Darjeeling & Sikkim - The Eastern Himalaya ⋆ Itinerary ⋆ Greaves India

Darjeeling & Sikkim - The Eastern Himalaya

Discover the untouched beauty of India's northeastern frontier, where Buddhist monasteries cling to misty ridges, colonial hill stations overlook sweeping tea gardens, and traditional homes offer warm mountain hospitality. This journey through Darjeeling and Sikkim blends quiet cultural immersion with epic Himalayan scenery and stays at heritage estates that embody elegance, intimacy, and authenticity.

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Darjeeling & Sikkim - The Eastern Himalaya

Day 1: Arrive Kolkata

Begin your journey in Kolkata, a city of layered history and refined culture. Stay at The Glenburn Penthouse, a nine-suite sanctuary in the city's heart, offering sweeping views of the Victoria Memorial and curated colonial walking tours.

Day 2: Kolkata

Explore Kolkata's architectural and literary heritage with a guided tour of Dalhousie Square, the Indian Museum, and the iconic Marble Palace. Then, return to The Glenburn Penthouse for a sunset cocktail on the veranda.

Day 3: Kolkata – Bagdogra – Kalimpong

Fly to Bagdogra and drive to Kalimpong, once a vital link on the India–Tibet trade route. Stay 2 nights at PaliGhar, a lovingly restored Bhutia home surrounded by organic gardens and verdant hills.

Day 4: Kalimpong

Discover Kalimpong's flower nurseries and Tibetan handicraft centers. Participate in a local cooking session at PaliGhar, learning the subtle techniques of Nepali and Tibetan cuisine. Relax amidst mountain tranquility.

Day 5: Kalimpong – Gangtok

Journey to Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim. En route, visit Buddhist monasteries and pause for views of the Teesta River. Check into Elgin Nor-Khill, a boutique heritage property.

Day 6: Gangtok

Visit the celebrated Rumtek Monastery, the seat of the Karmapa, and admire Himalayan views from Tashi Viewpoint. Stroll through Gangtok's bustling markets for local woolens, incense, and prayer flags.

Day 7: Gangtok – Pelling

Drive to Pelling, nestled amid pristine mountain landscapes. Stay 2 nights at the Elgin Mount Pandim near the historic Pemayangtse Monastery. Spend the afternoon exploring sacred Buddhist sites.

Day 8: Pelling – Tashiding – Pelling

Take a scenic walk to Tashiding Monastery, one of Sikkim's holiest sites. Pass through serene villages strung with prayer flags and chortens, absorbing the spiritual energy of this Himalayan sanctuary.

Day 9: Pelling – Glenburn Tea Estate

Descend into the Darjeeling foothills for two nights at the celebrated Glenburn Tea Estate. This working plantation features colonial bungalows, personalized tea tours, and breathtaking views of Kanchenjunga.

Day 10: Glenburn

Embark on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, India's iconic "toy train. " Then, visit Ghoom Monastery and the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute. Return to Glenburn for a tea tasting or a riverside walk.