Sikkim to Shangri-La offers you an enchanting journey through the pristine landscapes of Sikkim, West Bengal, and Bhutan, where breathtaking mountains, lush valleys, and rich cultural heritage come together for an unforgettable experience. This carefully curated itinerary takes you through the best of the Eastern Himalayas, blending adventure, spirituality, and serenity in a seamless travel experience. Your journey begins in Sikkim, a paradise of alpine beauty and Buddhist monasteries. Explore the charming town of Gangtok, visit the sacred Tsomgo Lake, and witness the divine tranquility of Rumtek Monastery. Travel onwards to Pelling, where the majestic Kanchenjunga peaks stand tall, and soak in the panoramic views from Pemayangtse Monastery and Rabdentse Ruins. Next, we take you to the vibrant city of Darjeeling in West Bengal, known for its iconic toy train ride, sprawling tea gardens, and breathtaking sunrise views from Tiger Hill. Immerse yourself in colonial charm, sip on world-renowned Darjeeling tea, and visit the revered Ghoom Monastery. The final leg of your journey takes you to the mystical kingdom of Bhutan, the "Land of the Thunder Dragon." Explore the capital Thimphu, admire the architectural splendor of the Punakha Dzong, and end your trip with a spiritual trek to the famous Tiger’s Nest Monastery in Paro. From misty mountains to spiritual sanctuaries, Sikkim to Shangri-La promises an unforgettable escape into the heart of the Himalayas, where every moment is steeped in natural beauty and timeless traditions.
Tour Highlights: Arrival, Scenic Drive to Gangtok, MG Marg Exploration, Local Cuisine
Upon arrival at Bagdogra Airport, you'll be greeted by our representative, who will assist you with your transfer to Gangtok. Enjoy the scenic drive of 4-5 hours that takes you through lush tea plantations, quaint villages, and panoramic mountain views. As you travel, you may also see glimpses of the mighty Kanchenjunga in the distance. After reaching Gangtok, check in to your pre booked hotel and relax. In the evening, head to MG Marg, the heart of Gangtok. Explore its vibrant atmosphere, where you'll find a range of shops selling local handicrafts, woolen items, and organic tea. You can also indulge in some delicious Sikkimese cuisine at one of the local cafes—don’t miss trying the famous momo (dumplings) and thukpa (noodle soup).
Overnight Stay: Gangtok
Tour Highlights: Rumtek Monastery, Tashi Viewpoint, Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, Ganesh Tok, Flower Exhibition Centre
After breakfast, begin your sightseeing tour of Gangtok with a visit to the Rumtek Monastery, one of the largest and most important Buddhist monasteries in Sikkim. Marvel at the intricate architecture and the peaceful surroundings of this spiritual site. Next, head to the Tashi Viewpoint for a breathtaking view of Mount Kanchenjunga and other Himalayan peaks, especially mesmerizing at sunrise. Continue to the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, where you'll learn about the rich Tibetan culture and history through fascinating exhibits. Next, visit Ganesh Tok, a small but beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha, perched at a height with a panoramic view of the entire Gangtok valley. For nature lovers, don’t miss the Flower Exhibition Centre, where you can enjoy the vibrant flora of the region.
Overnight Stay: Gangtok
Tour Highlights: Tsomgo Lake, Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple, Yak Ride, Local Markets
Embark on a thrilling excursion to Tsomgo Lake, a sacred glacial lake located at an altitude of 12,400 feet. The lake is surrounded by alpine vegetation and snow-capped mountains, offering mesmerizing views, especially in the winter when it’s frozen. If you're up for some adventure, you can enjoy a yak ride along the lake’s shore, making for some amazing photo opportunities. Later, head to Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple, dedicated to an Indian soldier who died in the area. The temple has an interesting legend attached to it and is an important pilgrimage site for soldiers posted on the Indo-China border. The surrounding area offers more incredible views of the snow-capped peaks. After returning to Gangtok, spend the evening relaxing or exploring local markets for souvenirs, including woolen clothes, jewelry, and local artwork.
Overnight Stay: Gangtok
Tour Highlights: Ravangla Buddha Park, Kanchenjunga Waterfalls, Local Villages
After breakfast, drive towards Pelling, a picturesque town nestled in the mountains. Along the way, stop at Ravangla Buddha Park, where you’ll encounter a stunning 130-foot Buddha statue that is visible from miles away. The park is surrounded by lush gardens and offers a peaceful atmosphere to enjoy the majestic views of the mountains. Continue the journey to the Kanchenjunga Waterfalls, where the water cascades from great heights, surrounded by verdant forests. The natural beauty of this spot is truly mesmerizing. You may also stop by the local villages along the way to observe traditional Sikkimese life, interact with locals, and witness the hospitality of the region.
Overnight Stay: Pelling
Tour Highlights: Pemayangtse Monastery, Rabdentse Ruins, Skywalk, Khecheopalri Lake
Today, start with a visit to Pemayangtse Monastery, one of the oldest and most important monasteries in Sikkim. Admire the detailed architecture and learn about its history while soaking in the views of the surrounding landscapes. Next, explore Rabdentse Ruins, the remnants of the former capital of Sikkim, where you can walk through the historical site and enjoy sweeping views of the valley below. The area offers a deep connection to Sikkim’s heritage and culture. Then, get ready for the Pelling Skywalk, a glass-bottomed bridge that gives you thrilling views of the valley below and the magnificent mountains in the distance. For a peaceful end to the day, visit Khecheopalri Lake, a serene and sacred lake surrounded by lush forests, known for its clean waters and scenic beauty.
Overnight Stay: Pelling
Tour Highlights: Scenic Drive, Leisure at Chowrasta, Batasia Loop, Darjeeling Tea Gardens
After breakfast, travel to Darjeeling, the “Queen of the Hills.” The drive to this famous hill station is filled with breathtaking views of the valleys, tea gardens, and pine forests. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and take some time to relax. Later, head to Chowrasta, the popular open-air shopping promenade in Darjeeling. The area is lined with cafes, local markets, and great viewpoints. Enjoy some leisure time to soak in the atmosphere and perhaps pick up a souvenir or two. In the evening, you may want to visit Batasia Loop, a unique railway loop where the toy train takes a spiral route through the mountain. The surrounding gardens offer a peaceful spot to enjoy views of the Kanchenjunga range.
Overnight Stay: Darjeeling
Tour Highlights: Tiger Hill, Batasia Loop, Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, Tea Gardens, Local Markets
Start your day early with a visit to Tiger Hill, where you’ll witness the spectacular sunrise over the majestic Mount Kanchenjunga. The early morning hues of pink and orange against the snow-capped peaks create a magical view. On your way back, stop at Batasia Loop, a unique spiral railway track surrounded by beautiful gardens, offering stunning views of Darjeeling and the mountains. Next, visit the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, which showcases a range of mountaineering exhibits, including historical items related to Everest expeditions and Himalayan climbing achievements. For a true Darjeeling experience, head to one of the local Tea Estates, where you’ll get a guided tour of the tea production process, from plucking to processing. Don’t miss the chance to sample some of Darjeeling's world-famous tea. In the afternoon, take some leisure time to explore Darjeeling’s vibrant markets, known for selling woolen clothes, tea, and Tibetan crafts.
Overnight Stay: Darjeeling
Tour Highlights: Journey to Bhutan, Immigration Formalities, Leisure Evening
After breakfast, begin your drive towards Phuentsholing, the gateway town to Bhutan. The scenic 6-7 hour drive from Darjeeling to Phuentsholing offers beautiful landscapes, including views of hills, rivers, and forests, as you transition into Bhutanese territory. Upon arrival, proceed with immigration formalities at the Indo-Bhutan border, where you’ll be required to present documents for entry into Bhutan. Once you’ve completed the formalities, spend the evening leisurely exploring Phuentsholing’s peaceful atmosphere. The town is an excellent place to unwind after the journey, with a mix of Bhutanese culture and the relaxed ambiance of a border town.
Overnight Stay: Phuentsholing
Tour Highlights: Memorial Chorten, Buddha Dordenma, Tashichho Dzong, Local Markets
After breakfast, drive to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital, nestled in a scenic valley. Upon arrival, visit the Memorial Chorten, one of the most prominent landmarks in Thimphu. The chorten is a revered Buddhist monument where locals come to pray and circumambulate. Next, visit Buddha Dordenma, a monumental statue of Buddha that stands at an impressive height of 169 feet. This serene site offers spectacular views over Thimphu Valley. Continue to Tashichho Dzong, the royal administrative headquarters of Bhutan, where you can marvel at the fortress-like architecture and the beautifully manicured gardens. In the evening, explore local markets for handicrafts and souvenirs such as Bhutanese textiles, prayer flags, and carved wooden items.
Overnight Stay: Thimphu
Tour Highlights: Dochula Pass, Punakha Dzong, Suspension Bridge, Local Villages
After breakfast, begin your scenic drive to Punakha, passing through Dochula Pass, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the Himalayan mountain range. The pass is also home to 108 chortens (stupas), making it an iconic spot for photos and reflection. Upon arrival in Punakha, visit the stunning Punakha Dzong, one of Bhutan’s most beautiful fortresses, located at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers. Explore its elaborate interiors, courtyards, and historical significance as the former capital of Bhutan. Next, visit the Punakha Suspension Bridge, one of the longest suspension bridges in Bhutan. Walking across the bridge gives you a thrilling experience as it sways gently, providing magnificent views of the valley and the rivers below. Later, explore some nearby local villages, where you can interact with the warm and welcoming Bhutanese people and gain insight into their daily life.
Overnight Stay: Punakha
Tour Highlights: Rinpung Dzong, National Museum, Paro Market, Traditional Bhutanese Culture
After breakfast, head to Paro, a beautiful town nestled in a scenic valley, known for its rich cultural heritage. Begin your exploration with a visit to Rinpung Dzong, a historic fortress-monastery that dates back to the 15th century. The dzong is an architectural masterpiece and offers a wonderful view of the surrounding valley. Next, visit the National Museum of Bhutan, housed in a former watchtower. The museum displays an extensive collection of Bhutanese art, artifacts, and historical items, giving you a deeper understanding of Bhutanese culture and history. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll through Paro Market, where you can shop for Bhutanese textiles, handicrafts, and souvenirs like handcrafted jewelry, pottery, and Buddhist statues.
Overnight Stay: Paro
Tour Highlights: Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), Himalayan Views, Bhutanese Cuisine
Today, prepare for an exhilarating hike to one of Bhutan’s most iconic landmarks—Taktsang Monastery, also known as Tiger’s Nest. The monastery is perched on a cliffside 3,000 feet above the Paro Valley. The hike takes approximately 3-4 hours, depending on your pace, and offers some of the most breathtaking views of the surrounding Himalayan mountains. The journey is both spiritual and physically rewarding, as you get closer to the monastery with every step. Once you reach the monastery, enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and take in the panoramic views of the valley below. After descending, treat yourself to a traditional Bhutanese meal at a local restaurant, offering dishes like ema datshi (cheese and chili stew) and momo (dumplings).
Overnight Stay: Paro
Tour Highlights: Leisure Morning, Departure from Paro Airport
On your final day, enjoy a relaxed morning in Paro. You may visit a local temple, explore the town one last time, or simply relax at your hotel. Depending on your flight time, you may have some leisure hours to absorb the tranquility of Bhutan before heading to Paro International Airport. Bid farewell to the Land of the Thunder Dragon, carrying home memories of the Himalayan landscapes, Bhutanese culture, and the warmth of the people.