Kolkata-Darjeeling-Sikkim-Bhutan Cultural Tour

Package Overview

About Sikkim: Small but beautiful, Sikkim is situated in the eastern Himalayas. The state is spreader below the Mount Khanchendzonga (8534 mts), the third highest mountain in the world, and revered by the Sikkimese as their protective deity. With an area of 7,300 sqkms and measuring approx. 114 kms from the north to south and 64 kms from east to west, the elevation ranges from 300 meters to over 8540 meters above sea level. Amidst the grandeur of the mountain peaks, lush valleys, fast flowing rivers, hills, Sikkim offers her visitors a rare and singular experience. Within a matter of hours one can move from the sub-tropical heat of the lower valleys to the cold of the rugged mountain slopes that reach up to the area of perpetual snow.

The modern history of Sikkim begins from 1642 A.D. with the coronation of PhuntsogNamgyal as the first Chogyal or king of Sikkim in a tranquil pine covered hill in YuksomNorbugang in West Sikkim. The Namgyals were scions of the Mi-nyak House in Kham in Eastern Tibet. It is said that there were three brothers, chiefs of Kham Mi-nyak. A letter dropped from heaven directed the middle brother to go south towards Sikkim where his descendants were fated to rule. It was in Sakya that his eldest son single-handedly raised the pillars of the Sakya monastery and earned himself the sobriquet of ‘KhyeBumsa( the strength of a lakh of men ). KhyeBumsa also earned himself the hand of the daughter of the Sakya hierarch and settled in Chumbi Valley, which remained, for a long time, the epicenter of the later kingdom of Sikkim.

About Bhutan: - The Kingdom of Bhutan, a gem in the eastern Himalayas, areas 38,394 square km. and is populated with just little above 750,000. Looking from a natural side, fauna and flora flourishes in great varieties as the terrain rises from southern foothills (150m above sea level) to unclimbed peaks over 7000m. The kingdom is one of the leading countries in environmental conservation. Over 70% of Bhutan’s land area is still under forest cover. One of the most striking physical features of Bhutan is its architecture. Patterns of rich colours adorn walls, beams, pillars and doors in traditional splendour.

Tiger’s Nest may like to experience 8th century and follow the trails of Guru Padmasambhava’s legendary travel through Bhutan. Legend says that he flew to the cliff s of Taktsang on the back of a tigress. Taktsang temples (Tiger’s Nest), built on the cliff s above the valley of Paro, is one of the highest holy Buddhist spots in the world and listed in 1000 best places to see before you die.

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Day wise Itinerary

• Day 1 : Arrived Kolkata – Delhi

  Open arrival at Kolkata Subash Chandra bose international airport welcome and transfer to hotel over night at Kolkata.

• Day 2 : Kolkata-Delhi-Bagdogra-Darjeeling

  After breakfast check out hotel then transport to domestic airport & Open arrival in Bagdogra Airport meet and welcome you by our Guide at the airport and then transfer you on a journey drive through picturesque tea gardens to the world renowned hill station, Darjeeling. Perched on an altitude of 2134m, Darjeeling is set amidst a majestic backdrop of the great Himalayan peak of Kanchenjunga (3rd highest peak in the world at 8586m) and is regarded as the Queen of East India. After dinner, free at leisure to visit the local bazaar.

  • Themes : Hill Stations & Valleys

• Day 3 : Darjeeling Local Sightseeing

  Depart hotel at about 4am for Tiger Hill (2685m) for sun rising view and a panoramic view of the spectacular snow-clad mountain peaks of the Himalayan Range.Visit to the Ghoom Monastery, built in 1850 by Lama Sharb, which enshrines a 15ft. Statue of Maitreya Buddha . After which, back to hotel for your breakfast after breakfast start short hike downhill up to Tibetan Refugee self-help center Then visit the Himalayan Zoological Park. The zoo serves as a breeding center for snow leopards and red pandas, as well as a home for mountain yaks, Himalayan black bears and Siberian Tigers. Visit the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, located within this zoo, which was founded in 1954 to commemorate history's first successful conquest of Mt. Everest in 1953 by 'Darjeeling's son, Tenzing Norgay and Sir Edmund Hillary. Evening back to market area evening free and easy.

  • Themes : Mountaineering

• Day 4 : Darjeeling to Kaluk

  After breakfast check out then drive to Kaluk west Sikkim. After 2 hrs drive we have a short break at Lover view point for Photography view of two river (River Teesta& River Rangeet on completed drive to Sikkim border line area for immigration after completed all paper work then drive to Jorethang for lunch after lunch drive to Rinchenpong visit GurungGompa on completed drive to Kaluk over night at Kaluk.

• Day 5 : Kaluk - Pelling

  After breakfast check out then transfer to Chaya Tal then drive to Beautiful Dentam Valley on arrival visit Dentam alpine cheese factory & second highest suspension bridge in Asia and highest in India Sikkim. then drive to Pelling on arrival visit Pemayangtse Monastery designed and founded by Lama LhatsunChempo in 1705, it is one of the oldest and premier monasteries of Sikkim, also the most famous in west Sikkim. Originally built by LhatsunChenpo in the 17th century, as a small Lhakhang, it was subsequently enlarged during the reign of the third ChogyalChakdorNamgyal who was considered as LhatsunChenpo's third reincarnate, JigmePawo. The monastery follows the Nyingma Order of Tibetan Buddhism and controls all other monasteries of that Order in Sikkim. On completed drive down to Rabdentse Ruins second capital of Sikkim over night at Pelling.

  • Hotspots : Pemayangtse Monastery
  • Themes : Hill Stations & Valleys

• Day 6 : Pelling - Yuksam

  After breakfast Proceed to Khechoperi Holy Lake on the way passing by Rimbi Falls and Kanchenjunga Falls visit Khecheopalri Lake, originally known as Kha-Chot-Palri (meaning the heaven of Padmasambhava), is a lake located near Khecheopalri village on completed drive to Yuksam first capital of Sikkim on arrival at Yuksam visit Dubdi monastery first and oldest monastery in Sikkim & Norbugang chorten on completed drive back to hotel over night at Yuksam.
  
  After breakfast, we begin a short easy trek to Lebong village via Bhotey busty, one of the very famous village in Darjeeling After breakfast, we begin a short easy trek to Lebong village via Bhotey busty, one of the very famous village in Darjeeling.

• Day 7 : Pelling – Namchi

  After breakfast drive to Tashiding means “The Devoted Central Glory” and the monastery by this name was founded in 1641 by Ngadak Sempa Chempo Phunshok Rigzing who belonged to the Nyingma sect of Tibetan Buddhism. Ngadak was one of the three wise men who held the consecration ceremony crowning the first King of Sikkim at Yuksom. It was extended and renovated in 1717 during the reign of the third Chogyal Chakdor Namgyal. 'Bhumchu Ceremony' or festival is a popular religious festival that is held on the 14th and 15th day of the first month of Tibetan Calendar on completed drive to Ravangla on arrival visit The Buddha Park of Ravangla, also known as Tathagata Tsal, is situated near Rabong (Ravangla)It was constructed between 2006 and 2013 and features a 130-foot (40 m) high statue of the Buddha as its centerpiece. The site was chosen within the larger religious complex of the Rabong Gompa (Monastery), itself a centuries-old place of pilgrimage on completed drive to Namchi visit Chardham highest statue of lord Shiva and Sangdrouptse highest statue of Guru Padmasambawaover night at Namchi.

• Day 8 : Namchi-Rumtek Monastery-Gangtok

  After breakfast leave for Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim. Tucked away in the clouds, Gangtok is spread out on a ridge 1520m above sea level, and looks something out of a fairy tale with houses precariously balanced on the slopes of steep hills. Apart from the gorgeous view of deep valleys, waterfalls and snow-capped mountain ranges that separate from neighboring Tibet, Bhutan and Nepal en route visit Rumtek Monastery Originally built under the direction of Changchub Dorje, 12th Karmapa Lama in the mid-1700s[1], Rumtek served as the main seat of the Karma Kagyu lineage in Sikkim for some time. But when Rangjung Rigpe Dorje, 16th Karmapa, arrived in Sikkim in 1959 after fleeing Tibet, the monastery was in ruins. Despite being offered other sites, the Karmapa decided to rebuild Rumtek. After lunch drive to city area evening free and easy.

  • Hotspots : Rumtek Monastery
  • Themes : Hill Stations & Valleys

• Day 9 : Gangtok to Tsamgo Lake Excursion

  After breakfast, drive to Tsomgo Lake, also means as “The Source of the Lake” (3,780m). The lake derives its water from melting snows off the surrounding mountains, which is one of the famous sacred lakes in Sikkim, situated near the borders of Indo-Tibet (Suggested If the weather is clear take Cable car to top) or walk around the lake area around 45 Mnt lunch at local restaurant and back to Gangtok on arrival visit Flower exhibition center &evening walk around the local market MG marg.

• Day 10 : Gangtok to Lachung

  Today, we leave for North district of Sikkim to a small village, Lachung (2,400m). This spectacular drive will take about 6-7 hrs (lunch en-route). If weather is clear, you’ll see the magnificent range of the third highest mountain in the world, Kanchenjunga and some wild orchids blooming (during spring) on the way. Stop at Seven sister waterfalls, Naga waterfalls, Bhim Nala waterfalls Arrive Lachung in the late afternoon and check in at a lodge. (Please be reminded that the facilities here are very basic)

• Day 11 : Lachung - Yumthang Valley - Zero Point Excursion

  After breakfast, we leave for Yumthang (3,500m) excursion. This panoramic drive will bring you to the Valley of Flowers which consists of about 36 species of rhododendrons, primulas and other spectacular alpine wild flowers. Yaks and dzos can be seen grazing on the meadows on completed drive to Zero point which is very beautiful place to see the mountain range. On way back, walk across the Lachung Chu and have a dip in a hot spring (swimming costumes needed). If not, just enjoy the scenic surrounding evening free and easy walk around the local area over night at Lachung.

  • Themes : Hill Stations & Valleys

• Day 12 : Lachung – Gangtok

  After breakfast check out then transfer to Gangtok on arrival check inn to hotel evening free and easy your own

• Day 13 : Gangtok to Phuntsholing

  After breakfast drive to Bhutan border line area en route stop at Rangpo (Sikkim-Bengal border line area for Sikkim immigration then 3 hrs drive to Malbazar for lunch after lunch 2 hrs to reached India/Bhutan borderline area Jaigaon finish India immigration then check in to Bhutan hotel over night at Bhutan.

• Day 14 : Phontsholing to Thimpu

  After breakfast check out then drive to Capital of country (Thimpu) en-route visit Dzandropeli monastery & Kharkandi monastery we have a short break for Photography to see the view of Jaingaon & Phuntsholing border line area on completed drive to Chuka for lunch after lunch drive to Thimpu on arrival check in to hotel afternoon visit Trashichhodzong, the beautiful medieval fortress/monastery which houses most of the Government's office and King's Throne room is also the summer residence of Je Khenpo, the Chief Abbot. Later visit National Memorial Chorten.
  
  The building of this landmark was originally envisaged by Bhutan’s third king, His Majesty Jigme Dorji Wangchuk (“the father of modern Bhutan”) who has wished to erect monument to world peace and prosperity. Completed in 1974 after his untimely death, it serves both as a memorial to the Late King and as a monument to peace.

• Day 15 : Thimpu Halfday Local & Punakha

  Buddha Dordema: Early in the morning drive to the Buddha point to take beautiful shot of Buddha and the valley. The big statue of sitting Buddha is located on the hill of Thimphu valley. The statue is made of bronze and the high of the statue is 169ft (51.5m on completed Proceed to the National Library which houses an extensive collection of Buddhist literature, with some works dating back several hundred years. Visit the nearby Institute for Zorig Chusum (commonly known as the Painting School), where a six year training course is given in the 13 traditional arts and crafts of Bhutan. Visit the nearby Institute for Zorig Chusum (commonly known as the Painting School), where a six year training course is given in the 13 traditional arts and crafts of Bhutan. Also visit Textile and Folk Heritage Museum: These museums, both of which opened in 2001, provide fascinating insights into Bhutanese material culture and way of life. Later continue on to Handicrafts Emporium that displays wide assortment of beautifully handwoven and crafted products.
  
  Afternoon drive to Punakha across Dochu-la pass (3,088m/ 10,130 ft) stopping briefly here to take in the view and admire the chorten, mani wall, and prayer flags which decorate the highest point on the road. If skies are clear, the following peaks can be seen from this pass (left to right): Masagang (7,158m), Tsendagang (6,960m), Terigang (7,060m ), Jejegangphugang (7,158 m ), Kangphugang (7,170 m ), Zongphugang (7, 060 m ), a table mountain that dominates the isolated region of Lunana - finally Gangkarpuensum, the highest peak in Bhutan at 7,497m. Late evening check in to hotel over night at Punakha.

  • Hotspots : National Library
  • Themes : Heritage, Hill Stations & Valleys

• Day 16 : Punakha - Paro

  After breakfast visit Punakha Dzong or Pungthang Dechen Phodrang "Palace of Great Happiness” is located on the confluence of two rivers, the Pho and Mochu. It was built in 1637 by Shubdrung Nawang Namgyal and following the ancient traditions, it serves as winter residence for chief abbot (Je-khenpo) and the monks of Central Monastic Body, who return to Thimphu in the summer. Punakha and Wangdue, although two separate districts, are located in one valley (20km or ½ hr drive apart and visit Chemilakha which is beautiful place on completed drive to Paro on arrival visit Paro Dzong overnight at Paro.

  • Themes : Hill Stations & Valleys

• Day 17 : Tiger Nest (taksang) Hike

  Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery also known as Taktsang. Then visit typical Bhutanese Farm House to take hot stone bath. Hike to Taktsang: Drive to famed Taktsang (Tiger’s lair) monastery. Taktsang monastery is located on the face of a 1,000m seemingly impossible sheer, vertical cliff, above Paro valley.
  
  The trail begins near the Satsam (2650m) and climbs steeply uphill to the Cafeteria (2,940m), an area of exposed ridge with panoramic view of Takstang. This takes little more than an hour. (Ponies are provided on request to ride up till this Cafeteria, but rest of way, including return downhill must be on foot.) You can get a good view from the Cafeteria or hike further uphill for another hour or so to the temple itself. There are several other temples and sites within the vicinity. Lunch is served at the tea house. The return trek to the road head is quite steep downhill, where you will be met by the transport then drive to Farm House or Village Home: Bhutanese farmhouses are colorful, decorative and traditionally built without any nails. Majority of the houses are with three story, first floor is utilized for sheltering cattle, second floor for the family to live in and the top for storing and drying of foods and fodder for animal. Almost all the farmhouses follow the same architectural pattern. A visit to farmhouse is interesting and provides you with an experience to the daily life of average Bhutanese. Overnight Paro.

  • Themes : Hill Stations & Valleys

• Day 18 : Paro-Kolkata-Malaysia

  After breakfast, transfer to the airport in time for your departure for Kolkata Valid re-enter India visa open arrival at Kolkata afternoon visit Victoria Memorial hall & Mother Teresa house evening transfer to nearest restaurant for Dinner on time transfer to International airport.

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Inclusions

• Hotel
• Sightseeing

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Terms & Conditions

Payment Terms & Methods :
* Some Advance Percentage of total booking amount
* Airfare/Transport fare to be paid full at one time in advance.

Cancellation & Refund Policy :
* Upon cancellation, refund will be made after deducting the Retention Amount.
* Retention Amount varies as per the number of days left before your package start date.

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This Tour is Offered by

Halder Tours & Travels View Profile

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• 2nd Mile Upper Chandmari - 737101
• 08069247161 (Ext : 876)
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Client Testimonials

• 

  Alok Karmakar - Mumbai

  Reviewed: Nov 16, 2018

  Our tour of Sikkim & Darjeeling was a fabulous one thanks to Jeewan. Thanks to his vast knowledge of various locations he customised our itinerary keeping in mind kids and elders. Jeewan made sure we visited key monuments and also had enough resting time. His team of Drivers: Mangal, Biswa and Silas made sure the drive was safe and comfortable throughout our trip. Would recommend Jeewan for any trip/trek in and around Sikkim.

• 

  Nazy -

  Reviewed: Oct 27, 2018

  I was looking for a reliable travel agent in the market and I came into contact with Holidays In Sikkim Trek Tour & Travels while searching online. I am really happy that I chose this organization leaving all others. It offers amazing deals on different travel requirements and also has a very large database of hotels and tour packages.

• 

  Piyalee Pal Sarkar - Kolkata

  Reviewed: Oct 27, 2018

  Hi I recently have journeyed with holidays in sikkim. We rented a car from them. On the specific date and time a young chap named Sangay drove his innova to pick up us from siliguri hotel. From then on it was a marvelous experience with the smoothe , tension free driving with Sangay. He is a good human being who really cares about the preference n comfort of the travellers. We went to Gangtok, Lachen , Gurudongmar Lake, Lachun, Yumthang Valley , Namchi Ravangla etc..... It was really really wonnnnderful experience with Sangay . I wish him every success in life..... N last but not the least thank you Jeewan bhaiya to make our trip a memorable one by ur kind effort

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