RST 01 SIKKIM & DARJEELING (04 Nights / 05 Days)

Highlights: Bagdogra - Bhadrapur (Nepal) – Darjeeling - Rumtek - Gangtok – Ravangla

Best Season: Mid - March to June and September to mid December

RST 02 SIKKIM & DARJEELING (05Nights / 06Days)

Highlights: Bagdogra - Bhadrapur (Nepal) – Darjeeling - Rumtek - Gangtok – Ravangla

Best Season: Mid - March to June and September to mid December

RST 03 KALIMPONG & GANGTOK & DARJEELING (05Nights / 06Days)

Highlights: Phintsoling – Kalimpong - Gangtok –Darjeeling – Bhadrapur

Best Season: Mid - March to June and September to mid December

RST 04 SIKKIM & DARJEELING - An Enchanted Realm (07Nights / 08 Days)

Highlights: Phintsoling - Bhadrapur – Darjeeling – Gangtok - Tsomgo Lake – Ravangla – Pelling

Best Season: Mid - March to June and September to mid December

RST 05 THE RHODODENDRON TRAIL (08 Nights / 09 Days)

Highlights: Bagdogra - Bhadrapur (Nepal) – Gangtok - Tsomgo Lake - Lachung - Yumthang - Lachen – Thanggu

Best Season: Mid - March to June and September to mid December

RST 06 SIKKIM & DARJEELING - An Enchanted Realm (09Nights/ 10 Days)

Highlights: Bagdogra - Bhadrapur (Nepal) – Darjeeling – Gangtok - Tsomgo Lake – Ravangla – Pelling – Khecheodpalri Lake – Kalimpong

Best Season: Mid - March to June and September to mid December

RSTK 01 KHANGCHENDZONGNA “WHITE MAGIC” TREK (12 Nights/ 13 Days)

Highlights: Bagdogra - Bhadrapur – Gangtok - Tsomgo Lake – Rumtek - Ravangla – Yuksom - Tsokha Dzongri - Thangsing - Samiti Pokhari - Goechala

Best Season: Mid - March to June and September to mid December

RST 01 SIKKIM & DARJEELING (04 Nights / 05 Days)

Day 01: Bagdogra / Bhadrapur (Nepal) – Darjeeling (2134mtrs). 81 km / 3 hrs

Meet, assist and transfer from Bagdogra / Bhadrapur airport and drive to Darjeeling, the Queen of the hills. Overnight Hotel.

Day 02: Darjeeling. Full Day Sightseeing.

After breakfast, a unique train ride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway – “Toy Train” to Ghoom and back. The DHR established by the British in 1881, an outstanding engineering feat of the era, is now a UNESCO world heritage site.

Visit The Himalayan Zoo which houses the Himalayan fauna like the Red Panda, black bear, yaks, tigers, snow leopard etc. in their natural habitat, and the adjacent Himalayan Mountaineering Institute - a premier training centre for mountaineers and a museum detailing the ascent of the Mt. Everest by Tenzing Sherpa & Sir Edmund Hillary and numerous other expeditions.

Also visit Tibetan Self Help Centre, a centre of training young people in the intricate art of Tibetan handicrafts and handlooms. The sales emporium is open to visitors to pick up souvenirs. Overnight Hotel.

Day 03: Darjeeling – Rumtek - Gangtok (1600 mtrs.)

Early morning drive to Tiger Hill to for a singular experience of the first rays of the sun bathing the Himalayas. On the return visit the Ghoom Monastery. Built in 1875 the monastery, which follows the Gelugpa sect, houses one of the largest statue of the Maitreya Buddha-“the future Buddha”.

After breakfast drive to Gangtok. Enroute visit the Rumtek Monastery, a magnificent Buddhist monastery established by the late Gyalwa Karmapa, the head of the Kagyupa sect. Built as an exact replica of the original Kagyu monastery in Tibet it is also the international headquarters of the Karma Kagyu centres. Overnight Hotel.

Day 04: Gangtok – Ravangla (1950 mtrs.)

Distance:116 km | Time: 5 hrs

The drive to Ravangla includes visit to the Temi tea garden to observe the plucking and processing of one of the finest tea in the world and Samdruptse the site of the 113 ft tall statue of Guru Padmasambhava or Guru Rimpoche, the patron saint of Sikkim and the Buddhist scholar who restored Buddhism in Tibet in the 7th century AD. The location also offers a breathtaking view of the Sikkim Himalayas and the Darjeeling hills.

Drive to Ravangla and check in at Mt Narsing Village Resort, an ideal place to experience the peace and tranquility of the Sikkimese countryside coupled with the warmth of the typical Sikkimese hospitality.

Day 05: Ravangla – Bagdogra / Bhadrapur.

After breakfast drive to Bagdogra or Bhadrapur airport to connect for you flight onwards.

RST 02 SIKKIM & DARJEELING (05Nights / 06Days)

Sikkim, an erstwhile Himalayan kingdom, now a state in India, is richly endowed with a prominently Buddhist culture dating back to the 7th century AD. It’s unique location in the Himalayas and elevation ranging from 600 mtrs. to over 8000 mtrs spread over an area of 7000 sq. km. offers diverse flora and fauna ranging from sub-tropical to the alpine. Mt Khangchendzonga (8345 mtrs.), the third highest mountain in the world and the guardian deity of Sikkim looms majestically throughout the trip.

Darjeeling-“The Queen of the Himalayas” is a bustling tourist town renowned for its tea gardens, the Himalayan mountaineering Institute, the sunrise over the Himalayas from the Tiger Hill and imprints of the British Raj.

Day 01: Bagdogra / Bhadrapur (Nepal) – Darjeeling (2134mtrs).

Distance: 81 km | Time: 3 hrs approx.

Meet, assist and transfer from Bagdogra / Bhadrapur airport and drive to Darjeeling, the Queen of the hills. Overnight Hotel.

Day 02: Darjeeling. Full Day Sightseeing.

After breakfast, a unique train ride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway – “Toy Train” to Ghoom and back. The DHR established by the British in 1881, an outstanding engineering feat of the era, is now a UNESCO world heritage site. Visit The Himalayan Zoo which houses the Himalayan fauna like the Red Panda, black bear, yaks, tigers, snow leopard etc. in their natural habitat, and the adjacent Himalayan Mountaineering Institute - a premier training centre for mountaineers and a museum detailing the ascent of the Mt. Everest by Tenzing Sherpa & Sir Edmund Hillary and numerous other expeditions.

Also visit Tibetan Self Help Centre, a centre of training young people in the intricate art of Tibetan handicrafts and handlooms. The sales emporium is open to visitors to pick up souvenirs. Overnight Hotel.

Day 03: Darjeeling – Rumtek - Gangtok (1600 mtrs.)

Early morning drive to Tiger Hill to for a singular experience of the first rays of the sun bathing the Himalayas. On the return visit the Ghoom Monastery. Built in 1875 the monastery, which follows the Gelugpa sect, houses one of the largest statue of the Maitreya Buddha-“the future Buddha”.

After breakfast drive to Gangtok. Enroute visit the Rumtek Monastery, a magnificent Buddhist monastery established by the late Gyalwa Karmapa, the head of the Kagyupa sect. Built as an exact replica of the original Kagyu monastery in Tibet it is also the international headquarters of the Karma Kagyu centres. Overnight Hotel.

Day 04: Day excursion to Tsomgo Lake.

Distance: 70 km | Time: 5 hrs

Located east of Gangtok at an altitude of 3650 mtrs. The Tsomgo Lake is a typically beautiful mountain lake. The journey to the lake offers a magnificent view of Mt. Khangchendzonga and other peaks of Sikkim Himalayas. Afternoon free to explore the markets.

Day 05: Gangtok – Ravangla (1950 mtrs.)

Distance:116 km | Time: 5 hrs

The drive to Ravangla includes visit to the Temi tea garden to observe the plucking and processing of one of the finest tea in the world and Samdruptse the site of the 113 ft tall statue of Guru Padmasambhava or Guru Rimpoche, the patron saint of Sikkim and the Buddhist scholar who restored Buddhism in Tibet in the 7th century AD. The location also offers a breathtaking view of the Sikkim Himalayas and the Darjeeling hills.

Drive to Ravangla and check in at Mt Narsing Village Resort, an ideal place to experience the peace and tranquility of the Sikkimese countryside coupled with the warmth of the typical Sikkimese hospitality.

Day 06: Ravangla – Bagdogra / Bhadrapur.

Distance:125 km | Time: 4-½ hrs

After breakfast drive to Bagdogra or Bhadrapur airport to connect for you flight onwards.

RST 03 KALIMPONG & GANGTOK & DARJEELING (05Nights / 06Days)

Day 01: Phintsoling – Kalimpong (1250mts)

Distance: 260 km | Time: 6 hrs approx.

Meet, assist and transfer from Phintsoling and drive to Kalimpong. Kalimpong is a small town famous for its flower nurseries, quaint European styled cottages and was a bustling commercial centre when the Indo-Tibet border was open. The vestiges of the era can still be felt in its market places.Overnight hotel.

Day 02:Kalimpong – Gangtok (1600mts)

Distance 81 km/ Time 3 hrs approx

After breakfast drive to visit Durpin Monastery, atop Durpin hill which commands a spectacular view of the surrounding areas and a panoramic view of the mountains. Also visit the Gompchen Drukpa Monastery. If time permits visit some of the flower nurseries specializing in orchids, Catalaya, Anthuriums, and Gladioli etc.After lunch drive to Gangtok. Enroute visit the Rumtek Monastery, a magnificent Buddhist monastery established by the late Gyalwa Karmapa, the head of the Kagyupa sect. Built as an exact replica of the original Kagyu monastery in Tibet it is also the international headquarters of the Karma Kagyu centres. Overnight Hotel.

Day 03: Gangtok: Full day sightseeing:

Day starts with visit to the Enchey monastery, located about 2 km and on a hillock above Gangtok, this monastery was built by Lama Druptob Karpo, a tantric master known for his power of flying. Built in the early part of this century, it follows the Nyingmapa tradition and has pagoda style architecture unique to the Sikkimese monasteries.

Research Institute of Tibetology: Situated close to the Chorten this institute is a repository of the largest collection of Tibetan artifacts outside Tibet. Also renowned worldwide for the study of Buddhist philosophy and religion, it is a treasure house of rare Thankas, Buddhist icon and objects of art.

Do-Drul Chorten: One of the most important Stupas of Sikkim built by the late Venerable Trulsi Rimpoche in 1945-46, it contains a mandala of Dorji-Phurpa, holy texts, mantras and is encircled by 108 prayer wheels.

Ngor Gompa: The only Sakya monastery in the state is situated at Rongyek around 5 km from Gangtok. This three-storied monastery has an idol of the Sakya Muni. Overnight in hotel.

Day 04: Gangtok –Darjeeling (2134mtrs).

Distance 81 Kms / Time: 3 ½ hrs aprrox

After breakfast drive to Darjeeling, the Queen of the hills.

After lunch a unique train ride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway – “Toy Train” to Ghoom and back. The DHR established by the British in 1881, an outstanding engineering feat of the era, is now a UNESCO world heritage site. Overnight hotel.

Day 05: Darjeeling. Full Day Sightseeing.

Early morning drive to Tiger Hill to for a singular experience of the first rays of the sun bathing the Himalayas. On the return visit the Ghoom Monastery. Built in 1875 the monastery, which follows the Gelugpa sect, houses one of the largest statue of the Maitreya Buddha-“the future Buddha”.Visit The Himalayan Zoo which houses the Himalayan fauna like the Red Panda, black bear, yaks, tigers, snow leopard etc. in their natural habitat, and the adjacent Himalayan Mountaineering Institute - a premier training centre for mountaineers and a museum detailing the ascent of the Mt. Everest by Tenzing Sherpa & Sir Edmund Hillary and numerous other expeditions. Also visit Tibetan Self Help Centre, a centre of training young people in the intricate art of Tibetan handicrafts and handlooms. The sales emporium is open to visitors to pick up souvenirs. Overnight Hotel.

Day 06: Darjeeling – Bhadrapur (4 hrs approx)

After breakfast drive to Bhadrapur airport to connect for your lfight to Kathmandu.

RST 04 SIKKIM & DARJEELING - An Enchanted Realm (07Nights / 08 Days)

Day 01: Phintsoling/Bharapur – Darjeeling (2134mtrs).

Time: 5/3 hrs approx.

Meet, assist and transfer from Phintsoling/Bhadrapur airport and drive to Darjeeling. Overnight Hotel.

Day 02: Darjeeling. Full Day Sightseeing

Early morning drive to Tiger Hill to for a singular experience of the first rays of the sun bathing the Himalayas. On the return visit the Ghoom Monastery. Built in 1875 the monastery which follows the Gelugpa sect, houses one of the largest statue of the Maitreya Buddha-“the future Buddha”.

After breakfast visit The Himalayan Zoo which houses the Himalayan fauna like the Red Panda, black bear, yaks, tigers, snow leopard etc. in their natural habitat, and the adjacent Himalayan Mountaineering Institute - a premier training centre for mountaineers and a museum detailing the ascent of the Mt. Everest by Tenzing Sherpa & Sir Edmund Hillary and numerous other expeditions.

Also visit Tibetan Self Help Centre, a centre of training young people in the intricate art of Tibetan handicrafts and handlooms. The sales emporium is open to visitors to pick up souvenirs. Overnight Hotel.

Day 03: Darjeeling – Gangtok (1600 mtrs.)

Distance: 97 km | Time: 3-½ hrs approx.

After breakfast drive to Gangtok.

On arrival at Gangtok, check in at the hotel.

Afternoon visit Government Institute of Cottage Industry a centre that offers you the opportunity to observe the local artisans at work and their skills being imparted to young boys and girls. If you want to take back souvenirs, the institute's salesroom is well stocked with local handicraft and handloom products. Do-Drul Chorten - One of the most important stupas of Sikkim built by the late Venerable Trulsi Rimpoche in 1945-46, it contains a mandala of Dorji-Phurpa, holy texts, mantras and is encircled by 108 prayer wheels. Namgyal Institute of Tibetology - Situated close to the Chorten, this institute is a repository of the largest collection of Tibetan artifacts outside Tibet. Also renowned worldwide for the study of Buddhist philosophy and religion, it is a treasure house of rare Thankas, Buddhist icon and objects of art. Flower Show Pavilion - Situated on the ridge above the city, this centre displays the floral diversity of Sikkim. The famed orchids of the state are on display as also a stunning variety of seasonal flowers.Overnight Hotel.

Day 04: Day excursion to Tsomgo Lake.

Distance: 70 km | Time: 5 hrs

Located east of Gangtok at an altitude of 3650 mtrs. The Tsomgo Lake is a typically beautiful mountain lake. The journey to the lake offers a magnificent view of Mt. Khangchendzonga and other peaks of Sikkim Himalayas. Afternoon free to explore the market.

Day 05: Gangtok – Ravangla (1950 mtrs.)

Distance: 102 km | Time 3 hrs

After breakfast drive to Ravangla. Enroute visit Rumtek Monastery, a magnificent Buddhist monastery established by the late Gyalwa Karmapa, the head of the Kagyupa sect. Built as an exact replica of the original Kagyu monastery in Tibet it is also the international headquarters of the Karma Kagyu centres.

On arrival check in at Mt Narsing Village Resort, an ideal place to experience the peace and tranquility of the Sikkimese countryside coupled with the warmth of the typical Sikkimese hospitality.Overnight Hotel.

Day 06: Ravangla : Full day sightseeing:

Sightseeing around Ravangla includes visit to the Temi tea garden to observe the plucking and processing of one of the finest tea in the world. Overnight at Mt Narsing Village Resort, an ideal place to experience the peace and tranquility of the Sikkimese countryside coupled with the warmth of the typical Sikkimese hospitality. Also visit Samdruptse the site of the 113 ft tall statue of Guru Padmasambhava or Guru Rimpoche, the patron saint of Sikkim and the Buddhist scholar who restored Buddhism in Tibet in the 7th century AD. The location also offers a breathtaking view of the Sikkim Himalayas and the Darjeeling hills.

After Lunch visit the monasteries at Ralang.

Situated 13 kms away against the spectacular backdrop of the peaks of Narsing, Jopuno and Kabur are the two monasteries at Ralang.

The old Ralang monastery, Karma Rabten Cholling, was built in 1730 on a site blessed by an earlier incarnation of Karmapa where the grains of rice thrown by him from Tibet had landed. The monastery is one of the most sacred and important monasteries following the Kagyupa tradition. " Pang Lhabsol " the worship of Mt Khangchendzonga & " Kagyad " Chaam masked dances are held every year on the 15th day of the seventh month of the Buddhist calendar coinciding with August/September and on the 29th day of the tenth month just before Losoong - the Sikkimese New Year in December.

The New Ralang monastery - Palchen Choeling Monastic Institute, was built by the XIIth Gyaltsab Rimpoche, one of the four regents of the Kagyupa sect and completed in 1995. This is the biggest monastery in Sikkim and its architecture and paintings have been painstakingly undertaken to maintain the authenticity of the Kagyupa monasteries. The sacred Mahakala Dance is held here every year in November. Overnight Hotel.

Day 07: Ravangla – Pelling (1950 mtrs.)

Distance: 60 km | Time: 2 hrs approx

After breakfast drive to Pelling. On arrival check in the hotel and thereafter visit the Pemayangtse Monastery. Built in the 18th century AD, this monastery follows the Nyingmapa sect of Tibetan Buddhism. Pemayangtse - "the Sublime Lotus", also houses the famed "Zangdopalri", a fascinating model of the celestial abode of Guru Padma Sambhava, crafted single-handedly out of wood by the late Dungzim Rimpoche.

Also visit the Rabdentse Palace ruins. The site of the second capital of Sikkim from AD to AD is strategically located on a ridge with a commanding view of the Rangeet valley and the villages scattered in West and South Sikkim. The recent restoration of the site lends a pleasant place to experience the history of Sikkim with great views.

After lunch, drive to Khecheodpalri Lake also known as the wishing lake. This unusually calm lake, located in the midst of a dense forest is considered very sacred and no water sport or other activities besides prayers and worship are allowed around it. Overnight Hotel.

Day 08: Pelling – Bhadrapur Distance: 125 km | Time: 4 ½ hrs approx

After breakfast drive to Bhadrapur Airport to connect for your flight onwards.

RST 05 THE RHODODENDRON TRAIL (08 Nights / 09 Days)

Sikkim located in the eastern Himalayas is endowed with a repository of floral wealth and is considered as one of the biodiversity hotspots in the world. One of the most stunning sights you can witness, especially in the higher altitudes, is a whole forest ablaze with various hues of Rhododendrons during the local summer season. A total of 36 species with 45 different forms including subspecies and varieties occur in Sikkim ranging from tiny mat-like growths in alpine region (R. pumilum, R. setosum) only a few cms tall to the giant R. arboretum standing at 25 mtrs. The Rhododendron Trail is designed to allow you to discover this floral rainbow traveling in the comfort of a car. Best recommended for the local summer season (April - June), this tour takes you to the higher reaches of Tsomgo lake & the North Sikkim areas covering Lachung, Yumthang, Lachen & Thanggu. These areas vary in altitude from 2500 mtrs to 4250 mtrs and cover rhododendron reserves such as the Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary near Gangtok and the Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary near Lachung, the only area where you find R. niveum the state tree of Sikkim.The itinerary offers you an introduction to the rhododendrons in Sikkim but if you are interested in a more detailed study the tour can be customized to suit your requirements.

Day 01: Bagdogra / Bhadrapur (Nepal) – Gangtok (1600 mtrs.)

Distance: 125 / 175 km | Time: 4 / 6 hrs approx.]\

Meet, assist and transfer from Bagdogra / Bhadrapur airport and drive through the Teesta valley to Gangtok. Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim, is a bustling town with a unique mix of the modern and the traditional. Overnight Hotel.

Day 02: Gangtok – sightseeing

We start the day with a visit to the Rumtek Monastery, located 24 kms away. This magnificent Buddhist monastery established by the late Gyalwa Karmapa, the head of the Kagyupa sect is built as an exact replica of the original Kagyu monastery in Tibet. It is also the international headquarters of the Karma Kagyu centres.On return to Gangtok, the post lunch sightseeing takes you the Government Institute of Cottage Industry, a centre that offers you the opportunity to observe the local artisans at work and their skills being imparted to young boys and girls. If you want to take back souvenirs, the institute's salesroom is well stocked with local handicraft and handloom products. Do-Drul Chorten - One of the most important stupas of Sikkim built by the late Venerable Trulsi Rimpoche in 1945-46, it contains a mandala of Dorji-Phurpa, holy texts, mantras and is encircled by 108 prayer wheels. Namgyal Institute of Tibetology - Situated close to the Chorten, this institute is a repository of the largest collection of Tibetan artifacts outside Tibet. Also renowned worldwide for the study of Buddhist philosophy and religion, it is a treasure house of rare Thankas, Buddhist icon and objects of art. Flower Show Pavilion - Situated on the ridge above the city, this centre displays the floral diversity of Sikkim. The famed orchids of the state are on display as also a stunning variety of seasonal flowers. Overnight Hotel.

Day 03: Day excursion to Tsomgo Lake.

Distance: 70 km | Time: 5 hrs h

Located east of Gangtok at an altitude of 3650 mtrs. The Tsomgo Lake is a typically beautiful mountain lake. The journey to the lake offers a magnificent view of Mt. Khangchendzonga and other peaks of Sikkim Himalayas. A visit to the Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary opens a world of high altitude rhododendrons. The route to Tsomgo lake and especially the area around the lake is abundant with R. dalhousiae, R. campanulatum, Barbatum. Spend the day exploring. Return to Gangtok in the late afternoon and visit the local markets. Overnight Hotel.

Day 04: Gangtok - Lachung (2700 mtrs.)

Distance: 126 km. | Time: 6 hours (approx.)

After breakfast drive to North Sikkim. Enroute visit Phodong Monastery. Built by the Chogyal Gyrumed Namgyal in the early eighteenth century, it is one of the important monasteries of Sikkim following the Kagyupa sect. The journey is lined with magnificent waterfalls and lush green forests. Overnight Hotel.

Day 05: Lachung - Yumthang (3600 mtrs.) - Lachung

Distance: 24 km | Time: 1 hr (approx.)

After breakfast drive to Yumthang. The road runs along the valley with snow capped mountains rising high up on either side. The journey is lit up with flaming rhododendrons and other mountain flowers. A visit to the Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary, the only place where R. niveum, the state flower of Sikkim is found. The entire stretch to Yumthang valley and beyond to Yumesamdong have hillsides covered with white R. ciliatum, purple R. niveum, R. arboreum, and forests of R. hodgsonii and R. thomsonii, all growing in their native habitats – here you are in rhododendron heaven. Yumthang is a wide valley where the local herdsmen from Lachung camp their herds of yaks and cattle during summer. Return to Lachung.

Day 06: Lachung - Lachen (2700 mtrs.)

Distance: 57 km | Time: 2 hrs approx.

A fairly short drive ahead to Lachen allows us to visit the Lachung monastery. The drive to Lachen passes through thick forests of Magnolia & oak and fir in the upper reaches. On arrival at Lachen visit the Lachen monastery. A quaint little village the local community practices a traditional system of local governance – “Dzumsa”. The “Pipon” or the headman and his council are elected each year by the local families which implement all developmental projects in the area as well as social occasions like the Sikkimese New Year, “Losoong”, and even decides the date when yak & cattle herds are to be moved in summer & autumn.

Overnight Hotel.

Day 07: Lachen – Thanggu (4000 mtrs) - Lachen

Distance: 28 km | Time: 1 hr approx.

The drive to Thanggu takes us to high mountain country with fascinating snow peaks rising up the valley. The area around Thanggu, small summer village of the Lachen people, abound in R. campanulatum, R. wightii, R. pumilum, R. setosum a truly great experience. A day, with lunch at the local inn, spent in this wondrous place is a cherishable memory. Return to Lachen. Overnight Hotel.

Day 08: Lachen – Gangtok.

Distance: 123 km | Time: 6 hrs approx.

After breakfast drive back to Gangtok.Overnight Hotel.

Day 09: Gangtok – Bagdogra.

Distance: 125 km | Time: 4 hrs approx.

After breakfast drive to Bagdogra or any other exit point.

RST 06 SIKKIM & DARJEELING - An Enchanted Realm (09Nights/ 10 Days)

Day 01: Bagdogra / Bhadrapur (Nepal) – Darjeeling (2134mtrs).

Distance: 81 km | Time: 3 hrs approx.

Meet, assist and transfer from Bagdogra / Bhadrapur airport and drive to Darjeeling. Overnight Hotel.

Day 02: Darjeeling. Full Day Sightseeing

Early morning drive to Tiger Hill to for a singular experience of the first rays of the sun bathing the Himalayas. On the return visit the Ghoom Monastery. Built in 1875 the monastery which follows the Gelugpa sect, houses one of the largest statue of the Maitreya Buddha-“the future Buddha”.

After breakfast visit The Himalayan Zoo which houses the Himalayan fauna like the Red Panda, black bear, yaks, tigers, snow leopard etc. in their natural habitat, and the adjacent Himalayan Mountaineering Institute - a premier training centre for mountaineers and a museum detailing the ascent of the Mt. Everest by Tenzing Sherpa & Sir Edmund Hillary and numerous other expeditions.

Also visit Tibetan Self Help Centre, a centre of training young people in the intricate art of Tibetan handicrafts and handlooms. The sales emporium is open to visitors to pick up souvenirs. Overnight Hotel.

Day 03: Darjeeling – Gangtok (1600 mtrs.)

Distance: 97 km | Time: 3-½ hrs approx.

After breakfast drive to Gangtok. On arrival at Gangtok, check in at the hotel.

Afternoon visit Government Institute of Cottage Industry a centre that offers you the opportunity to observe the local artisans at work and their skills being imparted to young boys and girls. If you want to take back souvenirs, the institute's salesroom is well stocked with local handicraft and handloom products. Do-Drul Chorten - One of the most important stupas of Sikkim built by the late Venerable Trulsi Rimpoche in 1945-46, it contains a mandala of Dorji-Phurpa, holy texts, mantras and is encircled by 108 prayer wheels. Namgyal Institute of Tibetology - Situated close to the Chorten, this institute is a repository of the largest collection of Tibetan artifacts outside Tibet. Also renowned worldwide for the study of Buddhist philosophy and religion, it is a treasure house of rare Thankas, Buddhist icon and objects of art. Flower Show Pavilion - Situated on the ridge above the city, this centre displays the floral diversity of Sikkim. The famed orchids of the state are on display as also a stunning variety of seasonal flowers. Overnight Hotel.

Day 04: Day excursion to Tsomgo Lake.

Distance: 70 km | Time: 5 hrs

Located east of Gangtok at an altitude of 3650 mtrs. The Tsomgo Lake is a typically beautiful mountain lake. The journey to the lake offers a magnificent view of Mt. Khangchendzonga and other peaks of Sikkim Himalayas. Afternoon free to explore the markets.

Day 05: Gangtok – Ravangla (1950 mtrs.)

Distance: 102 km | Time:

Enroute to Ravangla visit the Rumtek Monastery, a magnificent Buddhist monastery established by the late Gyalwa Karmapa, the head of the Kagyupa sect. Built as an exact replica of the original Kagyu monastery in Tibet it is also the international headquarters of the Karma Kagyu centres.

On arrival check in at Mt Narsing Village Resort, an ideal place to experience the peace and tranquility of the Sikkimese countryside coupled with the warmth of the typical Sikkimese hospitality. Overnight Hotel.

Day 06: Ravangla Full Day sightseeing:

After breakfast sightseeing around Ravangla includes visit to the Temi tea garden to observe the plucking and processing of one of the finest tea in the world. Overnight at Mt Narsing Village Resort, an ideal place to experience the peace and tranquility of the Sikkimese countryside coupled with the warmth of the typical Sikkimese hospitality. Also visit Samdruptse the site of the 113 ft tall statue of Guru Padmasambhava or Guru Rimpoche, the patron saint of Sikkim and the Buddhist scholar who restored Buddhism in Tibet in the 7th century AD. The location also offers a breathtaking view of the Sikkim Himalayas and the Darjeeling hills.

After Lunch visit the monasteries at Ralang.Situated 13 kms away against the spectacular backdrop of the peaks of Narsing, Jopuno and Kabur are the two monasteries at Ralang. The old Ralang monastery, Karma Rabten Cholling, was built in 1730 on a site blessed by an earlier incarnation of Karmapa where the grains of rice thrown by him from Tibet had landed. The monastery is one of the most sacred and important monasteries following the Kagyupa tradition. " Pang Lhabsol " the worship of Mt Khangchendzonga & " Kagyad " Chaam masked dances are held every year on the 15th day of the seventh month of the Buddhist calendar coinciding with August/September and on the 29th day of the tenth month just before Losoong - the Sikkimese New Year in December. The New Ralang monastery - Palchen Choeling Monastic Institute, was built by the XIIth Gyaltsab Rimpoche, one of the four regents of the Kagyupa sect and completed in 1995. This is the biggest monastery in Sikkim and its architecture and paintings have been painstakingly undertaken to maintain the authenticity of the Kagyupa monasteries. The sacred Mahakala Dance is held here every year in November. Overnight Hotel.

Day 07: Ravangla – Pelling (1950 mtrs.)

Distance: 60 km | Time: 2 hrs approx

After breakfast drive to Pelling. On arrival check in the hotel and thereafter visit the Pemayangtse Monastery. Built in the 18th century AD, this monastery follows the Nyingmapa sect of Tibetan Buddhism. Pemayangtse - "the Sublime Lotus", also houses the famed "Zangdopalri", a fascinating model of the celestial abode of Guru Padma Sambhava, crafted single-handedly out of wood by the late Dungzim Rimpoche.

Also visit the Rabdentse Palace ruins. The site of the second capital of Sikkim from AD to AD is strategically located on a ridge with a commanding view of the Rangeet valley and the villages scattered in West and South Sikkim. The recent restoration of the site lends a pleasant place to experience the history of Sikkim with great views. Overnight Hotel.

Day 08: Pelling – Khecheodpalri Lake – Yuksom (1800 mtrs)

Distance: 65 km | Time: 3-½ hrs approx

After breakfast proceed to Yuksom. Enroute visit Khecheodpalri Lake, also known as the wishing lake. This unusually calm lake, located in the midst of a dense forest is considered very sacred and no water sport or other activities besides prayers and worship are allowed around it.

A quaint little village, Yuksom is also the take off point for trekking to Dzongri and Goecha-la. This is also the place where the three Lamas met and consecrated the first king of Sikkim in 1641. The Norbugang chorten and the Coronation throne stand mute testimony to this historic event. Overnight Hotel.

Day 09: Yuksom – Kalimpong (1200 mtrs)

Distance: 105 km | Time: 3-½ hrs approx.

After breakfast drive to Kalimpong. On arrival check in at the hotel and proceed for sightseeing after lunch.Kalimpong is renowned for floriculture and visit to some of the flower nurseries opens up a beautiful world of orchids, Cacti, foliage plants and a huge variety of other seasonal flowers and shrubs. A visit to the scenically located monastery at Durpin offers a birds eye view of the town below. The old market of 10th Mile area of the town has the feel of the bustling Tibet trade which existed till 1959 when Tibet was annexed by China. Also and ideal place to pick up typical Himalayan and Buddhist souvenirs. Overnight Hotel.

Day 10: Kalimpong – Bagdogra / Bhadrapur.

Distance: 75 km | Time: 3 hrs approx

After breakfast drive to Bagdogra or Bhadrapur airport to connect your flight onwards.

RSTK 01 KHANGCHENDZONGNA “WHITE MAGIC” TREK (12 Nights/ 13 Days)

This itinerary is built around a strenuous trek that takes you to Goechala at 5000 mtrs. opposite the southeastern face of Mt. Khangchendzonga (8345 mtrs.), the third highest mountain in the world and also one of the most majestic peaks. The trek begins through dense sub-tropical forests and passes vast pasture lands of grazing Yaks and finally reaches the alpine region where the only vegetation are Rhododendron shrubs rising a few inches above the ground. The day temperature could rise to a maximum of 20ºc during trek while the minimum temperature could hover around zero.

Day 01: Bagdogra / Bhadrapur - Gangtok

Distance: 124 km | Time: 4 hrs (approx.)

Meet assist at the airport and drive along the Teesta valley to the Sikkim border at Rangpo and onto Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim. Under the majestic Mt. Khangchendzonga, the guardian deity of Sikkim and the third highest mountain in the world, Gangtok is a happy blend of the traditional and the modern. Overnight Hotel.

Day 02: Day excursion to Tsomgo Lake.

Distance: 70 km | Time: 5 hrs

Located east of Gangtok at an altitude of 3650 mtrs. The Tsomgo Lake is a typically beautiful mountain lake just 15 kms from the Indo - Tibet border. The journey to the lake offers a magnificent view of Mt. Khangchendzonga and other peaks of Sikkim Himalayas.

En route visit Enchey Monastery, this 90 year old monastery perched on a hillock overlooking the city follows the Nyingmapa sect and is the main monastery in Gangtok.

On return from Tsomgo Lake visit, Government Institute of Cottage Industry: This centre offers you the opportunity to observe the local artisans at work and their skills being imparted to young boys and girls. If you want to take back souvenirs, the institute's salesroom is well stocked with local handicraft and handloom products.

Flower Show Pavilion: Situated on the ridge above the city, this centre displays the floral diversity of Sikkim. The famed orchids of the state are on display as also a stunning variety of seasonal flowers. Overnight Hotel.

Day 03: Gangtok – Rumtek - Ravangla (1950 mtrs)

Distance: 98 km | Time: 4 hrs (approx.)

After breakfast drive to Ravangla. Enroute visit Do-Drul Chorten : One of the most important Stupa of Sikkim built by the late Venerable Trulsi Rimpoche in 1945-46, it contains a mandala of Dorji-Phurpa, holy texts, mantras and is encircled by 108 prayer wheels.

Namgyal Institute of Tibetology: Situated close to the Chorten, this institute is a repository of the largest collection of Tibetan artifacts outside Tibet. Also renowned worldwide for the study of Buddhist philosophy and religion, it is a treasure house of rare Thankas, Buddhist icon and objects of art.

Rumtek Monastery: a magnificent monastery built by the late Gyalwa Karmapa, the head of the Kagyupa sect, as an exact replica of the original Kagyu monastery in Tibet. It is also the international headquarters of the Karma Kagyu centres.

On arrival at Ravangla check in at Mt. Narsing Village Resort, an ideal place to experience the peace and tranquility of the Sikkimese countryside coupled with the warmth of the typical Sikkimese hospitality. A couple of hours of hike into the nearby villages will help you loosen up for the tough trek ahead.

Overnight Mt Narsing Village Resort.

Day 04: Drive Ravangla-Yuksom (1770 mtrs)

Distance: 58 km | Time: 2-½ hrs (approx.)

Enroute visit Tashiding monastery- the most sacred monastery complex in Sikkim.

Day 05: Trek Yuksom-Tsokha (2745 mtrs)

Distance: 12 km | Time: 5 hrs (approx.)

The trek begins (after breakfast) through dense semi-tropical forest occasionally crossing beautiful mountain streams. The last two-hour trek to Tshoka is a steep climb. The first glimpses of the magnificent Mt. Pandim (6891 mtrs) can be seen. Overnight Trekkers huts/Tents.

Day 06: Trek Tshoka - Dzongri (4200 mtrs)

Distance: 9 km | Time: 3 hrs (approx.)

A steep climb through fascinating rhododendron forests. The magnificent view of Mt. Khangchendzonga and Mt. Pandim can be witnessed all through the route. Overnight stay in a Trekkers huts/Tents.

Day 07: Dzongri

A day return excursion to Dzongri Pass along a route through towering white peaks. Also a day for acclimatization. Overnight Trekkers' hut/tents.

Day 08: Trek Dzongri - Thangsing (3930mtrs)

Distance: 8 km| Time: 3 hrs (approx.)

A relative easy trail with a clear view of Mt. Khangchendzonga. A slight climb after crossing a mountain stream for camp for the night. Overnight Trekkers hut/Tents.

Day 09: Trek Thangsing - Samiti Pokhari (4500 mtrs)

Distance: 6 km| Time: 3 hrs (approx.)

The trail with magnificent views of Mt. Pandim all along. Overnight Trekkers huts/Tents.

Day 10: Trek Samiti Pokhari - Goechala - Thangsing (5002 mtrs)

Distance: 11 km | Time: 5 hrs (approx.)

An early morning climb along a gully to view the east face of Mt. Khangchendzonga bathed in the rays of the morning sun. Descend to Thangsing. Overnight Trekkers huts/Tents.

Day 11: Trek Thangsing- Tsokha

Distance: 12 km | Time: 4 hrs (approx.)

Descend to Phedang and then to Tsokha through dense forests. Overnight Trekkers hut/Tents.

Day 12: Trek Tsokha - Yuksom

Distance: 10 km | Time: 4 hrs (approx.)

The last day of the trek. Retrace the trail to Yuksom at your own leisure. If you arrive early you can visit Dubdi Monastery, the oldest monastery in Sikkim built Gyalwa Lhatsun Chenpo, the revered Buddhist monk who introduced Buddhism in Sikkim in 1641 AD or stroll around the tranquil Karthok Lake.Overnight Hotel.

Day 13: Drive Yuksom – Bagdogra.

Distance: 127 km | Time: 4-½ hrs (approx.)

After breakfast drive to your onwards destination