In the footsteps of Yeti
Private tour: 1nt Delhi • Siliguri 1nts • 3nts Darjeeling • 2nts Pemayangst 4nts Gangtok • 1nt Kalimpong •2nts Delhi
Legends and folklore abound in the eastern Himalayas about the occasional appearance of the abominable snowman – the Yeti. In the shadow of Mount Kanchenjunga the tea estates and hill station of Darjeeling, are the gateways to the former kingdom of Sikkim. Witnessing sunrise from Tiger Hill as the rays strike the Himalayas and Kanchenjunga is a memorable experience. The tour to Darjeeling cannot be completed without sampling the Champagne of Teas – the Darjeeling tea, grown in high altitude estates surrounding the town. Visit ancient and colourful monasteries in and around Gangtok – the Capital of Sikkim.
Day 1: Arrive Delhi. Upon arrival you will be met and transferred to your hotel.
Day 2: Delhi to Siliguri via Bagdogara, by air & surface. Fly to Bagdogra. Upon arrival transfer to your hotel in Siliguri (14 km). During the afternoon visit the toy train steam locomotive shed at New Jalpaiguri Station and watch the engine drivers preparing the engines of this World Heritage train which has been operating since 1878 on 2 foot gauge track. Return to hotel after visiting Salugara Monastery and ISKCON Hare Krishna Temple.
Day 3: Siliguri to Darjeeling via Mirik, 80 Km/2hrs 30mins. Morning drive to Darjeeling, en route visit Mirik – a nest in the hills, amidst fascinating alpine setting and a glittering lake reflecting the magnificence of the eastern Himalayas. Darjeeling nestles amongst the world-renowned tea estates and an abundance of wild flowers, Orchids and Rhododendrons. Relax and unwind.
Day 4: Darjeeling. Early morning excursion to Tiger Hill to view the sunrise over the Himalayan mountains, including Mt. Khangchendzonga.On the way back visit the famous Ghoom Monastery. In the afternoon visit a tea estate to see the prepration of tea for export and sample some of it. Overnight stay
Day 5: Darjeeling. Day at leisure for independent activities Optional: morning ride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (declared world heritage by UNESCO) from Darjeeling to Ghoom railway station (at extra cost, not included in our quote). Overnight stay.
Day 6: Pemayangste 75 Km/1 hr. Early morning depart for the distant monastery of Pemayangste, built in 1705 in Northern Sikkim, land of the Yeti andabominable snowman.Surrounded by picturesque monk’s quarters, the austere monastery is a treasure trove of beautiful thangas, murals and images. During the afternoon visit the Sikkim’s oldest monastery; Sangachoeling located on a hilltop, commanding a magnificent panoramic view of the Himalayan ranges and the surrounding hills and countryside. Stay 2 nights in Pemayangste.
Day 7: Pemayangste (Khecheopalri). Morning excursion to Khecheopalri Lake (18 Km) considered a sacred lake both by Hindus and Buddhists. The lake remains hidden in the rich forest cover.
Day 8: Pemayangste to Gangtok 127 Km/ 6 hrs. Drive through stunning scenery arriving at
Gangtok, for a 3 night stay. The capital of Sikkim, Gangtok reflects extraordinary ethnic diversity. Lepchas live alongside Tibetans, Bhutias, Nepalese and Indians. Time at leisure.
Day 9: Gangtok. Visit the orchid sanctuary which boasts of over 200 species of orchid. Visit Enchey Monastery whose large prayer hall is full of exquisite mural, images and religious objects. The evening is at your leisure.
Day 10 – 11: Gangtok. Visit Rumtek monastery (24 Km), home to the Yellow Hat Sect with magnificent murals, icons, rare manuscripts and displays richly carved painted woodwork. Afternoon at your leisure.
Day 12: Gangtok to Kalimpong, 80 Km/3 hrs. Drive to the frontier town of Kalimpong in West Bengal. Check in at your hotel. During the afternoon visit the Thonga Monastery and Kalimpong town – famous for its exotic nurseries producing orchids, gladioli, lily and cacti. Entire hillsides are ablaze with a riot of colour during the blooming season.
Day 13: Kalimpong to Delhi via Bagdogara, 83 Km/3 hrs & by air. Drive to Bagdogra airport and fly to Delhi. Upon arrival transfer to your hotel in Delhi for a 2 night stay.
Day 14: Delhi. Full day sightseeing tour of Delhi. Explore the Qutab Complex which houses India’s biggest single tower Qutab Minar and the 4th century rust free Iron Pillar, Mughal citadel named Lal Qila (Red Fort) and Lutyens Delhi. Also visit the grand Jama Masjid and Humayan’s Tomb – the only monument ever built by a lady in memory of her beloved husband.
Day 15: Depart. Delhi transfer to the airport to board your onward flight.
|
City |
Hotel Featured |
|
Delhi |
Metropolitan Hotel |
|
Siliguri |
Royal Sarovar Premiere |
|
Darjeeling |
Elgin Hotel |
|
Pelling |
Elgin Mt. Pandim |
|
Gangtok |
Elgin Norkhill |
|
Kalimpong |
Silver Oaks Hotel |
Dates | Single | Double / Twin (per person) |
01 Oct\'2014 to 24 Nov\'2014 15 Mar\'2015 to 31 Mar\'2015 | 5017-00 | 2593-00 |
21 Dec\'2014 to 01 Jan\'2015 | 4750-00 | 2459-00 |
25 Nov\'2014 to 20 Dec\'2014 02 Jan\'2015 to 14 Mar\'2015 | 4706-00 | 2355-00 |
01 Apr\'2015 to 15 Jun\'2015 | 4759-00 | 2463-00 |
16 Jun\'2015 to 14 Sep\'2015 | 4448-00 | 2302-00 |
What\'s Included:
- Domestic flight in economy class between Delhi and Bagdogra
- Accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis throughout the tour except at Darjeeling, Pelling, Gangtok & Kalimpong where it will be on a full board basis
- Meet and assist at airports and hotels by our representative
- All transfers, sightseeing and excursions as detailed in the itinerary by air-conditioned car
- Entrance fees
- Services of local English speaking guide as per the itinerary during city tour
- Cycle Rickshaw ride in Old Delhi