The Journey at a Glance
This 10-day journey threads together the finest of the Eastern Himalayas — the monasteries and mountain passes of Gangtok, the sacred glacial waters of Tsomgo Lake, and the colonial charm of Darjeeling's tea country. Travel in small groups with local guides who grew up in these hills, stay in handpicked heritage properties, and time your mornings for the famous Kanchenjunga sunrise from Tiger Hill.
Detailed Itinerary
Our team welcomes you at Bagdogra Airport for a scenic 4-hour drive along the Teesta River into Sikkim's capital. Evening free to stroll MG Marg's pedestrian boulevard.
A full day covering Rumtek and Enchey monasteries, the Institute of Tibetology, Do Drul Chorten stupa, and the flower exhibition centre, ending with sunset views from Tashi viewpoint.
Climb to 12,400 ft for the sacred glacial Tsomgo Lake — yak rides optional — then continue to the revered Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir near Nathula Pass.
Journey into North Sikkim past Seven Sisters and Naga waterfalls, with the Himalayas growing closer at every bend. Evening tea in the riverside village of Lachung.
An early start for Yumthang's rhododendron meadows and hot springs at 11,800 ft, framed by snow ridges. Return to Gangtok by evening.
Drive west past cardamom farms to Pelling. En route, visit the ancient Rabdentse ruins and Pemayangtse Monastery, one of Sikkim's oldest.
Walk the glass skywalk to Chenrezig statue, then find quiet at wish-fulfilling Khecheopalri Lake, where not a single leaf is allowed to float on the surface.
Cross into West Bengal's tea country. Afternoon ride on the UNESCO-listed Darjeeling Himalayan Railway 'Toy Train' (subject to operation) and a lazy evening on Mall Road.
A 4 AM drive to Tiger Hill for sunrise over Kanchenjunga, followed by Ghoom Monastery, Batasia Loop, and a guided tasting walk through a working tea estate.
After breakfast, descend through tea gardens to Bagdogra Airport with a bag full of Darjeeling first-flush and a camera roll to match.
What's Included
Inclusions
- 9 nights in handpicked 3★/4★ hotels & heritage stays
- Daily breakfast and dinner (MAP plan)
- Private SUV transfers & all sightseeing by dedicated vehicle
- Tsomgo Lake & Nathula-area permits arranged for you
- English/Hindi-speaking local guide throughout
- Toy Train joyride tickets (Darjeeling)
- All parking, tolls, driver allowances & taxes
Exclusions
- Airfare / train fare to and from Bagdogra
- Lunches and personal food & beverage orders
- Yak rides, ropeways & other optional activities
- Travel insurance
- Anything not listed under inclusions
Trip Gallery
Himalayan valleys en route to North Sikkim
Alpine lakes and snow peaks
Misty mornings in the foothills
Heritage stops along the journeyFrequently Asked Questions
Yes — both areas need Protected Area Permits. We arrange every permit for you in advance; just share passport-size photos and a valid government ID after booking.
The itinerary climbs gradually and the highest overnight stay is at Lachung (~8,600 ft), which most travellers handle comfortably. We keep day one and two easy so your body acclimatises naturally.
Absolutely. The pace is relaxed, drives are broken with stops, and hotels are chosen for comfort. We only suggest skipping the Yumthang excursion for guests with serious respiratory conditions.
