Sikkim and Darjeeling Tour
This tour offers spectacular mountain vistas, lush rainforests, exotic orchids and tea plantations. Darjeeling and Kolkata evoke fond memories of the Raj, while Sikkim’s unique topography, which includes the world’s third highest mountain peak, cradles a Tibetan-Buddhist culture. A ride on the World Heritage railway in Darjeeling, seeing arguably the most spectacular sunrise in the world from the Tiger Hill, visiting the sacred monasteries of Gangtok & Pelling, and a walk around the markets of Kolkata, make the experience that much more special.
Journey Highlights
Experience early morning rush at Flower Market of Kolkata
Walk around the Orchards in Kalimpong
See the views from Rumtek Buddhist Monastery
- Explore Pelling with its alpine vegetation and fascinating monasteries
- Ride a Toy Train - UNESCO World Heritage Site in Darjeeling
Itinerary
DAY 01
Arrive Kolkata
On arrival in Kolkata, you’ll be met by your Indus Bound Representative and transferred to your hotel, where you’ll be staying for two nights. Spend the remainder of the day recovering from your journey, and perhaps a stroll around the local neighborhood later.
DAY 02
In Kolkata
Spend a full day exploring Kolkata, beginning with an early morning visit to the vibrant flower market, followed by a relaxing boat ride along the Hooghly River. In the afternoon, visit the magnificent Victoria Memorial, St Paul’s Cathedral and the fascinating Indian Museum.
DAY 03
Fly to Bagdogra & Drive to Kalimpong
Morning flight to Bagdogra, followed by a scenic drive to Kalimpong (3–4 hours). Nestled in the Himalayan foothills, Kalimpong offers stunning mountain scenery and a peaceful atmosphere. Spend your afternoon at leisure, relaxing and enjoying the hotel’s surroundings.
DAY 04
In Kalimpong
Enjoy a scenic village walk through terraced farmland, traditional villages and mountain streams, visiting beautiful market gardens and experiencing the unspoilt hill communities where the Lepcha people continue their traditional way of life.
DAY 05
Drive to Gangtok
Travel from Kalimpong to Gangtok (3–4 hours), winding through scenic Himalayan roads and mountain landscapes. On arrival, spend the rest of your day at leisure, relaxing at your hotel or pursuing independent activities.
DAY 06
In Gangtok
Enjoy a full day of sightseeing in Gangtok, visiting Enchey Monastery, Do-Drul Chorten, Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, the Flower Exhibition Centre and Zoological Gardens, home to red pandas and snow leopards. This evening, explore the lively night market and pedestrianised high street.
DAY 07
Drive to Pelling
Morning drive to Pelling (4–5 hours), visiting Rumtek Monastery en route. One of the Himalayas’ most impressive monasteries, Rumtek is renowned for its ornate temple, magnificent prayer hall and towering red-painted pillars. On arrival, spend the rest of your day at leisure.
DAY 08
In Pelling
Take a day trip from Pelling to nearby Pemayangtse Monastery, one of the most beautiful places in the Indian Himalaya. Built in the 17th century, the monastery offers a glimpse into the region’s spiritual heritage. Enjoy a leisurely walk through the surrounding village and scenic landscapes.
DAY 09
Drive to Darjeeling
Rise early today to witness a beautiful sunrise from a secret viewpoint, before embarking on a scenic morning drive to Darjeeling (3–4 hours).
DAY 10
In Darjeeling
Rise early to reach Tiger Hill (2,585m) shortly after dawn, when clear skies offer spectacular panoramic views of Kanchenjunga and the northeastern Himalaya. Afterwards, visit Ghoom Monastery, followed by a delightful Joy Ride on the Darjeeling Mountain Railway to Ghoom and back.
DAY 11
In Darjeeling
Enjoy a day at leisure today. Alternatively, take a short drive to a tea estate to relax and unwind. Walk through the lush tea plantations, visit a local village or simply enjoy panoramic views across the valley. Spend the afternoon relaxing or pursuing independent activities.
DAY 12
Drive to Bagdogra & Fly to Kolkata
Morning drive to Bagdogra Airport (3–4 hours) for your flight to Kolkata. On arrival, spend the rest of the day at leisure, relaxing at your hotel or browsing the city’s shops for souvenirs.
DAY 13
Departure
At time, transferred to Kolkata International Airport for your flight back home or continue your journey with us
Enquiry
Starting from USD 1270 Per Person*
* lean season and based on comfortable hotels
Price is based on double occupancy and is subject to change depending on the hotels selected and travel dates.
Your tour includes daily breakfast, all monument entrance fees, expert local guides, domestic flights, toy train tickets, airport transfers, a private chauffeur-driven air-conditioned SUV, and all applicable taxes.
“Sikkim is where the mountains touch the sky, prayer flags dance in the breeze, and nature unfolds in its purest form, revealing a land of serene monasteries, emerald valleys and timeless Himalayan traditions.”
Hotel Ideas
These are some of the recommended hotels for your private tour
The Oberoi Grand
Kolkata
FIRST CLASS, HERITAGE
Calcutta Bungalow
Kolkata
HOMESTAY, HERITAGE
The Rajbari Bawali
Kolkata
FIRST CLASS, HERITAGE
The Elgin Nor-Khill
Gangtok
FIRST CLASS, HERITAGE
The Elgin Mount Pandim
Pelling
FIRST CLASS, HERITAGE
The Glenburn Tea Estate
Darjeeling
FIRST CLASS, TEA ESTATE
"An incredible trip to India"
Dear Pankaj, you delivered what we had been missing during our last six trips to India—a truly authentic Indian experience! Every part of the journey felt thoughtfully planned, allowing us to connect with the culture, people, and destinations in a much more meaningful way. A piece of advice for anyone hesitating to work with you: If you are tired of cookie-cutter tours and are looking for an authentic, personalised travel experience in India, you are absolutely in the right place. Thank you for creating memories that we will cherish for years to come.
Ms Elaine & Mr Wayne Helson, UK
"Nothing Short of Extraordinary"
We have had the most amazing time, great hotels and great experiences. Our drivers and guides have been excellent, in particular Govinder Raj who has been our driver and companion for the last ten days. Govinder has been extremely obliging and has made sure we have been safe and where we should be, on time, with all our belongings and with a stack of goodies and water. He has kept the car immaculate both inside and out, and has driven us with care and skill on all our journeys. Your planning of all the inclusions such are the ceremonies at temples, boat rides and the Everest Flight made the whole trip one never to forget.
Mr & Mrs Davies-Webb, UK
"Highly Recommended"
I wanted to take the time to thank you for all the hard work you put in to arrange a magical honeymoon for us. We had a ball. All the transfers worked like clockwork, the hotels were great and the route planning excellent. We really felt we were spoon-fed all the way through.
Ms Gayle Rawes & Mr Andrew Slatford, UK
"Superb Service"
The outcome of this trip far exceeded our expectations and we would recommend your agency without any reservation. Our sincerest thanks for a well planned and executed tour.
Mr Eugene & Ms Mirasol Johnson, USA
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