Dec 18, 2006

Fly Delhi to Bagdogra by DN 629 at 1100hrs. Arrive Bagdogra at 1440 hrs.

Afternoon 03 hrs drive to Darjeeling. Stop at Kurseong for visit tp premium Tea Estate Makaibari. (In Dec there is no processing of tea). ETA Darjeeling at 1830 hrs

Darjeeling nestles amongst the world-renowned tea estates and an abundance of wild flowers, orchids and rhododendrons. Relax and unwind.

Overnight in Darjeeling.

Dec 19, 2006

Tiger Hill offers magnificent views of sunrise over the Mt.Kanchenjunga and the distant Mount Everest (subject to the weather). An early morning excursion to Tiger Hill followed by a visit to Ghoom monastery.Visit Zoological Park (snow leopard breeding centre) and Everest Museum at HMI. An optional ride on the World Heritage 'Darjeeling Himalayan Railway,the best way to enjoy the spectacular scenery of the Himalayas.

Overnight in Darjeeling.

Dec 20, 2006

Depart by 0800 hrs after early breakfast,for a(118 Kms / 04.30 hrs) drive to Pemayangtse.

Arrive Hotel Phamrong for lunch. After lunch sightseeing tour of Pemayangtse Monastery. Surrounded by picturesque monk's quarters, the austere monastery is a treasure trove of beautiful thangkas, murals and images.

Later walk up to ruins of Sikkims ancient capital at nearby Rabantse for sunset view.

Overnight in Pemayangste.

Dec 21, 2006

Get up early for sunrise view on Mount Khangchendzonga from your hotel terrace. Thereafter short drive to Sangachoeling Monastery. Located on a hilltop at an altitude of 6860 ft., it commands a magnificent panoramic view of the Himalayan ranges and the surrounding hills and countryside.

After breakfast at the hotel, drive to Rinchenpong. (36 Kms/ 1.30 hrs) Upon arrival check in to the hotel and take picnic lunch and take a 03 hrs walking tour of Rinchenpong monastery, forests, Lepcha Village, and heritage house.Picnic lunch at Rinchenpong monastery viewpoint.

Overnight Rinchenpong.

Dec 22, 2006

Rinchepong to Gangtok (127 Km/ 6 hrs). Drive through stunning scenery arriving at Gangtok., The capital of Sikkim, Gangtok reflects extraordinary ethnic diversity. Lepchas live alongside Tibetans, Bhutias, Nepalese, and Indians.

Check in at your hotel. In the evening explore the fascinating bazaars of Gangtok.

Overnight in Gangtok.

Dec 23, 2006

Visit Rumtek monastery (24 Km), home to the Yellow Hat Sect. The monastery nhouses magnificent murals, icons, rare manuscripts, and displays richly carved painted woodwork. We later visit the Enchey Monastery and the Namgayal Institute of Tibetology.

Overnight in Gangtok.

Dec 24, 2006

A pleasant (80 Kms / 2.30 hrs) drive brings us to the delightful town of Kalimpong. In the afternoon a sightseeing tour visiting the orchid nurseries, churches and monasteries. Evening walk and explore the bazaar for bargains.

Overnight in Kalimpong.

Dec 25, 2006

Drive to Bagdogra airport. (80 Kms in 2.30 hrs) Fly Bagdogra to Calcutta by DN 564 at 1420hrs and reach Calcutta by 1550hrs.

Fly Calcutta to Chennai by DN 618 at 1915hrs and reach Chennai by 2115hrs.

End of itinerary.