Nestled in the heart of the Eastern Himalayas, the Sikkim and Darjeeling region offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and a thriving tea legacy. This 7-night, 8-day private tour promises an immersive exploration of the area’s key highlights, from the iconic Darjeeling Himalayan Railway to the serene lakes and cascading waterfalls that dot the landscape. Visitors will have the chance to explore the region’s tea heritage, indulge in a thrilling paragliding experience, and uncover the diverse cultural tapestry that makes this corner of India truly unique. With comprehensive inclusions and an experienced guide, this tour presents a seamless opportunity to discover the captivating wonders that await in Sikkim and Darjeeling.
Key Points
- A 7-night, 8-day private tour focusing on key attractions in Sikkim and Darjeeling, including tea estates, railroad museums, lakes, and waterfalls.
- Optional paragliding experience in Gangtok, offering breathtaking aerial views of the Sikkim landscape.
- Comprehensive exploration of the northeast region, with a thriving tea industry and the historic Darjeeling Himalayan Railway.
- Includes English-speaking guide, Darjeeling Toy Train tickets, entrance fees, accommodation, and air-conditioned transportation.
- Pickup available from Bagdogra International Airport or Indo-Bhutan border, with the tour starting at 9:00 am and ending at the original meeting point.
Tour Overview
This 7-night, 8-day private tour takes travelers on an exploration of the remote and scenic regions of Sikkim and Darjeeling in northeastern India.
Rather than focusing on outdoor activities, the tour emphasizes visiting key attractions in these areas. Travelers will explore tea estates, railroad museums, lakes, and waterfalls, with an optional opportunity to try paragliding in Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim.
The tour includes an English-speaking guide, Darjeeling Toy Train tickets, entrance fees, accommodations, air-conditioned transportation, and most meals.
Travelers can be picked up from Bagdogra International Airport or the Indo-Bhutan border, and the tour ends back at the original meeting point.
With a mix of cultural and natural highlights, this tour offers a comprehensive look at the northeast region.
Highlights
The tour highlights Darjeeling’s renowned tea estates and railroad museum, along with the picturesque lakes and waterfalls surrounding Pellam.
Plus, travelers can opt for an exhilarating paragliding experience in Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim. Visitors will get to explore the region’s natural wonders, from the serene lakes to the cascading waterfalls.
The tea estate tour offers a glimpse into the region’s thriving tea industry, while the railroad museum showcases the historic Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, also known as the ‘Toy Train.’ For the more adventurous, the optional paragliding activity in Gangtok promises to be a thrilling highlight, providing breathtaking aerial views of the Sikkim landscape.
Inclusions
The tour package includes an English-speaking guide for the entire duration, providing knowledgeable commentary and assistance throughout the journey. Darjeeling Toy Train tickets, covering the iconic steam-engine-powered railway, are also provided. Plus, all entrance fees to the various attractions are included in the tour cost. Accommodation at the mentioned hotels or similar, as well as an air-conditioned vehicle for transportation, are part of the inclusions. On top of that, the package covers all applicable fees and taxes, ensuring a seamless and worry-free experience. Travelers can also look forward to 7 included dinners and 6 breakfasts during the 7-night, 8-day tour.
| Inclusions | Exclusions |
|---|---|
| English-speaking guide | Air/train fare to Bagdogra Airport |
| Darjeeling Toy Train tickets | Lunch not included |
| Entrance charges | Personal expenses |
| Accommodation at mentioned hotels |
Exclusions
While the tour package includes a range of services, there are also certain costs that aren’t covered by the package price.
Travelers are responsible for arranging their own air or train transportation to reach Bagdogra International Airport, which serves as the starting point for the tour.
Plus, lunch isn’t included for the entire duration of the 7-night, 8-day itinerary, leaving participants to cover those meals independently.
Finally, any personal expenses incurred during the tour, such as souvenirs, optional activities, or additional services, are also excluded from the package.
The tour focuses on providing a comprehensive experience, but travelers should budget for these additional expenses to ensure a seamless and enjoyable journey.
Meeting and Pickup
Pickup is available from either Bagdogra International Airport or the Indo-Bhutan border, providing travelers with convenient access to the start of the tour. Guests will meet the guide at the exit gate of Bagdogra airport, where the tour will commence. After exploring the highlights of Sikkim and Darjeeling over the next 7 nights and 8 days, the tour will end back at the original meeting point.
| Pickup Location | Start Time | End Location |
|---|---|---|
| Bagdogra Airport | 9:00 am | Bagdogra Airport |
| Indo-Bhutan Border | 9:00 am | Bagdogra Airport |
| Bagdogra Airport | 9:00 am | Indo-Bhutan Border |
This seamless start and end to the journey ensures guests can easily reach and depart from the tour with minimal hassle.
Itinerary Day 1
On the first day, the tour begins with a pickup from either Bagdogra Airport or the Indo-Bhutan border, where travelers are met by the English-speaking guide at 9:00 am.
From there, the group proceeds to their first destination – the picturesque town of Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim.
The day’s itinerary includes:
- Visiting the Tashi Viewpoint for panoramic vistas of the Himalayas.
- Exploring the serene Tsomgo Lake, a popular tourist attraction.
- Stopping at the Baba Mandir, a revered shrine dedicated to a local mystic.
- Discovering the vibrant Flower Exhibition Centre, showcasing the region’s diverse flora.
After a full day of sightseeing, the group settles into their hotel in Gangtok, ready to embark on the next leg of the north-eastern adventure.
Itinerary Day 2 – Day 7
From Gangtok, the tour moves on to the next destination – the charming town of Darjeeling, nestled in the Himalayan foothills.
Over the following days, travelers explore the rich cultural tapestry and scenic landscapes of the region, with activities such as visiting a historic tea estate, riding the iconic Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, and exploring serene lakes and waterfalls near Pellam.
In Sikkim, the group discovers the intricate Buddhist heritage by visiting monasteries and experiencing the vibrant markets.
An optional paragliding adventure in Gangtok offers a unique aerial perspective of the mountainous terrain.
Throughout the tour, guests enjoy comfortable accommodations and savor the delectable local cuisine, seeing the captivating essence of northeastern India.
Tour Pricing and Booking
With the itinerary details covered, the next step is to explore the tour pricing and booking process.
The cost of this 7-night, 8-day private tour of Sikkim and Darjeeling in northeastern India varies depending on the number of travelers, starting at $1,200 per person for a group of 4 or more. Interested parties can inquire about pricing and availability directly with the tour operator.
The booking process typically involves the following steps:
- Provide the desired travel dates
- Confirm availability and pricing
- Make a deposit to secure the booking
- Complete the balance payment prior to the tour
The tour operator can guide interested travelers through the entire booking procedure, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?
The cancellation policy generally allows for full refunds if the tour is cancelled at least 30 days prior to the start date. Partial refunds or tour credits may be offered for cancellations within 30 days, subject to the tour operator’s policies.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participants?
There are no age restrictions for participants on this tour. Children of all ages are welcome, though the tour may not be suitable for very young children due to the length and pace of the activities.
Can the Tour Be Customized to Include Additional Activities?
The tour can likely be customized to include additional activities. Travelers should check with the tour provider to discuss their interests and request any modifications to the standard itinerary. Additional activities may incur extra costs.
What Is the Dress Code for the Various Sites Visited?
The dress code for the various sites visited is generally casual. Comfortable, lightweight clothing that allows freedom of movement is recommended. Visitors should avoid overly formal or revealing attire to respect local customs and cultures.
Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Special Meal Options Available?
The tour offers flexibility for dietary preferences. Vegetarian, vegan, and other special meal options are available upon request. Guests are encouraged to notify the tour operator of any dietary restrictions in advance.
Not for you? Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby
Recap
This tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the captivating northeast Indian region.
Visitors will enjoy the vibrant tea culture, marvel at the region’s breathtaking natural beauty, and explore its rich cultural heritage.
With comprehensive inclusions and an experienced guide, this tour ensures a seamless and unforgettable experience for those seeking to discover the wonders of Sikkim and Darjeeling.