Darjeeling & Sikkim A Curated Himalayan Passage 6N | 7D

Darjeeling (2N) – Gangtok (2N) – East Sikkim / Rumtek (1N) – Kalimpong (1N)

6 NIGHTS | 7 DAYS
Min pax: 2
Dep Time: As per Itinerary
Tour Type: Domestic

Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Eastern Himalayas, this 6 nights / 7 days journey through Darjeeling, Gangtok, and Kalimpong is a thoughtfully curated blend of heritage, culture, and immersive local experiences. From colonial-era charm and iconic tea estates in Darjeeling to the spiritual essence of monasteries in Sikkim, this itinerary offers a seamless balance of scenic beauty and meaningful cultural engagement. Guests will enjoy exclusive experiences such as a heritage toy train ride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, private tea tastings, and guided explorations of Himalayan traditions.

The journey is further elevated with experiential highlights including monastery interactions, meditation sessions in the serene Rumtek region, curated dining at iconic cafés, and stays in elegant heritage properties. Each day is designed to provide not just sightseeing, but a deeper connection to the region’s traditions, people, and landscapes—making it an ideal escape for discerning travellers seeking authenticity, comfort, and cultural richness in one of India’s most enchanting hill destinations.

BEST TIME TO VISIT

The ideal time to explore Darjeeling and Sikkim is from March to May (Spring–Early Summer) and October to December (Autumn–Early Winter).

March to May: Pleasant weather, blooming rhododendrons, lush tea gardens, and clear mountain views—perfect for sightseeing and outdoor experiences.
October to December: Crisp air, stunning visibility of the Kanchenjunga range, and vibrant festive atmosphere, making it ideal for photography and cultural exploration.

Note: Monsoon months (June to September) bring heavy rainfall and potential landslides, while peak winters (late December to February) can be quite cold, especially in higher altitudes, though they offer a quiet, off-season charm for select travellers.

ITINERARY

DAY 1 Arrival in Bagdogra – Transfer to Darjeeling

Drive Time: ~3 hours

Arrive at Bagdogra Airport and begin your scenic ascent into the Eastern Himalayas toward Darjeeling, famously known as the “Queen of the Hills.”

Experiences

Private transfer through lush tea gardens and misty mountain roads
Welcome tea experience at a heritage planter’s bungalow

Lunch

Curated lunch at Glenary’s – iconic colonial café with mountain views *Travellers Choice

Evening

Leisurely walk along Chowrasta & Mall Road
Sunset viewing over Kanchenjunga (weather permitting)

Dinner

Fine dining at The Park Restaurant – known for authentic Anglo-Indian & Himalayan cuisine *Travellers Choice

Stay

Overnight at Windamere Hotel (heritage colonial property)

DAY 2Darjeeling – Heritage & Tea Culture Immersion

Early Morning

Sunrise at Tiger Hill with panoramic views of Kanchenjunga

Experiences

Ride on the UNESCO-listed Darjeeling Himalayan Railway
Visit to Happy Valley Tea Estate for an exclusive tea-tasting session with estate experts
Interaction with local tea pluckers (seasonal experiential activity)

Lunch

Gourmet lunch at Keventers – historic rooftop café *Travellers Choice

Afternoon

Visit Himalayan Mountaineering Institute
Cultural visit to Ghoom Monastery

Dinner

Private curated dinner with local Nepali cultural performance (arranged experience) *Travellers Choice

Stay

Overnight at Windamere Hotel

DAY 3 Darjeeling to Gangtok (Sikkim)

Drive Time: ~4.5 hours

Drive to Gangtok, entering the serene Himalayan state of Sikkim.

Enroute Experience

Riverside stop along the Teesta River
Local village tea interaction

Lunch

Enroute lunch at a boutique riverside café *Travellers Choice

Evening

Explore MG Marg (pedestrian cultural hub)

Dinner

Dinner at The Square Meal Restaurant – authentic Sikkimese cuisine *Travellers Choice

Stay

Overnight at The Elgin Nor-Khill (royal heritage property)

DAY 4Gangtok – Monasteries & Cultural Immersion

Experiences

Visit Rumtek Monastery, one of the most significant monasteries in Sikkim
Interaction with monks (subject to permissions)
Visit to Directorate of Handicrafts & Handloom for local artistry

Lunch

Traditional Sikkimese lunch at Taste of Tibet *Travellers Choice

Afternoon

Visit Enchey Monastery
Tea tasting at a local organic tea lounge

Dinner

Fine dining at hotel with curated local menu *Travellers Choice

Stay

Overnight at The Elgin Nor-Khill

DAY 5Gangtok to East Sikkim / Rumtek Retreat

Experiential Day

Transfer to a boutique monastery retreat near Rumtek
Participate in guided meditation session with monks
Learn about Buddhist philosophy and rituals

Lunch

Monastery-style sattvic meal experience *Travellers Choice

Afternoon

Nature walk in surrounding Himalayan forests
Visit local villages for cultural interaction

Dinner

Simple traditional dinner within the retreat *Travellers Choice

Stay

Overnight at boutique monastery retreat / eco-lodge

DAY 6 East Sikkim to Kalimpong

Drive Time: 3.5 hours

Proceed to Kalimpong, known for its colonial charm and monasteries.

Experiences

Visit Zang Dhok Palri Phodang Monastery
Explore local flower nurseries & orchid farms

Lunch

Lunch at Art Cafe – bohemian café with local art *Travellers Choice

Evening

Heritage walk through colonial Kalimpong

Dinner

Dinner at boutique heritage property *Travellers Choice

Stay

Overnight at The Elgin Silver Oaks

DAY 7Kalimpong – Departure (Bagdogra)

Drive Time: 3 hours

Morning

Leisure breakfast overlooking the hills

Optional Experience

Visit local market for handicrafts & souvenirs *Travellers Choice

Transfer

Drive to Bagdogra Airport for departure

PHOTOS

Inclusions

Accommodation: Luxury Heritage & Boutique Hotels (4 Star / 5 Star equivalent) in Darjeeling, Gangtok, Rumtek Region & Kalimpong
Meals: Daily Breakfast (CP Plan)
Curated Dinners including Cultural & Heritage Dining Experiences (as per itinerary)
All Transfers and Sightseeing by Private Vehicle (Non-AC in hills, as per local regulations)
Experienced English Speaking Local Guide (for select sightseeing & cultural experiences)
Entry Fees to Monasteries, Tea Estates & Attractions (as per itinerary)
Heritage Toy Train Ride on Darjeeling Himalayan Railway
Tea Estate Visit & Exclusive Tea Tasting Session in Darjeeling
Monastery Visit & Guided Meditation Experience in Sikkim
Cultural Interactions & Village Experiences (as per itinerary)

Exclusions

Air Fare / Railway Fare
In Room Dining & Mini Bar
Any Meals Not Mentioned in the Itinerary (Lunch & Dinner)
Early Check-In and Late Check-Out Charges at Hotels
Hotel Add On Services: Laundry, Ironing, Room Service, Spa, Wellness Treatments, Doctor on Call etc.
Add on Hotel Experiences / Upgrades (private dining, premium views, suite upgrades)
Permits for Restricted Areas (e.g., Nathula Pass or special East Sikkim permits if added)
En-Route Meals, Snacks, Tea, Coffee or Beverages not specified
Additional Sightseeing & De-Tour of Vehicle beyond itinerary
Entry Fees for Attractions Not Specifically Mentioned
Camera Fees / Video Charges at Monasteries, Museums & Heritage Sites
Personal Expenses: Shopping, Souvenirs, Handicrafts, Local Purchases
Photography Permits where applicable
Tour Guide and Driver Tips / Gratuities
Travel insurance
Medical Aid: Any emergency medical treatment, medicines, hospitalization, evacuation etc.
Any Cost Arising Due to Natural Calamities, Landslides, Road Blockages, Political Disturbances etc.
Additional Costs Due to Change in Itinerary for Any Reason
Applicable Taxes (if revised by Government)
Anything not specifically mentioned in the “Inclusions” section

HOW CAN YOU BECOME A RESPONSIBLE TRAVELLER?

Here are some pointers to help you start travelling sustainably

1. SELECTING A GREEN FORM OF TRANSPORTATION

When travelling, take the train or bus rather than an airplane. If you have no other option but to fly, make sure it is a direct flight to minimise its carbon imprint. 2.4% of carbon emissions are believed to come from aviation. Alternate your modes of transportation, and be careful to go slowly. When it comes to shorter distances, try cycling and walking as these activities will also provide you with a sort of workout.

2. CHOOSE TRADITIONAL HANDICRAFTS

As opposed to shopping in a mall or airport store, buying locally is better for the environment. You have a favourable financial effect on the community. Their homemade goods are not only a unique souvenir for your house, but they are also less priced.

3. SUPPORT LOCAL HOTELS AND CAFES

Locally-owned restaurants will give you the taste of a local cuisine which you might try for the first time. While locals shop at their local market, hotels typically get their ingredients from large corporations. By eating in one of their hotels, you’re minimising your carbon footprint.

4. PACK THE APPROPRIATE NUMBER OF OUTFITS

Try to pack with the clothing you currently own rather than going on a buying binge. Human clothing that is owned by people ends up in landfills in 73% of cases. Don’t allow items to go to waste. Give them to neighbours or sell them on a platform for thrift stores if you buy anything you won’t use again.

5. GO ON A GUIDED WILDLIFE EXPLORATION

This is majorly enjoyable bucket list material. Make sure your wildlife expert is qualified, prioritises the comfort of the animals, and is familiar with the specifics of the local habitat. During the safari, don’t push the driver to take you closer to the animals. Allow the animals to relax and take it easy while you enjoy yourself.

6. CHOOSING A GREEN ACCOMMODATION

Make sure to pick a hotel that uses green practices when you are on vacation. In order to choose a hotel and the various amenities it offers, you won’t need as many toiletries, water bottles, or meal packets if you reduce, reuse, and recycle them. Verify the policies and procedures of the hotel, but make sure you are according to a sustainable style.

7. A STRICT NO TO PLASTIC

Ideally, you shouldn’t leave any trash behind you. You shouldn’t carry single-use plastic either because it contributes significantly to trash and pollution. Utilising plastic-free products and using your own cloth bag are two examples of travelling sustainably.

8. INTERACT WITH LOCALS

Discover a whole region, interact with the people there; this will only make your journey more interesting, enjoyable, and, most importantly, sustainable.

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