Tour Overview:
Darjeeling-Sikkim Himalayas experience a climate that varies right from Tropical to Tundra. This change can be felt in a matter of 5 to 6 hours journey. The temperature in the lower foothills varies from 4 D C in winter up to 35 D C in summer. Regions above 1500M up to 2500 M have an average temperature of Minimum 2 D C and Maximum 12 D C in winter and Minimum 12 D C and Maximum 25 D C in summer. The region above 6000m in Northern, Eastern and Western Sikkim remains under permanent snow throughout the year. Winter period in the hills Mid October to March and summer period is from May to July. Monsoon starts from July and continues till Mid-September. Occasional rainfalls occur in early May and June. It is also one of the rainiest regions with an average rainfall of 350cm per annum. Best time to visit this region from September to December and March to June.
Clothing:
Heavy to very heavy woolen garments form Oct to March and light woolen garments during the rest of the year. Carrying rain proof jackets or umbrella at any time of the year will be beneficial.
DAY 1: ARRIVAL AT BAGDOGRA AIRPORT/NJP – GANGTOK (120 KM / 06 HRS. APPROX.)
As you step out of the bustling Bagdogra Airport or NJP railway station, the fresh mountain breeze welcomes you to an unforgettable journey. The drive towards Gangtok unfolds like a dream—winding roads cutting through lush green valleys, the mighty Teesta River flowing alongside, and occasional glimpses of the snow-capped peaks in the distance. As you ascend, the cool mountain air fills your lungs, rejuvenating your spirit. Upon reaching Gangtok, check into your cozy hotel and take some time to relax.
In the evening, the town awaits your exploration—stroll through MG Marg, soak in the local vibes, and relish a cup of steaming Sikkimese tea.
Overnight StayinGangtok.
DAY 2: EXCURSION OF NEW BABA MANDIR & TSOMGO LAKE
Wake up to the crisp mountain breeze and savor a hearty breakfast, with the morning sun kissing the mountaintops, you set out for a day of breath-taking landscapes. The journey to Tsomgo Lakesituated at an altitude of 12,210 ft., the glacial lake reflects the changing hues of the sky, creating a surreal sight is an experience in itself—misty roads, fluttering prayer flags, and rugged terrain leading to the serene, glacial lake. The shimmering reflection of the mountains on the crystal-clear waters leaves you spellbound. Nearby, a cup of hot tea from a local stall warms your hands and heart.
Next, you pay homage at Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir, where devotion and folklore blend seamlessly, filling the air with an aura of respect and mysticism. If weather permits, you ascend further to Nathula Pass—standing on this historic Indo-China border, breathing in the rarefied air, you feel an overwhelming sense of wonder and pride.The journey back to Gangtok is filled with conversations about the day’s marvels, and by nightfall, the city lights of Gangtok welcome you back for a restful evening.
Overnight stay in Gangtok.
Note for Nathula Pass:-
• In case of a landslide or any reason, Tsomgo Lake is closed, so we will provide alternate sightseeing at Gangtok.
• Nathula Pass visit will be on a supplementary cost of Rs. 5,500/- to Rs 9,500/- approx, depending on the season & availability of permits from the Indian Army based on weather and road conditions.
• Nathula Pass is closed to visitors on Monday and Tuesday.
DAY 3: FROM GANGTOK TO DARJEELING – TEMPLES, STUPAS & SCENIC DRIVES
As you bid farewell to Gangtok, a spiritual stop at Do-DrulChortenStupa fills your heart with tranquility. The rhythmic chants of monks and the gentle spin of prayer wheels create an aura of peace. Then, an adrenaline rush awaits at the Gangtok Ropeway, offering a bird’s-eye view of the city draped in a blanket of green.
The road to Darjeeling is adorned with emerald tea gardens, cascading waterfalls, and quaint hamlets that feel like they belong in a storybook. With every passing mile, the cool, refreshing air of Darjeeling embraces you. By evening, you check into your hotel, stepping out soon after to sip a cup of world-renowned Darjeeling tea at a cozy café, soaking in the old-world charm of this colonial-era town.
Overnight stay in Darjeeling.
DAY 4: SUNRISE AT TIGER HILL & DARJEELING’S HERITAGE SITES
The day begins in the early hours of dawn as you make your way to Tiger Hill. The anticipation builds as the first rays of the sun paint the mighty Kanchenjunga in hues of gold and pink. The moment is surreal, a sight so beautiful it leaves you breathless.
Next stop—Batasia Loop, where the toy train weaves through a spiral track surrounded by vibrant gardens and war memorials. The Ghoom Monastery welcomes you with its ancient Tibetan scriptures and towering Buddha statue, filling you with serenity.
The adventure continues with a visit to the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, where the legacy of Tenzing Norgay and the spirit of adventure come alive. At the Padmaja Naidu Zoological Park, you meet the elusive red pandas and snow leopards, a treat for wildlife enthusiasts. A short drive takes you to the Peace Pagoda, standing tall as a beacon of harmony amidst lush greenery. As you watch the sunset over the rolling hills, you realize that Darjeeling has woven its magic into your heart.
Overnight stay in Darjeeling.
Day 05: Mirik Lake Excursion – A Day of Peaceful Retreat
After breakfast, we set off on a scenic drive to Mirik Lake, a tranquil paradise surrounded by pine forests and lush tea gardens. Stroll along its shores, ride a paddle boat, or simply soak in the beauty of nature. On our way, we make a stop at Pashupati Market, a bustling shopping hub at the Nepal border, where you can indulge in some bargain shopping for souvenirs. Enjoy a picturesque view of Mirik’s tea estates before heading back to Darjeeling.
Spend your evening leisurely at Darjeeling Mall (Chowrasta), where the charm of colonial architecture and vibrant local life create a heartwarming experience.
Overnight stay in Darjeeling.
DAY 6: FAREWELL TO THE HIMALAYAS
The final morning is tinged with bittersweet emotions as you prepare for your journey home. The rolling tea estates and winding roads bid you a silent farewell as you drive back to Bagdogra/NJP. As the mountains fade into the distance, you carry with you not just photographs but memories of misty peaks, fluttering prayer flags, and the warmth of the Himalayas. This isn’t just the end of a trip—it’s the beginning of a lifelong love affair with the hills.
Until next time, the mountains will wait for you!
***END OF TOUR***
ACCOMMODATION DETAILS
- Rooms will be provided on double sharing basis.
- Hotel rooms are subject to availability at the time of confirmation.
Vehicle used:
- Wagon R/Similar for 2 to 3 pax.
- Ertiga/Similar for 4 to 5 pax.
- Innova/Similar for 6 pax.
- Tempo traveler/Similar for 7 to 12 pax.
- Local Xylo or Innova with permit for Bumla pass.
- AC will be switched off during hilly region drive
Inclusions
- 02 night accommodation in Gangtok.
- 03 night accommodation in Darjeeling.
- Breakfast in hotel only as mentioned above.
- All transfers and sightseeing as per itinerary.
- All toll taxes, parking charges, driver allowances.
- All currently applicable hotel taxes.
- Pick-up and drop from Bagdogra Airport/ NJP Railway station.
Exclusions
- Cost of Airfare, Train fare, Insurance Premiums, Rafting charges.
- Any other meal not mentioned in price includes.
- Any other destination not mentioned in itinerary.
- Check in & Check out time 02:00 noon/11:00am.
- Vehicle & permit cost for Nathula Pass, Zero point, Sangalphu Lake.
- Any monument entrance fees, camera fee, activity charges, guide fees.
- Any expenses of personal nature.
- Expenses incurred due to change in oil price, mishaps, landslides, strikes, political unrest etc. in such cases, extra will be charged as per actual which will be collected directly from the guest.
- Personal expenses such as laundry, soft drinks, mineral water, tips, etc.
- Anything not mentioned in the Includes segment.
Note:
- Aadhaar& Pan card is not accepted as ID proof by Sikkim Government till further notice.
- 4 Photocopy of Valid Voter ID/Driving License/Passport for each person, below 18 years Birth certificate/Passport/School or College ID card.4 Copy of Passport size photo for each person.
- Failing to carry above mentioned document will lead to cancellation ofChangu Lake & Baba Mandir tour.
- If an additional person or child is traveling with you, they will share the room with you on a mattress.
- Only one extra mattress/bed is permitted per room.
- Hotel room availability is subject to confirmation.
- Hotel services here might differ from those in larger cities, but our service providers will make every effort to accommodate your needs during your stay.
- Please note that hotel rooms in this area are generally smaller than those in metropolitan cities, and air conditioning is not always available. Some hotels and resorts may also not have TVs in the rooms.
- Hotels Check in/ Check Out time (12:00 Noon), early check in/ Late Check Out subject to availability and completely on hotel’s discretion.
- The vehicle will only be available as per the itinerary and is not at your disposal.
- In the event of natural calamities (e.g., landslides) or political events (such as bandhs), if roads are closed and alternative routes are required, any additional costs incurred for the detour will be the responsibility of the guest / Agent and must be paid directly.
- The itinerary cannot be changed due to flight or train delays, or any situations beyond our control.
- We recommend carrying cash when traveling to villages outside of Gangtok.
- We do not provide standalone services such as only Hotels OR only transport OR any other service, do not insist us for price breakup.
TERMS & CONDITIONS
Kindly review the following terms and conditions carefully, as they define legal responsibilities and form the basis for how Destinationbuddies processes bookings and claims.
Any booking-related purchase made through Destinationbuddies is governed by these terms and conditions. By completing a reservation, the individual making the booking is deemed to have accepted these terms on behalf of all listed travelers.
No modifications to these terms and conditions by our employees or agents will be valid unless formally authorized in writing by the appropriate authority at Destinationbuddies.
Booking and Payment
To confirm a tour or expedition booking, a 50% advance payment is required, with the remaining balance due before the trip starts. Payments can be made in cash or through online bank transfer. Bank account details for the advance deposit will be provided.
Cancellation of Booking by the Client
If it becomes necessary for you to cancel your trip/ booking, please send us an intimation in writing. Cancellation charges will be effective form the date of receiving your request to cancel the tour/service in written. The Cancellation charges are as follows:
| 60 days prior to arrival | 10% of the tour/service cost |
| 45 days prior to arrival | 25% of the tour/service cost |
| 30 days prior to arrival | 50% of the tour/service cost |
| 15 days prior to arrival | 70% of the tour/service cost |
| 07 days prior to arrival or No show | No refund |
Alteration of Itineraries
The agency reserves the right to alter or modify any of its itineraries, in the events of circumstances beyond its control.
Cancellation of Tour by the Company
We will only cancel your tour in the event of unusual or unforeseen circumstances beyond our control. If cancellation occurs, we will refund all payments made to us for the tour cost. However, we will not be responsible for reimbursing incidental expenses such as visa fees, bank charges, or costs incurred due to factors like bad weather, war, or civil unrest. Despite this, our team will provide full cooperation in making alternative arrangements whenever possible.
Assumption of risk
Your booking is accepted on the understanding that you realize the hazards involved in this kind of tour, as most of our tour/expeditions may involves going to rural areas where there are limited facilities. Destinationbuddies, or any of its employees or agents, Will Not Be Liable for delay, loss or damage to personal property, personal injury, illness or death which might occur.
Modification of Terms and Conditions
The Terms and Conditions may be amended or modified byDestinationbuddies at any time without notice. It is therefore essential that you consult the Terms and Conditions prior to making each and every booking, particularly in order to ensure what provisions are in operation in case they have changed since the last time an order was placed by you. Only those who have accepted the Terms and Conditions and affirmatively indicated their consent to be bound by the Terms and Conditions may make a booking with Destinationbuddies. Without this acceptance any order is subject to cancellation at any time.
