Sikkim & Darjeeling Heritage Journey
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Duration 8 nights / 9 days
About This Tour
Embark on a serene journey through the misty tea gardens of Darjeeling and the spiritual heartlands of Sikkim. This carefully curated itinerary blends natural beauty, Buddhist heritage, and cultural immersion, offering experiences such as forest walks, monastery visits, sacred lakes, village life, and traditional crafts. From the tranquil tea estates of Darjeeling to the sacred monasteries of Pelling, Yuksom, and Ravangla, each day reveals a new aspect of Himalayan life. With heritage stays, tea ceremonies, and encounters with monks, artisans, and local families, this journey is as soulful as it is scenic.
Tour Plan
Arrive at Bagdogra Airport, where you’ll be greeted and driven through the rolling Himalayan foothills to Darjeeling (approximately 3.5 hours). Check into a charming heritage property such as Ging Tea House or Chamong Chiabari, set amidst sprawling tea estates. In the evening, enjoy a gentle walk through the tea gardens at sunset, followed by a quiet tea ceremony to unwind from your journey.
This morning, head to Lamahatta Eco Park for a refreshing pine forest trail, surrounded by towering trees and crisp mountain air. In the afternoon, visit Tinchuley village, where local families share their traditions of making homemade pickles and preserves. For those seeking a spiritual touch, an optional evening visit to a small Buddhist temple in the hills offers a peaceful way to close the day.
After breakfast, drive through scenic tea gardens and forested hills on your way to Pelling in West Sikkim (about 5 hours). Check into the Chumbi Mountain Retreat, a luxurious property with panoramic Himalayan views. In the afternoon, visit the historic Pemayangtse Monastery, one of Sikkim’s most significant Buddhist institutions, followed by a short forest walk to the atmospheric Rabdentse Ruins, the former royal capital.
Today begins with a hike to the serene Khecheopalri Lake, a sacred site for Buddhists believed to fulfill wishes. In the afternoon, continue to Darap village, where you will meet the Lepcha community and learn about their traditional weaving and basket-making practices. This day blends spirituality and culture, offering a deeper connection to Sikkimese life.
After breakfast, take a short drive (around 1.5 hours) to Yuksom, the first capital of Sikkim. After checking into your hotel, enjoy a forest hike to the tranquil Dubdi Monastery, one of Sikkim’s oldest. Spend time meditating in its peaceful courtyard. In the evening, an optional cooking session with your hosts introduces you to traditional Sikkimese recipes.
This morning, drive to the revered Tashiding Monastery, one of the most sacred monasteries in Sikkim, believed to cleanse sins and bless visitors. Continue your journey to Ravangla, stopping to visit Ralang Monastery, famed for its beautiful murals and the sound of monks chanting. Overnight at Bon Farmhouse in Kewzing, where you can learn about the unique Bon traditions and enjoy farm hospitality.
Begin the day with morning prayers at the serene Buddha Park, set against the backdrop of the Himalayas. Later, visit a local carpet-weaving center, where artisans preserve age-old skills. The rest of the day is spent on farm walks and meaningful conversations with monks, offering insights into Buddhist life and philosophy.
After breakfast, drive to Kalimpong (approximately 4 hours), passing through the scenic Temi Tea Garden along the way. On arrival, check into your hotel and spend the afternoon exploring spiritual treasures such as the Tharpa Choling Monastery or Zang Dhok Palri Phodang, known for their exquisite Tibetan scripture murals.
On your final morning, visit one of Kalimpong’s famous orchid nurseries, where vibrant flowers bloom in the cool mountain air. Later, transfer to Bagdogra Airport (around 3.5 hours) for your onward flight, carrying with you the serene memories of tea gardens, monasteries, and Himalayan life.
Safe travels!
