Explore the Alpine Charm of Darjeeling and Scenic Beauty of Gangtok: A 5-Day North-East India Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Local Exploration

Darjeeling, India on May 4, 2025

10:30am

Breakfast at Glenary's

Enjoy a colonial-style breakfast with pastries and tea at the historic Glenary's, famous for its bakery and panoramic mountain views.
INR300, 1h

11:30am

Visit the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park

Explore this Himalayan mountain zoo specializing in high altitude animals like snow leopards and red pandas, open 9am–4pm.
INR60, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at Kunga Restaurant

Taste authentic Tibetan and Nepali cuisine in a cozy setting; don’t miss the momos and thukpa.
INR400, 1h

2:45pm

Ride the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (Toy Train)

Experience the UNESCO World Heritage steam railway from Darjeeling to Ghum, giving spectacular mountain views. Check timings in advance for steam service.
INR300, 2h

5:00pm

Stroll around Chowrasta Square

Relax at Chowrasta, the heart of Darjeeling, perfect for shopping souvenirs and soaking in local culture.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at The Park Restaurant

Enjoy a fine dining meal with a mix of Indian and continental dishes in an elegant ambiance.
INR700, 1h
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Day 2: Darjeeling Nature & Culture

Darjeeling, India on May 5, 2025

4:00am

Sunrise at Tiger Hill

Witness the breathtaking sunrise over Kanchenjunga mountain, a must-see for stunning Himalayan vistas. Best to leave early as it’s a 45-minute drive.
INR100 for park entry, 2h

7:00am

Breakfast at Kunga’s Cafe

Refuel with a hearty breakfast of Tibetan specialties like butter tea and porridge.
INR300, 1h

8:30am

Visit Batasia Loop and War Memorial

Explore this scenic railway loop with beautiful gardens and panoramic views, along with a memorial dedicated to Gorkha soldiers.
Free, 1h

9:30am

Tour Happy Valley Tea Estate

Learn about Darjeeling’s famous tea production with a guided tour and tasting session. Open 9am to 4pm.
INR150, 1.5h

11:30am

Visit Darjeeling Rock Garden and Peace Pagoda

Walk through serene gardens and a beautiful Japanese Peace Pagoda to experience tranquility and scenic beauty.
INR20, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Sonam’s Kitchen

Enjoy local organic dishes with vegan and vegetarian options in a homely setting.
INR350, 1h

2:30pm

Drive to Gangtok

Commence a scenic 4-5 hour drive eastwards to Gangtok, traversing beautiful mountain landscapes.
INR1500 for taxi, 5h

8:00pm

Dinner at The Square

Savour modern Tibetan and Sikkimese cuisine in a contemporary setting in Gangtok.
INR600, 1h
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Day 3: Gangtok Cultural Day

Gangtok, India on May 6, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Cafe Live & Loud

Start your day with great coffee and continental breakfast in this popular hangout spot.
INR350, 1h

9:30am

Visit Rumtek Monastery

Explore the largest monastery in Sikkim, an important spiritual site with beautiful architecture and Buddhist art. Open 9am–5pm.
INR100, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Hotel Tibet Makye Ame

Enjoy authentic Sikkimese and Tibetan dishes like gundruk and thenthuk in a traditional ambiance.
INR400, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Namgyal Institute of Tibetology

Visit the renowned centre for the study of Tibetan culture and history, showcasing rare manuscripts and artefacts. Open till 4pm.
INR50, 1.5h

3:30pm

Walk around MG Marg

Explore Gangtok's main pedestrian street for shops, cafés, and local street food delights.
Free, 1.5h

7:00pm

Dinner at Baker’s Cafe

Relax with a mix of bakery treats and international dishes in a cozy environment.
INR450, 1h
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Day 4: Nature & Monasteries

Gangtok, India on May 7, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Local Market Stalls

Try local Nepali breakfast items such as sel roti and achar from market vendors.
INR150, 1h

8:00am

Day Trip to Tsongmo Lake and Baba Mandir

Take a guided tour to the stunning Tsongmo Lake and the nearby Baba Mandir shrine, set at 3,753 meters. These sites are accessible via a 2-hour drive each way.
INR2000 for tour, 7h

5:30pm

Dinner at Taste of Tibet

Indulge in hearty Tibetan soups and momos, perfect after a day out in the mountains.
INR500, 1h
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Day 5: Relax and Depart

Gangtok, India on May 8, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Cafe Culture

Enjoy a laid-back breakfast with continental options and fresh coffee before departure.
INR350, 1h

9:30am

Visit Enchey Monastery

Experience peaceful morning prayers at this 200-year-old Buddhist monastery, surrounded by scenic views. Open early mornings.
Free, 1h

11:00am

Departure from Gangtok

Prepare for your onward journey from Gangtok, whether to your next destination or back home.
Variable, N/A
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