How many days do you need in Sikkim & Darjeeling?

This itinerary covers 7 days in Sikkim & Darjeeling, which is a great amount of time to explore the main highlights. Depending on your pace and interests, you could extend or shorten the trip.

What is the best itinerary for Sikkim & Darjeeling?

Plan your perfect 7 days trip to Sikkim & Darjeeling. This detailed travel itinerary includes daily activities, local recommendations, and insider tips to make your journey unforgettable.

Enchanting Sikkim & Darjeeling Exploration

Day 1: Darjeeling Delights

Darjeeling, India on May 30, 2024

8:00AM

Sunrise at Tiger Hill

Wake up early to witness the breathtaking sunrise over the Himalayas at Tiger Hill, offering panoramic views of Mount Everest and Kanchenjunga.

N/A, 2 hours

11:00AM

Visit Batasia Loop & War Memorial

Explore the Batasia Loop, a spiral railway where the toy train passes through, and pay respects at the War Memorial commemorating the Gorkha soldiers.

N/A, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Glenary's

Indulge in a delicious meal at Glenary's, a historic bakery and café known for its delectable pastries and panoramic views of the mountains.

£10 per person, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park

Visit the zoo to see rare Himalayan wildlife, including the iconic snow leopards, red pandas, and Tibetan wolves.

£5 per person, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Keventers

Enjoy a scrumptious dinner at Keventers, a popular restaurant known for its mouth-watering momos and stunning views of the town.

£15 per person, 1.5 hours

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Day 2: Gangtok Getaway

Gangtok, India on May 31, 2024

9:00AM

Drive to Gangtok

Embark on a scenic drive to Gangtok, the capital city of Sikkim, known for its monasteries, vibrant culture, and stunning views of the Himalayas.

N/A, 5 hours

2:00PM

Check-in at Hotel

Settle into your hotel in Gangtok and freshen up before starting your exploration of the city.

£50 per night, 1 hour

4:00PM

Visit Enchey Monastery

Explore the serene Enchey Monastery, a 200-year-old Buddhist monastery known for its architecture and religious significance.

£3 per person, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Taste of Tibet

Enjoy a traditional Tibetan dinner at Taste of Tibet, savouring dishes like Thukpa and Momos in an authentic setting.

£12 per person, 1.5 hours

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Day 3: Pelling Paradise

Pelling, India on June 1, 2024

8:00AM

Drive to Pelling

Embark on a picturesque drive to Pelling, a charming town in Sikkim known for its stunning views of the Kanchenjunga peak and serene monasteries.

N/A, 5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Hotel Mount Pandim

Enjoy a delightful lunch at Hotel Mount Pandim, a luxury hotel offering traditional Sikkimese cuisine with a view of the majestic mountains.

£20 per person, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Pemayangtse Monastery

Explore the ancient Pemayangtse Monastery, one of the oldest and most significant monasteries in Sikkim, known for its intricate woodwork and religious artefacts.

£5 per person, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Melting Point

Savour a delicious dinner at Melting Point, a cosy restaurant offering a blend of Indian, Tibetan, and Chinese cuisines in a warm and inviting ambiance.

£10 per person, 1.5 hours

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Day 4: Exploring Pelling

Pelling, India on June 2, 2024

9:00AM

Hike to Khecheopalri Lake

Embark on a scenic hike to the sacred Khecheopalri Lake, believed to fulfill wishes and surrounded by lush forests and prayer flags.

N/A, 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Maggi Point

Relish a quick lunch at Maggi Point, a popular roadside eatery known for its hot Maggi noodles and refreshing beverages.

£5 per person, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Rabdentse Ruins

Discover the ancient ruins of Rabdentse, the second capital of the former Kingdom of Sikkim, offering insights into the region's history and culture.

£2 per person, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Elgin Mount Pandim

Indulge in a lavish dinner at The Elgin Mount Pandim, a heritage hotel serving gourmet cuisine amidst a regal setting with views of the Himalayas.

£30 per person, 2 hours

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Day 5: Return to Darjeeling

Darjeeling, India on June 3, 2024

9:00AM

Drive back to Darjeeling

Enjoy a leisurely drive back to Darjeeling, soaking in the scenic beauty of the Sikkimese countryside and the winding roads of the Himalayan region.

N/A, 5 hours

2:00PM

Check-in at Hotel

Check back into your hotel in Darjeeling and take some time to relax and rejuvenate after the long journey.

£60 per night, 1 hour

4:00PM

Tea Tasting at Happy Valley Tea Estate

Embark on a guided tour of the Happy Valley Tea Estate, learning about the art of tea-making and savouring different varieties of freshly brewed teas.

£7 per person, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Glenary's Restaurant

Enjoy a delightful dinner at Glenary's Restaurant, known for its delectable Continental and Indian dishes, paired with spectacular views of the town.

£20 per person, 1.5 hours

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Day 6: Darjeeling Discovery

Darjeeling, India on June 4, 2024

8:00AM

Toy Train Ride to Ghum

Embark on a nostalgic Toy Train ride to Ghum, the highest railway station in India, passing through scenic landscapes and quaint villages.

£10 per person, 2 hours

11:00AM

Visit Himalayan Mountaineering Institute

Explore the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, dedicated to the history of mountaineering and showcasing equipment used by famous mountaineers.

£4 per person, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Kunga Restaurant

Enjoy a traditional Tibetan meal at Kunga Restaurant, known for its authentic flavours and warm hospitality in a homely setting.

£8 per person, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Peace Pagoda

Spend some tranquil moments at the Peace Pagoda, a symbol of peace and harmony, offering panoramic views of the Himalayan range and the town below.

N/A, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Glenary's

Relish another delightful dinner at Glenary's, trying out their signature dishes and enjoying the vibrant ambiance of the restaurant.

£15 per person, 1.5 hours

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Day 7: Farewell to Sikkim & Darjeeling

Darjeeling, India on June 5, 2024

9:00AM

Shopping at Nehru Road

Explore the bustling Nehru Road for souvenirs and local handicrafts, including tea, spices, traditional clothing, and handicraft items to take back home.

Variable, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Sonam's Kitchen

Indulge in a hearty meal at Sonam's Kitchen, a popular café known for its comforting food, baked goods, and welcoming atmosphere.

£10 per person, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Observatory Hill

Climb up Observatory Hill to visit the Mahakal Temple and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the town of Darjeeling.

N/A, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

High Tea at Windamere Hotel

Experience a traditional high tea session at the historic Windamere Hotel, savouring a selection of teas, scones, and pastries in a colonial-era ambiance.

£15 per person, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Glenary's

Conclude your Sikkim & Darjeeling journey with a farewell dinner at Glenary's, reminiscing about your adventures over delicious food and scenic views.

£25 per person, 2 hours

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Step 1 Outline Preview:

Enchanting Sikkim & Darjeeling Exploration

Day 1: Darjeeling Delights

8:00AM

11:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

Day 2: Gangtok Getaway

9:00AM

2:00PM

4:00PM

6:30PM

Day 3: Pelling Paradise

8:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

Day 4: Exploring Pelling

9:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

Day 5: Return to Darjeeling

9:00AM

2:00PM

4:00PM

6:30PM

Day 6: Darjeeling Discovery

8:00AM

11:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

Day 7: Farewell to Sikkim & Darjeeling

9:00AM

12:00PM

2:00PM

4:00PM

6:00PM

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