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North East Himalayan Foothills 15 NIGHTS /16 DAYS Get a Quote

North East Himalayan Foothills

15 NIGHTS /16 DAYS
Get a Quote

OVERVIEW OF YOUR INDIA TOUR

Bains Travel is proud to be your India Tour Specialists since 1951!  Book a North-East Himalayan Foothills with us or any other India Tour and we can help with your flights, transfers, insurance, and anything else you may need to make your India Tour the trip of a lifetime.

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TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

A land of infinite charm with breathtaking views of Kanchanjunga, a bewildering variety of flora and fauna, colourful festivals, bush green tea gardens, inching adventure spots, laundry trekking rocks, perfect solitude. All this makes the East Himalayas our highlight in this tour.  We see Darjeeling, beautifully nestled in the foothills of the snow-covered Himalayas at an altitude that ranges from 600 to 2000 meters. Tea estates in Darjeeling, are spread over 20000 hectares of area.  Sheltered by the Kanchenjunga peak, these estates produce tea that is unequalled anywhere in the world.  Visit Kurseong at an altitude of 1800m which was an important trading center in the days when the silk routes between Tibet, Bhutan and Sikkim were alive and running.   We visit the inimitable, irresistible and incredible Calcutta, where the monumental British Raj was launched and some of the best-known monuments of the British Raj were built here.  Visit the rain forests of Sunderbans, a network of estuaries, tidal rivers and creeks intersected by numerous channels.

DAYS 1, 2 - KOLKATA

On arrival at Kolkata Airport, transfer to Kolkata City Hotel. Overnight at hotel.

On the second day, we discover this exciting city on a ‘Heritage Walk’ of the distinct architectural heritage of Kolkata. It highlights the evolution of this city from where it all began Dalhousie Square.
The first walk takes us on a two-hour journey around some 15 buildings in the area, including the imposing Writers Building, the newly renovated Town Hall, the St. John’s Churchyard and the historic Metcalfe Hall. Also, visit the House of Rabindranath Tagore and the Marble Palace. Our tour includes visits to a number of the city’s museums and monuments along with a taste of an era gone by with a city tram ride. During the tour, we will stop for lunch at Oh Calcutta, a local vibrant restaurant serving authentic Bengali cuisine.
The rest of the day is at leisure. Overnight at the hotel.

 

 

Kolkata (Calcutta) Whiteways and Laidlaw Building on an India Tour
Marble Palace in Kolkata (Calcutta) on an India Tour

DAYS 3 - KOLKATA TO SUNDERBAN

Drive from Kolkata Hotel to Gothkhali Jetty (approx. 115 kms/03 hrs.). Your surface journey ends here and you board your exclusive boat to cruise through rivers Gomor, and Durgadhwani to enter river Pitchkhali on the banks of where lies the Sunderban Tiger Camp. On your arrival, you will be greeted by the Tiger Camp team and checked into your cottage followed by a hot lunch.

In the afternoon, you will experience the true Sunderban, as you walk through the native village of Dayapur. You will encounter many wonderful sights as you learn about the lifestyle, local crafts, cuisines, and way of life of the local villagers. Observe their indigenous farming methods and how their houses are completely mud made with small entrances. Your tour will pass through the village market and eventually end at the resort for refreshments followed by a dinner to end another day in the reserve forest. One can also go to the watchtower at the resort after their return from the village to observe the birdlife within the resort (Sunderban Tiger Camp houses 64 species of birds to date). Evening watch a Movie show on the Tigers. A warm dinner cooked with farm-fresh vegetables is served at the Fisherman’s Wharf dining hall which displays different tools used by the locals to catch fish. Overnight at Tiger Camp.

Mudflat in Sundarbans on an India Tour
Tiger in Sunderbans on an Indian Tour

DAY 4 - SUNDERBAN

Post breakfast proceed for a thrilling cruise towards Dobanke Watch Tower as we move into the Sunderban Tiger Reserve Forest through creeks dense forests and numerous rivers (breakfast onboard). The canopy walk at Dobanke Watch Tower inside the forest sends chills down your spine. Also, visit the spotted deer rehabilitation centre after which you cruise back through Matla – Sea Face (the point from where the Bay of Bengal can be seen) to Sunderban Tiger Camp for lunch. Post lunch visit Pakhiralay Island which is about half an hour away from your resort by boat.

DAY 5 - SUNDERBAN TO KOLKATA AIRPORT

As you wake up to the chirping of birds and the morning wake up bell, a hot cup of tea is served on your balcony. View the array of birds in the fruit trees
near your cottage. Post breakfast head for the morning cruise into the Sunderban Tiger Reserve once again through creeks and rivers heading to the Sudhayakhali Watchtower. Walk through the caged walkways after disembarking towards the watchtower, searching for the elusive tiger. Keep a look at the sweet water pond where you may see a deer drinking water or a water monitor lizard basking by the sun as well as monkeys and wild boars may be sighted nearby. Cruise back to Sunderban Tiger Camp for an early lunch you will be transferred back to Gothkhali. On arrival at Gothkhali pick up by your vehicle and transfer to Kolkata airport & board your flight to Bagdogra.

On arrival at Bagdogra Airport, transfer to Darjeeling via Kurseong

White Tea in Darjeeling on an India Tour
Happy Valley Tea Estate in Darjeeling on an India Tour

DAY 6 - DARJEELING

Early morning visit Tiger Hill for sunrise and back.
Tiger Hill:- It is 13 km from Darjeeling and one can see beautiful sunrises and the Himalayan Range like Kanchandzonga, Mount Everest etc. One can see the horizon changing colors just before sunrise and then the entire Himalayan range turns golden. It is truly a majestic sight.
Breakfast at the hotel and go for Enjoy toy train ride up to Ghoom then visit Ghoom Monastery.

Toy Train:- The spectacular landscape unfolds as the 2-foot gauge Darjeeling Himalayan railway, opened in 1881, labours at about 10 mph crisscrossing the road. It has tiny 4-wheel locomotives (some over 100 years old) like living legends. One can experience the sound, smell and romance of a bygone era. DHR is a work of genius and technological achievement of 1881. It has social and cultural importance. It is beautiful and has outstanding universal appeal. Based on its unique features, it is considered to be of lasting significance to mankind.

Ghoom Monastery:- This is the oldest Monastery in the area which was built in 1875 and one can see the image of Mythey Buddha 15ft. height.
In the afternoon proceed for a city tour.

Himalayan Mountaineering Institute/Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park:- (Closed on Thursdays) The Himalayan Mountaineering Institute was started in Darjeeling when Tenzing Norgay climbed Everest to give training to learn Mountaineering and other adventure sports related to mountaineering and in that Institute one can see equipment etc. used by Mr. Tenzing Norgay and the Everest Museum having complete details on Everest attached to the institute one can visit Himalayan Zoological Park where one can see Himalayan animals like Snow Leopard, Tibetan Wolf, Tibetan Yak, Himalayan Black Bear and several varieties of birds.

Happy Valley Tea Estate is a renowned tea plantation located in Darjeeling, India. It is one of the oldest tea estates in the region and has garnered a reputation for producing high-quality tea. The estate spans over 437 acres and is located at an altitude of 6,800 feet above sea level. The tea produced in Happy Valley Tea Estate is exclusively handcrafted and processed using traditional methods of rolling, drying, and sorting. The tea is grown using sustainable agricultural practices and is renowned for its unique flavour and aroma. Apart from tea production, the estate also offers visitors a chance to witness the tea-making process and explore the lush green tea gardens. There is a museum on the estate that showcases the history and evolution of tea production in the region. Overall, Happy Valley Tea Estate is an important landmark in the tea industry and a must-visit destination for tea enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Also, visit Lloyds Botanical Garden.

Overnight is at the hotel.

DAY 7 - DARJEELING TO PELLING

After breakfast transfer from Darjeeling to Pelling en-route and visit Tukvar Tea Plantation from outside (factory visit and tea tasting not allowed). On reaching Pelling, visit Pemayangtse Monastery and Rabdentse Ruins.
PELLING is a small town that is situated in the state of Sikkim in the West Sikkim region. The town is a laid-back place and it attracts travellers from
different parts of the country. Pelling is located near the foothills of Kanchenjunga and one can witness an outstanding view of the mountain from here. There are numerous scenic spots that one can visit in the area. The main attractions in the place are the monasteries that dot the countryside. Afternoon visit Pemayangtse Monastery & Rabdantse Ruins.

Pemayangtse Monastery – 2.5 Kms. From Pelling and standing at 2085m. The Perfect Sublime Lotus, perched on a wooded hilltop, commands the most sublime view of the Khangchendzong. Built during the late 17th century, it is one of the oldest and most important monasteries of the Nyingmapa order of Buddhism in Sikkim. To the present day, it is only the monks of this monastery who enjoy the title of ‘Tasang’ or pure monks. The importance of this monastery grew with time and reached its peak when only monks from this monastery could anoint the reigning sovereign of the land with holy water. Pemayangtse monastery follows the Mindroling tradition besides holding the lineage of Lhatsun Chenpo. Mindroling Monastery was founded by Minling Terchen Gyurme Dorje whose famous daughter JetsunMigyurPaldon lived near Pemayangtse and taught there during her exile. Her stone throne is still to be seen in this monastery, which has 108 monks. The main attraction of the monastery is the wooden replica of ZangdogPalri; the celestial abode of Guru Padmasambhava built by SerdupLhundrup Dorje Rinpoche in 1971. The annual chaam (monk dance) is held here on the 28th and 29th day of the 12th month of the Tibetan lunar calendar.

Rabdentse– Sikkim’s second capital. The ruins of Rabdantse are worth exploring. The winding track through the forest brings you to a small set of ruins of the early town and eventually to the ruins of the palace with Chorten (stupa) nearby.

Overnight is at Hotel

Rumtek Monastery in Gangtok on an India Tour
Gangtok Ropeway on an India Tour

DAY 8 - PELLING

After Breakfast visit Sangachoeling Monastery, Chenrezig Statue, Sky Walk, Khecheopalri Lake and Rimbi Waterfalls.
Sangachoeling Monastery: Located at the top of a ridge in the town of Pelling, Sikkim, Sangachoeling Monastery was established in the 17th century by Lama Gyalwa Lhatsun Chempo. The literal meaning of the word Sanga Choeling is ‘Idea of Guhya Mantra Teachings’ which relates to the faith of Buddhism. Also spelt as Sange Choeling Monastery, this is one of the oldest monasteries in Northeastern Sikkim. To reach this place, one has to walk for at least 40 minutes through the forest on a steep hill slope but the result is worth it. Stepping inside the Sangachoeling Monastery, you
notice various ancient wall paintings, statues, unique clay structures and scriptures that date back to the 17th century. They are extremely beautiful and are well-preserved. From Sangachoeling Monastery one also gets an opportunity to witness a spectacular view of the snow-clad mountains and lush greenery around it, providing a feeling of calmness. The fact that the building was restored to its former beauty after catching fire has become the major highlight of the monastery. Due to this reason, people come from nook and corner of the world to visit the prestigious Sangachoeling Monastery building to have a close look at the ancient artifacts. The Chenrezig Statue is one of the world’s tallest statues of Buddha which is considered to be a manifestation of Buddha’s compassion. It is located about 1.7 km away from Pelling Skywalk and stands at a height of a whopping 135 feet. The statue is a major tourist hub and one of great cultural significance amongst Buddhists, who visit the site seeking Buddha’s blessings. It was consecrated by the Dalai Lama himself and recently unveiled by Pawan Kumar Chamling, the chief minister of Sikkim. The statue can be reached via stairs and once atop, one can feast their eyes on the scenic views of the valley. The meditative chants of the monks, the bustling skywalk and the serene weather make for a blissful experience.

Skywalk – The Glass Skywalk is India’s first-ever skywalk, set in the picturesque town of Pelling in Northeast Sikkim. Built at an astounding height of 7200 feet, this colossal structure allows tourists to look down several thousand feet in the air, from the peak to the very bottom of the mountains. The Glass Skywalk is not for the fainthearted, or for people with vertigo as walking on transparent glass at such heights can be spine-chilling! The Pelling Skywalk is a transparent foot-over bridge made out of glass that is suspended hundreds of feet in the air. Since its inauguration in November 2018, the Skywalk has become a major hub of tourists owing to the odd concoction of thrill and peace that it has to offer. Several attractions can be viewed from over the bridge including waterfalls, lush forests and monasteries. It is located adjacent to the marvellous statue of Chenrezig, which is a famous Buddhist pilgrimage site. The skywalk overlooks the magnificent Kanchenjunga, as well as the Teesta and Rangit rivers, which flow alongside adding another dimension to the serenity of the place.

Khecheopalri Lake: Khecheopalri Lake is considered to be one of the sacred lakes of Sikkim both by the Buddhists and the Hindus. The lake remains hidden in the rich forest cover. It is believed that birds do not permit even a single leaf to float on the lake’s surface. There is a motorable road from Pemayangtse right up to the lake area.

The Rimbi Waterfalls is one of the tourist attractions of Sikkim which is located about 12 km from Pelling about 5kms from the Darap Village, another attraction of Sikkim. This waterfall can be seen throughout the year although in the rainy season, it looks much more beautiful. The waterfall leads to Rimbi River is famous for recreational activities like fishing. The Karchen Powerhouse is the oldest in West Sikkim. The powerhouse
was built in the early 70s by the last king’ government. It used to supply water to all the neighbouring villages during that period.

Overnight is at the hotel.

Kalimpong Kanchenjunga on an India Tour
Kalimpong Town on an India Tour

DAY 9 - PELLING TO TEMI TEA ESTATE

After breakfast, transfer from Pelling to Temi Tea Estate en-route and visit Ravangla Buddha Park. The Buddha Park of Ravangla, also known as Tathagata Tsal, is situated near Rabong (Ravangla) in South Sikkim district, Sikkim, India. It was constructed between 2006 and 2013 and features a 130-foot-high statue of the Buddha as its centrepiece. The site was chosen within the larger religious complex of the Rabong Gompa (Monastery), itself a centuries-old place of pilgrimage. Also nearby is Ralang Monastery, a key monastery in Tibetan Buddhism. The statue was consecrated on 25 March 2013 by the 14th Dalai Lama, and became a stop on the ‘Himalayan Buddhist Circuit’.[1]The statue of the Buddha marks the occasion of the 2550th birth anniversary of Gautama Buddha. This statue was built and installed in the place through the joint efforts of the Sikkim government and its people. The Buddhist circuit of this park was built here under a State government project, to boost pilgrimage and tourism in the region Temi is a world apart from the chaos of the cities; the aesthetics are nostalgic and historical, inviting everyone to partake in the very interesting and intriguing world of Tea. The lofty snow-clad Kanchenjunga mountains, the sprawling 400-acre tea gardens, the crisp air, the mountain springs and the birdlife, all add to the charm. With one foot in the present and one firmly in the past, Temi is an exquisite natural experience that is both rejuvenating and refreshing.

Overnight is at Temi.

DAY 10 - TEMI - TEA TRAIL

Take in the breathtaking views of unending snow-capped mountain landscapes and lush green tea bushes that engulf you in nature’s kind embrace. Go for a leisurely trek through pristine pine forests. Chance upon the odd unsuspecting flying squirrel or just bathe in the surrounding, verdant greens. A holistic, relaxing and de-stressing exercise that leaves one rejuvenated.

Overnight is at the hotel.

DAY 11 - TEMI TO GANGTOK

Breakfast at the hotel and transfer to Gangtok.

At an altitude of 1750m, Gangtok became the state capital in the mid-19th century and has undergone rapid development since then. The downtown area is dominated by huge government buildings decorated with traditional Buddhist symbols. Gangtok is also a resting ground for people travelling to North Sikkim. Surrounded by Monasteries and Orchids, Gangtok is truly a traveller’s delight.

Overnight is at the hotel.

DAY 12 - GANGTOK

After Breakfast Sightseeing in Gangtok visiting Rumtek Monastery/Do Drul Chorten, Tibetology (Closed on Saturday/Sunday & Govt. Holidays), Enchey
Monastery & Cottage Industry (Closed on Saturday/Sunday & Govt. Holidays) and Cable Car Ropeway.

Rumtek Monastery: -24 Kms. from Gangtok is the awe -inspiringRumtek Monastery, the world Dharma chakra Centre and the seat of His Holiness, the Gyalwa Karmapa, who is the head of the Kagyupa order of Tibetan Buddhism. Behind the main monastery is the lavishly decorated Karmae Nalanda Institute of Buddhist Studies, which attracts students from the world over. Opposite the entrance to the Institute is a small hall featuring a beautiful jewel-studded Chorten the Golden Stupa, which contains the ashes and remains of His Holiness the xvi Gyalwa Karmapa. According to legend, it is believed that after years of meditation, the first Karmapa was said to have been visited by ten thousand fairies who came to congratulate him each of whom offered a strand of her hair as a gift. These were said to have been woven into a black hat, which was passed down and is still at the Rumtek
Monastery today. It is said that unless held on to by the wearer (who of course, cannot be anyone else but the Karmapa) or kept in a box, the hat would fly away.

The Do Drul Chorten was built to commemorate the victory of good over evil and the Jhang Chub Chorten, was built in memory of Thrukshik Rinpoche, an ardent devotee, a great spiritualist and interpreter of Buddhism. Near the Chorten are housed two giant statues of Lord Buddha and Guru Padmasambhava, also known as Guru Rimpoche, the patron saint of Sikkim.

Namgyal Institute Of Tibetology: -Amidst a serene surrounding of oak, birch and ash lies the unique organization established in 1958. Built-in a traditional style, the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology promotes research in Mahayana Buddhism and the language and tradition of Tibet. It has one of the world’s largest collections of rare books and manuscripts on Mahayana Buddhism. The Institute also has a retail outlet where related books and commercially produced religious art and crafts of Tibet can be bought.
The Enchey Monastery: -Perched on a ridge above Gangtok, the Enchey Monastery is nestled within lush woods with a spectacular view of Gangtok town. Built in 1910 on the site of the hermitage of the great tantric saint, Lama DrutobKarpo, who was renowned for his powers of levitation, this monastery houses the monks of the Nyingmapa Order of Tibetan Buddhism.
Directorate Of Handloom And Handicrafts: -This Directorate was set up to promote traditional Sikkimese art and handicrafts. Exquisitely carved wooden friezes, intricate bamboo work, along with beautiful hand-woven carpets and handlooms are on exhibit here. Visitors can not only purchase these items here but also see the artisans at work. Among others, a favourite item here is the choktse a wooden table with carved panels that can be folded into a portable pack.

CABLE CAR ROPEWAY Known to be one of the top thrilling things to do in Gangtok, Gangtok Ropeway breathtaking bird’s eye view of the valley below. Inaugurated in 2003, the double cable zig back ropeway can carry up to 24 passengers and covers a distance of 2 km to and fro. Usually, the cable cars are full, and you have to wait in line for your turn, but the gorgeous views of the Kanchenjunga peaks are worth the wait. Also, since there are no
seats inside the cable car, so to obtain a good-view standing seat (next to the glass pane), you will have to try and get in first.
The aerial ropeway is 935 m long, from the start to the endpoint and the complete journey takes a total of 15 – 20 minutes. It has three terminal stations – Tashiling, Namnang and Deorali. You can get on or get down at either of the three stations. The Deorali station is the lowest base point and is situated near the Institute of Tibetology and offers beautiful views of the Gangtok market and the township below. Namnang is the central station and the highest one is at Tashiling near the Secretariat. From the road, there is a staircase that leads to the ticket counter upwards. Once you have bought the tickets, you can wait for your turn at the waiting room situated on the same level. The cable car station is situated around 100 feet upwards where you can reach in an elevator.

Overnight is at the hotel.

DAY 13 - GANGTOK

Full-day excursion to Tsomgo Lake.

Tsomgo Lake: -35 Km from Gangtok at an altitude of 12,400 feet is the beautiful Tsomgo Lake, which freezes over in winter. The lake derives its waters from melting snow off the surrounding mountains. Legends say that lamas could forecast the future by studying the colour of the lake’s waters. Fishing is prohibited and all are requested not to dirty the environs of the lake to maintain its sanctity.

Overnight is at the hotel

DAY 14 - GANGTOK TO KALIMPONG

After breakfast, transfer from Gangtok to Kalimpong.

At an altitude of 1250m, Kalimpong’s location is ideal for a pleasant , relaxed getaway. Its clement weather has made Kalimpong’s orchids and gladiole well renowned. Up to the early 1700s, the Kalimpong area was part of the Sikkim raja’s domain. In the early 18th century, the Bhutan king also took it over. In 1865, after the Anglo-Bhutan War , it was annexed to Darjeeling. Scottish Missionaries came here in the late 1800s. The town thrived as a wool trading center with Tibet till 1950s. Today it’s a quiet hill resort and a haven for retired people.

Overnight is at hotel.

DAY 15 - KALIMPONG

After breakfast, proceed for a city tour. Delo Hills Delo Hill is one of the two hills at the ridge of which the town of Kalimpong stands. At 1,704 meters above MSL, the hill is a small and peaceful Himalayan hamlet and is located northeast of the town. The town of Kalimpong, the surrounding villages of Relli Valley, Teesta River and its valleys, all add to the wondrous view that this gifted spot exposes. On a wonderfully clear day, the sun gleams at the breathtaking view of the snow-clad mountains and the Kanchenjunga visible from here. The 360-degree panoramic view of Kalimpong town and its neighbouring hills is what attracts visitors to the Delo viewpoint atop Delo Hill.

DAY 16 - KALIMPONG TO BAGDOGRA AIRPORT

Departure transfer from Kalimpong to Bagdogra Airport for onward journey.

WHAT'S INCLUDED ON YOUR INDIA TOUR

*Prices are based on twin sharing & include daily breakfast at the hotels, services of an English speaking local guide for sightseeing tours as per the itinerary, 02 bottles per person per day of mineral water, all prevailing taxes ie// luxury tax in all hotels and expenditure tax wherever applicable, all transfers to or from hotels, city tours, excursions, drives by air-conditioned car, mandatory Government Service Tax as applicable, interstate road tax, toll tax, driver’s allowance, parking etc.