Himalayan Week

Introduction
This trip allows you to visit the scenic hill stations and terraced tea gardens of Darjeeling and Sikkim on a cultural journey through the Himalayan foothills. The renowned hill station of Darjeeling still retains the charm of the British Raj in India with its mild climate and laid back allure. Hills and valleys steeped in color intermingle with vast stretches of rolling green tea gardens, which at a distance looks like a green carpet of nature. Whichever way you look, in Darjeeling, green is the clarion color. Presiding over all this is Mt. Kanchanjunga – the third highest mountain on earth – with spectacular views and an aura of magic that leaves one’s senses intoxicated!

From Darjeeling travel to Kalimpong, once thriving trade destination between India and Tibet, enjoy its scenic beauty, flower nurseries and other attractions. Our next destination is Rumtek, a typical Sikkimese village, famous for the Rumtek Monastery. Stay overnight in Rumtek and experience the rural life surrounding it. Finally, visit Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim.

Itinerary
Day 1. Arrival at Bagdogra-Darjeeling.
On arrival meet our vehicle and driver and transfer to Darjeeling. Evening is free to stroll around the Chourstha Mall road and explore the local market. Overnight in Darjeeling.

Day 2. In Darjeeling.
Early morning drive to Tiger hill for sunrise view over the peaks of Kanchanjunga range. On the return journey visit the oldest monastery at Ghoom. After breakfast full day sightseeing in Darjeeling, visit the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute/Zoo &Musuem(closed Thursday), drive to Tibetan Self Help Centre(Closed Sunday) and on the way back visit the Botanical garden and a Tea Estate. After lunch pay a visit to the Japanese peace Pagoda, visit the beautiful Dali monastery.
Option is also available to take the toy train ride to Ghoom and visit the railway museum. Overnight in Darjeeling.

Day 3. Darjeeling-Kalimpong(50kms/2.5hrs).
Drive to Kalimpong also called the garden of flowers, this town has almost everything- scenic beauty, flowers, greenery, waters, mists, clouds etc. After lunch, proceed for a half day sightseeing of Durpin Hill, which has the famous Zong Dog Palri Fo- Brang Monastery, Pine View Nursery, Delo hills, Mangal Dham, Dr Graham’s Homes complex etc. as per your available time and interest. Overnight in Kalimpong.

Day 4. Kalimpong – Rumtek(77Kms/3hrs).
Drive down the hill to the Teesta valley and follow the Teesta River and cross over to Sikkim at Rangpo. From Rangpo the road climbs up to Ranipool and climb up to Rumtek. This afternoon visit the famous Rumtek monastery(Dharma Chakra Centre), the largest monastery in Sikkim belonging to the Kgyupa sect. This monastery is the a replica of the Karmapa’s monastery in Tsurpu, Tibet. Overnight in Rumtek.

Day 5. Rumtek – Gangtok.
Drive to Gangtok(25kms), en route visit the Institute of Tibetology which holds one of the largest collections of Tibetan works in the world outside Tibet and a museum of Tibetan iconography and religious art and also visit the nearby Do dodul chorten surrounded by 108 prayer wheels amidst fluttering prayer flags.  Overnight in Gangtok.

Day 6. In Gangtok.
Full day sightseeing in and around Gangtok, visit Tashi view point, Ganesh Tok and Hanuman Tok for spectacular view. On the way back visit the Enchey monastery and the flower exposition, take a walk along the walkway to have a look at the temple used by the Chogyals. After lunch visit the Handicraft centre where you can shop for souvenirs. Rest of the afternoon is free to pursue your own interest. Overnight in Gangtok.

Day 7. Departure.
Transfer to the airport for your departure flight homewards.

• Private tour with your own dates.
• Cost depends on your choice of hotels.