Gangtok & Darjeeling 5-Day Itinerary for Family Friendly Travelers in June 2023

1. Day 1: Tsomgo Lake
   1 hour 25 minutes (32.4 miles) from Bagdogra Airport

   In the morning, head to Tsomgo Lake, a scenic glacial lake located 12,400 feet above sea level. Enjoy a yak ride or take a stroll around the lake while taking in the view of the surrounding mountains. In the afternoon, visit the nearby Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary and witness exotic Himalayan flora and fauna. In the evening, relax in your hotel and savor some local cuisine.

2. Day 2: Rumtek Monastery
   1 hour 10 minutes (16.9 miles) from Gangtok

   Start your day by visiting Rumtek Monastery, a Tibetan Buddhist monastery that houses a golden stupa and many precious artifacts. Spend the afternoon at Banjhakri Falls, a picturesque waterfall surrounded by lush green forests. In the evening, explore the nightlife at M.G. Road and indulge in some shopping and dining.

3. Day 3: Darjeeling Himalayan Railway
   2 hours 25 minutes (47.4 miles) from Gangtok

   Take a ride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, also known as the Toy Train, and experience the stunning scenery of the Himalayan Mountains. After the ride, visit the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute and learn about the history of mountaineering in the region. Spend the evening at Observatory Hill and enjoy a panoramic view of Darjeeling town.

4. Day 4: Tiger Hill
   1 hour 30 minutes (12.4 miles) from Darjeeling

   Wake up early and head to Tiger Hill to watch the sunrise over Mount Everest and Kangchenjunga, the third-highest mountain in the world. After breakfast, visit the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park and see rare animals like the red panda and snow leopard. In the evening, stroll around the Darjeeling Mall and indulge in some local delicacies.

5. Day 5: Tea Gardens
   40 minutes (7.8 miles) from Darjeeling

   Visit the Happy Valley Tea Estate and learn about the process of tea production. Enjoy a cup of Darjeeling tea while taking in the scenic beauty of the tea gardens. Spend the afternoon at the Rock Garden and Ganga Maya Park, where you can relax and enjoy nature. In the evening, head back to your hotel for a final night of rest and relaxation.

Recommendations

If you have some extra time, consider visiting the Pemayangtse Monastery and the Khecheopalri Lake in Pelling. For an adventurous side trip, go trekking in the Singalila National Park. To make the most of your trip, try to wake up early and catch the sunrise at different locations. Don't forget to try some local street food and shop for souvenirs to take back home.

For hotel and flight bookings, please visit https://trip.tp.st/5u0O2Vxp.