Welcome to the capital city of Sikkim! Start your adventure with a visit to the Enchey Monastery, situated on a hilltop overlooking Gangtok. Next, head to the Bakthang Waterfalls, known for its lush greenery and stunning views. Finally, explore the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, which houses an impressive collection of Tibetan artifacts and rare books.
Pelling is a serene town situated at an altitude of 6800 feet. Start your day with a visit to the Pemayangtse Monastery, known for its intricate woodwork and ancient relics. Continue your journey to the Khangchendzonga National Park, home to the rare snow leopard and Himalayan tahr. Finally, head to the Khecheopalri Lake, a sacred lake surrounded by lush green forests.
Darjeeling, known as the ‘Queen of Hills’, is a beautiful hill station situated in West Bengal. Start your day with a visit to the Tiger Hill, to witness a beautiful sunrise over the Kanchenjunga. Next, head to the Ghoom Monastery, known for its 15 feet high Maitreya Buddha statue. Continue your journey to the Happy Valley Tea Estate, where you can witness the tea-making process and enjoy a cup of freshly brewed tea. Finally, explore the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, to see exotic animals like the red panda and snow leopard.
Spend the day exploring the scenic hamlet of Sillery Gaon nestled in the lap of the Himalayas. Go for a nature walk to witness beautiful views of the Kanchenjunga and the Teesta River. Take a stroll to the Ramitay view point, to witness a breathtaking view of the Himalayan range. In the evening, indulge in local cuisine at one of Sillery Gaon’s cafes or homestay.
Kalimpong is a scenic hill station situated on a ridge overlooking the Teesta River. Start your day with a visit to the Zang Dhok Palri Phodang Monastery, known for its exquisite architecture and intricate murals. Next, explore the Kalimpong Cactus Nursery, which houses a rare collection of cactus and succulents. Finally, head to the Morgan House, a colonial bungalow converted into a heritage hotel, for a cup of coffee and stunning views of the mountains.
Lava and Lolegaon are two beautiful villages situated amidst hills and forests. Start your day with a visit to the Lava Monastery, known for its stunning view of the Neora Valley National Park. Next, head to the Changey Waterfall, known for its beautiful cascades and picturesque setting. In the evening, indulge in local cuisine at one of Lolegaon’s cafes or homestay.
Time to say goodbye to the Himalayas! On your way to the airport, stop by the Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary, to see exotic animals like the Asiatic black bear and barking deer. Finally, head to the Bagdogra airport to catch a flight back home.
Given the remote location of some attractions, hiring a private car would be the most convenient way to travel. The cost is approximately ₹3000-₹4000 per day, depending on the car type and distance traveled. Alternatively, buses and shared taxis are available but may not be as comfortable or reliable.
If you have more time, consider exploring other places in Sikkim like Tsomgo Lake, Yuksom or Ravangla. You could also stay an extra day in Darjeeling to take the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Joyride. If you have less time, we recommend skipping Kalimpong and spending an extra day in Pelling or Lolegaon.
The nearest airport to Gangtok is the Bagdogra airport (IXB) located in Siliguri, West Bengal. It is approximately 123 km away from Gangtok and takes around 4 hours to reach by car. Alternatively, the nearest major airport is the Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) in New Delhi, approximately 1554 km away from Gangtok.