Colonial Kolkata, Tea Estate & Buddhist Monasteries

Day 1: Arrival in Kolkata

Upon arrival at Kolkata airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative and transferred to your hotel. After completing check-in formalities, take time to relax and recover from your journey. Kolkata, often referred to as the cultural capital of India, offers a fascinating mix of colonial architecture and vibrant street life. In the evening, you may take a leisurely walk around nearby areas or explore local markets to get your first feel of the city. You can also enjoy authentic Bengali cuisine at a local restaurant. Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 2: Kolkata City Tour

After breakfast at the hotel, begin your full-day city tour exploring Kolkata’s colonial heritage. Start with a visit to Victoria Memorial, a magnificent marble monument surrounded by lush gardens. Continue to St. Paul’s Cathedral and drive past the iconic Howrah Bridge while observing the lively riverfront. Visit the Indian Museum to explore its vast collection of historical artifacts and sculptures. Later, explore Marble Palace and Mother Teresa’s House to understand the city’s cultural depth. Conclude the day with a visit to New Market, a bustling hub for shopping and local experiences. Return to hotel for overnight stay.

Day 3: Kolkata – Bagdogra (Flight) – Darjeeling (62 kms / 2.5 hrs approx.)

After breakfast, transfer to the airport to board your flight to Bagdogra. Upon arrival, begin a scenic drive to Darjeeling, passing through lush tea gardens, winding roads, and picturesque landscapes. Enjoy stops along the way to admire views and capture photographs. Upon reaching Darjeeling, check in at your hotel and relax in the cool mountain climate. In the evening, visit Mall Road, lined with shops, cafés, and colonial-era buildings. Soak in the charming ambiance of this hill station. Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 4: Darjeeling Sightseeing (Tiger Hill Sunrise)

Early morning excursion to Tiger Hill to witness a spectacular sunrise over the Kanchenjunga range, a truly memorable experience. Return to the hotel for breakfast and begin the city tour. Visit Ghoom Monastery, one of the oldest monasteries in the region, followed by Batasia Loop offering panoramic views. Continue to the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute and Padmaja Naidu Zoological Park. Later visit the Tibetan Refugee Centre and nearby tea gardens to learn about tea processing. Enjoy the serene environment and mountain views throughout the day. Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 5: Darjeeling to Pelling (75 kms / 4 hrs approx.)

After breakfast, drive to Pelling through scenic Himalayan landscapes filled with forests, rivers, and valleys. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and freshen up. Begin sightseeing with a visit to Pemayangtse Monastery, known for its spiritual significance and intricate woodwork. Continue to Rabdentse Ruins, the former capital of Sikkim, offering breathtaking views of the mountains. Later visit Khecheopalri Lake, a sacred and tranquil site surrounded by dense forest. Spend the evening enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 6: Pelling to Gangtok (120 kms / 5 hrs approx.)

After breakfast, drive to Gangtok enjoying scenic views of valleys, waterfalls, and mountain roads. En route, visit Temi Tea Garden, the only tea estate in Sikkim, known for its picturesque surroundings. Continue the journey with stops for photography and refreshments. Upon arrival in Gangtok, check in at your hotel and relax. In the evening, explore MG Road, a lively street filled with shops, cafés, and local eateries. Experience the vibrant culture and lifestyle of Gangtok. Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 7: Gangtok Excursion – Tsomgo Lake & City Tour

After breakfast, proceed for an excursion to Tsomgo Lake (approx. 40 kms / 2 hrs one way), a high-altitude glacial lake surrounded by mountains. Enjoy the scenic beauty and peaceful environment of the lake. Continue to Baba Mandir, a revered shrine dedicated to an Indian soldier. Return to Gangtok and visit Do Drul Chorten and nearby monasteries to experience Buddhist culture. Later explore local markets such as Lal Bazaar for souvenirs and local products. Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 8: Gangtok to Kalimpong (75 kms / 3 hrs approx.)

After breakfast, visit Rumtek Monastery, one of the most important monasteries in Sikkim, known for its architecture and spiritual significance. Later drive to Kalimpong through scenic landscapes and river valleys. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and begin sightseeing. Visit Durpin Monastery and Zang Dhok Palri Phodang Monastery. Explore flower nurseries famous for orchids and exotic plants. Enjoy panoramic views from Deolo Hill. Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 9: Kalimpong – Bagdogra (75 kms / 3 hrs approx.) – Kolkata (Flight)

After breakfast, spend some time exploring Kalimpong’s peaceful surroundings and local markets. Later, drive to Bagdogra airport to board your flight to Kolkata. Upon arrival, proceed for your onward journey or optional hotel stay depending on flight schedule. This marks the end of your memorable journey through Eastern India’s colonial heritage and Himalayan beauty.

• Assistance on arrival and departure at all airports
• 8 nights accommodation in selected category hotels
• Daily buffet breakfast at all hotels
• Private AC vehicle for all transfers and sightseeing
• English-speaking local guides as per itinerary
• Monument entrance fees as per program
• Tsomgo Lake permits and arrangements
• Bottled drinking water during journeys
• All applicable government taxes

Hotels used or similar for 8 night accommodation

Kolkata x 2 nights
3* - Regenta Orko's/ The Fern Residency
4* - The Peerless Inn/ The Fern Residency
5* - ITC Sonar, a Luxury Collection/ The Lalit Great Eastern

Darjeeling x 2 nights
3* - Central Heritage Resort & Spa/ Omega Residency 
4* - Elgin Hotel/ The Royal Plaza
5* - Mayfair/ Windamere Hotel

Pelling x 1 night
3* - Green Leaf Resort/ The Pelling Resort
4* & 5* - Elgin Mt. Pandim/ Chumbi Mountain Retreat & Spa

Gangtok x 2 nights
3* - Tamarind Hotels/ Hotel New Orchid
4* - Elgin NorKhill/ Saramsa Resort
5* - Mayfair Spa Resort & Casino/ WelcomHeritage Denzong Regency

Kalimpong x 1 night
3* - Kalimpong Village Retreat/ Summit Barsana Resort & Spa
4* - Elgin Silver Oaks/ Sinclairs Retreat
5* - Mayfair Himalayan Spa Resort/ Morgan House Tourist Lodge

• Domestic flight tickets (Kolkata – Bagdogra – Kolkata)
• Lunch and dinner unless specified
• Personal expenses (laundry, tips, beverages, etc.)
• Camera/video fees at monuments
• Optional activities not mentioned in itinerary
• Travel insurance and medical expenses
• Early check-in / late check-out charges
• Any cost due to unforeseen circumstances