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

Exploring the Best of Darjeeling, Gangtok, Kalimpong, Pelling, and Lachen

Viewed by 75 travelers
Thursday December 21: Arrival in Darjeeling

Begin your 7-day adventure by arriving in Darjeeling. In the morning, visit the iconic Tiger Hill to enjoy the sunrise and breathtaking views of Mount Kanchenjunga. Afterward, explore the serene Japanese Peace Pagoda and take a leisurely stroll through the lush tea gardens. In the evening, indulge in some local Darjeeling tea tasting at one of the renowned tea estates.

Friday December 22: Exploring Gangtok

Embark on a scenic drive to Gangtok. Start your day with a visit to the famous Rumtek Monastery, offering a spiritual escape. In the afternoon, stroll around the vibrant MG Road, filled with shops and eateries. Dive into local culture by visiting the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology and the Enchey Monastery. Wrap up the day with a peaceful walk around the beautiful Banjhakri Falls.

  • Rumtek Monastery: Free, 2 hours
  • MG Road: Free, 2 hours
  • Namgyal Institute of Tibetology: Entry fee: INR 10, 1 hour
  • Enchey Monastery: Free, 1 hour
  • Banjhakri Falls: Free, 1 hour
  • Check hotel and flight prices
Saturday December 23: Discovering Kalimpong

Drive to the charming town of Kalimpong. Begin your day with a visit to the serene Zang Dhok Palri Phodang Monastery, known for its spectacular views. Explore the bustling local market, where you can find traditional handicrafts and aromatic spices. Enjoy a scenic picnic at Deolo Hill, offering panoramic vistas. End the day by immersing yourself in the tranquility of the Cactus Nursery.

  • Zang Dhok Palri Phodang Monastery: Free, 2 hours
  • Kalimpong Market: Free, 2 hours
  • Deolo Hill: Free, 2 hours
  • Cactus Nursery: Entry fee: INR 20, 1 hour
  • Check hotel and flight prices
Sunday December 24: Exploring Pelling

Head towards the picturesque town of Pelling. Start your day by admiring the breathtaking views of the Kanchenjunga Range from the Pelling Skywalk. Visit the sacred Khecheopalri Lake, surrounded by dense forests and considered holy by locals. Explore the ancient Pemayangtse Monastery, known for its exquisite architecture. End the day with a visit to the Rabdentse Ruins, offering a glimpse into the region's rich history.

  • Pelling Skywalk: Entry fee: INR 30, 2 hours
  • Khecheopalri Lake: Entry fee: INR 30, 1 hour
  • Pemayangtse Monastery: Entry fee: INR 20, 1 hour
  • Rabdentse Ruins: Entry fee: INR 10, 1 hour
  • Check hotel and flight prices
Monday December 25: Journey to Lachen

Embark on a scenic drive to the enchanting village of Lachen. Enjoy the stunning beauty of the landscape along the way. Once in Lachen, take a short hike to visit Gurudongmar Lake, a sacred Himalayan lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of the village and enjoy the hospitality of the local people.

Tuesday December 26: Return to Darjeeling

Return to Darjeeling from Lachen. Spend the day at leisure exploring any attractions you may have missed earlier or revisit your favorite spots. Enjoy a scenic toy train ride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Indulge in some souvenir shopping and savor the delicious local cuisine.

  • Darjeeling Himalayan Railway: Ticket prices vary, 3 hours
  • Leisure time in Darjeeling: Cost varies, flexible duration
  • Check hotel and flight prices
Wednesday December 27: Farewell and Hidden Gems

Say goodbye to this incredible journey. As you depart, don't miss visiting Happy Valley Tea Estate, a lesser-known gem where you can indulge in a tea tasting experience amidst breathtaking surroundings. Take a quiet walk through the lush tea plantations and soak in the tranquility before bidding farewell to this remarkable region.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Darjeeling, don't miss visiting the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, where you can learn about mountaineering history and pay homage to Tenzing Norgay, the first person to scale Mount Everest along with Sir Edmund Hillary. Additionally, immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the Tinchuley Village, known for its breathtaking views and vibrant birdlife. Locals also recommend visiting the Samthar Plateau, a offbeat destination offering panoramic views of Mount Kanchenjunga and a tranquil ambiance.

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