The Best of Darjeeling and Gangtok: Incredible Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Darjeeling – Glimpses of Serenity
– Upon arriving at Bagdogra Airport, soak in the stunning landscapes as you make your way to Darjeeling. Check into your cosy hotel and take some time to relax and acclimate to the beautiful surroundings.
– In the evening, head to the iconic Mall Roadand enjoy a stroll while savouring the stunning views of the Kanchenjunga range.
Day 2: Darjeeling – Sunrise and Tea Gardens
– Explore Darjeeling’s Wonders! Wake up early to witness the magical sunrise over the Kanchenjunga from Tiger Hill.
– Explore the renowned tea gardens of Darjeeling, tasting the finest tea at Happy Valley Tea Estate.
– Don’t miss the opportunity to take a joyride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, also known as the Toy Train. For more details, click here.
Day 3: Darjeeling – Cultural Exploration & Park
– Immerse yourself in the rich Tibetan culture at the Tibetan Refugee Self-Help Center.
– Visit the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute before you depart for Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park. Currently functioning as a museum dedicated to the pursuit of climbing Mount Everest, it showcases a collection of equipment, documents, and historical photographs related to the triumphant conquerors of the mountain. Additionally, the institute offers various mountaineering training courses for those interested.
Note that the entrance to the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute and the Himalayan Zoo can be accessed from the same point.
– Pay a visit to the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, home to rare and endangered Himalayan wildlife.
– Explore the rich palette and elaborate patterns of authentic handcrafted items at the Bhutia Market or New Mahakal Market. Alternatively, you can visit Chowk Bazaar or Lower Bazaar (for incredibly affordable woollen products), The Tibetan Refugee Self-Help Centre (a variety of jewellery, local garments, scarves, jackets, carpets, and other accessories), Mall Road, Mahakal Market /the Dragon Market Complex (the most popular market complexes).
– Round off the day with a serene boat ride at the enchanting Mirik Lake.
Day 4: Darjeeling to Gangtok – The Gateway to Sikkim
Set out on a picturesque journey from Darjeeling to the capital city of Sikkim, Gangtok.
Reaching Gangtok
Travelling from Darjeeling to Gangtok offers a captivating adventure with its enchanting route meandering through breathtaking tea plantations and expansive, undulating fields that Darjeeling is renowned for.
Nestled in the mountainous core of Sikkim, Gangtok is a charming town waiting to be discovered.
It typically takes approximately 4 hours (100 km) by car to travel between Darjeeling and Gangtok.
WHAT TO DO IN GANGTOK
Upon arrival at your hotel, proceed with the check-in process and then take the opportunity to venture out into the vibrant city markets during the afternoon.
– Take a cable car rideto the awe-inspiring Tashi Viewpoint, offering panoramic views of the Kanchenjunga range.
– Indulge in a delectable dinner at one of Gangtok’s many authentic local restaurants.
Day 5: Gangtok – Natural Wonders and Monastic Serenity
– Start your day with a visit to the breathtaking Tsomgo Lake, nestled amidst snow-capped mountains.
– Continue your journey to the Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple, a sacred place revered by locals and tourists.
– Delve into the spiritual realm with a visit to the Rumtek Monastery, one of Sikkim’s largest and most significant monasteries.
– Enjoy an evening stroll along the MG Marg,the lively heart of Gangtok, and savour local delicacies.
Day 6: Gangtok – Adventure and Exploration
– Embark on an adrenaline-pumping adventure with river rafting on the Teesta River.
– Pay a visit to the enchanting Banjhakri Falls, surrounded by lush greenery and offering a serene ambience.
– Following a potential plunge in the waterfalls, proceed to discover the neighboring points of interest such as Hanuman Tok, the Flower Show, and the Handicraft Centre.
– Experience the vibrant nightlife of Gangtok with a visit to popular pubs and bars.
Embark on an adrenaline-fueled escapade as you dive into our captivating blog post, revealing the top activities in Gangtok that are bound to satiate the cravings of every adventure lover.
Day 7: Gangtok – Himalayan Beauty and Culture
Explore the colourful and sacredKhecheopalri Lake, which is believed to fulfil wishes.
Engage in ahands-on cooking class, learning to prepare traditional Sikkimese dishes.
Witness a mesmerizingcultural performanceshowcasing traditional dances and music.
Highly recommended:
In case you have plans for an extended vacation or are considering prolonging your stay, make sure to include Nathula Pass in your itinerary. Once you secure the entry pass, you’ll be treated to an absolutely breathtaking scenic route unlike any other!
Day 8: Departure from Gangtok – Farewell to the Hills
Before bidding farewell to the enchanting hills, visit the sereneEnchey Monastery.
Depart from Bagdogra Airport carrying unforgettable memories of your Darjeeling and Gangtok adventure.
Where To Eat in Darjeeling
Glenary’s Bakery & Café
Indulge in delectable pastries, sandwiches, and freshly brewed coffee in this quaint British-style café.
Kunga Restaurant
Treat your taste buds to authentic Tibetan cuisine, including momos, thunk, and butter tea, in a cosy setting.
Hasty Tasty
Relish mouthwatering Indian and Chinese delicacies served with warm hospitality at this popular eatery.
Gatty’s Café
Experience a fusion of Continental and local flavours while enjoying panoramic views of the valley from the terrace.
Sonam’s Kitchen
Don’t miss the delicious pancakes, sandwiches, and homemade desserts at this hidden gem loved by locals and tourists alike.
Nathmulls Tea Room
Delight in a wide range of aromatic teas, accompanied by delectable snacks.
Keventers
Savor delectable momos, thunk, and other Tibetan delicacies at this iconic eatery.
Where To Stay In Darjeeling
Windemere Hotel
Step back in time and enjoy this heritage hotel’s colonial-era charm combined with modern amenities See the prices here.
Mayfair Darjeeling
Treat yourself to luxury and elegance in this boutique hotel with spectacular views of the mountains. Check out this beautiful property here.
Cedar Inn
Experience tranquillity and comfort in this eco-friendly hotel, known for its warm hospitality and stunning vistas. Check details of the hotel here.
Hotel Seven Seventeen
Stay in the heart of Darjeeling, just steps away from Mall Road, in this cosy and budget-friendly hotel. Check the reviews on Tripadvisor.
Dekeling Resort at Hawk’s Nest
Escape to this serene retreat nestled amidst tea gardens, offering panoramic views and a peaceful ambience. Check prices here.
Where To Eat in Gangtok
The Coffee Shop
Relish an array of international cuisine, including mouthwatering wood-fired pizzas and delicious pasta dishes.
Roll House
Satisfy your cravings for scrumptious rolls and momos served with flavorful chutneys at this local favourite.
Taste of Tibet
Experience the authentic flavours of Tibetan cuisine with dishes like thenthuk, time, and sha phoney.
The Square
Enjoy a cosy ambience and a diverse menu featuring Indian, Chinese, and Continental dishes prepared with finesse.
The Local Cafe
Unwind in a laid-back setting while sipping on aromatic coffees, indulging in baked goods, and trying local specialities.
Where To Stay In Gangtok
Mayfair Spa Resort & Casino
Spoil yourself with luxury, stunning views, and rejuvenating spa treatments at this exquisite resort.
The Elgin Nor-Khill
Step into a heritage property that exudes old-world charm and offers top-notch amenities for a memorable stay.
Denzong Regency
Enjoy a tranquil stay amidst the verdant landscapes, comfortable rooms, and excellent hospitality.
Hotel Golden Crest
Indulge in comfortable accommodation offering contemporary facilities and awe-inspiring vistas of the encompassing hills for a truly delightful stay.
Mintokling Guest House
Immerse yourself in warm hospitality and a homely ambience at this budget-friendly guest house near MG Road.
Best Time To Visit Darjeeling and Gangtok
The best time to visit Darjeeling, Gangtok, is during the summer months of April to June, when the weather is pleasurable and ideal for sightseeing.
However, some travellers prefer to visit during the winter, from October to December, when the town is covered in snow and offers a unique and romantic experience.
Summer: April to June, Darjeeling and Gangtok offer a refreshing escape from the scorching heat in the plains. The temperature ranges from 15°C to 25°C, providing a pleasant climate for exploration. The clear skies and mild temperatures make it an ideal time to indulge in these exhilarating experiences.
Monsoon:DuringJuly and August, heavy showers are common, sometimes leading to roadblocks. While it may not be the ideal time to visit, if you like rain and photography, take advantage of the opportunity to capture the breathtaking beauty of the lush-green surroundings soaked in rainwater.
On the other hand, September offers a more favourable climate with reduced rainfall, ensuring that the verdant scenery remains intact; and October is when the monsoon season ends and a slight chill is observed in the weather.
Winter:FromMid-November to February, Darjeeling and Gangtok transform into winter wonderlands. The chilly temperatures ranging from 2°C to 10°C offer a cosy and romantic ambience. You’ll witness snow-capped Himalayan peaks.
Conclusion
Darjeeling and Gangtok offer a magical blend of scenic landscapes, cultural delights, and culinary wonders.
From sipping aromatic Darjeeling tea to witnessing the awe-inspiring sunrise over the Himalayas, this itinerary ensures you’ll experience the best of both destinations.
So embark on this unforgettable journey, create memories that will last a lifetime, and let the charm of Darjeeling and Gangtok enchant you at every turn.
Happy travels!
Are you interested in a personalized itinerary catered for your interest and budget? As an experienced itinerary curator, I would be delighted to assist you!Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me via email at alawyersvoyage@gmail.com
I’m here to help and eager to hear from you! 🙂
You may also like to read “Classic Sikkim Itinerary“
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