Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version
Viewed by 56 travelers

A Week in Sikkim and Darjeeling: City Experiences

Wednesday, January 3: Arrival in Sikkim

Start your adventure in Sikkim by exploring Gangtok, the capital city. In the morning, visit the Enchey Monastery, a serene Buddhist temple nestled in the hills. Afterward, head to MG Road, the bustling city center, for some shopping and local cuisine. In the evening, take a leisurely walk along the Ban Jhakri Falls, a picturesque waterfall surrounded by lush greenery.

  • Enchey Monastery: Approx. cost - INR 50, Time spent - 1 hour
  • MG Road: Cost varies, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Ban Jhakri Falls: Approx. cost - INR 50, Time spent - 1 hour
Thursday, January 4: Exploring Gangtok

Start your day with a visit to the Rumtek Monastery, a prominent Buddhist site known for its intricate architecture and peaceful atmosphere. In the afternoon, experience adventure at the Himalayan Zoological Park, home to rare Himalayan species such as red pandas and snow leopards. As the evening approaches, take a cable car ride to the Tashi Viewpoint for panoramic views of the city and the majestic Kanchenjunga peak.

  • Rumtek Monastery: Approx. cost - INR 50, Time spent - 2 hours
  • Himalayan Zoological Park: Approx. cost - INR 50, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Tashi Viewpoint: Approx. cost - INR 100, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Friday, January 5: Journey to Darjeeling

Leave Gangtok and embark on a scenic drive to Darjeeling. In the morning, visit the Tiger Hill to witness a breathtaking sunrise over the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas. Afterward, explore the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, famous for its conservation efforts and population of endangered species. In the evening, take a peaceful walk through the beautiful Happy Valley Tea Estate and learn about the tea-making process.

  • Tiger Hill: Approx. cost - INR 100, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park: Approx. cost - INR 50, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Happy Valley Tea Estate: Approx. cost - INR 50, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Saturday, January 6: Discovering Darjeeling

Start your day by riding the famous Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, also known as the Toy Train, an UNESCO World Heritage site. In the afternoon, explore the Japanese Peace Pagoda, a symbol of peace and tranquility, offering stunning views of the city and the Himalayas. As the evening approaches, visit the lively Mall Road, lined with shops selling local handicrafts, tea, and souvenirs.

  • Darjeeling Himalayan Railway: Approx. cost - INR 500, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Japanese Peace Pagoda: No entrance fee, Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Mall Road: Cost varies, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Sunday, January 7: Tea Gardens and Views

Start your day by visiting the Happy Valley Tea Estate again, this time for a deeper understanding of tea production with a guided tour. Afterward, take a scenic drive to the Ghoom Monastery, one of the oldest Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in Darjeeling. In the evening, make your way to the Observatory Hill for breathtaking views of the sunset over the town.

  • Happy Valley Tea Estate Tour: Approx. cost - INR 200, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Ghoom Monastery: No entrance fee, Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Observatory Hill: No entrance fee, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Monday, January 8: Excursion to Mirik Lake

Embark on a day trip to Mirik Lake, a picturesque lake surrounded by hills and pine forests. Spend the morning boating on the lake or taking a leisurely walk along the scenic trails. In the afternoon, explore the Pashupati Market, a bustling market on the India-Nepal border, offering a variety of goods at affordable prices.

  • Mirik Lake: Boat ride approx. cost - INR 100, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Pashupati Market: Cost varies, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Tuesday, January 9: Farewell and Departure

Say goodbye to the beautiful region of Sikkim and Darjeeling. Take some time to explore local markets for last-minute souvenir shopping before heading to the airport or railway station for your departure.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique experience, venture off the beaten path and explore the Neora Valley National Park, an untouched paradise known for its rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes. Another local favorite is the Temi Tea Garden, located in South Sikkim, where you can indulge in a peaceful tea-tasting session amidst the serene surroundings.

Check here for hotel and flight prices.

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