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Your trip to India's eastern north part promises a blend of cultural exploration and natural beauty, deeply rooted in historical connections with Nepal. Starting with Gangtok, the capital city of Sikkim, you'll embark on a sightseeing tour to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and flavors of the region. Don't miss the opportunity to visit Tsomgo Lake, situated at an elevation of 3870 meters, offering breathtaking views and tranquil surroundings.
Continuing your journey, venture into south Sikkim to explore Namchi, home to the awe-inspiring Solophok Dham, a significant pilgrimage site built by the Sikkim government. Experience the spiritual essence of the region and marvel at the architectural wonders.
In Darjeeling, delve into the rich historical heritage of the district, with visits to iconic sites and tea gardens that define the region's identity. Learn about the cultural and historical significance of Darjeeling while savoring the aroma of freshly brewed tea.
Throughout your trip, embrace the interconnectedness of Sikkim, Darjeeling, and Nepal, as you uncover the shared history and cultural ties that bind these regions together. Indulge in the diverse cuisines, traditions, and landscapes, creating unforgettable memories along the way.
On this auspicious day, our journey commences with various travel options to reach Kakarbhitta, our gateway to the enchanting destinations of Sikkim and Darjeeling.
Alternatively, #Option-1 offers a swift flight from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur Airport, followed by a short drive to Kakarbhitta, enabling us to proceed to Sikkim or Darjeeling on the same day.
#Option-2 presents a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Kakarbhitta via the historic Sindhuli B.P. Highway. This route spans approximately 455km and takes around 11.19 hours, offering opportunities to explore the legendary Sindhuli Gadi and traverse the adventurous hillsides of the B.P. Highway. Upon reaching Kakarbhitta, we'll retire for the night at a hotel, rejuvenating ourselves for the adventures that lie ahead.
For those seeking a longer but more comfortable journey, #Option-3 entails a drive from Kathmandu to Kakarbhitta via Chitwan and Hetauda, covering a distance of 616km over 15 hours. Luxury night buses offer a convenient travel option, departing in the evening and arriving in Kakarbhitta by morning, allowing us to commence our Sikkim itinerary during the day.
After a satisfying breakfast, we'll embark on the next leg of our journey, heading towards the Nepal-India border. Upon crossing the Mechi Nagar Bridge, we'll reach the vehicle station at Pani Tanki, where our local representative will be awaiting us with a tourist jeep. We'll then set off for Gangtok, the capital city of Sikkim, via Kalingpong.
En route, we'll make a delightful stop at Kalingpong, a charming hill station in the Darjeeling district. Here, we'll have the opportunity to engage in exciting paragliding activities and explore the local attractions, including Dello Park, Pino View Nursery, and the renowned panoramic valley views. Additionally, we'll visit Buddhist monasteries, churches, and Tibetan handicraft markets, immersing ourselves in the cultural richness of the region.
After soaking in the sights and experiences of Kalingpong, we'll continue our journey to Gangtok, which will take approximately 2.45 hours to cover a distance of 74.5km. Upon arrival, we'll check into our hotel and unwind after a day filled with adventure and exploration. Prepare for a restful night, anticipating the adventures that await us in the captivating city of Gangtok.
Your day will kick off with a hearty breakfast before heading out on a drive to Tsomgo Lake, also known as Chhangu Lake, which boasts a frozen wonderland subject to suitable weather conditions. The journey from Gangtok spans about 1 ½ hours over 37.9 kilometers. Given the altitude, some individuals may experience symptoms of altitude sickness, so it's crucial to take necessary precautions and adhere to the guidance provided by your tour guide. After soaking in the beauty of Tsomgo Lake, you'll make your way back, stopping to visit Ganesh Tok, Tashi View Point, Bakthang Waterfalls, and finally exploring the vibrant M.G Marg (M.G Street) in the evening. Your overnight stay will be at your hotel, allowing you to rest and rejuvenate for the adventures ahead.
Following breakfast, your journey continues with a scenic drive to Namchi, where you'll visit the Solophok Chardham pilgrimage center. This remarkable site features a main temple standing at an impressive height of 108 feet, upon which sits an 87 feet high statue of Lord Shiva in a seated posture. Solophok Chardham holds significance as one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, making it a revered destination, especially for Shiva devotees. Additionally, you'll explore the Sai Baba Temple in the vicinity. The drive to Namchi spans approximately 2 ½ hours over 78.5 kilometers. Subsequently, you'll journey onwards to Darjeeling, a scenic drive of about 3 hours covering 75 kilometers alongside the picturesque Teesta River. Your overnight stay will be in Darjeeling, providing a comfortable base for further exploration in this enchanting region.
Start your day bright and early with a drive to Tiger Hill, situated at an altitude of 2,590 meters, to witness the spectacular sunrise over the majestic Kanchenjunga Peak, towering at 8,534 meters. This experience is, of course, subject to clear weather conditions. After capturing the breathtaking views, return to your hotel for a hearty breakfast. Following breakfast, embark on a visit to Batasia Loop, a famous spiral railway loop offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape. Return to the hotel for another delicious breakfast before heading out to explore the Zoological Park, which includes the zoo and the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute. Afterward, indulge in a leisurely lunch at a hotel or restaurant before continuing your sightseeing excursion to the Tea Gardens and the iconic Tenzing Rock. Return to your hotel for some relaxation. In the evening, take a stroll through the vibrant local market and Chaurasta, soaking in the charming atmosphere of Darjeeling. Finally, retire to your hotel for a restful overnight stay, reflecting on the day's adventures.
Following breakfast, embark on a drive to Kanyam, where you'll spend the day immersed in the beauty of scenic tea gardens. Enjoy leisurely walks amidst the lush greenery, taking in the serene landscapes and tranquil ambiance. Experience the charm of the tea gardens up close, perhaps even learning about the tea-making process. For accommodation, you'll stay overnight at a lodge or homestay, allowing you to fully embrace the tranquility of the surroundings and rejuvenate for the adventures ahead.
After breakfast, you have the option to drive to Bhadrapur for your final departure to Kathmandu, catching a morning flight.
Alternatively, you can opt for a scenic drive to Kathmandu via Sindhuli, which takes approximately 11 hours, or through Chitwan, which extends the journey to about 14 hours. While the Sindhuli route is shorter, the Chitwan route offers a more luxurious bus experience. Choose the route that best suits your preferences for comfort and scenery, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey back to Kathmandu.
