Winding mountain roads and fluttering prayer flags define your Sikkim Darjeeling tour. As you circle through the beautiful Eastern Himalayas, you get to see the crown jewels of Northeast India. Talk about serenity and you have lush tea plantations, snow-capped peaks and awe-inspiring lakes. If you love adventure, a Darjeeling Gangtok Sikkim tour plan satisfies you with trekking, a toy train ride and paragliding over verdant landscapes.
What’s more? The combination of West Bengal and Sikkim gives a perfect blend of experiences and landscapes. While Darjeeling offers cute cafes and shopping streets, Gangtok is best known for the heavenly views and spiritual calmness of monasteries. So, check out the best Darjeeling Gangtok Sikkim itinerary for planning it perfectly.
Sikkim Darjeeling Tour: Day-Wise Plan for Travellers
Planning a Sikkim Darjeeling tour can be easy if you follow a specific itinerary. As the tour covers two different states, it is important to visit the attractions that sound satisfying to you. With the below Darjeeling and Gangtok tour plan, you get an opportunity to understand the culture, food and activities that you would love. So, let’s get going!
Day 1: Arrival in Darjeeling
Imagine entering into a summer retreat of the British. Darjeeling promises to retain its old-world colonial charm with heritage shops and cobbled streets. As you pass through the winding roads, you get to see how tea plantations unfold one after the other.
It is best to book one of the affordable hotels in Darjeeling, drop your luggage, freshen up and explore the surroundings. Your touristy exploration can begin after lunch, after you have checked into your rooms. Keep your first day easygoing so you have the energy for the rest of the trip. Below is the list of things you can do on your first day of the Sikkim Darjeeling tour.
1. Peace Pagoda
Start your journey by visiting the Peace Pagoda after lunch. This Buddhist temple is a top priority in most Sikkim Darjeeling trips. Get stunned by the architectural glory as you enter the massive white dome. Interestingly, it has four golden statues showcasing different avatars of Buddha.
Even the walls here narrate the teachings of Buddha in the most peaceful manner. What’s more? You can even be a part of the prayer session. At times, the monks provide small instruments to visitors to rhyme with their chanting. Do not forget to soak in the picturesque, misty surroundings.
2. Japanese Temple
Right opposite to the Peace Pagoda is the beautiful Japanese temple. It truly transports you to the world of serenity and calmness. Being a great place for meditation, it encapsulates the essence of Darjeeling’s cultural diversity. The place adds a dose of tranquillity and spirituality to your Darjeeling and Gangtok tour plan.
3. Chowrasta (Mall Road)
Your Sikkim Darjeeling tour remains incomplete without visiting the famous Mall Road. It is a central location for eating, understanding culture, noticing colonial history and shopping. You find some of the best eateries to fulfil your cravings here. Many stalls offer momos, aloo dum, special Tibetan chicken momos and tingmo. Due to its popularity, the area has multiple cafes serving Chinese, continental and other cuisines.
If you are looking for the best things to buy in Darjeeling, Mall Road has to be in your Sikkim Darjeeling itinerary. You can shop for traditional Darjeeling tea. Some stores even offer tea tasting to better understand flavours. Similarly, multiple stores sell pretty handicrafts, handwoven shawls, carpets and Tibetan jewellery. Due to the influence of many cultures, Nepalese artefacts are also available in selected shops. It is ideal to book pocket-friendly hotels near Chowrasta Darjeeling for a comfortable stay.
Day 2: Diving into Famous Attractions
1. Happy Valley Tea Estate
Darjeeling is home to some of the famous tea gardens in India, and Happy Valley Tea Estate is one of them! The place has to be on your Sikkim Darjeeling tour itinerary, all thanks to its glorious views. You need to trek a bit, as the plantations are located downhill. However, once you reach the lush green tea garden, your eyes are certain to be mesmerised!
The place offers guided tours where you can understand everything from tea plucking to its production. It also offers tea tasting sessions, allowing you to indulge in the local flavours. Click Instagram-worthy pictures while witnessing the majestic Himalayan mountains. Do not forget to buy tea products from the shop here.
2. Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park
A Darjeeling and Gangtok tour plan just gets wilder as you visit Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park. Unlike other zoological parks in India, this one focuses on the high-altitude animals living in the Himalayan zoo. The enclosures are extremely spacious, making it a massive animal reserve. It is especially known for white tigers, red pandas, snow leopards, Himalayan wolves and black panthers.
Spotting animals depends on your luck and the season. It is important to note that the zoo requires a lot of walking as it is located uphill. Walking through steep slopes can be tiring; hence, it is advisable to wear comfortable shoes. You can also visit the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute located within the zoo. It requires around 1.5 to 2 hours for complete exploration.
3. Observatory Hill View Point
Who would ever want to miss jaw-dropping views of Mount Kanchenjunga? That’s exactly why the Darjeeling and Gangtok tour plan should include this place. Observatory Hill View Point is one of the best places to visit in Darjeeling for a wonderful time.
You can either visit during sunrise or sunset for the ideal view of the Kanchenjunga range. As the sun rays strike the snow-kissed mountains, you get to see gold-laden peaks like never before! The place also has a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and a small monastery nearby. End your day with a delicious meal at the Mall Road or a restaurant of your choice.
Day 3: Experiencing the Darjeeling Toy Train
You cannot miss this splendid experience on your Sikkim Darjeeling tour. Being one of the loved toy trains in India, the Darjeeling toy train takes you through multiple small villages and scenic routes. Is riding on this train on your list? If yes, check out the helpful Darjeeling toy train guide for planning your journey.
The Darjeeling toy train offers a 1-hour trip to Ghum. You can explore the destination and take another 35 to 40-minute train from Ghoom to Darjeeling. It is best to opt for an early morning slot so that you have a good time for further exploration. Below are the best places you can see in Ghoom.
1. Yiga Choeling Monastery
Get ready for views that steal your heart at an altitude of about 8,000 feet. Yiga Choeling Monastery in Ghoom is a tranquil place to rejuvenate and meditate. This Buddhist monastery in India is one of the oldest and most revered places for Buddhist followers.
Built by Mongolian monk Lama Sherab Gyatso, you get to feel the crisp air here. The main highlight of the place is the 15-foot-high statue of Maitreya Buddha. You can also see Thangka paintings, vibrant murals and age-old Buddhist scriptures.
2. Batasia Loop
Batasia Loop is a must-visit destination in a Sikkim Darjeeling tour plan. It is a spiral railway track which was constructed for the toy train to navigate the steep terrain. Apart from its significance as a transportation hub, it is best known for spectacular views of Kanchenjunga. It is a great idea to book affordable hotels in Ghoom, Darjeeling, for a lovely time.
Day 4: Drive to Gangtok
After exploring Darjeeling, it is time to move to your next destination on the trip. Fasten your seat belts as you drive from Darjeeling to Gangtok. Most travellers love the scenic drive in their Darjeeling Gangtok, Sikkim itineraries.
It takes around 3 hours and 30 minutes to reach Gangtok. Hence, you must start your journey early in the morning to save the day. It is advisable to book one of the budget-friendly hotels in Gangtok for a comfortable stay. Below are the best places to visit in Gangtok for your journey
1. Gangtok Ropeway
Touristy things are a must-do in a Sikkim Darjeeling tour. One such experience is the Gangtok Ropeway. As it is a famous activity, it is best to complete it on the first day. You can easily get tickets online or even purchase them from the counter. The ropeway helps you witness the city of Gangtok from a bird’s-eye view.
The ride is not very long and takes around 5 to 7 minutes. Most travellers take a round trip without wasting much time up there. Since the primary aim is watching the panoramic views, it is best to opt for a round trip. You can first stop for lunch and then proceed further.
2. Do Drul Chorten
Your next stop has to be Do Drul Chorten, as it is a 5-minute drive from the ropeway. Being a famous Buddhist temple, it surely takes a spot in your Darjeeling and Gangtok tour plan. This beautiful temple has colourful murals, a well-maintained stupa and prayer wheels. The minute you enter, you feel a sense of solace in your heart. Spend a good amount of time before you head to the next destination on your Sikkim Darjeeling tour.
3. Black Cat Museum
You must be wondering about the mystery of the museum’s name. Black Cat Museum is dedicated to bringing the history of Sikkim to the world. It helps you understand the Brave Black Cat Division and Sikkim. You also get an interesting opportunity to discover the trials and triumphs of the Indian army. The museum is filled with photographs, weapons, paintings and statues. It is indeed a worthy place, instilling a sense of patriotism in travellers.
4. MG Market
If you wish to buy the best souvenirs from India, go to MG Market during the late evening. It is a pedestrian-only street lined with boutiques, heritage shops and cafés. You can purchase local handicrafts, fancy magnets and trendy clothes. After that, make sure to indulge in the delicious Sikkimese cuisine. Your Sikkim Darjeeling tour is just elevated by adding momos and thukpa while enjoying the lively atmosphere.
Day 5: Exploring Sikkim’s Famous Spots
1. Tsomgo Lake
Your Sikkim Darjeeling tour itinerary just got adventurous and serene as you visit the Tsomgo Lake. The glacial lake is known for its heavenly views.
If you are visiting during the winter season, you get to see a frozen lake blending beautifully with the mountains. It takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes to reach the lake from Gangtok. It is advisable to start your journey early in the morning to avoid crowds.
2. Tashi View Point
Are you up for picture-perfect views of the snow-capped Kanchenjunga range? If yes, go to the Tashi View Point. It offers breathtaking panoramic views of the peak. You can also click amazing pictures with the heartwarming backdrop. What’s more? Even telescopes are available for closer observation.
3. Lhasa Waterfall
Lhasa Waterfall has to be on your Sikkim Darjeeling tour. It is best known for its refreshingly green surroundings. Considering the season, you might be able to see crystal-clear waters cascading with strong currents. Adorned by prayer flags, it is the perfect stop for a cooling break.
4. Gonjang Monastery
Just a few minutes from the waterfall is the vibrant Gonjang Monastery. The place of worship was founded by H.E. Tingkye Gonjang Rinpoche. Established in 1981, it follows the Nyingma tradition of Tibetan Buddhism. You get a glimpse of religious education and stunning views of the Himalayas, too.
How to Reach?
By Air
Bagdogra Airport in West Bengal is the nearest location to reach Darjeeling. To start your journey from Darjeeling, you need to enjoy a 3-hour drive from the airport. Darjeeling is approximately 70 kilometres from the Bagdogra Airport. Similarly, Gangtok is approximately 125 kilometres from the Bagdogra Airport.
By Train
Sikkim state does not have an operational railway. Hence, you need to first visit West Bengal. The nearest railway stations to Darjeeling, as well as Gangtok, are New Jalpaiguri (NJP) and Siliguri.
NJP is 73 kilometres from Darjeeling and 114 kilometres from Gangtok. If you opt for Siliguri, it is 65 kilometres from Darjeeling and 114 kilometres from Gangtok. You can easily get prepaid taxis and shared jeeps from NJP to both Darjeeling and Gangtok. You can book hotels in these cities via the Treebo Club app or website in case you wish to relax before heading to the hills.
Your Best Ever Sikkim Darjeeling Tour Plan!
Chasing clouds and creating memories is definitely a thing in the Darjeeling and Gangtok tour plan. A Sikkim Darjeeling tour is never just an ordinary trip. It literally takes you through untouched villages and unheard stories. You must check the best time to visit Sikkim for a comfortable journey with loved ones. Now that you have a complete itinerary, go and create memories amidst the Eastern Himalayas.
