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This exciting Himayalan journey explores the tiny north-eastern state of Sikkim, otherwise known as 'The Garden State', on account of its spectacular flora and fauna and abundant flower nurseries. Boasting a plethora of monasteries and exceptional mountain scenery, this beautiful state is inhabited predominantly by gentle Buddhists and small settlements of tribal people. Just over the boarder is Darjeeling, in the heart of the tea growing country, which is now, as always, a popular summer holiday destination. Combined with a few days exploring the sites of the oft-misunderstood but fascinating city of Kolkata (Calcutta), this well-rounded tour offers a great insight into Himalayan, Buddhist and city life in the north-east.
DAY 1 ARRIVE KOLKATA
On arrival stay at The Oberoi Grand Hotel.
DAY 2 KOLKATA
Spend the day exploring this fascinating city, redolent with history, Victorian architecture and known to have produced some of India's greatest writers.
DAY 3 KOLKATA - BAGDOGRA - KALIMPONG (1704M / 5591ft)
Early morning visit to the beautiful flower markets on the banks of the Hooghly River. Morning flight to Bagdogra and drive up into the hills to Kalimpong. Stay 1 night at the charming but rustic Himayalan hotel.
DAY 4 KALIMPONG - GANGTOK (1437M / 4715ft)
Morning exploring Kalimpong's flower nurseries and small market. Afternoon drive to Gangtok, capital of Sikkim. Stay 2 nights at the Norkhill Hotel.
DAY 5 GANGTOK
Early morning visit to Tashi View Point for magnificent views of Mt. Kanchenjunga. Proceed to one of India's busiest and most famous monasteries at Rumtek.
DAY 6 GANGTOK - PELLING (2085M / 6841ft)
Morning visit to Phodang Monastery before driving through the mountains to the small town of Pelling. Stay 2 nights at the simple Norbugang Resort. Afternoon visit to the local monastery with its staggering mountain views.
DAY 7 PELLING - TASHIDING - PELLING
Short drive to Tashiding and enjoy a beautiful walk up the hill to the secluded monastery. Walk through small villages, surrounded by prayer flags and chortens.
DAY 8 PELLING - DARJEELING (2100M / 6890ft)
After a leisurely start, drive south to Darjeeling. Stay 3 nights just outside the town at the delightful Glenburn Tea Estate. Afternoon at leisure.
DAY 9 DARJEELING
Excursion to the sprawling town of Darjeeling. See the Botanical Gardens, Ghoom Monastery and visit the Himalayan Moutaineering Institute.
DAY 10 DARJEELING
Spend the day walking in the stunning hills that surround Glenburn, fish the river or enjoy a private tour of this family-run, working tea estate.
DAY 11 DARJEELING - DELHI
Morning drive to Bagdogra. Afternoon flight to Delhi. Room at disposal at The Trident, Gurgaon until late tonight. After dinner, depart for the airport.
DAY 12 DEPART DELHI
Early morning departure for onward destination.
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