3-Day Eastern Himalayan Adventure: Darjeeling, Kalimpong & Sandakphu Trek

Day 1: Darjeeling Exploration

Darjeeling, India on May 5, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Kunga Restaurant

Enjoy Tibetan and local breakfast specialties such as momos and thukpa to gear up for a day of exploration.
INR300, 1h0m

9:00am

Visit Tiger Hill

Catch a breathtaking sunrise view over the Kanchenjunga mountain range; open 3:00am to 9:00am so arrive early to see the sun rising.
INR150, 2h0m

11:30am

Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Ride

Experience the UNESCO heritage toy train ride from Darjeeling to Ghoom, enjoying scenic mountain views.
INR400, 2h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Glenary’s Bakery and Café

A popular spot offering exquisite cakes, pastries, and continental-style lunches with stunning views of the mountains.
INR600, 1h0m

3:00pm

Visit Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park

Explore unique Himalayan fauna like the red panda and snow leopard in this well-maintained zoo.
INR60, 1h30m

5:00pm

Explore Tea Gardens

Stroll through lush tea plantations such as Happy Valley Tea Estate to learn about tea production and enjoy fresh air.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at The Park Restaurant

Savour local Nepali and Indian dishes featuring momos, thukpa and freshly brewed Darjeeling tea in this cosy setting.
INR700, 1h30m
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Day 2: Kalimpong Cultural Day

Kalimpong, India on May 6, 2025

7:00am

Early Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up on a hearty breakfast locally available at your hotel before travelling to Kalimpong.
Included in stay, 0h45m

8:00am

Drive to Kalimpong

Travel approx. 2 hours from Darjeeling to Kalimpong, enjoying scenic views of the hills and valleys.
INR1500 (taxi fare approx.), 2h0m

10:00am

Visit Zang Dhok Palri Phodang Monastery

Explore this magnificent Tibetan Buddhist monastery housing rare scriptures and beautiful architecture.
INR50, 1h0m

11:30am

Explore Deolo Hill Park

Enjoy panoramic vistas of Kalimpong town and the Teesta River from this peaceful hilltop spot with terraced gardens.
Free, 1h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Durga Restaurant

Sample traditional West Bengali and Sikkimese dishes such as gundruk soup and steamed momos.
INR400, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit Pine View Nursery

Home to rare orchids and exotic plants, this nursery is ideal for botany enthusiasts.
INR100, 1h0m

4:00pm

Explore Local Markets

Shop for handicrafts, handwoven textiles, and local produce like honey and spices at Kalimpong’s colourful markets.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at The Royal Kalimpong

Enjoy a fine dining experience featuring fusion Himalayan cuisine in a warm and elegant setting.
INR800, 1h30m
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Day 3: Sandakphu Trek Day

Sandakphu, India on May 7, 2025

5:00am

Early Breakfast at Hotel

A light but energizing breakfast to prepare for trekking activities.
Included, 0h30m

6:00am

Travel to Sandakphu Base via Shared Jeep

Embark on a 4-5 hour jeep ride from Kalimpong to Sandakphu base village, the starting point of the trek.
INR500 per person, 4h30m

11:00am

Start Sandakphu Trek to Sandakphu Peak

Begin the short trek uphill to Sandakphu summit, famous for exceptional panoramic views of Mt Everest, Kanchenjunga and Lhotse.
Free, 2h30m

1:30pm

Lunch at Sandakphu Trekker's Hut

Enjoy simple, hearty mountain meals at the teahouses or lodges catering to trekkers on Sandakphu.
INR300, 1h0m

2:30pm

Explore Local Trails and Photography

Use the afternoon to explore nearby trails capturing stunning Himalayan landscapes and rhododendron forests.
Free, 2h0m

5:00pm

Return to Base and Rest

Rest at the lodge, soak in the evening views, and prepare for the return journey next day.
Included, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Sandakphu Lodge

Simple and comforting local meals served at the lodge, with mountain hospitality.
INR400, 1h0m
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