Discover the hidden kingdom of Sikkim
Tucked away in the mountainous north of India are the terraced tea gardens of east Darjeeling and the hidden kingdom of Sikkim. This remote region is home to spectacular scenery, remarkable religious monuments, Buddhist monasteries and a vibrant, welcoming people.
Highlights
- Explore the highlights of Gangtok, Sikkim’s capital, including Do Drul Chorten and the Enchey Monastery
- Marvel at the majestic Himalayan mountain peaks from Pelling
- Visit the Pemayangste and Fo Brang monasteries in Kalimpong
- Enjoy sunrise from Tiger Hill and a visit to a tea estate in Darjeeling
- Experience the warmth and hospitality of locals in an area still relatively unspoilt by mass tourism
Sample Itinerary
Hidden Kingdom
9 days/8 nights
Days 1/2
Kalimpong
Arrival transfer from Bagdogra airport to the scenic town of Kalimpong (3hrs), perched on a ridge overlooking the Teesta River. The next day, tour the Botanical Gardens and Zong Dhog Palri Fo Brang Monastery, containing 108 rare holy scriptures brought by the Dalai Lama when he fled Tibet in the 1950s. BLD
Days 3/4
Gangtok
Depart for the Sikkim capital of Gangtok (3hrs). Visit the prestigious Namgyal Research Institute of Tibetology, sacred Do Drul Chorten and revered Enchey Monastery. BLD
Day 5
Pelling
Admire unique religious art at Rumtek Monastery and stroll the serene Nehru Botanical Garden before lunch at a local restaurant. Drive to Pelling (5-6hrs) with the evening at leisure to enjoy the tiny town’s jaw-dropping mountain vistas. BLD
Days 6-8
Darjeeling
View the ancient Pemayangste Monastery before travelling to Darjeeling (5hrs). On Day 7, witness sunrise from Tiger Hill. If the weather is clear, you may be treated to a glimpse of the majestic, snow-capped Kanchenjunga massif. Later, stop by at Ghoom Monastery, yet another important repository for valuable Tibetan texts. The following day, explore the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, Gumbu Rock site and Tea Estate. Free afternoon to relax. BLD
Day 8
Tour ends Bagdogra
Return to Bagdogra airport or railway station (4hrs) where your trip concludes. B
Indian Safaris and Tours
The following tours are private, independent and can be easily customised to suit your personal travelling requirements. Please contact us to begin designing your personalised India experience.
Hidden Kingdom
In India's mountainous north is the remote kingdom of Sikkim, a spectacularly scenic region with warm, vibrant people.
Himalayan Foothills
This tour combines the holy Sikh city of Amritsar with beautiful hilltop towns including McLeod Ganj, present home of the Dalai Lama.
Himalayan Wonderland
Ladakh is a Himalayan wonderland, whose foothills are dotted with ancient monasteries cared for by Tibetan monks.