtaking sunrise over the majestic Kanchenjunga mountain range. Enjoy a traditional Darjeeling breakfast at Keventers, famous for its delicious hot beverages. Spend the afternoon exploring the Happy Valley Tea Estate and learn about the tea-making process. In the evening, take a leisurely walk through the Mall Road, lined with charming shops and eateries.

• Tiger Hill: Estimated cost - INR 40 (entry fee), Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Keventers: Estimated cost - INR 300, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Happy Valley Tea Estate: Estimated cost - INR 100 (entry fee), Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Mall Road: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Saturday, October 28: Exploring Darjeeling

Embark on a scenic toy train ride to Ghoom Monastery in the morning, where you can experience serenity and witness the beautiful Buddhist artifacts. Afterward, visit the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute and the Everest Museum to learn about the region's mountaineering history. Spend the afternoon exploring the picturesque Batasia Loop and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. In the evening, indulge in a traditional Nepali dinner at a local restaurant.

• Ghoom Monastery: Estimated cost - INR 10 (entry fee), Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Himalayan Mountaineering Institute: Estimated cost - INR 40 (entry fee), Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Everest Museum: Estimated cost - INR 40 (entry fee), Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Batasia Loop: Estimated cost - INR 20 (entry fee), Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Local Restaurant: Estimated cost - INR 500, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Sunday, October 29: Journey to Gangtok

Leave Darjeeling in the morning and drive to Gangtok, the capital city of Sikkim. Upon arrival, visit the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology to explore a vast collection of Tibetan artifacts and learn about the region's rich cultural heritage. Take a leisurely stroll through the vibrant MG Marg, lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants. In the evening, enjoy a relaxing visit to the Banjhakri Falls, surrounded by lush greenery and serene ambiance.

• Namgyal Institute of Tibetology: Estimated cost - INR 20 (entry fee), Time spent - 2-3 hours
• MG Marg: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Banjhakri Falls: Estimated cost - INR 30 (entry fee), Time spent - 1-2 hours

Monday, October 30: Enchanting Gangtok

Start your day with a visit to the picturesque Tsomgo Lake, nestled amidst snow-capped mountains. Explore the nearby Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir, a sacred shrine dedicated to an Indian soldier. Afterward, visit the Rumtek Monastery, one of the largest and most significant monasteries in Sikkim. In the evening, take a cable car ride to the enchanting Tashiling Handicraft Centre and shop for traditional Sikkimese handicrafts.

• Tsomgo Lake: Estimated cost - INR 200 (entry fee), Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir: Estimated cost - No entry fee, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Rumtek Monastery: Estimated cost - INR 20 (entry fee), Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Tashiling Handicraft Centre: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Tuesday, October 31: Day Trip to Nathu La Pass

Today, embark on an adventurous day trip to Nathu La Pass, a mountain pass on the Indo-China border. Experience stunning views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks and witness the unique blend of Indian and Tibetan cultures. Take a short hike to the Baba Mandir, a revered shrine dedicated to an Indian soldier. Return to Gangtok in the evening and relax at a local spa for a rejuvenating experience.

• Nathu La Pass: Estimated cost - INR 200 (entry fee), Time spent - 4-6 hours
• Baba Mandir: Estimated cost - No entry fee, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Local Spa: Estimated cost - INR 1000, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Wednesday, November 1: Departure from Gangtok

On your final day, explore the Enchey Monastery in the morning, known for its exquisite architecture and serene surroundings. Visit the Do-Drul Chorten Stupa, a significant Buddhist pilgrimage site, and offer prayers for a safe journey ahead. Enjoy a traditional Sikkimese lunch at a local restaurant, savoring the flavors of the region. Bid farewell to Gangtok and depart for your onward journey.

• Enchey Monastery: Estimated cost - INR 10 (entry fee), Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Do-Drul Chorten Stupa: Estimated cost - No entry fee, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Local Restaurant: Estimated cost - INR 500, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Kolkata, don't miss out on the vibrant College Street, known for its bookstores and intellectual ambiance. In Darjeeling, take a detour to the Himalayan Mountaineering and Adventure Club to learn about the region's mountaineering expeditions. In Gangtok, venture off the beaten path to visit the serene Tashi Viewpoint for breathtaking views of the Himalayas.

For more information on hotel and flight prices, check out KAYAK.