The beautiful hill state of Sikkim lies on the eatern tip of the Himalayas bordered by Bhutan, Nepal an Tibet.
Sikkim is famous for Kanch-Endzonga, at 598 mtrs, which is third highest mountain in the world. Being second smallest state in India, Sikkim covers 7,096 sq kms and measures 110 kms from north to south and 64 kms from east to west. It encompasses the upper valley of Teesta river, a tributary of the Brahmaputra. The watershed form the borders with Tibet and Nepal. Rangit and Rangpo rivers form the border with West Bengal. Sikkim is separated from Nepal in the west by the Singalila range while Donngkya range is the border to the north & north-east.Sikkim is broadly divided into four districts. The east district with capital city of Gangtok is the hub of all administrative activity. The famous Rumtek Monastery, the Dharma Chakra Centre and the seat of his Holliness Gyalwa Karmapa, all are located here. Other places of interest include the Tsomgo Lake and the Nathula Pass.
Sikkim Culture, Sikkim TourismA most beautiful district, the North District is an abundance of the natural splendour and Alpine scenery. During spring time, the meadows are alive with exotic wild flowers that cover the valley in charming hues. The hot springs and tribal customs & culture here are very attractive.The west district offers the ultimate in adventure. From white water rafting on the foaming Teesta and Rangit, to trekking through thick Rhododendron forests- the district offers it all. A breathtaking view of Mt Kanch-Endzonga can be had from Pelling that has developed as a major tourist attraction. The sacred lake of Khechiperi also lies close to Pelling. The Osuth District is home to some of the oldest monasteries in the state. Adventure treks to Maenam and Tengdong Hill originate from Rawangla. The region is also just-right for mountain biking and nature watching.
Darjeeling the dream land of the East, it has been a popular hill station since the British period. The tourist flow to this place has been increasing day by day. Due to the proximity with three international borders, this place is strategically very important. Darjeeling is surrounded by lofty mountains. Except for the monsoon months and if weather is clear then the Kanchenjunga peak can be seen. Down below in the valley flow the rivers swollen by rain water or melting snow. Darjeeling is a fascinating place rich in natural beauty and surrounded by the Buddhist monasteries. Its beauty surpasses any other hill station.
The toy train coming from Siliguri is some thing which is liked by the elders and the children equally. The real fun in coming to Darjeeling is on the toy train. It takes six to seven hours to cover a distance of 82 kms and the slow speed gives you enough time to watch and appreciate the beauty which nature has provided it. This train passes through the Forests, waterfalls, over deep valleys and through the mountains and tunnels.
This tour gives you a comprehensive tour of Darjeeling - the queen of hills stations. In a limited period of time you can visit most places of interest, the scenic beauty, the flora& fauna and the people and the rich cultural heritage of the Darjeeling Hills.
Trip Facts
Country:India
Trek name:Sikkim Darjeeling Tour
Starting from : Darjeeling
Ending at : Kalimpong
Activities: Trekking/walking/sightseeing................
Total Duration: 10 days
Grade :Easy
Max Grp Size: 12
Min Grp Size: 1
Accomodation: Hotel,Resort,Lodge
Transportation:Car/Van/Bus/Air
Season: March-May; September-December
Day 01: Arrival in Darjeeling: Pick up from Bhudrapur airport/Bagdogra
/ NJP Station. Meet the guide at the airport. Meet the guide at the
airport and drive to Darjeeling. (140 km / 04 hrs.). Overnight hotel.
Day 02: Darjeeling: Early morning tour to Tiger Hills (at around
4 am) to view sunrise over Kanchenjunga Peak . The view is spectacular
on a clear weather day. On way back visit Ghoom Monastery, Batasia
Loop. Afternoon visit to Rock Garden & Ganga Maya Lake Overnight
at Hotel.
Day 03: Darjeeling: Today, visit to Padmaja Naidu Himalayan
Zoological Park (Closed on Thursday), Himalayan Mountaineering Institute,
Tenzing, Gumbu Rock site and Tibetan Refugee self-help (Closed on
Sunday) Center Tea Estate. Overnight at Hotel.
Days 04: Darjeeling-Gangtok: After B/Fast Transfer from Darjeeling
to Gangtok on the way (Optional White River Rafting at Testa River)
( 115km, 04 hrs). Overnight hotel.
Day 05: Gangtok: Early morning sightseeing of Rumtek Monastery
and then proceed for sightseeing of Kanchejunga View Point, Drul-Chorten
, Sikkim Research Institute of Tibetology and Handicraft and Handloom
Center. Check in hotel. Evening Free to explore Gangtok.
Day 06: Gangtok: Today you will take an excursion trip to Tshangu
Lake (departure in the morning)- situated at a height of 3,780 m.
with an average depth of 50 ft. The cool water of the lake is perfectly
attuned with the scenic beauty around. A small temple is constructed
on the lakeside and beautiful flowers & Alpine vegetation grow
around the lake.
Day 07: Gangtok-Pemayantse: Drive to Pemayangtse (135 kms /
05 hrs). Check in hotel. Evening visit to Pemayangtse Monastery. Overnight
hotel
Day 08: Pemayantse-Yuksom: Drive to Yuksom on way visit Khecheopari
Lake , Khecheopalri Lake is one of the sacred Buddhist mountain lake.
It is believed that your wish will come true if you make one in front
of this lake. There is myth that when a leaf falls on the placid clear
water surface, a bird immediately picks it up. A further drive takes
you to Yuksom - the meeting place of three monk and the first capital
of Sikkim . This was the place where the first Chogyal (a ruling dynasty
in Sikkim ) was crowned. Overnight hotel.
Day 09: Yuksom-Kalimpong: Drive to Kalimpong. (115 kms / 04
hrs). Check in hotel. Evening free to explore the small hilly town
on your own. Overnight hotel.
Day 10: Kalimpong: Departure: Early morning, drive to your
destination either Bhudrapur Airport Bagdogra Airport/ NJP Station
Trips ends!