The land of ethereal mountainous landscapes, sprawling park-like tea gardens, rainbow-coloured beds of rhododendrons, gyrating routes, magnificent Buddhist monasteries and gompas, glasslike luminous lakes, awe-inspiring frosty peaks of Mt. Everest & Mt. Kanchenjunga in the horizon and surreal sunsets and sunrises – the charm of Himalayan state of Sikkim is a pleasurable sight to behold. The second smallest state of country is a favourite stomping grounds for hikers and trekkers too who visit from far to conquer the many undulating passes & gorges in its hemispheres. Invested with abundant natural beauty, a delightful cuisine and thrilling recreational pursuits, this week-long “Eastern Himalayan Delight” Tour is your ideal much-needed escape from the hum-drums of daily life.
Gangtok is a cosmopolitan town which offers the tourist all possible amenities. For a view of Gangtok and all it's surrounding, one can get to Ganesh Tok situated on a ridge at a distance of 7 kms from Gangtok. From this spot one can get a view of sprawling Gangtok town, while across the hills Mt. Khang-chen-Dzonga and Mt. Siniolchu loom over the horizon. The hill resort of Darjeeling is located to the south of Sikkim. It is famous for the distinctive black tea grown on plantations that dot its surrounding slopes.
Welcome to your 'Eastern Himalayan Delight' tour! On arrival at the airport in Bagdogra / railway station in New Jalpaiguri, You will be transferred to Pelling.
The rest of the day is at leisure.
Overnight stay in Pelling.
This morning, proceed on a half day city tour of Pelling. Places of visit are Rimbi water falls, a great stop on the way to the famous Kanchenjunga falls and the Khecheopalri Lake. Kechopalri Lake, is a sacred lake to the Buddhists and it is believed that any wish in front of the lake comes true - Myth is that when a leaf falls on the placid clear water surface, it is picked by a bird and thus the water surface is always free of leaves. Kechopalri Monastery and Kanchenjunga Waterfalls are famous for their beauty and fierceness. The falls are divine and dangerous at once. Pemayangtse Monastery is the oldest and the most prestigious Buddhist monastery in Sikkim. Visit Rabdantse ruins, the scenic view from the top of the ruin to the mystic heights of Kanchendzonga ranges is something to be cherished. Return to the hotel in the afternoon.
The rest of the day is at leisure for independent activities.
Overnight stay in Pelling.
Today, proceed on a picturesque drive to Gangtok. En route, visit Ravangla - a small township in southern Sikkim. On arrival in Gangtok, check-in to your hotel.
Ravangla, a small town situated in South Sikkim, surrounded by high-forested hills, undulating valleys dotted with village huts. Ravangla offers breath taking views of Kangchenjunga along with its sister peaks of Pandim, Kabru, Sinialchu and many others.
The rest of the day is at leisure.
Overnight stay in Gangtok.
Early in the morning, depart for an excursion to Tshangu Lake (one has to obtain a permit directly in Gangtok to visit Tshangu Lake). The lake is surrounded by coniferous trees that are perennial in nature. The lake freezes completely during the winter and is considered holy and is worshipped by the locals. One can enjoy a Yak ride around this lake (on direct payment basis).
The rest of the day is at leisure to shop around the Tibetan Market.
Overnight stay in Gangtok.
This morning, proceed on a city tour visiting Do Drul Chorten - the Buddhist Stupa, the Enchey Monastery, One of the many serene and peaceful prayer houses in Sikkim,which has more than 200 varieties of orchids (which bloom in April - May).
Later, proceed to Enchey Ancient Monastery, which is more than 200 years old and provides the best views of the mountain range of Kanchenjunga. Also visit Rumtek monastery. The flowing streams of water, Snow capped mountains, the proximity of the river and the silence of the valley give the monastery a tranquil and peaceful environment.
The rest of the day is at leisure for independent activities.
Overnight stay in Gangtok.
In the morning, drive to Kalimpong (85 kms / approx 3 hours drive) a pretty hill station with the majestic Himalayas in the background and gently rolling hills around. On arrival, check -in to your hotel.
Enjoy a half-day sightseeing tour of Kalimpong, visiting Dello Hills, the highest point in Kalimpong has a great view of Kanchenjung, amazing views of the surrounding villages and the Teesta River bellow. Dr. Graham's (Outer view) is actually a school established in 1900 and the Cactus nurseries has a hundred of variety of cactus plants collected from North, South and Central America.
Overnight stay in Kalimpong.
Today, bid farewell to your 'Eastern Himalayan Delight' tour, as you are transferred to the airport in Bagdogra / railway station in New Jalpaiguri for your onward journey.
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