A Week in the Himalayas: Gangtok, Lachung, Pelling, Darjeeling

Day 1: Exploring Gangtok

Gangtok, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Baker's Cafe

Start your day with delicious pastries and coffee at Baker's Cafe, a charming bakery in the heart of Gangtok.
Baker's Cafe is located in MG Marg, the main street of Gangtok, easily accessible by walking.
£5, 1 hour

10:00AM

Rumtek Monastery

Visit the serene Rumtek Monastery, a significant Tibetan Buddhist monastery known for its beautiful architecture and peaceful surroundings.
Take a taxi from MG Marg to Rumtek Monastery, approximately 45 minutes drive.
£10, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Taste of Tibet

Enjoy a traditional Tibetan meal at Taste of Tibet, savouring momos and thukpa in a cosy setting.
Taste of Tibet is located near the monastery, a short walk from the main entrance.
£8, 1 hour

3:00PM

Namgyal Institute of Tibetology

Explore the rich Tibetan culture and history at the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, home to a vast collection of artifacts and rare manuscripts.
A quick taxi ride from Taste of Tibet, around 15 minutes.
£7, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Square

Indulge in a fusion of local and international flavours at The Square, a popular restaurant offering a diverse menu.
Head back to MG Marg for dinner at The Square, just a short walk from your last stop.
£15, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: More of Gangtok

Gangtok, India

9:00AM

Visit Enchey Monastery

Start your day at Enchey Monastery, a revered place of worship with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
Enchey Monastery is a 30-minute drive from MG Marg.
£6, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Ganesh Tok

Head to Ganesh Tok, a small temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha offering breathtaking views of Gangtok.
A short drive from Enchey Monastery, about 20 minutes away.
£3, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Thakali

Enjoy a traditional Thakali meal at this local restaurant, known for its authentic flavours and warm hospitality.
Thakali is located on the way back to MG Marg, around a 15-minute drive.
£9, 1 hour

3:00PM

Handicrafts & Handlooms Centre

Shop for beautiful handicrafts and handwoven textiles at the centre, supporting local artisans and craftsmen.
A quick taxi ride from Thakali, approximately 10 minutes.
£20, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Parivar Restaurant

End your day with a hearty meal at Parivar Restaurant, offering a mix of Indian and Tibetan dishes in a cosy setting.
Return to MG Marg for dinner at Parivar Restaurant, a short 5-minute walk from the main street.
£12, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Exploring Lachung

Lachung, India

9:00AM

Travel from Gangtok to Lachung

Embark on a scenic drive from Gangtok to Lachung, a journey that offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas.
Hire a private taxi for the 6-hour journey to Lachung, sit back and enjoy the picturesque landscapes.
£50, 6 hours

3:00PM

Check-in at Hotel Yarlam

Settle into your accommodation at Hotel Yarlam, a cosy retreat nestled amidst the mountains with warm hospitality.
Upon arrival in Lachung, check-in at Hotel Yarlam and unwind after the long journey.
£70, 1 hour

5:00PM

Explore Lachung Village

Take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque Lachung Village, immersing yourself in the local culture and scenic beauty.
Hotel Yarlam is a perfect starting point for exploring the village on foot.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Hotel Yarlam Restaurant

Enjoy a traditional Nepali dinner at the hotel's restaurant, savouring local delicacies by a warm fireplace.
Relax and dine at the hotel's restaurant, experiencing authentic flavours of the region.
£20, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Nature in Lachung

Lachung, India

8:00AM

Yumthang Valley Excursion

Embark on an excursion to Yumthang Valley, known as the 'Valley of Flowers', offering stunning alpine views and hot springs.
Join a guided tour from Hotel Yarlam to Yumthang Valley, a 2-hour drive with mesmerising landscapes.
£30, 6 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Yumthang Valley

Picnic amidst the natural beauty of Yumthang Valley, enjoying a packed lunch with scenic views of the Himalayas.
Find a peaceful spot in the valley for a relaxing picnic lunch amidst nature's splendour.
£10, 1 hour

3:00PM

Yumesamdong (Zero Point)

Drive to Yumesamdong, also known as Zero Point, a place where the tree line ends and majestic snow-capped mountains begin.
Continue your journey from Yumthang Valley to Yumesamdong, another hour's drive to witness this unique landscape.
£20, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Hotel Yarlam

Relish a delicious dinner back at Hotel Yarlam, sharing stories of the day's adventures amidst the serene mountain backdrop.
Return to the hotel for a comforting dinner at the end of an exciting day exploring nature's wonders.
£25, 2 hours
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Day 5: Serenity in Pelling

Pelling, India

9:00AM

Travel from Lachung to Pelling

Embark on a picturesque journey from Lachung to Pelling, a drive that offers stunning views of the Himalayan ranges.
Take a private taxi from Lachung to Pelling, a scenic 5-hour drive through the mountains.
£40, 5 hours

2:00PM

Check-in at Hotel Mount Pandim

Arrive at Hotel Mount Pandim, a charming property in Pelling offering panoramic views of the Kanchenjunga range.
Check-in at the hotel and relax in the comfort of your room, admiring the majestic Himalayan peaks.
£60, 1 hour

4:00PM

Pemayangtse Monastery

Visit the historic Pemayangtse Monastery, one of the oldest monasteries in Sikkim known for its ancient artifacts and spiritual ambience.
A short drive from the hotel, Pemayangtse Monastery is a must-visit to delve into Sikkim's cultural heritage.
£5, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Sunset at Sanga Choeling Monastery

Witness a mesmerising sunset at Sanga Choeling Monastery, perched on a hilltop offering panoramic views of the valley below.
A brief drive from Pemayangtse Monastery, head to Sanga Choeling Monastery for a tranquil evening experience.
£3, 1 hour

8:00PM

Dinner at Hotel Mount Pandim

Enjoy a delectable dinner at the hotel's restaurant, savouring local and international cuisines amidst the backdrop of the Himalayas.
End your day with a delightful dinner at the hotel, soaking in the serene atmosphere of Pelling.
£18, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Pelling Delights

Pelling, India

9:00AM

Khecheopalri Lake

Start your day at the sacred Khecheopalri Lake, a peaceful and pristine water body considered holy by Buddhists and Hindus.
Take a short drive from the hotel to Khecheopalri Lake, a spiritual haven amidst lush forests.
£4, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Rabdentse Ruins

Explore the ancient ruins of Rabdentse, the second capital of the former Kingdom of Sikkim, offering historical insights and panoramic views.
A quick drive from Khecheopalri Lake, delve into the history of Sikkim at the Rabdentse Ruins.
£3, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Melting Point Restaurant

Relish a hearty meal at Melting Point Restaurant, a popular eatery in Pelling known for its delicious local and Indian cuisine.
Head to the restaurant for a satisfying lunch after exploring the historic site.
£10, 1 hour

3:00PM

Helicopter Ride over Kanchenjunga

Experience a thrilling helicopter ride over the majestic Kanchenjunga peak, witnessing the Himalayan beauty from a unique perspective.
Embark on a short drive to the helipad for your aerial adventure over the stunning mountain range.
£200, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Elgin Mount Pandim

Indulge in a luxurious dinner at The Elgin Mount Pandim, a fine dining restaurant offering a blend of local and continental cuisines.
Return to the hotel for an exquisite dining experience, rounding off your day with culinary delights.
£30, 2 hours
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Day 7: Darjeeling Delights

Darjeeling, India

9:00AM

Travel from Pelling to Darjeeling

Embark on a scenic drive from Pelling to Darjeeling, a journey filled with tea estates and panoramic vistas of the Himalayas.
Take a private taxi for the 4-hour journey to Darjeeling, enjoying the enchanting landscapes along the way.
£30, 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Glenary's

Enjoy a sumptuous meal at Glenary's, a historical bakery and cafe in Darjeeling known for its delectable pastries and local dishes.
Head to Glenary's for a delightful lunch experience, savouring the flavours of Darjeeling.
£12, 1 hour

3:00PM

Himalayan Mountaineering Institute

Visit the prestigious Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, dedicated to the art of mountaineering and showcasing mountaineering history.
A short taxi ride from Glenary's, immerse yourself in the world of mountaineering at this renowned institute.
£5, 2 hours

6:00PM

Sunset at Tiger Hill

Witness a mesmerising sunset at Tiger Hill, a popular vantage point offering panoramic views of the sunrise over the Himalayas.
Embark on a drive to Tiger Hill for a stunning sunset experience, capturing the beauty of the mountains.
£4, 2 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Keventers

End your day with dinner at Keventers, a historic restaurant in Darjeeling known for its delectable range of dishes and beverages.
Head to Keventers for a memorable dining experience, enjoying the cosy ambience of this iconic eatery.
£15, 1.5 hours
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