Tour Route
Arrival IXB/NJP 03 Nights Gangtok 02 Nights Darjeeling Departure IXB/NJP
Tour Overview
Experience the perfect blend of Buddhist heritage and colonial charm with our highly-rated Gangtok & Darjeeling Delight Tour Package (05 Nights / 06 Days). Carefully curated by The Holiday Trips' certified mountain travel experts, this itinerary showcases the breathtaking landscapes of East Sikkim and the world-famous tea gardens of the Queen of the Hills, Darjeeling.
Your journey begins upon arrival at Bagdogra Airport or NJP Railway Station, taking you on a scenic drive alongside the Teesta River up to Gangtok. During your three-night stay in the capital of Sikkim, you will visit the majestic glacial Tsomgo Lake and the revered Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir, along with a full exploration of Gangtok's beautiful monasteries and viewpoints.
The second half of your trip transports you to the misty, romantic town of Darjeeling. Prepare for an unforgettable early morning excursion to Tiger Hill to witness the sun rising over Mt. Kanchenjunga (the world's third-highest peak). You will also explore the sprawling tea estates, the Ghoom Monastery, and the famous Batasia Loop. With 100% transparent pricing, pre-arranged entry permits, and expert local hill drivers, your vacation is guaranteed to be safe, comfortable, and spectacular.
Expert Hill Drivers & Pre-arranged Permits
Mountain driving requires distinct expertise. We exclusively use highly experienced local drivers well-versed with the winding roads of Sikkim and Darjeeling. Additionally, we handle all the mandatory Protected Area Permits for Tsomgo Lake prior to your travel to save you time and hassle.
Tour Highlights
- Witness the breathtaking sunrise over Mt. Kanchenjunga from Tiger Hill.
- Explore the pristine, glacial Tsomgo (Changu) Lake located at 12,400 ft.
- Seek blessings at the legendary Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir in Sikkim.
- Stroll through lush green Darjeeling Tea Gardens and taste authentic tea.
- Visit the famous Batasia Loop and Ghoom Monastery in Darjeeling.
- Enjoy shopping and local delicacies at Gangtok's vibrant MG Marg.
Day-wise Itinerary
Welcome to the Northeast! Upon your arrival at Bagdogra Airport (IXB) or New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP), you will be received by our executive. From here, embark on a highly scenic 4 to 5-hour drive (approx. 120 km) up to the capital city, Gangtok (Altitude 5,500 ft). The route runs parallel to the beautiful Teesta River. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and relax. In the evening, you can take a leisurely walk to the vehicle-free MG Marg for a lively atmosphere. Overnight stay in Gangtok.
After an early breakfast, we begin a full-day excursion to East Sikkim's most revered high-altitude sites. We drive to the magnificent Tsomgo Lake (Changu Lake) situated at 12,400 ft, known for its pristine waters that change color with the seasons. Further up, we visit the Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir (13,200 ft), a highly respected shrine built in memory of an Indian army soldier. Return to Gangtok by late afternoon and relax. Overnight stay in Gangtok.
Attractions Covered:
- Tsomgo (Changu) Lake
- Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir
- Nathu La Pass (Optional, subject to permit availability and extra cost)
After a restful breakfast, step out for a comprehensive local sightseeing tour to explore Gangtok's rich Buddhist heritage, panoramic viewpoints, and cultural centers. Spend the evening at your own pace, perhaps picking up some authentic Sikkimese tea or handicrafts from MG Marg. Overnight stay in Gangtok.
Monuments Covered:
- Namgyal Institute of Tibetology
- Do Drul Chorten Stupa
- Enchey Monastery / Rumtek Monastery
- Bakthang Waterfall
- Tashi View Point
- Gangtok Ropeway (Cable Car)
After breakfast, check out from your hotel in Gangtok and begin a highly picturesque drive towards the 'Queen of the Hills' - Darjeeling (Altitude 6,700 ft). The 4 to 5-hour drive winds through lush green valleys and follows the Teesta River. En route, we will stop at Lover's Meet Viewpoint, where the Teesta and Rangeet rivers converge. Upon arriving in Darjeeling, check into your hotel and spend the evening enjoying the cool breeze at the famous Darjeeling Mall Road (Chowrasta). Overnight stay in Darjeeling.
Scenic Stops Covered:
- Teesta River viewpoints
- Lover's Meet Viewpoint (Triveni)
- Darjeeling Mall Road (Chowrasta)
Your day begins very early (around 4:00 AM) with a drive to Tiger Hill to witness the most spectacular sunrise over Mt. Kanchenjunga (subject to clear weather). On the way back to the hotel, visit the ancient Ghoom Monastery and the beautiful Batasia Loop. After breakfast at the hotel, head out for a second round of sightseeing exploring the rich colonial and mountaineering history of Darjeeling, including its world-famous tea gardens. Overnight stay in Darjeeling.
Attractions Covered:
- Tiger Hill Sunrise Point
- Batasia Loop & War Memorial
- Ghoom Monastery
- Himalayan Mountaineering Institute (HMI)
- Padmaja Naidu Zoological Park
- Darjeeling Tea Estate (Outer View)
- Japanese Temple & Peace Pagoda
Your memorable 6-day exploration of Gangtok and Darjeeling comes to an end today. Enjoy a hearty breakfast and some last-minute tea shopping at the Mall Road before our team assists you with checking out. You will be driven safely back down the winding hills to Bagdogra Airport (IXB) or NJP Railway Station for your onward journey, carrying home beautiful memories of the Himalayas.
Package Inclusions
- 5 Nights Accommodation (3N Gangtok, 2N Darjeeling) in well-appointed rooms
- Daily Buffet Breakfast at all hotels
- Exclusive private vehicle (Xylo/Innova/WagonR based on group size) for all transfers
- Highly experienced local driver expert in hill driving
- Protected Area Permits for Tsomgo Lake & Baba Mandir
- All toll taxes, state taxes, parking fees, and driver allowances
Package Exclusions
- Airfare / Train tickets to and from Bagdogra/NJP
- Monument Entry Fees, Ropeway tickets & Camera charges
- Lunches and Dinners (Available on request as MAP plan)
- Toy Train (DHR) ticket in Darjeeling (Can be booked separately)
- Excursion to Nathu La Pass (Subject to permit and extra cost)
- Tips, room service, and personal expenses
Frequently Asked Questions
The best time to visit is during the spring (March to May) for pleasant weather and blooming flora, and autumn (October to mid-December) for crystal clear skies and the best views of the Kanchenjunga ranges.
Darjeeling and Gangtok city do not require permits for Indian nationals. However, visiting Tsomgo Lake and Baba Mandir requires a Protected Area Permit (PAP). We will collect your ID proofs and photos in advance and process the permit for you seamlessly.
The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (Toy Train) Joyride is extremely popular and tickets sell out months in advance. It is not included in the standard package, but you can request our team to book it for you well in advance at IRCTC rates plus a nominal service charge.
Gangtok and Darjeeling are situated at moderate altitudes (5,500 ft to 6,700 ft) where altitude sickness is extremely rare. However, Tsomgo Lake is at 12,400 ft. It is advisable to stay hydrated and avoid heavy physical exertion during the lake excursion.
Nathu La Pass can be visited on Day 2 along with Tsomgo Lake. However, entry to Nathu La is strictly regulated by the Indian Army, closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, and depends entirely on permit issuance the day prior. It requires an additional cost paid directly to the local transport syndicate.
