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

Sikkim Shillong Shoestring Budget Itinerary

Viewed by 94 travelers
Sunday December 10, 2023 - Arrival in Sikkim

Welcome to Sikkim! Start your trip by arriving in Gangtok, the capital city. In the morning, explore the enchanting Enchey Monastery and soak in the serene surroundings. In the afternoon, visit the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology to learn about Tibetan culture and history. In the evening, take a leisurely walk along the MG Marg, the main street filled with shops and eateries.

  • Enchey Monastery - Entrance fee: INR 10, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Namgyal Institute of Tibetology - Entrance fee: INR 20, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • MG Marg - Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Monday December 11, 2023 - Discover Gangtok

Start your day with a visit to the beautiful Rumtek Monastery, known for its stunning architecture and peaceful surroundings. In the afternoon, explore the Ban Jhakri Falls, a natural waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. End your day by taking a cable car ride to the Tashi Viewpoint for breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountains.

  • Rumtek Monastery - Entrance fee: INR 10, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Ban Jhakri Falls - Entrance fee: INR 50, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Tashi Viewpoint Cable Car - INR 110 per person, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Tuesday December 12, 2023 - Explore Pelling

Leave Gangtok and head towards Pelling. In the morning, visit the majestic Pemayangtse Monastery, one of the oldest and most important monasteries in Sikkim. Afterward, hike to the serene Khecheopalri Lake and spend some peaceful time there. In the evening, enjoy a leisurely walk through the town and try local delicacies.

  • Pemayangtse Monastery - Entrance fee: INR 20, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Khecheopalri Lake - Entrance fee: INR 30, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Wednesday December 13, 2023 - Journey to Darjeeling

Today, travel from Pelling to Darjeeling. In the morning, visit the famous Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (Toy Train) and take a joy ride through the scenic routes. Afterward, explore the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute and get inspired by the mountaineering history of the region. In the evening, enjoy a cup of world-famous Darjeeling tea while watching the mesmerizing sunset from Observatory Hill.

  • Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (Toy Train) - Fare varies based on distance, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Himalayan Mountaineering Institute - Entrance fee: INR 40, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Thursday December 14, 2023 - Discover Darjeeling

In the morning, visit the Tiger Hill to witness the breathtaking sunrise over the Kanchenjunga mountain range. Afterward, explore the peace and tranquility of the Japanese Peace Pagoda. In the afternoon, visit the Happy Valley Tea Estate and learn about the tea production process. End your day with a visit to the vibrant local market, where you can shop for souvenirs and local handicrafts.

  • Tiger Hill - Entrance fee: INR 40, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Japanese Peace Pagoda - Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Happy Valley Tea Estate - Entrance fee: INR 100, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Friday December 15, 2023 - Explore Cherrapunji

Leave Darjeeling and head towards Cherrapunji in Meghalaya. In the morning, visit the Mawsmai Cave, a fascinating limestone cave with impressive formations. Afterward, marvel at the Nohkalikai Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in India. In the evening, explore the living root bridges of Mawlynnong village, known for its cleanliness and eco-friendly practices.

  • Mawsmai Cave - Entrance fee: INR 20, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Nohkalikai Falls - Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Living Root Bridges - Free (small donation appreciated), Time spent: 2-3 hours
Saturday December 16, 2023 - Last Day in Shillong

Explore the beautiful capital city of Meghalaya, Shillong. In the morning, visit the Don Bosco Museum and learn about the indigenous culture of Northeast India. Afterward, explore the Ward's Lake and enjoy a peaceful boat ride. In the evening, discover the vibrant Police Bazaar, a bustling market offering a variety of local handicrafts and street food.

  • Don Bosco Museum - Entrance fee: INR 100, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Ward's Lake - Entrance fee: INR 10, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Police Bazaar - Free (costs vary for food and shopping), Time spent: 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For off the beaten path attractions, consider visiting the Dzongu region in Sikkim, known for its untouched natural beauty and traditional Lepcha culture. Another hidden gem is the Don Maukham, a viewpoint near Dawki in Meghalaya, offering breathtaking views of the Umngot River and the surrounding hills. These destinations are less crowded and offer a unique local experience without breaking the bank.

Looking for hotel and flight prices? Check out KAYAK to find the best deals for your trip!

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