Darjeeling and Gangtok Honeymoon Itinerary for June 2023

1. Day 1: Darjeeling Himalayan Railway
   1 hour 30 minutes (31.6 km) from Bagdogra Airport

   In the morning, take a romantic ride on the UNESCO-listed narrow gauge Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. Enjoy stunning views of the hills, tea gardens, and waterfalls. In the afternoon, visit the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute and the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park. In the evening, explore the Mall Road and try some local snacks and tea.

2. Day 2: Tiger Hill and Ghum Monastery
   1 hour 10 minutes (12.8 km) from Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Station

   Wake up early for an unforgettable sunrise view over the Kanchenjunga peak from Tiger Hill. Visit the Ghum Monastery, the oldest Tibetan Buddhist monastery in the area. In the afternoon, head to the Rock Garden and Ganga Maya Park for some peaceful time in nature.

3. Day 3: Tea Plantations and Pelling
   3 hours 45 minutes (72.9 km) from Ghum Monastery

   Take a scenic drive to the Happy Valley Tea Estate and learn about the tea-making process and sample some of the finest tea in the world. In the afternoon, head to Pelling, a charming town with a stunning view of the Kanchenjunga range. Visit the Pemayangtse Monastery, the Rabdentse Ruins, and the Khecheopalri Lake.

4. Day 4: Nathu La Pass and Tsomgo Lake
   4 hours 20 minutes (110 km) from Pelling

   Get a glimpse of the Indo-China border at Nathu La Pass, which is open only for Indian nationals with a permit. Explore the Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir and the Nathu La War Memorial. In the afternoon, head to Tsomgo Lake, a serene glacial lake surrounded by mountains. Take a yak ride and try some hot tea and snacks.

5. Day 5: Rumtek Monastery and Gangtok City
   2 hours 20 minutes (72.5 km) from Tsomgo Lake

   Visit the Rumtek Monastery, one of the largest and most significant monasteries in Sikkim. In the afternoon, explore the lively streets of Gangtok city and visit the Enchey Monastery, the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, and the Flower Exhibition Centre. Take a cable car ride for panoramic views of the city.

6. Day 6: Tashi View Point and Hanuman Tok
   25 minutes (8.6 km) from Gangtok City Centre

   Take in the breathtaking view of the Kanchenjunga range from the Tashi View Point. Visit the Hanuman Tok, a hilltop temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman. In the afternoon, relax at the Banjhakri Falls and Energy Park, which features a beautiful waterfall and a well-manicured garden.

7. Day 7: Local Food and Souvenir Shopping
   10 minutes (3.2 km) from Banjhakri Falls and Energy Park

   On your last day, indulge in some local food such as momos, thukpa, and churpee. Visit the MG Marg, a pedestrian-only street with shops selling handicrafts, clothes, and souvenirs. Buy some tea, spices, and prayer flags for your loved ones back home.

Recommendations

Consider visiting the Kurseong town, the Darjeeling Tea and Tourism Festival (June 1-7), and the International Flower Festival in Gangtok (June 17-21). You can also take a day trip to the nearby Kalimpong for more scenic views and monasteries.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (3 hours, INR 1,000)
• Himalayan Mountaineering Institute and Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park (2 hours, INR 500)
• Tiger Hill and Ghum Monastery (4 hours, INR 500)
• Rock Garden and Ganga Maya Park (2 hours, INR 200)
• Happy Valley Tea Estate (2 hours, INR 300)
• Pemayangtse Monastery, Rabdentse Ruins, and Khecheopalri Lake (4 hours, INR 500)
• Nathu La Pass and Tsomgo Lake (8 hours, INR 3,000)
• Rumtek Monastery and Gangtok City (6 hours, INR 1,000)
• Tashi View Point and Hanuman Tok (3 hours, INR 300)
• Banjhakri Falls and Energy Park (2 hours, INR 200)
• Local Food and Souvenir Shopping (2 hours, INR 500)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 7,500 per person