Eastern Essence Sikkim to Kolkata

Day 01Arrive Kolkata

Arrive by international flight. After a traditional Indian-style “Swagat” (Welcome) by an Exceptional Escapes representative, you will be assisted at the airport and transferred to your hotel for check-in.
Kolkata, the cultural capital of India, is a vibrant blend of colonial charm and artistic spirit. Known as the ‘City of Joy’, Kolkata is famous for its colonial-era architecture, passionate literary traditions, and warm-hearted locals. Nestled on the banks of the Hooghly River, it is the birthplace of iconic poets, philosophers, and Nobel laureates. A city where the appreciation of art and literature flows in the veins of its people, Kolkata offers a unique cultural experience unlike any other.
Overnight at Hotel – Kolkata

Day 02Kolkata – Bagdogra (IndiGo 6E-797 | 10:45 – 11:55 hrs) | Bagdogra – Darjeeling (110 km / approx. 3 Hrs)

After breakfast, transfer to the airport to board your flight to Bagdogra. On arrival, drive to Darjeeling, often referred to as the Queen of India’s Hill Stations.
Perched amidst the rolling slopes of the eastern Himalayas and wrapped in mist, Darjeeling enchants with its Victorian charm, emerald tea gardens, and spectacular views of the Kanchenjunga range. Once a summer retreat of the British Raj, the town still carries traces of its colonial elegance.
Evening at leisure to relax or stroll through the local markets.
Overnight at Hotel – Darjeeling (B)

Day 03Darjeeling – Sightseeing

Early Morning Excursion to Tiger Hill
Witness the mesmerizing sunrise over the Kanchenjunga range, and on clear days, you may even catch a glimpse of Mount Everest.
On the way back, visit:

• Ghoom Monastery: A serene Tibetan village monastery where the chanting of monks and the sound of the Gyaling horns create a mystical ambiance.
• Yiga-Choling Gompa: A significant Yellow Hat Buddhist temple housing a majestic Maitreya Buddha statue.

Later visit:

• Himalayan Mountaineering Institute: Founded by Tenzing Norgay, this inspiring museum displays mountaineering gear and memorabilia from Everest expeditions.
• Tibetan Handicraft Centre
• Darjeeling Tea Gardens – Learn about the delicate process of tea cultivation and enjoy scenic views.

Optional Visit: If time permits, enjoy a guided visit to Makaibari Tea Estate – the world’s first tea factory established in 1859, where farming meets art and sustainability.
Overnight at Hotel – Darjeeling (B)

Day 04Darjeeling – Pelling (145 km / 6–7 Hrs)

After breakfast, drive to the scenic town of Pelling in West Sikkim. Located at the foothills of Mount Kanchenjunga, Pelling is known for its panoramic Himalayan views, spiritual heritage, and tranquil environment.
Upon arrival, check into your hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure.
Overnight at Hotel – Pelling (B)

Day 05Pelling – Sightseeing & Transfer to Gangtok (115 km / approx. 4–5 hrs)

Begin your day exploring the highlights of Pelling:

• Pemayangtse Monastery: One of the oldest and most revered monasteries in Sikkim, reserved for ‘ta-sang’ lamas (pure monks). It’s a vital center of Tibetan Buddhism.
• Sangacholing Monastery: Situated on a hill above Pelling, accessible via a scenic forested trail. A peaceful spot offering spiritual tranquility and fantastic views.
• Khecheopalri Lake: A sacred lake revered by Buddhists and Hindus alike. It is believed that birds ensure no leaf ever floats on its surface.

Later, drive to Gangtok, the enchanting capital of Sikkim. Perched on steep slopes and surrounded by lush greenery and snow-covered peaks, Gangtok exudes a charming fairytale vibe.
Overnight at Hotel – Gangtok (B)

Day 06Gangtok – Full Day Sightseeing

After breakfast, enjoy a guided city tour of Gangtok:

• Do Drul Chorten: A magnificent stupa built to commemorate the victory of good over evil. It is surrounded by 108 prayer wheels.
• Rumtek Monastery: A sacred monastery of the Kagyu sect, it is a replica of the original Tsurphu Monastery in Tibet and home to the Karmapa.
• Himalayan Zoological Park: Also known as Bulbuley, this open-air zoo houses Red Pandas, Himalayan bears, and other endemic species in a semi-natural environment.
• Government Institute of Cottage Industries (GICI): Witness artisans creating Sikkimese crafts, from hand-woven carpets to intricately carved wooden furniture.
• Namgyal Institute of Tibetology: A renowned center for Tibetan and Buddhist studies. It holds over 30,000 rare manuscripts, ancient thangkas, and sacred statues.

Evening: Explore Lal Bazaar – A vibrant local market where traders from surrounding villages gather to sell traditional goods, spices, produce, and more. A perfect spot for souvenirs and cultural immersion.
Overnight at Hotel – Gangtok (B)

Day 07Gangtok – Tsongmo Lake Excursion – Drive to Kalimpong (75 km / 2.5 hrs)

Post breakfast, embark on a scenic excursion to Tsongmo Lake (also known as Changu Lake), located at an altitude of 12,400 feet. The lake is considered extremely sacred by the local Sikkimese people. Surrounded by snow-clad mountains and alpine forests, it’s a birdwatcher’s paradise, with species like Blue Whistling Thrush, Redstarts, Forktails, and migratory Brahminy Ducks. The word Tsongmo in the Bhutia language means “Source of the Lake.”
In the afternoon, continue your journey to Kalimpong, a tranquil hill town set against the dramatic backdrop of the Eastern Himalayas. Kalimpong is known for its diverse cultures, Buddhist monasteries, and colonial-era architecture. Once under Bhutanese rule for 155 years, the town flourished under British annexation post-1865 as a major wool trading hub with Tibet. It is a place where Buddhism, Hinduism, and Christianity harmoniously coexist.
Evening at leisure after a scenic and enriching drive.
Overnight stay at hotel – Kalimpong
Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner

Day 08Kalimpong Sightseeing

Post breakfast, explore the key cultural and spiritual landmarks of Kalimpong:

• Thongsa Gompa (Bhutanese Monastery) – Founded in 1692, this is the oldest monastery in Kalimpong. Although the original structure was destroyed by the Gorkhas, it was later reconstructed on the same site.
• Zong Dog Palri Fo-Brang Monastery (Durpin Monastery) – Located on Durpin Hill, this monastery is known for its stunning Tibetan wall paintings, a Tibetan medicine school, and a religious debating society.
• Tharpa Choeling Monastery – Established in 1937, it belongs to the Gelugpa (Yellow Hat) sect of Tibetan Buddhism. It houses a treasure trove of ancient scriptures and literary works.

Evening is free to explore the local Kalimpong market and soak in the unique charm of this quaint hill town.
Overnight stay at hotel – Kalimpong
Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner

Day 09Kalimpong – Bagdogra (75 km / 2 hrs) | Bagdogra – Kolkata (: IndiGo 6E- 537 @ 1445 / 1600 Hrs)

After breakfast, transfer to Bagdogra Airport to board your flight:
Upon arrival in Kolkata, meet and transfer to the hotel.
Evening is at leisure for personal exploration or rest.
Overnight stay at hotel – Kolkata (B)

Day 10Kolkata – Guided City Tour

After breakfast, proceed for a guided sightseeing tour of Kolkata, a vibrant city that blends colonial heritage with spiritual and cultural vibrancy:

• Victoria Memorial – A magnificent white marble monument built between 1906–1921 in memory of Queen Victoria. Designed by Sir William Emerson, it draws architectural inspiration from the Taj Mahal.
• Fort William, St. John’s Church, Marble Palace, and Tagore’s Castle – Each echoing stories of the British Raj and Bengal’s cultural legacy.
• Howrah Bridge – An engineering marvel built without nuts and bolts, it is one of the longest cantilever bridges in the world, gracefully spanning the Hooghly River.
• Nirmal Hriday (Home for the Dying Destitute) – Founded by Mother Teresa in 1952, this humanitarian shelter offers dignity and peace to the terminally ill.
• Birla Mandir – A grand Hindu temple built by the Birla family, known for its intricate marble carvings and serene ambiance.
• Belur Math – Headquarters of the Ramakrishna Mission, it’s a tranquil spiritual center that embraces all religions and draws visitors for its calm, unifying aura.

Rest of the day at leisure to explore Kolkata’s vibrant markets or enjoy some souvenir shopping.
Overnight stay at hotel – Kolkata (B)

Day 11Kolkata – Departure

After breakfast, a private car and driver will be at your disposal for last-minute sightseeing or shopping.
Later, you will be transferred to Kolkata International Airport to board your flight back home.

Tour Concludes with warm memories and exceptional experiences.  
Our Exceptional Escapes Manager will assist you during your departure formalities.