Begin your tour in the former capital of British India, then head to the mountains for majestic Himalayan vistas, charming hill stations, lush tea plantations and Buddhist monasteries.
A highlight of the tour is a ride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway - a UNESCO World Heritage site and a taste of a wonderful bygone era.
Trip Highlights
- The former capital of British India
- Majestic Himalayan vistas
- Charming hill stations
- Lush tea plantations
- Buddhist monasteries
- A ride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway
Start your Journey
Arrival into Kolkata
Transfer to your hotel, and spend the day at your own pace.
Kolkata day tour
Today brings the start of the sightseeing. Embark on a full day tour of Kolkata and visit the iconic monuments such as the Victoria Memorial and Mother Teresa's house, as well as the grand architecture that forms St. Paul's Cathedral. Stop for lunch at one of the local restaurants, and spend the evening relaxing in the hotel, or take a light stroll around the city at dusk.
Kolkata to Darjeeling
Transfer to the airport to board your lunchtime flight from Kolkata to Bagdogra. Once you arrive, meet your driver for the transfer to Darjeeling. This is one of the most beautiful hill stations in eastern India with an indelible imprint of the British in its lifestyle, garden tea-estates and hotels.
Darjeeling
Early in the morning, visit Tiger Hill to see the sunrise and Kanchandzonga, and on a clear day, Mount Everest. Follow this dramatic sight with a visit to the Ghoom Monastery, set against the snow-topped mountains of the Himalayas. Then embark on an iconic Toy Train ride from Darjeeling, formed by small four-wheel locomotives, some of which are over 100 years old.
Darjeeling
This morning, visit the tea plantations near Darjeeling. Teas grown on these misty heights are famous the world over for their exquisite taste. The premium Darjeeling teas are mild in character and have distinctive, natural fruity flavours. Visit a working tea factory where you can see the different stages of tea processing. If the plucking season is on you can also see the ladies picking the tea leaves, and maybe give it a go yourself. This afternoon is free to relax in Darjeeling, or explore the local market at leisure.
Darjeeling to Pelling
Set off this morning for the serene mountain village of Pelling, situated at an altitude of over 2000 metres. Tour the local area and visit the sites as you work your way round the winding forest tracks.
Pelling to Gangtok
This morning, travel by road to Gangtok, the capital of the state of Sikkim. At an altitude of 1,700 metres, this beautiful laidback city is nestled within the higher peaks of the Himalayas and enjoys a year-round mild temperate climate. It is also a centre of Tibetan Buddhist culture and learning, with several monasteries and religious institutions. After checking in to your hotel, spend the rest of the day at leisure.
Gangtok
Visit Namgyal Institute of Tibetology which promotes research on the people of the Tibetan culture area (including Sikkim). See the Chorten (stupa), a memorial for the dead and, in season, walk around the Orchid Sanctuary, famous for its rare and extensive collection. Later, pass the Tashiling Secretariat Building and the Tsuk La Khang Palace Monastery and Royal Chapel.
Gangtok to Kalimpong
Travel by road to Kalimpong, this mountain village is enshrined with monasteries and temples. Discover Kalimpong's colourful history - it was once ruled by Bhutan and was a trading centre with Tibet until the 1950's. An afternoon tour includes the beautiful Zang Dog Palri Fo-Brang monastery, consecrated by the Dalai Lama in 1976, and the Thongsa Gompa Bhutanese monastery, with its panoramic views. Discover colourful nurseries, the lively market, and the local Tibetan colony.
Kalimpong to Kolkata
Today, travel to Bagdogra for your early afternoon flight to Kolkata. On arrival, check in at your hotel and spend the rest of the afternoon at leisure.
Onward travels
Spend the day at leisure, before your transfer to the airport for your onward journey.
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What To Expect
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Includes
- Domestic flights as detailed. Please be aware that the domestic flight luggage allowance may be less than your international flight allowance. Maximum allowance on a domestic flight is 15 kg of hold luggage.
- Accommodation as detailed in double or twin room with private facilities (alternative but similar hotels may be used at certain times of the year).
- Air-conditioned transportation (non-air-conditioned jeep in the hills).
- Services of an English-speaking local driver/guide.
- All entrance fees during sightseeing as detailed.
- Ride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (subject to weather and operation of train).
- Meals included as stated. Please note: Breakfast is usually a Western style buffet in your hotel. Most other meals are taken at local restaurants.
Excludes
- International flights from the UK
- Visa fees
- Airport departure taxes
- Beverages during meals
- Tips for the driver/guide and hotel staff
- Optional excursions
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