Gangtok-Darjeeling Tour 4N/5D

Destination Covered :- Gangtok - Tsomgo Lake and Baba Mandir - Darjeeling - Darjeeling Sightseeing

Day 1: Arrival in Gangtok

• Arrival in Gangtok: Depending on your mode of travel (train to New Jalpaiguri or flight to Bagdogra, followed by a drive to Gangtok), reach Gangtok. Evening Leisure: Take a leisurely stroll around the MG Road, the main shopping street in Gangtok, and enjoy the views and local handicrafts. Dinner: Enjoy local Sikkimese cuisine at one of the restaurants in the city.

Day 2: Gangtok Local Sightseeing

• Morning: Visit Tashi Viewpoint for panoramic views of the Kanchenjunga range. Explore Rumtek Monastery, one of the largest and most important monasteries in Sikkim. Visit the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, a museum showcasing Tibetan culture and Buddhist artifacts. Afternoon: Head to Enchey Monastery, a beautiful place offering tranquility and stunning views. Stop by the Banjhakri Falls for a relaxing break. Evening: Visit the Do Drul Chorten Stupa and stroll through the nearby markets.

Day 3: Day Trip to Tsomgo Lake and Baba Mandir

• Early Morning: Start early and drive to Tsomgo Lake (12,400 ft), a sacred high-altitude lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains. Baba Mandir: After Tsomgo Lake, head to Baba Mandir, dedicated to the soldier Baba Harbhajan Singh. Optional: If you are visiting during the right season, consider adding a visit to Nathula Pass, the Indo-China border, for an even more adventurous experience (Note: Requires special permits and is subject to weather conditions). Evening: Return to Gangtok for some rest and leisure time.

Day 4: Travel to Darjeeling

• Morning: Depart for Darjeeling (approximately a 4-5 hour drive). Afternoon: After checking into your hotel, start with a visit to the Batasia Loop, a unique railway loop that offers splendid views of the Kanchenjunga range and the toy train. Visit War Memorial, which honors the soldiers of Darjeeling. Evening: Stroll around Mall Road, enjoy the local vibe, and sip some tea at one of the quaint tea shops.

Day 5: Darjeeling Sightseeing and Departure

• Early Morning: Visit the famous Tiger Hill for the sunrise over Kanchenjunga (and sometimes the Everest range, depending on the weather). Visit the Ghoom Monastery, a Tibetan Buddhist monastery near Tiger Hill. Morning: Explore Himalayan Mountaineering Institute (HMI) and the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, which houses some of the rarest wildlife species, including the red panda. Visit Peace Pagoda, a serene spot with views of Darjeeling. Afternoon: Explore the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (Toy Train) if time permits, or do some shopping for tea and local souvenirs. Evening: Depart for your onward journey. Things to Note: Weather: Pack for all kinds of weather, especially if visiting higher altitudes. Permits: If you're visiting Tsomgo Lake, Baba Mandir, or Nathula Pass, you will need special permits, which can be arranged through your hotel or a travel agent. Altitude: Both Gangtok and Darjeeling are at higher altitudes. Keep in mind any health concerns and take it slow to acclimatize.

This itinerary gives you a mix of relaxation, sightseeing, and adventure, with ample time to explore the Andaman Islands’ beaches, marine life, and historical landmarks!