Ever heard about going on a journey that incorporates the three best destinations in India? An expedition that makes your spirit roam free and enchants you with every location? If yes, then go on this 7-day amazing tour to Sikkim, Kalimpong, and Darjeeling and discover the best parts of beautiful India! Our Sikkim Kalimpong Darjeeling Tour Package from Nepal is designed to provide you with the finest travel experience where you’ll go on many memorable and epic adventures! In this 6 nights 7 days trip, you’ll be visiting these three attractive destinations and taking part in many enriching and entertaining travel activities that will for sure energize your spirits and rejuvenate your soul! Crafted with detail and attention, this tour package is made to offer you a perfect mix of cultural and adventure-filled experiences!
In these marvelous places, you’ll get to explore a few ancient traditional monasteries and temples, visit the scenic and peaceful Tsomgo Lake, go on exciting cable car rides in Sikkim and Darjeeling, witness the magical sunrise from Tiger Hill, and catch a glimpse of the Kanchenjunga mountains. Also, you’ll stop by the famous Dr. Graham Homes and explore the serene and peaceful Tashi viewpoint. This amazing travel list does not end here; there’s so much more! Now, let’s learn more about the places where you will be visiting during this tour in detail!
Sikkim: The Land of Monasteries
Sikkim, famous for its ancient Buddhist monasteries and majestic Himalayas, is a small state in the northeastern part of India. As there are many ancient monasteries in Sikkim, it is also known as the “land of monasteries,” with some of the popular ones being Enchey Monastery, Rumtek Monastery, and Ranka Monastery. Covering an area of 7096 square kilometers and comprising only 0.2 of the total area of India, even though Sikkim is small in size, has been flourishing in recent years, especially in the tourism sector. Similarly, adventure tourism in Sikkim has also played a big part in growing the tourism sector. Trekking activities in this state have also increased in recent years, with Green Lake Trek, Village Trek, and Monastic Trek being a few of the renowned ones in the state.
Additionally, Sikkim is divided into 6 districts, among which one will be visiting Gangtok, which is the capital of Sikkim. The food culture is also big in the state, and for food lovers, Sikkim is an absolute heaven, as most of the Sikkimese cuisine incorporates a blend of Tibetan, Nepali, and Lepcha (an indigenous group of Sikkim) dishes. A few renowned dishes here are kinema (fermented soybean), nakima (wild lily), and churpi (a hard form of cheese). In the state of Sikkim, you will be visiting the capital of Gangtok and other significant destinations around it.
Gangtok Hill Station
The capital of state Sikkim, Gangtok, lies in the northeastern region of India. This charming city is a hill station with many natural attractions, such as Tsomgo Lake, Enchey Monastery, Ganesh Tok, and Do Drul Chorten. Additionally, the Teesta River is also popular for rafting activities, with M.G. (Mahatma Gandhi) Road being one of the top destinations. This thriving location is perfect for shopping lovers as it offers a range of clothing stores, restaurants and cafes, Tibetan handicrafts, and tea products. The city is also responsible for the major exportation of cardamom, an aromatic, sweet, and peppery spice that is shipped around to many parts of the world. The Sikkimese market is also flourishing with grains such as corn and pulses, which are high in quality. While visiting the enchanting capital of Gangtok, you will explore these popular destinations!
- Jawaharlal Nehru Botanical Garden: Visit this picturesque botanical garden located approximately 22 kilometers from Gangtok. Established in 1987, the Jawaharlal Nehru Botanical Garden has been maintained by the Forest Department of Sikkim. In the garden, there are numerous varieties of flora and fauna, with orchids being the most popular! There is also a greenhouse and a small play area for children to play, which provide a fun and lively spirit to the garden. Travelers can also stroll around the lush alpine, pine, and oak trees, which help to add a serene energy to the whole garden.
- Do Drul Chorten Stupa: This complex site was built in 1946 and is one of the prayer spots for Tibetans in Gangtok. In the complex there are stupas of various sizes along with prayer wheels decorated with essential holy inscriptions of the Tibetan religion. This complex was founded by Trulshik Rinpoche, and the domes presented in the stupa are dedicated to an important deity of Tibetan Buddhism known as Vanjra Kilaya. Inside the complex, travelers can also see holy and manta books and various religious-ancient Tibetan objects as well.
- Gangtok Ropeway: Go on a ride on the Gangtok ropeway, which was established in 2003. This ropeway is a cable car transportation mode that connects Deorali Bazar and Sikkim Legislative Assembly and has three stations: Tashiling, Namnang, and Deorali. This ropeway is approximately one-kilometer aerial ropeway that allows you to see sights of the vibrant Gangtok city, lush valleys, forest areas, and beautiful Kanchenjunga peak when the weather is clear and sunny.
- Namgyal Research Institute of Tibetology: Visit this research institute to learn more about Tibetan culture, as the institute holds a vast collection of Tibetan works. The research institute has a conference hall, library, and study rooms. Additionally, the center promotes research on the religion, language, and culture of Tibet and has stood as a preservation center for protecting the rich culture of Tibet.
- Nam Nang Viewpoint: Explore Nam Nang viewpoint, a paradise for nature lovers! At the base of the viewpoint is a walkable path from which the stairs to the viewpoint begin. The walk to the viewpoint is surely an exhilarating one, as you can see the surrounding picturesque mountains and ample amount of greenery, which help encapsulate the beauty of Sikkim! On clear, sunny days, the view of Mount Kanchenjunga can also be seen from the viewpoint. For many travelers, it is said that going to the Nam Nang viewpoint is like going on a peaceful nature walk, as it provides them with a boost of rejuvenation and energy.
- Flower Exhibition Centre: Explore this flower exhibition center located in Gangtok that is surely a heavenly sight to visit! The is a small and charming exhibition center that has varieties of flowers and specializes especially in orchids. During peak season, the center has varieties of flowers such as roses, gerberas, and other seasonal flower varieties. There is also a greenhouse that holds rare plant species such as Anthurium and Lilium (orchid variety). Tourists can also witness a water pond in the center with a bridge over it, perfect for taking photos and videos.
- Directorate of Handicrafts and Handloom: The Handicrafts and Handloom Center has a prestigious learning and training center in Gangtok. Established in 1957, the center has been continuously promoting Gangtok’s traditional handicraft and handloom items. Travelers after visiting this center are able to take a peek at Gangtok's traditional artworks and learn about the city’s classical art and crafts! There is also a craft gallery area where collections of antique handicrafts and handlooms, such as carpets, woven blankets, traditional handloom Lepcha bags, and wall hangings, among other items, are kept.
- Enchey Monastery: For travelers looking for a tranquil and quiet space, the Enchey Monastery is perfect for you! Explore Enchey Monastery, located approximately 3 kilometers from Gangtok. The name “Enchey” in Lepcha language means "solitary,” which is an ideal fit as the whole ambience of the monastery is peaceful and tranquil. Believed to be over 200 years old, this serene monastery was built by Lama Drupthob Karpo and houses three main deities: Lord Buddha, Loketeswara, and Guru Padasambhava.
- Ganesh Tok: Explore Ganesh Tok, a popular destination among tourists! Many devotees visit this temple as it is believed to fulfill the wishes of the devotees. This is a small Hindu temple that is located at an altitude of approximately 6,500 feet and is dedicated to Lord Ganesh. This temple has traditional artworks and intricate sculptures that reflect the Hindu religion and culture. As the temple is located on a hill, you can enjoy the view of the surrounding Himalayas and nearby lush forests as well.
- Bakthang Waterfalls: The Gangtok tour also includes a visit to the stunning Bakthang waterfalls! This incredible waterfall originates from the Ratey Chu river and is formed by the many streams flowing from the mesmerizing Himalayan ranges. The waterfall is surrounded by rocky cliffs and lush greenery that add immense beauty to this destination. Many visitors can be seen taking photos and videos of these pictorial waterfalls as there is a small bridge situated in front of the waterfall and small shops selling clothing materials and food items.
- Tashi Viewpoint: This viewpoint is a sight worth seeing! Located approximately 10 kilometers from Gangtok, Tashi viewpoint has mesmerized tourists all over the world! This viewpoint offers a stunning panoramic view of Mountain Kanchenjunga and Siniolchu while also providing a glimpse of the exquisite city of Gangtok. Travelers can also enjoy the beautiful sunrise and sunset views from this viewpoint as well. Perfect for nature lovers, this viewpoint is a peaceful retreat that can totally energize anyone’s spirit for sure!
- Tsomgo Lake: Tsomgo Lake is located in eastern Sikkim. From Gangtok, it is approximately 40 kilometers away and is situated at an elevation of 3,753 meters. In Bhutia language, “Tsomgo” means source of water. The lake is a must-visit destination in Sikkim, as the waters in the lake are the most beautiful shade of blue and to see it in real life is truly a breathtaking experience! During the peak season, different varieties of flowers can be seen surrounding the lake, which adds immense beauty and vibrancy to the place.
- Rumtek Monastery: As Sikkim is known for many ancient and picturesque monasteries, Rumtek Monastery is considered one of the significant monasteries in this beautiful state. The monastery was built by Gyalma Karmpa of the Kargyu Sect of Buddhism in the 1960’s. The monastery is painted in a multitude of colors and holds some of the rarest Buddhist religious objects, along with the golden statue of Buddha. The Monastery highlights the rich Tibetan architecture and has remained an old center for Kagyu teachings (teachings focus on meditation and ancient yogic practices.)
- MG road/mall: MG (Mahatma Gandhi road) is an absolute hotspot located in downtown Gangtok. It is a popular pedestrian street with lots of clothing stores, restaurants, and cafes where you can stroll around and buy souvenirs to take back home.
Kalimpong
Kalimpong is a small town situated at an altitude of 1300 meters on the eastern side of Darjeeling. It became the 21st district of West Bengal on the 14th of February, 2017 after splitting from the Darjeeling district. In the past, the Lepcha, Bhutia, and Limbu communities were the first inhabitants, so many of the cultures and traditions in Kalimpong are still influenced by the community. As the town is linked by road with Darjeeling and Siliguri, Kalimpong is also becoming one of the popular tourist sites in India. As the town has a subtropical highland climate (mild temperature with constant temperature), the production of ornamental plants and cacti is big in Kalimpong, with orchids, gladioli, and cacti businesses flourishing in recent years. Explore these scenic destinations in and around Kalimpong that will take you on unforgettable adventures!
- Forest Museum: Also known as Nature Interpretation Center, this is a must-visit location for nature lovers! Founded and maintained by the Forest Department since the 1900’s, the museum has been continuously working to spread awareness about environmental issues such as deforestation and climate change in Kalimpong. In the museum, there are photos, books, dioramas, and taxidermy mounts that help travelers learn about the diverse and unique ecological habitats of this town. Moreover, the museum also conducts awareness programs to safeguard the endangered species of the town.
- Mangaldham: Among the Hindu temples in Kalimpong, Mangaldham is one of the most prestigious temples! This temple was built in the memory of Guru Shri Mangal Das Ji, a spiritual leader of India. During his stay in Kalimpong, he established many temples, orphanages, and schools for people in need. Due to his good deeds, this temple was built in his memory honoring his selfless services. On the top floor of the temple there is also a prayer hall, and the temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna.
- Dr. Graham Homes: This is another destination that you will be visiting in Kalimpong. Founded by John Anderson, this is a boarding school that provides education services to children in Kalimpong. The school is located approximately 10 kilometers from the town and has won many excellence awards in the field of education. In the school there are cottages, a museum, classrooms, and hostel services all targeted for the wellbeing of the students.
- Hanuman Mandir: For spiritual devotees, the Hanuman Mandir can be a sacred destination for you to visit. Dedicated to Lord Hanuman, the main highlight of the temple is the magnificent Hanuman statue, approximately 30 feet in height. This temple was founded by Karma Wangchuk in 2004 and has many devoted travelers visiting it every year. As the temple is situated at an elevation, travelers can also see the stunning Teesta River and lush green trees surrounding the temple.
- Deolo Hill: If you’re looking to find some quiet space to relax and rejuvenate, then Deolo Hill is the perfect spot for you! Located at a height of 1,704 meters, it is the highest point in Kalimpong. From the hill, you can see the whole Kalimpong town in its glory with the Teesta river and snow-peaked mountains of West Sikkim. This is undoubtedly an unmissable location when visiting Kalimpong. On the hill, a small park is also located where you can see flowers growing all around the park during peak season.
- Pine View Nursery: This unique cacti nursery was founded by Mohan S. Pradhan, a plant enthusiast who established this cacti business in Kalimpong. The pine-view nursery houses many exotic varieties of cacti from Latin America that is truly an astonishing sight to see. For plant lovers, this can surely be a surreal experience seeing so many species of beautiful cacti under one ground!
- Durpin Monastery: Explore this spiritual monastery located in Durpin Hill, approximately 4000 feet above sea level. This monastery was built by Dudjom Rinpoche, a Tibetan Buddhist master back in the 1900’s. The monastery has been a spiritual ground and a place of solace for Buddhist monks in Kalimpong. One of the significant parts of the monastery are the rare Buddhist manuscripts called the Kangyur. A prayer room for spiritual practices has been built inside the monastery, where monks conduct their prayers and meditation activities. Along with this, prayer wheels are located outside the monastery. From the terrace, you can also see the whole view of Kalimpong town and its beautiful, glorious Himalayas.
Darjeeling- The Queen of Hills
One of the most beloved destinations in India is Darjeeling! This pictorial town covers an area of 3149 square kilometers and is located in the North western region of India. The town is majorly renowned for its vibrant and abundant tea estates and the “Darjeeling Himalayan Railway,” which is a UNESCO world heritage site. As Darjeeling has numerous magnificent hills, it is called the queen of hills. In Darjeeling, there are many ancient monasteries and vibrant tea estates, as well as the Darjeeling ropeway, which is also located here. Furthermore, Darjeeling has a moderately cool climate, which makes it a perfect destination to travel all year round. In and around the beautiful city of Darjeeling, you will be visiting these remarkable and phenomenal locations!
- Tiger Hill: To see the epic mesmerizing sunset and the views of the magnificent Kanchenjunga mountain range, Tiger Hills serves as the perfect location! More than being a standing ground, this hill is one of its kind, as visitors are able to witness an outstanding sunrise that is truly unforgettable! Tiger Hills is located 11 kilometers from Darjeeling and is one of the highest points in the area. A temple called “Sinchel Singha Devi Mandir” is also located on the hill, and during peak seasons there are small shops that sell clothing items, ornaments, and small statues that resemble Darjeeling’s culture and heritage.
- Ghoom Monastery: Previously known as “Yiga Choeling Tibetan Monastery, Ghoom Monastery was built in 1850 by Sokpo Sherab Gyatso. Built in a traditional-old style architecture, this monastery has statues of Lord Buddha encased in glass cabinets with exquisite colorful thangkas, wall scriptures, important Tibetan scriptures, and documents as well. The main highlight of this monastery is the approximately 15 ft. Maitreya Buddha statue, painted a gold color with beautiful, precious stones covering the statue. Visitors are able to gain a peaceful and serene experience after visiting the monastery.
- Batasia Loop and Peace Memorial: Another amazing destination that you will be going to are the Batasia Loop and Peace Memorial (Gorkha War Memorial) in Darjeeling. The Batasia Loop is a spiral railway track where visitors in the train can see the beautiful garden present in Batasia Loop and get a scenic view of Darjeeling city and its landscape traveling through the train. Additionally, in the center of Batasia Loop stands a peace memorial built to commemorate the sacrifice of the brave soldiers who lost their lives to protect the sovereignty of India since it gained its independence. This place reflects the love and respect that India has for its military service providers.
- Padmaja Naidu Zoological Park: Established for the protection and conservation of wildlife in India, this zoological park has a diverse range of wild animals such as red pandas, Himalayan salamanders, blue sheeps, and Himalayan tahr. The zoo also works on a breeding project to increase the population of endangered species in Darjeeling. Moreover, the park engages in many conservation activities, such as tree plantations and celebrating events such as Earth Day and World Life Day, among others.
- Bengal Natural History Museum: Another fantastic destination you will be visiting is the Bengal Natural History Museum in Darjeeling. The museum houses various species of birds, animals, insects, and fish. Moreover, the museum also works towards the conservation of animals and forest areas in Darjeeling. There are over 100 specimens of rare birds and exotic animals, out of which many are also on display. The Natural History Museum also has taxidermy mounts of cats, red pandas, and Himalayan flying squirrels.
- Himalayan Mountaineering Institute: This institute is a major training institute in Darjeeling founded by Jawarlal Nehru. The institute provides training courses in mountain and rock climbing. Additionally, there are also basic, advanced, search and rescue, as well as rock climbing courses that are provided to individuals who are interested in learning these skills. While exploring the institute, you can see the statue of Tenzing Norgay Sherpa and the materials used by the late Edmund and Tenzing Norgay Sherpa as well.
- Darjeeling Ropeway: Another fantastic location that you will be visiting is Darjeeling Ropeway. Also known as the Rangeet Valley, the ropeway is approximately 5 kilometers long and connects Darjeeling with the Singla Bazaar. From the cable car, you can see the beautiful landscape of Darjeeling, magnificent tea gardens, and the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas.
- Tenzing and Gombu Rock: The Tenzing and Gombu Rock encompasses two giant rocks facing each other. Named after Tenzing Norgay Sherpa and his nephew Tenzing Gombu, the rocks symbolize the climbers' resilience and strength that were needed for their mountaineering journeys. You can also take photos and videos of yours with the rocks as well!
- Tibetan Refugee Self-Help Center: Explore, a Tibetan Refugee Self-Help Center that was established in 1959 to initially provide emergency relief to Tibetan refugees. In the present time, the center works towards the production of handicrafts and also provides training for artisans along with being a care home for senior citizens and refugees. Additionally, the center also has a kindergarten, a clinic, and a photographic exhibition that highlights the history of Tibet.
- Tea Estate: Darjeeling is famous for its vast and abundant tea estates. As Darjeeling is a major hub for tea production, this city is filled with numerous tea estates, and these tea estates in Darjeeling are definitely a must-visit sight! Perfect for nature lovers, many tea estates in Darjeeling provide a peaceful ambience for going on short walks and taking photographs. You can smell the aromatic smell of tea leaves in the air, which will definitely leave a lasting impression on you!
Make sure to seize this fabulous opportunity to be a part of the Sikkim Kalimpong Darjeeling Tour Package and be part of this 7 days wonderful travel package! Grab this once in a lifetime moment and embark on a journey of soul searching while going on memorable adventures and creating long-lasting memories on the way!
Thank you so much, Holidays to Nepal team, for their time and effort that they have put into our tour to make it memorable. Our holiday tour to Bali wouldn’t have been completed without your perfect and cosy planning. It was such a good experience, and I will definitely choose Holidays to Nepal for our next trip as well, and I highly recommend others choose them as their travel partner as well. Keep it up, and best of luck for more achievements.