Darjeeling to Gangtok Scenic Trail

Early morning (3 am) drive to Tiger Hill (8500 fts) for sunrise view over the mountains. Early morning (3 am) drive to Tiger Hill (8500 fts) for sunrise view over the mountains. View 4 Giants of Himalaya i.e. Mt.Everest,Mt.Makalu,Mt.Lhotse and Mt.Khangchendzonga (all above 8000 mtrs) from Tiger Hill. Visit Ghoom Monastery (Gelug order of Tibetan Buddhism) and Batasia Loop(Gorkha war memorial) Back to Hotel for Breakfast and Checkout. Drive to Gangtok Via Teesta Rangpo. Upon arrival, check into the Hotel. Free & Leisure time or walk to the town. Overnight stay at Hotel / Homestay.

Breakfast at the hotel and get ready for a scenic drive to Tsomgo Lake (approx. 40 km), an oval-shaped glacial lake situated at an altitude of 12,400 ft. Also known as Changu Lake, it is considered sacred by the local Bhutia and Lepcha communities. The lake is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and offers stunning reflections on calm mornings, making it a photographer’s paradise. Visitors can enjoy yak rides, short walks along the lakeside, and breathtaking views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks.

From Tsomgo Lake, continue your journey to Nathula Pass (15 km further), a historic mountain pass on the Indo-China border. En route, visit the Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir, popularly called Baba Mandir. This temple is dedicated to a soldier of the Indian Army who is believed to guard the region even after his death. Devotees from across the country come to pay homage, and the temple symbolizes faith, devotion, and bravery. The serene atmosphere of the temple and the surrounding hills provides a unique spiritual experience for travelers.

Breakfast at your hotel, then embark on a full day of sightseeing to explore the cultural, spiritual, and natural gems of Gangtok. Start your day with a visit to Banjhakri Falls & Energy Park, located just 30 minutes from the town. This eco-park is dedicated to Sikkimese shamanistic traditions and features a beautiful waterfall, landscaped gardens, and sculptures, providing a serene spot for nature walks and photography. Next, head to the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, a renowned museum that houses an impressive collection of ancient Buddhist manuscripts, artifacts, and rare antiques, offering a deep insight into Tibetan culture and Sikkimese heritage. Continue your spiritual journey with a visit to Do Drul Chorten Stupa, one of the largest and most important stupas in Sikkim. This sacred site is surrounded by prayer wheels and is frequented by devotees offering prayers and performing rituals. Experience panoramic views of the city and surrounding hills on the Gangtok Ropeway at Hur-huray Dara. The aerial ride provides a bird’s-eye view of Gangtok, the valleys, and the scenic hills, making it a perfect spot for photography.

After returning to the hotel for lunch, the afternoon is dedicated to exploring more of Gangtok’s highlights:

• Flower Show: A vibrant exhibition of native and exotic flowers, held at the MG Marg or Saramsa Garden.
• Enchey Monastery: A 200-year-old monastery known for its peaceful ambiance, traditional Buddhist architecture, and cultural significance.
• Hanuman Tok & Ganesh Tok: Hilltop temples offering spiritual experiences and stunning views of Gangtok town and the surrounding mountains.
• Tashi View Point: Provides breathtaking panoramic views of Mt. Kanchenjunga and other Himalayan peaks.
• Bakthang Waterfalls: A picturesque waterfall nestled amidst lush greenery, ideal for nature lovers and photographers.
• Directorate of Handicraft and Handloom: A cultural hub where visitors can shop for authentic Sikkimese handicrafts, hand-woven textiles, and souvenirs.

After a hearty breakfast at the hotel, check out and begin your journey back to NJP Railway Station or Bagdogra Airport, via the scenic route passing through Rangpo and along the Teesta River. The drive takes you through lush valleys, tea gardens, and charming hillside villages, providing one last opportunity to enjoy the stunning landscapes of Sikkim and North Bengal.

On the way, you may stop briefly for photographs at picturesque spots, stretch your legs, or savor the fresh mountain air. As the cool Himalayan breeze gradually gives way to the warmth of the plains, you can reflect on the memories of your trip - from serene lakes and misty hills to vibrant markets and cultural experiences.