8N 9D GANGTOK, LACHUNG, PELLING & DARJEELING TOUR

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before heading out for a full-day excursion to Tsomgo Lake (Changu Lake), located 35 km from Gangtok at 12,400 feet. The lake, fed by melting snow, is known for its stunning scenery and the legend lamas used to forecast the future by analyzing its color. Key Pointers:

• Excursion: Full-day trip to Tsomgo Lake.
• Distance: 35 km from Gangtok.
• Altitude: 12,400 feet.
• Lake Source: Fed by melting snow from surrounding mountains.
• Legend: Lamas could predict the future based on the lake’s color.
• Extra Cost: Nathula Pass is available at an additional cost of ₹4,500-5,500 per vehicle

• 10:00 a.m. - Depart after breakfast for Lachung (8,610 ft).
• En route, stop at:
  • Singhik View Point - Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
  • Seven Sister Waterfalls - Marvel at the seven-tiered waterfall cascading beautifully.
  • Naga Waterfalls - Witness the stunning and powerful flow of this picturesque waterfall.

• Early Morning - Start excursion to Yumthang Valley (11,800 ft).
  • Yumthang Valley - Known as the Valley of Flowers, it’s a scenic sanctuary surrounded by Himalayan mountains.
• Transfer to Gangtok - After Yumthang Valley visit, proceed back to Gangtok.
• (Optional: Visit to Zero Point or Mt. Katao available at an extra cost of 3500 INR per vehicle each).

Morning:

• Breakfast at the Hotel: Enjoy a satisfying breakfast to start your day.

Drive to Pelling:

• Route: Travel to Pelling via Namchi Chardham and Ravangla Buddha Park.

Sightseeing Highlights:

1. Namchi Chardham:
   • Sai Mandir: Visit this revered temple dedicated to Sai Baba, known for its serene and spiritual atmosphere.
   • Chardham Complex: Explore the replicas of four sacred Hindu pilgrimage sites—Badrinath, Puri Jagannath, Rameshwar, and Dwarka. Also, see the 12 Shiva Lingams representing the 12 Jyotirlingas of India.
2. Ravangla Buddha Park:
   • Buddha Park (Tathagata Tsal): Home to a towering 130-foot Buddha statue, this park offers tranquil surroundings and panoramic views.

Arrival in Pelling:

• Hotel Check-in: Arrive and check into your hotel.
• Leisure Time: Relax and enjoy Pelling's calm environment, renowned for its stunning views of the Kanchenjunga mountains and its rich cultural and historical significance.

After Breakfast:

• Sightseeing Tour of Pelling: Embark on a tour to explore the key attractions of Pelling.

Tour Highlights:

• Kanchenjunga Falls: Marvel at the majestic waterfalls with views of the Kanchenjunga range.

• Penyang Monastery: Visit this serene monastery known for its spiritual ambiance and scenic surroundings.

• Rimbi Waterfall: Enjoy the beauty of this picturesque waterfall, a perfect spot for relaxation and photography.

• Khecheopalri Lake: A sacred lake surrounded by lush greenery, known for its tranquil atmosphere and religious significance.

• Orange Garden: Explore the vibrant orange orchards and enjoy the fresh, local produce.

• Rabdentse Ruins: Discover the historical ruins of the ancient capital of Sikkim, offering insights into the region's history and culture.

Additional Attractions (Extra Cost):

• Sky Walk: Experience breathtaking views from the skywalk (Extra Cost: ₹1000 per vehicle).

• Singshore Bridge: Walk across the highest bridge in Sikkim for panoramic views (Extra Cost: ₹2000 per vehicle)

Morning:

• Breakfast at the Hotel: Enjoy a hearty breakfast before your journey.

• Proceed to Darjeeling: Travel to Darjeeling, a picturesque hill station in West Bengal, India.

About Darjeeling:

• Historical Significance: Darjeeling, once a summer retreat for the British Raj elite, is now known for its historical and cultural charm.

• Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (Toy Train): This narrow-gauge railway, completed in 1881, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers a unique scenic experience.

• Tea Industry: Renowned for its distinctive black tea, Darjeeling’s tea plantations enhance the region’s charm and beauty.

• Backdrop: The town is set against the stunning backdrop of Mt. Kanchenjunga, one of the world’s highest peaks.

Start your day with an early morning trip to Tiger Hill to witness a spectacular sunrise over the Himalayan range, including views of Kanchenjunga and Mount Everest. The horizon changes colors before the entire range turns golden. Visit Ghoom Monastery, the oldest in the area, home to a 15-foot statue of Mythey Buddha. Next, visit Batasia Loop and return to the hotel for breakfast. Afterward, enjoy a city tour covering the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, Padmaja Naidu Zoological Park, Tibetan Refugee Centre, Tenzing Rock, Tea Estates, and the Japanese Peace Pagoda. Key Pointers:

• Tiger Hill: Early morning sunrise over Kanchenjunga and Mount Everest.
• Ghoom Monastery: Oldest monastery with a 15-foot Mythey Buddha statue.
• Batasia Loop: Spiral railway with beautiful mountain views.
• City Tour: Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, Padmaja Naidu Zoo, Tibetan Refugee Centre.
• Other Sites: Tenzing Rock, Tea Estate (outside view), Japanese Peace Pagoda.
• Tiger Hill Pass: Limited availability, free but restricted to 600 cars per day.
• Toy Train: Optional joy ride at extra cost, subject to time availability.

Breakfast at the hotel and drive to Bagdogra Airport / NJP Railway Station in time for flight / train to onward destination.