10 Days Northeast India Tour
SEND US A WHATSAPP MESSAGE FOR BOOKING YOUR TOUR
DAY 1 BAGDOGRA – DARJEELING (93 KMS 3.5 HOURS APPROX)
Assistance on arrival at Bagdogra Airport and drive to Darjeeling.
DARJEELING
Standing high in the Himalayas at an altitude of 2134m, ‘Dorje Ling’, or place of the Thunderbolt, offers breathtaking views of snow-capped mountain peaks, with the Kanchendzonga rising higher than all the others. Often referred to as the “Queen of the Hills”, it remains just as alluring with its tiny waterfalls, little villages and a narrow gauge railway track. Surrounded by World Famous Tea Gardens and snowcapped mountains, Darjeeling remains one of the most exotic destinations. Graeme Westlake in his book ‘An introduction to hill stations on India’ refers to Darjeeling as having “A view Scarcely Unrivalled on Earth”.
Evening walk to Local market
Overnight at hotel.
DAY 2 DARJEELING
Early morning (04:00HRS) visit Tiger Hill for sunrise and back.
TIGER HILL
It is 13 kms from Darjeeling and one can see beautiful sunrise and Himalayan Range like Kanchandzonga , Mount Everest etc. One can see the horizon changing colours just before sunrise and then the entire Himalayan range turn golden. It is truly a majestic sight.
Breakfast at the hotel and go for Enjoy toy train ride up to Ghoom then visit Ghoom Monastery & back by Innova(Subject to operation of this train & availability of the seats) TOY TRAIN : The spectacular landscape unfolds as the 2-foot gauge Darjeeling Himalayan railway, opened in 1881, labours at about 10 mph criss-crossing the road. It has tiny 4-wheel locomotives (some over 100 years old) like living legends. One can experience the sound, smell and romance of a bygone era. DHR is a work of genius and technological achievement of 1881. It has social and cultural importance. It is beautiful and has outstanding universal appeal. Based on its unique features, it is considered to be of lasting significance to mankind.
GHOOM MONASTERY
This is oldest Monastery in the area which was built in 1875 and one can see the image of Mythey Buddha 15ft. height on the way back from Tiger Hill Afternoon proceed for city tour.
HIMALAYAN MOUNTAINEERING INSTITUTE/PADMAJA NAIDU HIMALAYAN ZOOLOGICAL PARK (CLOSED ON THURSDAYS)
The Himalayan Mountaineering Institute was started in Darjeeling when Tenzing Norgay climbed Everest to give training to learn Mountaineering and other adventure sports related to mountaineering and in that Institute one can see equipment etc.used by Mr. Tenzing Norgay and Everest Museum having complete details on Everest attached to institute one can visit Himalayan Zoological Park where one can see Himalayan animals like Snow Leopard, Tibetan Wolf, Tibetan Yak, Himalayan Black Bear and several varieties of birds.
HAPPY VALLEY TEA ESTATE:
It is the second oldest tea estate of Darjeeling (after Steinthal Tea Estate, which was established in 1852) and at a height of 2,100 metres (6,900 ft), is also one of the highest tea factories in the world. David Wilson an Englishman had named the garden Wilson Tea Estate and by 1860 had started cultivation of tea. In 1903, the estate was taken over by an Indian, Tarapada Banerjee, an aristocrat from Hooghly.
In 1929, Banerjee bought the Windsor Tea Estate nearby and merged the two estates under the name of Happy Valley Tea Estate. G.C. Banerjee was the next owner of Happy Valley Tea Estate. He with his wife Annapurna Devi and three daughters (Nonimukhi, Monmaya and Savitri) lived there for some time. Annapurna Devi was related to the Ganguly family of Khandwa her maternal uncle was Kunjalal Bihari, father of the famous cine Gangulys. Nandini Balial (Ganguly), a young prolific writer in LA is
the great granddaughter of Late Monmaya Debi.
In March 2007, after remaining nearly dormant for nearly four years as the tea industry had experienced a slump, the estate was bought over by S K Bansal, of Ambootia Tea Group, which established a new factory within the premises, and started modernization process, replating and switching to organic farming. Finally, the estate reopened to public in 2008, with the original factory turned into a working museum. It also displayed single piston slow-speed engines, and the shaft machines and sells tea-related mementos.
Today over 1500 people worked in the tea estate and processing unit. In 2008, the hand-rolled tea produced by Happy Valley was chosen to be sold at Harrods in the United Kingdom, with price ranging from ₹5,000 (US$66) to ₹6,000 (US$80) per kg, besides this, it is also available at Mariage Freres in France.
REMAINS CLOSED:
(Sunday is the weekly holidays as such on Monday at Tea Estate/Garden there is no manufacture at the factory & during winter i.e., middle of Nov till Mar at Tea Estate there is no plucking or manufacture at the factory, one can just see the tea plantation only during this period. During festival period i.e., Durga Puja/Diwali festival tea garden will remain closed for 7-8 days). One can visit Tea Garden only.
TIBETAN SELF- HELF CENTRE OR REFUGEE CENTRE (CLOSED ON SUNDAYS)
This institute is run by Tibetan Refugees to preserve their handicrafts and one can see making of Tibetan Carpets, Leather work,
Paintings and Wooden work etc. Overnight at hotel.
DAY 3 DARJEELING – PELLING (110 KMS 5 HOURS APPROX.)
Breakfast at the hotel and drive to Pelling.
PELLING
Located at a distance of 120 Kms from Gangtok Pelling is another serene, mountain village which lies in the western districts of Sikkim. This village is situated at an altitude of 2000 mts (approx.) and the distance from this village to the mount Kanchendzonga, as a crow flies…is 26 Kms approx. Afternoon Proceed for Sightseeing.
PEMEYANGSTE MONASTERY
2.5 Kms. from Pelling and standing at 2085m. The Perfect Sublime Lotus, perched on a wooded hilltop, commands the most sublime view of the Kanchendzonga.Built during the late 17th century, it is one of the oldest and most important monasteries of the Nyingmapa order of Buddhism in Sikkim. To the present day, it is only the monks of this monastery who enjoy the title of ‘Tasang’ or pure monks. The importance of this monastery grew with time and reached its peak when only monks from this monastery could anoint the reigning sovereign of the land with holy water.
Pemayangtse monastery follows the Mindroling tradition besides holding the lineage of Lhatsun Chenpo. Mindroling monastery was founded by Minling Terchen Gyurme Dorje whose famous daughter Jetsun Migyur Paldon lived near Pemayangtse and taught there during her exile. Her stone throne is still to be seen in this monastery, which has 108 monks. The main attraction of the monastery is the wooden replica of Zangdog Palri; the celestial abode of Guru Padmasambhava built by Serdup Lhundrup Dorje Rinpoche in 1971. The annual chaam (monk dance) is held here on the 28th and 29th day of the 12th month of the Tibetan lunar calendar.
RABDENTSE
Sikkim’s second capital. The ruins of Rabdantse are worth exploring. The winding track through the forest brings you to a small set of ruins of the early town and eventually on the ruins of the palace with Chorten (stupa) nearby. Farther afield are the Changay Falls. Overnight at hotel.
DAY 4 PELLING
After Breakfast visit to Sangachoeling Monastery, Chenrezig Statue, Sky walk, Khecheopalri lake and Rimbi Waterfalls.
SANGACHOELING MONASTERY
Located at the top of a ridge in the town of Pelling, Sikkim, Sangachoeling Monastery was established in the 17th century by Lama Gyalwa Lhatsun Chempo. The literal meaning of the word Sanga Choeling is ‘Idea of Guhya Mantra Teachings’ that relates to the faith of Buddhism. Also spelt as Sange Choeling Monastery, this is one of the oldest monasteries in Northeastern Sikkim. In order to reach this place, one has to walk for at least 40 minutes through the forest on a steep hill slope but the end result is absolutely worth it. Stepping inside the Sangachoeling Monastery, you notice various ancient wall paintings, statues, unique clay structures and scriptures that date back to the 17th century. They are extremely beautiful and are well- preserved.
From Sangachoeling Monastery one also gets an opportunity to witness a spectacular view of the snow clad mountains and lush greenery around it, providing a feeling of calmness. The fact that the building was restored to its former beauty after catching fire has become the major highlight of the monastery. Due to this reason, people come from nook and corner of the world visit the prestigious
Sangachoeling Monastery building to have a close look at the ancient artefacts.
KHECHEOPALRI LAKE
It is a Holy Lake for Buddhists in West Sikkim, in Sikkim, the tiny Himalayan former Buddhist Kingdom in eastern India, now and a part of the democratic republic. Khecheopalri is also considered as a wish fulfilling lake and has thousands of non-Buddhist believers who pray here.
The real name of the lake is Sho Dzo Sho, meaning “Oh Lady, Sit Here”, but is commonly known as Khachoedpaldri lake because it sits on the lap of Khachoedpaldri, a very sacred hill. The origin of the lake as narrated in the sacred scriptures of Sikkimese Buddhism starts after the Nepali invasion of the medieval kingdom in the 1780s. The Nepali army destroyed the original (third) palace of the Namgyal Dynasty situated at Rabdentse.
THE CHENREZIG STATUE
It is one of the world’s tallest statues of Buddha which is considered to be a manifestation of Buddha’s compassion. It is located about 1.7 km away from Pelling skywalk and stands at a height of a whopping 135 feet. The statue is a major tourist hub and one of great cultural significance amongst Budhists, who visit the site seeking Buddha’s blessings. It was consecrated by the Dalai Lama himself and recently unveiled by Pawan Kumar Chamling, the chief minister of Sikkim. The statue can be reached via stairs and once atop, one can feast their eyes on the scenic views of the valley. The meditative chants of the monks, the bustling skywalk and the serene weather makes for a blissful experience.
SKYWALK
The Glass Skywalk is India’s first ever skywalk, set in the picturesque town of Pelling in Northeast Sikkim. Built at an astounding height of 7200 feet, this colossal structure allows tourists to look down several thousand feet in the air, from the peak to the very bottom of mountains. The Glass Skywalk is not for the fainthearted, or for people with vertigo as walking on transparent glass at such heights can be spine-chilling!. The Pelling skywalk is a transparent foot-over bridge made out of glass that is suspended hundreds of feet in the air. Since its inauguration in November 2018, the skywalk has become a major hub of tourists owing to the odd concoction of thrill and peace that it has to offer. There are several attractions that can be viewed from over the bridge including waterfalls, lush forests and monasteries. It is located adjacent to the marvelous statue of Chenrezig, which is a famous Buddhist pilgrimage site. The skywalk overlooks the magnificent Kanchenjunga, as well as the Teesta and Rangit rivers, which flow alongside adding another dimension to the serenity of the place.
THE RIMBI WATERFALLS
It is one of the tourist attractions of Sikkim which is located about 12kms from Pelling at about 5kms from the Darap Village, another attraction of Sikkim. This waterfall can be seen throughout the year although in the rainy season it looks much more beautiful. The waterfall leads to Rimbi River and is famous for the recreational activities like fishing. The Karchen Powerhouse is the oldest powerhouse in west Sikkim. The powerhouse was built in the early 70s by the last king’ government. It used to supply water to all the neighbouring villages during that period. Overnight at hotel.
DAY 5 PELLING – GANGTOK VIA RAVANGLA (125 KMS 05HRS APPROX)
After breakfast drive to Gangtok via Ravangla
THE BUDDHA PARK OF RAVANGLA
It is also known as Tathagata Tsal, is situated near Rabong (Ravangla) in South Sikkim district, Sikkim, India. It was constructed between 2006 and 2013 and features a 130-foot high statue of the Buddha as its centerpiece. The site was chosen within the larger religious complex of the Rabong Gompa (Monastery), itself a centuries-old place of pilgrimage. Also nearby is Ralang Monastery, a key monastery in Tibetan Buddhism.The statue was consecrated on 25 March 2013 by the 14th Dalai Lama, and became a stop on the 'Himalayan Buddhist Circuit'.
The statue of the Buddha marks the occasion of the 2550th birth anniversary of Gautama Buddha. This statue was built and installed in the place through the joint efforts of the Sikkim government and its people. The Buddhist circuit of this park was built here under a State government project, for boosting pilgrimage and tourism in the region. Then drive to Gangtok.
GANGTOK
At an altitude of 1750m, Gangtok became the state capital in the mid 19th century and has undergone rapid development since then.The downtown area is dominated by huge government buildings decorated with traditional Buddhist symbols. Gangtok is also a resting ground for people traveling to North Sikkim. Surrounded by Monasteries and Orchids, Gangtok is truly a travellers delight.
Overnight at hotel.
DAY 6 GANGTOK – LACHUNG (117 KMS 6.5 HOURS APPROX.)
Early morning breakfast at the hotel in Gangtok and drive to Lachung and on the way visit Chungthang
LACHUNG
Lachung is a town and hill station in northeast Sikkim, India. It is located in the North Sikkim district near the border with Tibet. Lachung is at an elevation of about 9,600 feet (2,900 m) and at the confluence of the lachen and Lachung Rivers, both tributaries of the River Teesta. The word Lachung means "small pass". The town is approximately 125 kilometres (78 mi) from the capital Gangtok. The town's economy has been boosted by tourism in recent years as the region has been opened up by the Indian government.
Tourists come from all over the world to visit the town between October and May, mostly on their way to the Yumthang Valley and the Lachung Monastery. Most of Lachung's inhabitants are of Lepcha and Tibetan descent. Languages spoken here are Nepali, Lepcha and Bhutia. During winter the town is usually covered in snow. Overnight at hotel.
DAY 7 LACHUNG – YUMTHANG VALLEY – LACHUNG
Morning proceed for excursion to Yumthang Valley.
YUMTHANG VALLEY
The extremely picturesque Yumthang Valley is situated at an elevation of 3564 m in the North of Sikkim. The place is amongst the most famous tourist destinations in Sikkim, popularly known as the ‘valley of flowers’ because of its unique location above the line where no trees grow. The shrubby slopes of the snow-clad mountains around the valley, the long stretches of land covered with flowery meadows and the scented environment makes this place a nature's wonderland that attracts many tourists from around the world.
The valley is the vantage point for the beautiful peaks of Panhunri and Shundu Tsenpa forming an amazing scenic setting for the gushing Teesta river. The grazing yaks amidst thousands of blooming Himalayan flowers and an astounding collection of Rhododendrons entice the visitors to stay for a little more time.
HOT SPRING
It is believed that due to high in Sulphur content these hot springs have medicinal value and therefore, they are ideal for taking a dip. The Yumthang hot water spring is on the way to Yumthang valley, also popularly known as the Valley of Flowers across the Lachung chu river. The water is heated due to the presence of sulphur which is then mixed with the icy cold water of Lachung chu river. The heated water is channelized in Log huts, a dip in warm water is quite refreshing. To reach the spot from the main road one needs to walk for a few hundred yards. Overnight at hotel.
DAY 8 LACHUNG – GANGTOK
After breakfast drive from Lachung to Gangtok. En-route visit Lachung Monastery.
LACHUNG MONASTERY
Lachung Monastery is located amid apple orchards just across the scenic Lachung Chu river. It lies at a height of about 2,750 m and forms the base of the Green Lake trek. A symbol of cultural and religious heritage, Lachung Monastery has an edifice that was installed in 1806 by the Nyingmapa sect of Buddhism.
It also houses a statue of Guru Padmasambhava, who is believed to be one of the founding fathers of Tibetan Buddhism. The monastery is a small and colourful structure that has a two-storey prayer hall. On the porch lie two extra-heavy prayer wheels, along with two metal dragons that are carved above it. Overnight at hotel.
DAY 9 GANGTOK – TSOMGO LAKE - GANGTOK
After Breakfast excursion to Tsomgo Lake & back.
TSOMGO LAKE
35 Kms from Gangtok at an altitude of 12,400 feet is the beautiful Tsomgo Lake, which freezes over in winter. The lake derives its waters from melting snows off the surrounding mountains. Legends say that lamas could forecast the future by studying the color of the lake’s waters. Fishing is totally prohibited and all are requested not to dirty the environs of the lake to maintain its sanctity. Overnight at hotel.
DAY 10 GANGTOK – BAGDOGRA AIRPORT
Transfer to Bagdogra airport for your onward journey
From LKR 472,000/=
(ALL RATES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE)
Activities
INCLUDED:
- Return Air Ticket: INDIGO - {CMB – MAA– IXB, IXB – MAA - CMB}
- Baggage {CMB – MAA– IXB ,30Kg/7Kg} {IXB– MAA - CMB ,30 Kg/7Kg}
- Indian Visa – 30Days
- 09 Nights Hotel Accommodation as mentioned in Hotel Section
- Only Breakfast and dinner at all the hotels. (Half Board)
- AC Sedan car (03 Seater) Transport as per program on Point to Point basis and not on disposal basis
- Assistance by our rep at Bagdogra Airport
- Toy Train
- Local spot English speaking guide at Darjeeling and Gangtok only during sightseeing.
- Mandatory guide for Tsomgo lake & Lachung tour.
- On tour assistance on call by our file handling executive
- All applicable Taxes
EXCLUDED:
- Any meals other than those mentioned above.
- Train Tickets
- Any portage at airports and hotels, Camera/Videographer Charges, Guide charges, Entrances & Incidentals, Tips, Insurance, Wine, Mineral Water, Telephone Charges and all items of personal nature.
- Any services not specifically mentioned in the inclusions.
- Expenses caused by factors beyond our control like rail and flight delays, roadblocks, Landslide, vehicle mal-functions, political disturbances etc.
- NOTE: Anything not in inclusions is excluded.
- Any Monument Entrance Fee.
SEND US A WHATSAPP MESSAGE FOR BOOKING YOUR TOUR