A Journey to Sikkim
Sikkim is a remote and beautiful Himalayan state of majestic mountains, ancient Buddhist monasteries, orchids and rhododendrons.
Darjeeling was one of the premier hill stations of the British Raj and though now faded, is still of nostalgic interest with magnificent views of Kanchenjunga and Everest, colourful bazaars, many varieties of rhododendrons, magnolia, primula, orchids and fern.
The Happy Valley Tea Estate still uses orthodox methods to produce this “champagne of teas”
There are wonderful day walks from the 17th century monastery of Pemayangste, to the palaces and monuments of the former rulers, lakes and forests of pine, small Sikkimese villages, paddy and cardamom fields.
Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim, is a pleasant city with several important Buddhist Monasteries.
Kalimpong is small bazaar town with fine views and walks.
Day 1
Fly from Delhi to Bagdogra.
Driven to Darjeeling.
Stay at the Windamere Hotel which recaptures the atmosphere of a bygone age with elegance and comfort.
Or, if you prefer somewhere away from town, we can book you in one of the suites of the Glenburn Tea Estate.
Day 2
Darjeeling
In the morning visit Ghoom Monastery
In the afternoon return by “Toy Train” to Darjeeling ~ Visit Botanical Garden.
Stay a second night at your chosen accommodation.
Day 3
Visit tea plantation, Himalayan Mountaineering Institute and Zoological Park.
Stay a third night at your chosen accommodation.
Day 4
Driven to Pelling.
Stay at The Elgin Mount Pandim Hotel, Pelling .
Day 5
Enjoy Day walks.
Stay a second night at The Elgin Mount Pandim Hotel.
Day 6
Enjoy Day walks.
Stay a third night at The Elgin Mount Pandim Hotel.
Day 7
Driven to Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim.
Stay at The Elgin Nor-Khill Hotel, Gangtok.
Or, 14 km away stay at The Bamboo Retreat, a lovely homestay run by a Sikkimese husband and his Swiss wife.
Day 8
At Gangtok, visit Namgyalk Institute, Orchid Sanctuary and Rumtek monastery.
Stay a second night at your chosen accommodation.
Day 9
At Gangtok, visit Enchey Monastery, Institute of Cottage Industry and Lal Market.
For a collector of handmade decorative pieces Gangtok is a paradise!
Stay a third night at your chosen accommodation.
Day 10
Driven to Kalimpong
Stay at the Himalayan Hotel, the former home of the British Agent.
Day 11
At Kalimpong, visit bazaar, churches, orchid farm, Swiss dairy.
Stay a second night at the Himalayan Hotel.
Day 12
Driven to Bagdogra.
Take a flight to Delhi or Calcutta.
End of Choomti’s Sikkim Tour.
Footnote: Best time to visit April to May for flowers in bloom and October to mid December for fine mountain views. Excellent white water rafting on the river Teesta and longer treks are available.