Darjeeling Gangtok 5 Days 
Darjeeling Gangtok 5 Days
Darjeeling Gangtok 5 Days
Darjeeling (2 Nights), Gangtok (2 Nights)
5-day tour of Gangtok and Darjeeling with local sightseeing at both places including a Tsongo lake visit
Activities
Himalayan Zoological ParkDarjeeling RopewayGhum MonasteryPeace PagodaHappy Valley Tea EstateTenzing RockHimalayan Mountaineering InstituteRock GardenBatasia LoopTiger HillTibetan Refugee Self Help CenterTsongo LakeBaba Mandir
Himalayan Zoological Park
Duration :3 Hours
The Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, Darjeeling is named after Padmaja Naidu, the daughter of Sarojini Naidu, who was the Governor of West Bengal and a prominent political figure in India, the zoo is dedicated to the preservation and breeding of endangered Himalayan species.
The zoo is situated in the Birch Hill area of Darjeeling. It is adjacent to the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, also known as HMI. The zoo specialises in showcasing and conserving the unique flora and fauna of the Himalayan region. It houses various species of animals and birds native to the eastern Himalayas.
The Zoo is famous for several unique programs such as the Red Panda Breeding Program where the zoo succeeded in Red Panda breeding. It is also known for its efforts in conserving the elusive and endangered snow leopard.
Darjeeling Ropeway
Duration :2 Hours
The Darjeeling Ropeway, also known as the Rangeet Valley Passenger Cable Car, is a popular tourist attraction in Darjeeling. Operational since 1968, the ropeway offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, tea gardens, and the lush greenery of the region.
The Darjeeling Ropeway starts from the Singamari area and ends at the picturesque Singla Bazaar, traversing the scenic landscapes of the Singla Valley. During the approximately 45-minute ride, visitors are treated to stunning vistas of the Himalayan peaks, including the iconic Kanchenjunga, the third-highest mountain in the world.
The ropeway consists of several cable cars, each offering an open-air viewing experience. It provides a unique and thrilling way to appreciate the natural beauty of Darjeeling and its surroundings. The journey is often considered a must-do activity for tourists, offering a memorable and picturesque experience.
While enjoying the Darjeeling Ropeway, visitors can also witness the tea gardens below, adding to the charm of the ride. It's advisable to check the operational status and timings before planning a visit, as these can be subject to change.
Ghum Monastery
Duration :2 Hours
The Ghum Monastery, also known as the Yiga Choeling Monastery, is one of the oldest and most significant monasteries in Darjeeling. Situated in the town of Ghum, which is just a few kilometres from Darjeeling, this monastery is a key religious and cultural landmark in the region.
Ghum Monastery is situated at an altitude of about 8,000 feet (2,438 meters), making it one of the highest monasteries in the region. The monastery was established in 1850 by Lama Sherab Gyatso. It belongs to the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism and is affiliated with the famous Yiga Choeling Monastery in Tibet. One of the main attractions within the Ghum Monastery is a 15-foot-tall statue of Maitreya Buddha. The monastery houses valuable thangkas (Tibetan Buddhist paintings on cotton or silk) and ancient manuscripts.
Peace Pagoda
Duration :1 hour
The Peace Pagoda in Darjeeling is one of the many built worldwide as a symbol of peace and unity. The Darjeeling Peace Pagoda is situated on the slopes of Jalapahar Hill.
It was built under the guidance of Nichidatsu Fujii, a Buddhist monk from Japan and the founder of the Nipponzan-Myohoji order. The foundation stone was laid on November 3, 1972, and the pagoda was inaugurated on November 1, 1992. The pagoda follows the traditional Japanese architectural style. It is a four-tier structure with a golden statue of Lord Buddha at the top.
Happy Valley Tea Estate
Duration :1 Hour
Nestled amidst the breathtaking landscape of Darjeeling, the Happy Valley Tea Estate stands as a testament to the region's rich tea heritage. A sightseeing visit to this idyllic plantation from Darjeeling town is a journey into the heart of tea cultivation and its fascinating history.
Tourists are typically taken to a viewpoint to see the tea plantation from close quarters. The viewpoint is about 3 km from the heart of town and may take about 15 minutes to reach. Here you'll be treated to panoramic views of rolling hills covered in verdant tea bushes. The estate, established in 1854, is one of the oldest tea plantations in Darjeeling and is renowned for its high-quality, aromatic teas.
Tenzing Rock
Duration :Half an Hour
Named after Tenzing Norgay, the Sherpa guide who, alongside Sir Edmund Hillary, made the first successful ascent of Mount Everest in 1953, Tenzing Rock is a must-visit attraction for both adventure enthusiasts and those seeking a glimpse into the region's mountaineering heritage.
Situated about 3 kilometres from the heart of Darjeeling, Tenzing Rock is a massive granite rock face that stands at an imposing height. The rock provides a challenging surface for rock climbing enthusiasts. The site has been developed into a rock climbing destination, allowing both beginners and experienced climbers to test their skills against the natural contours of the rock.
For those not inclined toward climbing, Tenzing Rock offers a fantastic vantage point to enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The rock served as a training ground for Tenzing himself, who honed his mountaineering skills here before embarking on his historic Everest expedition. Visitors to Tenzing Rock can also witness skilled local guides demonstrating rock climbing techniques, adding an element of adventure to the overall experience.
Himalayan Mountaineering Institute
Duration :1 Hour
The Himalayan Mountaineering Institute (HMI) is a renowned institution located in Darjeeling and dedicated to mountaineering, adventure sports, and wilderness training. The HMI was established on November 4, 1954, by Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of India, in honour of the successful ascent of Mount Everest by Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay Sherpa in 1953.
HMI conducts several adventure and mountain courses. These courses cover different aspects of mountaineering, including rock climbing, ice climbing, and high-altitude trekking.
Tourists can visit the Mountaineering Museum which displays a rich collection of mountaineering gear, artefacts, photographs, and information about famous mountaineers. It provides insights into the history and challenges of mountaineering in the Himalayas.
The HMI campus is within the campus of the Himalayan Zoological Park. The Zoo and HMI can be visited together.
Rock Garden
Duration :2 Hours
The Rock Garden of Darjeeling, officially known as the "Barbotey Rock Garden," is a popular tourist attraction located in the hilly town of Darjeeling. There is also a park here known as Gangamaya Park. It is a beautifully landscaped garden that showcases a variety of plants, waterfalls, terraced fields, and pathways, all set against the backdrop of the surrounding hills. The Rock Garden was created by the Gorkha Hill Council Tourism Department in the 1980s. It was developed to enhance the natural beauty of the region and attract tourists.
The garden is situated about 10 kilometres away from the main town. It is located near Chunnu Summer Falls. The road connecting Darjeeling with Rock Garden is quite a steep one. The garden is adorned with small waterfalls and streams, creating a serene atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy the soothing sound of flowing water while exploring the pathways. The garden has well-defined walking trails that lead visitors through the terraced landscapes and offer stunning views of the hills and valleys.
A visit to the rock garden is not part of typical Darjeeling local sightseeing. If you wish to visit Rock Garden, you must book it as an additional service and will most likely be required to pay extra for the tour.
Batasia Loop
Duration :1 Hour
The Batasia Loop is a mesmerizing feat of engineering and a testament to the region's scenic beauty. This architectural marvel is a loop in the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999.
Built-in 1919, the Batasia Loop was constructed to overcome the steep gradient of the mountainous terrain and facilitate the smooth ascent and descent of trains. The loop is a spiralling track that winds around itself, creating a captivating spectacle for passengers and onlookers. It is strategically located between Ghum and Darjeeling, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including the majestic Kanchenjunga, the third-highest mountain in the world.
Tourists and train enthusiasts flock to the Batasia Loop to experience the thrill of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway's toy train navigating the spiral track. The slow, rhythmic chug of the steam engine, coupled with the awe-inspiring vistas, creates an unforgettable journey through this picturesque loop.
Tiger Hill
Duration :4hr
Tiger Hill is a famous hilltop in Darjeeling. It is renowned for offering stunning panoramic views, especially during sunrise, and is a popular destination for tourists. Tiger Hill provides breathtaking views of the eastern Himalayan mountain range, including the world's third-highest peak, Mount Kangchenjunga. On a clear day, you can also see the peaks of Mount Everest, Makalu, and Lhotse.
To witness sunrise from Tiger Hill, you have to start early in the morning and reach the spot before sunrise. It's approximately 11 kilometres from the main town and takes close to half an hour to reach. The local administration issues tokens for Tiger Hill visits to limit the congestion at the hilltop during early morning hours. So you need to decide at least one day in advance to visit Tiger Hill.
The weather at Tiger Hill can be chilly, especially during the early morning hours. Visitors are advised to dress warmly. The view also depends on local weather conditions. On a cloudy day, the sunrise might be a miss.
Tibetan Refugee Self Help Center
Duration :1 Hour
The Tibetan Refugee Self-Help Center was established in 1959 to support Tibetan refugees who fled Tibet following the Chinese occupation. The establishment was created to provide a means of livelihood and support for the Tibetan community. This is achieved through various vocational training programs, handicraft production, and the sale of traditional Tibetan crafts.
One of the main activities at the centre is the production of traditional Tibetan handicrafts. Skilled artisans at the centre create items such as carpets, shawls, wooden carvings, and various other handcrafted products. These items are often sold at the centre and in other markets to generate income for the community.
The Tibetan Refugee Self-Help Center has become a popular tourist destination in Darjeeling. Visitors have the opportunity to observe the artisans at work, learn about Tibetan culture, and purchase traditional Tibetan handicrafts.
Tsongo Lake
Duration :6 Hours
Tsomgo Lake or Changu Lake is nestled at an altitude of 3,753 meters in the East Sikkim district, approximately 40 kilometres from Gangtok. It is one of the major sightseeing attractions for tourists visiting Gangtok. Tsomgo Lake is a mesmerizing glacial lake that undergoes a remarkable transformation with the changing seasons.
Surrounded by alpine forests, the lake's catchment area experiences a burst of floral brilliance during the summer months with rhododendrons, primulas, and poppies blossoming after the winter thaw. During winter months the lake remains partially of completely frozen.
Tourists can embark on joy rides atop decorated yaks and mules, delighting in the scenic beauty while relishing a variety of food and drinks from the kiosks dotting the lake's periphery. Access to Tsomgo Lake requires permits.
Baba Mandir
Duration :Half an Hour
Harbhajan Singh was a young Indian army soldier who was escorting a mule column when he fell into a river and was washed away. The incident took place in 1968. Since then the soldiers guarding the border believe that the spirit of Harbhajan Singh protects the soldiers on the border.
Baba Mandir, also known as Harbhajan Singh Temple, is a revered shrine located near Tsomgo Lake. It is believed that he continues to watch over his fellow soldiers, and many people visiting the area pay their respects to him.
The temple is situated at an altitude of around 13,123 feet (4,000 meters) and is a significant pilgrimage site. It is a small shrine with a room containing Harbhajan Singh's personal belongings, including his uniform and other articles. The army personnel posted in the region maintain the temple.
Inclusions
| Destination | 2 Star | 3 Star | 4 Star | Luxury |
| Darjeeling | Humro Himalayan Orchid | Himalayan Retreat | Viceroy | New Elgin |
| Gangtok | Hotel Rendezvous | Maple Residency | Mt.Siniolchu | Norkhil |
| Pelling | Touristo | Pacchu Village Resort | Norbhugang Resort | Mt.Pandim |
| Kalimpong | Himalayan View | Soods Garden Retreat | Pine Tree Resort & Spa | Silver Oaks |
| Lachen | Royal Lachen | The Grand Lachen | Apple Orchard | Apple Orchard |
| Lachung | Royal Lachung | Golden Bridge | Yarlam | Yarlam |
- Hotel names are indicative, the actual hotels may be different in case the above-mentioned hotel is not available on a particular date. The final selection of the hotel will be done in coordination and confirmation of the guest.
- All accommodation is on Twin sharing basis.
- Extra Person / Child with Bed (CWB) sharing the room shall get an extra mattress.
- Hotel Accommodation for the duration as mentioned in the itinerary.
- Meal plan - The cost for two and three-star tours includes breakfast at the hotel. Other meals are not included. In the case of four-star and luxury tours, the meal plan is MAP (includes breakfast and dinner). In case your tour includes a visit to Lachung or Lachen, for that part of the tour all major meals (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner) will be included.
- In the case of a small group (2 or 3 people), all transfers & sightseeing would be in a small car such as a Sedan or hatchback. For larger groups, a luxury MUV such as Innova, Scorpio, Xylo or similar will be provided. We do not guarantee the make of the vehicle, the type of vehicle is ensured.
- Vehicle in the Sikkim Darjeeling region is available on an itinerary basis and not on a disposal basis. It means that the vehicle will not stay with the guest the whole time, it will only be available for the duration of the mentioned service. Also due to local restrictions, the vehicle may be changed from day to day. So the same vehicle may not service the guest during the entire tour.
Exclusions
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GST as per the government rate will be charged extra.
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Additional usage of vehicles other than scheduled & mentioned in the itinerary will be charged extra.
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Personal expenses such as laundry, bottled water, soft drinks, incidentals, porter charges, tips, etc are not included.
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The cost of optional / suggested tours, Guide charge, Sightseeing entrance fee, and Room Heater charge in the hotel will be paid extra on the spot.
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Cost for any other service not mentioned under the “Inclusions” Head.
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Cost for Airfare, Train fare, Toy Train Ride.
Cancellation Policy
Within 3 weeks from the date of the journey - Cancellation Charge will be 50 % of the total package cost.
Within 15 days from the date of the journey - Cancellation Charge will be 75 % of the total package cost.
Within 10 Days & Less from the date of the journey - Full Cancellation or No Refund.
Child Policy
Child Policy:
- Child Below 05 yrs complimentary
- Child 5 -10 yrs. without extra bed as mention in cost column CNB (Child no Bed)
- Above 10 years / Extra adult with an extra bed/mattress sharing room are same & charged as per.
Other Policy
Tariff
- Tariffs is valid for Indian Nationals only, foreign nationals may ask for a special quote from our team.
- All accommodation is on a twin-sharing basis unless otherwise mentioned.
General Rules
- Very few hotels in the region have elevators and guests should be prepared to climb stairs.
- The hotel name mentioned are indicative and not confirmed. Before confirmation of the tour, we will confirm the availability of the hotel and suggest an alternative if the mentioned hotel is not available.
- In case of bad weather, poor road condition, local or political disturbance, security reasons, or any other unforeseen circumstances, the operations team may decide to make changes in the itinerary. Every effort will be made to consult the guests in such eventuality, however, the decision of the operations team will be final and binding on the guests.
- In case of young or older persons or persons with health issues or disabilities, consult your doctor about the itinerary. Also if any special arrangement is needed, such information should be given to our team in advance before confirmation of the tour.
- Any dispute arising is subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of Siliguri irrespective of any competence court present at the place of dispute.
Vehicle Restrictions in Gangtok town
There are restrictions on vehicle movement within Gangtok city between 8 AM and 7 PM. During these hours if you have to transit outside, you have to hire a local taxi (easily available within the city) and come to the “vehicle stand”. There are multiple stands in town, each designated for different destinations. Our operations team will co-ordinate with you over the phone but we will not be present on the ground as our vehicle is allowed only till the stand where it will wait for you. So commuting between the hotel and the stand is your responsibility.
Rules for a visit to Tsomgo Lake and Baba Mandir
Permit for Tsomgo Lake & New Baba Mandir is issued on the same day around 08.00 to 09.00 AM. Sometimes due to a large number of tourists, the issuance of a permit may take longer. Because of transport restriction in Gangtok town (mentioned in detail separately), guests are required to leave the hotel much before 8:00 AM and might have to wait at Tsomgo stand for some time till the permit is issued and reaches the stand. Guests should be mentally prepared to wait at the stand during this time.
While returning guests will be dropped at Tsomgo stand from where return journey by local taxies has to be arranged by the guests directly.
If a permit is not issued due to weather problems or military restrictions, then the alternate trips will be arranged. However, if the journey starts towards Tsomgo but is interrupted midway due to any unforeseen circumstances, then the sightseeing of Hanuman Tok, Ganesh Tok, and Tashi View Point will be done on the way back. In either case, there will be no refund irrespective of the cause for the change.
Nathula Pass
A visit to Nathula Pass is not guaranteed by us. Nathula Pass is Indo-China border and visits to Nathula are controlled by the Indian army. Permits are issued in limited numbers at the last moment on specific days of the week. Guests may or may not get a permit even when booked well in advance. After the issue of a permit, Nathula visit may get canceled at the last moment and in such cases no refund is possible. Our tours do not include the Nathula visit by default.
If you insist on Nathula visit, discuss this with our helpdesk executive. On reaching Gangtok, necessary documents and money will be collected from you on the spot. However, we will not be responsible for any complications related to the Nathula tour.
Closure Information
In Darjeeling HMI and Zoo remains closed on Thursdays & national holidays.
Gangtok city tour should be avoided on Sundays & National Holidays as many places remain closed.
In case a sightseeing point is closed on a particular day, no refund/adjustment/repeat visit on another day is not possible.
Transportation-Related Rules
- In hilly areas, the driver may not operate the AC in the vehicle. This is due to altitude, air pressure, and extra pressure on the engine on an uphill drive.
- The vehicle will not be at a disposal basis but on an itinerary basis. The vehicle will be exclusively used by you and your group but only for the itinerary mentioned and on a point to point basis. An additional service request may or may not be possible and will incur an additional charge payable on the spot.
- Due to local restrictions, the vehicle provided may change on a regular basis. In other words, the same vehicle may not continuously provide service to you.
- Most hotels in the hills have very limited parking places. Hence guests should wait at the reception 5 minute before departure to avoid inconvenience.
Rules for a visit to Zero Point, Chopta Valley
Permission for visit to these points are obtained locally and often due to security, weather, terrain related reasons, these places might be closed with or without notice. Hence visit these areas are not part of our normal itinerary. These are optional visits for which guests have to pay the driver an additional amount on the spot. Consult our helpdesk executive before start of the tour and he or she will help you with the amount payable in this regard.
