Welcome to Kolkata

On arrival at Kolkata Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, after completing customs, immigration formalities, and baggage collection, as you exit the arrival terminal, you will be warmly welcomed by an India Tours & Travels executive holding a placard with your name. You will then be assisted with your transfer to the hotel for check-in.
Kolkata, fondly known as the “City of Joy,” is India’s cultural and intellectual capital. Once the seat of the British Raj, the city still echoes its colonial heritage through grand architecture, tram-lined streets, and historic landmarks. A vibrant metropolis famed for its literature, arts, spiritual sites, and culinary delights, Kolkata offers visitors a rich tapestry of old-world charm interwoven with the dynamic energy of modern urban life.

Overnight stay in Kolkata.
The Senator or similar (3*), Peerless Inn or similar (4*), ITC Royal Bengal or similar (5*)
Meals: (No meals included)

Explore the sites of Kolkata

Start your day early with a visit to Kolkata’s vibrant Flower Market near Howrah Bridge, where hundreds of vendors line the narrow lanes with heaps of marigolds, lotuses, roses, and seasonal blooms, creating a riot of colours and fragrances – a perfect introduction to the city’s lively spirit. Walk across or drive past the iconic Howrah Bridge, an engineering marvel and one of Kolkata’s most recognisable landmarks, buzzing with daily life. Continue to the majestic Victoria Memorial, an architectural masterpiece built in white marble, set amidst sprawling gardens, and housing an excellent collection of British-era paintings, sculptures, and historical artefacts. Next, visit the sacred Kali Temple at Kalighat, dedicated to Goddess Kali and revered as one of the Shakti Peethas, where pilgrims offer prayers in a spiritually charged atmosphere. Later, explore the serene South Park Street Cemetery, an atmospheric colonial-era graveyard with moss-covered tombstones and grand mausoleums, offering a glimpse into the city’s 18th-century history. Visit the Mother House, the headquarters of Missionaries of Charity, where Mother Teresa lived and worked, and pay your respects at her simple tomb that continues to inspire visitors from across the world. Conclude your day at Kumartuli, the traditional potters’ quarter, to witness artisans skilfully crafting clay idols of gods and goddesses for festivals, capturing the soul of Kolkata’s artistic heritage before returning to your hotel for the evening.

Overnight stay in Kolkata.
The Senator or similar (3*), Peerless Inn or similar (4*), ITC Royal Bengal or similar (5*)
Meals: (Breakfast at the hotel’s designated restaurant)

Flight to Bagdogra & drive to Darjeeling
By Flight: Departure Kolkata at 0750 hrs. / Arrival Bagdogra at 0855 hrs. or similar.

This morning, transfer to the airport for your flight to Bagdogra, the gateway to the Eastern Himalayas. Upon arrival, meet your driver and begin your scenic drive to Darjeeling (Approx. 2.5 to 3 hrs. drive), winding through lush tea gardens, rolling hills, and charming mountain villages with glimpses of the distant snow-clad peaks of Kanchenjunga. As you ascend the cool Himalayan slopes, notice the refreshing change in air and landscape. Upon arrival in Darjeeling, you will be transffered to your hotel and check in. Spend the rest of the day at leisure, relaxing and acclimatising to the pleasant mountain climate. You may choose to take a gentle stroll around the town to soak in the serene atmosphere of this historic hill station, known as the “Queen of the Hills.”

Overnight stay in Darjeeling.
Hotel Viceroy or similar (3*), The Elgin or similar (4*& 5*)
Meals: (Breakfast at the hotel’s designated restaurant)

Darjeeling sightseeing

Rise early this morning for an unforgettable excursion to Tiger Hill, where, on clear days, you can witness a breathtaking sunrise illuminating the snow-clad peaks of the eastern Himalayas, including the majestic Kanchenjunga and even distant views of Mount Everest. Return en route to visit the serene Ghoom Monastery, the oldest Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Darjeeling, housing a beautiful 15-foot-high statue of Maitreya Buddha and adorned with traditional thangkas and lamps. Later, experience a delightful ride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway’s World Heritage Toy Train, travelling through picturesque mountain landscapes and quaint villages as you chug along to Ghoom station, capturing the charm of this historic narrow-gauge railway. Continue your sightseeing
with a visit to the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, established by Tenzing Norgay, featuring fascinating exhibits on mountaineering expeditions and Himalayan geology. Conclude your day at the Tibetan Self-Help Centre (Refugee Centre), where Tibetan refugees preserve their traditional handicrafts, weaving carpets, crafting woollens, and making exquisite souvenirs that support their community. Return to your hotel in the evening after a day immersed in Darjeeling’s cultural, spiritual, and natural splendour.

Overnight stay in Darjeeling.
Hotel Viceroy or similar (3*), The Elgin or similar (4*& 5*)
Meals: (Breakfast at the hotel’s designated restaurant)

Darjeeling – Half day excursion Happy Valley Tea Estate

This morning, enjoy a half-day excursion to the iconic Happy Valley Tea Estate, one of Darjeeling’s oldest and most renowned tea gardens, established in 1854. Walk through lush rolling tea plantations set against the backdrop of misty Himalayan peaks, and learn about the intricate process of tea plucking, withering, rolling, fermenting, and drying during a guided factory visit (seasonal). Witness skilled tea pickers at work and gain insights into the delicate art of producing Darjeeling’s world-famous aromatic teas. You may also sample and purchase premium teas fresh from the estate to carry home as fragrant memories of your Himalayan journey. Return to your hotel by midday and spend the rest of the day at leisure, relaxing amidst Darjeeling’s cool mountain air, exploring local markets, or enjoying a peaceful evening at a cafe overlooking the valley.

Overnight stay in Darjeeling.
Hotel Viceroy or similar (3*), The Elgin or similar (4*& 5*)
Meals: (Breakfast at the hotel’s designated restaurant)

Drive to Pelling visiting Pemayangtse Monastery enroute

After breakfast, check out from your hotel and begin your scenic drive towards Pelling (Approx. 03 to 04 hrs. drive), a serene hill town in West Sikkim known for its mesmerising Himalayan views. En route, visit the revered Pemayangtse Monastery, one of Sikkim’s oldest and most important monasteries, founded in the 17th century. Nestled on a hilltop overlooking the Rangit Valley, this monastery belongs to the Nyingma sect of Tibetan Buddhism and is adorned with vibrant murals, ancient statues, and an intricately carved wooden structure depicting Guru Rinpoche’s heavenly palace, Sangtok Palri, on the top floor. Spend time absorbing the tranquil spiritual atmosphere and admiring the panoramic vistas of snow-clad peaks and forested hills surrounding the monastery. Continue your journey through winding mountain roads lined with rhododendron and pine forests until you arrive in Pelling. Check in at your hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure.

Overnight stay in Pelling.
Norbu Ghang Resort or similar (3*), The Elgin Mount Pandim or similar (4*& 5*)
Meals: (Breakfast at the hotel’s designated restaurant)

Pelling - Full day excursion to Yuksom

Today, embark on a full-day excursion to Yuksom (Approx. 2.5 hrs. drive – one way), the first capital of Sikkim and a place of great historical and spiritual significance. Drive through pristine mountain landscapes, lush forests, and traditional Sikkimese villages to reach this sacred valley. Begin your exploration at the Norbugang Chorten, a coronation site built in 1642 where the first Chogyal (king) of Sikkim was crowned by three lamas, marking the birth of the Sikkimese monarchy. The site features a peaceful prayer chorten, a large stone throne, and ancient footprints embedded in stone, offering insights into Sikkim’s spiritual and cultural heritage. From here, enjoy a gentle hike (Approx. 40 mins – one way) to Dubdi Monastery, Sikkim’s oldest monastery, founded in 1701. The trail ascends through dense forests of magnolia, oak, and rhododendron, resonating with birdsong and the fresh mountain breeze. Upon arrival, immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere of Dubdi Monastery, also known as the ‘Hermit’s Cell,’ with its traditional Tibetan architecture, statues, and ancient Buddhist scriptures preserved for centuries. After spending quiet reflective time here, hike back and return to Pelling in the evening, filled with the peace and spirituality of Sikkim’s hidden Himalayan heritage.

Overnight stay in Pelling.
Norbu Ghang Resort or similar (3*), The Elgin Mount Pandim or similar (4*& 5*)
Meals: (Breakfast at the hotel’s designated restaurant)

Travel to Gangtok visiting Tashiding Stupa enroute

After breakfast, check out from your hotel and begin your picturesque drive towards Gangtok (Approx. 06 to 07 hrs. drive), the charming capital of Sikkim. En route, visit the sacred Tashiding Stupa, regarded as the most holy and revered chorten in Sikkim, believed to cleanse sins and purify the soul. Situated atop a hill between the Rangit and Rathong rivers, the site offers spectacular views of surrounding mountains and valleys. Walk through fluttering prayer flags to reach the Thong-Wa-Rang-Dol Chorten, adorned with intricate carvings and inscriptions, and feel the deeply spiritual atmosphere as monks and pilgrims circumambulate this sacred site in prayer. After absorbing the serene and mystical aura of Tashiding, continue your drive through winding Himalayan roads, dense forests, and tea gardens towards Gangtok. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure, relaxing or taking an evening stroll through the vibrant MG Marg to experience the town’s local culture and ambience.

Overnight stay in Gangtok.
Chumbi Residency or similar (3*), Denzong Regency (4* & 5*)
Meals: (Breakfast at the hotel’s designated restaurant)

Explore Gangtok

Today, set out to explore the cultural and spiritual highlights of Gangtok. Begin your morning with a visit to the peaceful Enchey Monastery, perched on a hilltop surrounded by pine forests, offering beautiful views of the town and distant snow-capped peaks. This 200-year-old monastery belongs to the Nyingma order of Tibetan Buddhism and is adorned with colourful murals, prayer wheels, and statues of Guru Padmasambhava and other deities, creating a serene and meditative atmosphere. Continue to the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, one of the most important centres for the study of Tibetan Buddhism and culture in India. Admire its traditional Sikkimese architecture and browse through its fascinating collection of ancient manuscripts, thangkas, Buddhist icons, and artefacts that preserve the rich heritage of the Himalayan region. Later, visit the nearby Do Drul Chorten Stupa, surrounded by 108 prayer wheels, built in 1945 to drive away evil spirits and dedicated to Guru Rinpoche. Feel the spiritual calm as you walk around the chorten, spinning the prayer wheels while chanting mantras. In the evening, enjoy leisure time exploring MG Marg, Gangtok’s vibrant pedestrian-only market, lined with cafes, handicraft shops, and bustling local life – a perfect place to savour local snacks and shop for Sikkimese souvenirs before returning to your hotel for the night.

Overnight stay in Gangtok.
Chumbi Residency or similar (3*), Denzong Regency (4* & 5*)
Meals: (Breakfast at the hotel’s designated restaurant)

Travel to Kalimpong visiting Rumtek Monastery enroute

After breakfast, check out from your hotel and begin your journey towards Kalimpong (Approx. 03 to 04 hrs. drive), a quaint hill station known for its colonial charm and monastery-lined ridges. En route, visit the grand Rumtek Monastery, the largest monastery in Sikkim and the seat of the Karmapa of the Kagyu sect of Tibetan Buddhism. Located on a hilltop overlooking Gangtok, Rumtek Monastery is an architectural marvel with its colourful murals, intricate woodwork, golden stupas, and a large prayer hall housing a stunning statue of Buddha. Walk through its peaceful courtyards and feel the deep spiritual energy as monks chant and perform their rituals amidst the fluttering prayer flags. After soaking in the monastery’s serene atmosphere, continue your drive through winding mountain roads, lush forests, and terraced farmlands towards Kalimpong. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure, relaxing and enjoying the tranquil ambience of this lesser-visited Himalayan gem.

Overnight stay in Kalimpong.
Holumba or similar (3*), The Elgin Silver Oaks or similar (4* & 5*)
Meals: (Breakfast at the hotel’s designated restaurant)

Kalimpong Sightseeing

Today, set out to explore the serene beauty and cultural heritage of Kalimpong. Begin your morning with a visit to Durpin Dara Hill, the highest point in Kalimpong, offering panoramic views of the snow-clad Himalayan ranges, Teesta River valley, and the surrounding green hills dotted with villages and forests. Atop the hill, visit the Zang Dhok Palri Monastery (Durpin Monastery), built in 1972 and inaugurated by the Dalai Lama. This monastery houses rare Buddhist scriptures brought from Tibet during the Chinese invasion and features impressive murals and a peaceful prayer hall, exuding a deep sense of calm. Continue to the Kalimpong Botanical Garden, home to a wide variety of Himalayan flora, colourful orchids, and beautifully landscaped pathways perfect for a gentle walk amidst nature. Later, visit the Jang Dog Palriffo Brang Gompa, another name for Zang Dhok Palri Monastery, known for its intricate Tibetan architecture and spiritual ambience. End your sightseeing at Thongsa Gompa, also known as Bhutan Monastery, the oldest monastery in Kalimpong founded in 1692, with its peaceful courtyard, prayer flags fluttering in the breeze, and views over the valley. Return to your hotel in the evening, with time at leisure to explore the local markets or simply relax and absorb the quiet charm of Kalimpong.

Overnight stay in Kalimpong.
Holumba or similar (3*), The Elgin Silver Oaks or similar (4* & 5*)
Meals: (Breakfast at the hotel’s designated restaurant)

Kalimpong – Bagdogra (by drive) – Kolkata (by flight) – Departure
By Flight: Departure Bagdogra at 1445 hrs. / Arrival Kolkata at 1555 hrs. or similar.

After an early breakfast, check out from your hotel and bid farewell to the tranquil hills of Kalimpong. Drive to Bagdogra Airport (Approx. 03 to 3.5 hrs. drive), passing through lush tea gardens, rolling foothills, and small Himalayan towns, enjoying your last glimpses of the Eastern Himalayas. Upon arrival, board your flight to Kolkata. On arrival at Kolkata airport, you will be met and assisted with your transfer to the International Terminal for your onward flight back home. Depart with beautiful memories of India’s Himalayan foothills, vibrant monasteries, tea estates, and spiritual experiences that will remain in your heart forever.

No Accommodation on this day.
Meals: (Breakfast at the hotel’s designated restaurant)