Crossing into Tibet, you’ll be enchanted by the Tibetan culture, with visits to the awe-inspiring Potala Palace, the sacred Jokhang Temple, and the vibrant Barkhor Street in Lhasa. The Silk Route Adventure is not just a trip through extraordinary landscapes; it’s a journey through history, spirituality, and culture, offering an unparalleled exploration of some of the world’s most remote and awe-inspiring regions. With each step, you’ll uncover the treasures of ancient civilizations, making this an unforgettable odyssey that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.
Tour Highlights: Victoria Memorial, Howrah Bridge, Kalighat Temple, Indian Museum, Local Markets
Arrive at Kolkata International Airport, where our representative will welcome you and transfer you to your pre booked hotel. After check-in, begin your exploration of this vibrant city. Start with the Victoria Memorial, a magnificent structure that symbolizes Kolkata’s colonial past. Head to Howrah Bridge, one of the busiest and most iconic landmarks in India. Visit Kalighat Temple, a sacred Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Kali, and explore the exhibits at the Indian Museum, one of the oldest museums in India. Enjoy a walk through the bustling local markets, where you can find everything from traditional handicrafts to delicious street food.
Overnight Stay: Kolkata
Tour Highlights: Tsomgo Lake, Local Exploration of Gangtok
After breakfast, take your flight to Bagdogra and then drive to Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim. Upon arrival, check into your pre booked hotel and take the rest of the day to relax. In the evening, explore the MG Road, Gangtok's vibrant shopping area filled with cafes, shops, and local markets. The cool, clean air of the mountains will make for a relaxing evening as you enjoy the ambiance of this charming city.
Overnight Stay: Gangtok
Tour Highlights: Rumtek Monastery, Do Drul Chorten, Banjhakri Waterfall, Tashi Viewpoint
Begin your day with a visit to Rumtek Monastery, one of the most important monasteries in Sikkim and an epitome of Tibetan Buddhist culture. Continue to Do Drul Chorten, a stupa and one of the most revered religious sites in Gangtok. Then, visit the peaceful Banjhakri Waterfall, surrounded by lush greenery. In the afternoon, head to Tashi Viewpoint for a spectacular view of the Kanchenjunga mountain range. The vibrant culture and serene landscapes of Gangtok will captivate you.
Overnight Stay: Gangtok
Tour Highlights: Nathula Pass, Baba Mandir, Tsomgo Lake
Early in the morning, take a scenic drive towards Nathula Pass, one of the highest motorable roads in the world. This pass is located on the Indo-China border and offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Visit the Baba Mandir, a shrine dedicated to an Indian soldier who lost his life during a mission in the area. On the way back, stop at Tsomgo Lake, a glacial lake nestled at an altitude of 12,000 feet. Enjoy the breathtaking views and the serene environment of the area.
Overnight Stay: Gangtok
Tour Highlights: Lhasa City, Potala Palace (First View)
After breakfast, take a flight to Lhasa, Tibet’s cultural and spiritual capital. Upon arrival, check in at your pre booked hotel and relax. The high-altitude landscape and the mystical atmosphere of Lhasa will envelop you as you take your time to adjust to the elevation. In the evening, you will get your first glimpse of the Potala Palace, the iconic symbol of Tibetan culture, standing magnificently against the backdrop of the mountains.
Overnight Stay: Lhasa
Tour Highlights: Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Barkhor Street
After breakfast, head to the Potala Palace, the former residence of the Dalai Lama and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore its stunning architecture, murals, and chapels that showcase Tibet’s rich spiritual heritage. Afterward, visit the sacred Jokhang Temple, one of the holiest temples in Tibet, and wander through Barkhor Street, a vibrant market and pilgrimage circuit that surrounds the temple. The street is a lively hub of Tibetan culture, where you can see pilgrims, monks, and locals going about their daily activities.
Overnight Stay: Lhasa
Tour Highlights: Norbulingka Palace, Sera Monastery, Tibetan Culture
Start your day with a visit to Norbulingka Palace, the summer residence of the Dalai Lama, which is surrounded by beautiful gardens and intricate Tibetan architecture. Next, head to Sera Monastery, one of the most significant monastic universities in Tibet, where you can witness monks engaging in debates on Buddhist philosophy. In the afternoon, take a stroll through Lhasa’s old town and enjoy the unique Tibetan lifestyle. You’ll have time to shop for Tibetan handicrafts and explore the local cafes for some traditional Tibetan tea.
Overnight Stay: Lhasa
Tour Highlights: Tibet Museum, Tibetan Markets, Local Culture
Spend your last day in Lhasa exploring the Tibet Museum, which houses a rich collection of Tibetan art, cultural artifacts, and exhibits detailing Tibet’s history and Buddhism. Take the opportunity to visit local Tibetan markets and shops to purchase traditional items such as thangka paintings, jewelry, and handcrafted goods. Enjoy a relaxed afternoon, soaking in the unique atmosphere of this sacred city, before preparing for your departure the next day.
Overnight Stay: Lhasa
After breakfast, your guide will transfer you to Lhasa Gonggar Airport for your onward flight, concluding your incredible journey through Kolkata, Sikkim, Nathula Pass, and Lhasa.