Itinerary

A trip to Gangtok and Darjeeling is a delightful experience filled with stunning landscapes, rich culture, and a touch of adventure. Here’s a fun and engaging 6-day itinerary that includes a visit to Nathula Pass. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival in Gangtok

Morning:

• Arrive in Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim. Check into your hotel and freshen up.
• Enjoy a hearty breakfast at a local café. Try some traditional Sikkimese dishes!

Afternoon:

• Take a leisurely stroll around MG Road, the main street of Gangtok. It’s vibrant and filled with shops, cafes, and local handicrafts.
• Visit the Enchey Monastery, a serene place that offers beautiful views of the city.

Evening:

• Head to the Tashi View Point for a stunning sunset view of the Kanchenjunga range. It’s a perfect spot for some memorable photos!
• Dinner at a local restaurant. Don’t miss out on momos and thukpa!

## Day 2: Nathula Pass and Tsomgo Lake

Early Morning:

• Start your day early with breakfast and prepare for an exciting trip to Nathula Pass (make sure to check if it’s open, as it can be weather-dependent).
• Depart for Tsomgo Lake first, which is about 40 km from Gangtok. The lake is stunning, especially with the snow-capped mountains in the background.

Midday:

• After enjoying the beauty of Tsomgo Lake, continue your journey to Nathula Pass. The drive is scenic, and you might spot some yaks along the way!

Afternoon:

• Spend some time at Nathula Pass, which is a historic Indo-China border post. Take in the breathtaking views and the chilly air!
• Return to Gangtok in the late afternoon.

Evening:

• Relax at your hotel or explore more of MG Road. Grab dinner at a cozy restaurant.

## Day 3: Gangtok Sightseeing

Morning:

• After breakfast, visit the Rumtek Monastery, one of the most important monasteries in Sikkim. The architecture and the peaceful surroundings are captivating.

Afternoon:

• Head to the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology to learn about Tibetan culture and history. The museum is fascinating!
• Visit the Do Drul Chorten Stupa nearby.

Evening:

• Enjoy a cable car ride at the Gangtok Ropeway for panoramic views of the city and the mountains.
• Dinner at a local eatery, perhaps trying some local fish curry!

## Day 4: Travel to Darjeeling

Morning:

• After breakfast, check out from your hotel and head to Darjeeling (about 4-5 hours drive).
• Enjoy the scenic drive through the hills and tea gardens.

Afternoon:

• Arrive in Darjeeling and check into your hotel.
• Visit the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute and the adjacent zoo to see some rare Himalayan animals.

Evening:

• Stroll around the Mall Road and enjoy the cool breeze. Grab some tea from a local shop; Darjeeling tea is world-famous!
• Dinner at a restaurant with a view of the mountains.

## Day 5: Darjeeling Sightseeing

Early Morning:

• Wake up early for a trip to Tiger Hill to catch the sunrise over Kanchenjunga. It’s an unforgettable experience!

Morning:

• After returning, have breakfast and then visit the Batasia Loop, a beautiful garden with a view of the toy train tracks.

Afternoon:

• Explore the Peace Pagoda and learn about Buddhism while enjoying the serene atmosphere.
• Visit the famous Darjeeling Tea Gardens and take a tour to see how tea is processed.

Evening:

• Enjoy a ride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (the toy train) if time permits. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site!
• Dinner at a local restaurant, perhaps trying some local delicacies like “churpee” (a type of cheese).

## Day 6: Departure

Morning:

• After breakfast, take some time to relax or do some last-minute shopping for souvenirs.
• Visit the local market for some unique handicrafts and, of course, tea!

Afternoon:

• Check out from your hotel and head to the airport or railway station for your onward journey.

And there you have it! A delightful 6-day itinerary that balances adventure, culture, and relaxation in the beautiful landscapes of Gangtok and Darjeeling. Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget to take lots of pictures! 🌄✨