Explore North East India – Darjeeling Sikkim Road Trip: How to Plan Your Adventure

Are you looking for a unique and adventurous way to explore North East India? Look no further than the Darjeeling Sikkim Road Trip, a private multi-day guided tour that takes you through some of the most picturesque and hard-to-reach corners of the Himalayas. Follow a custom-made itinerary combining natural and cultural attractions from hilltop Buddhist monasteries to panoramic views from Tiger Hill. We’ve put together this guide to help you plan your unforgettable North East India journey.

Overview of the Darjeeling Sikkim Road Trip

The Darjeeling Sikkim Road Trip is a private multi-day guided tour from Darjeeling to Sikkim. You’ll visit remote locations in a chauffeured A/C vehicle with an English-speaking guide. The tour includes three-star hotel accommodation, most meals, and a ride on the Darjeeling Toy Train. Tours can be modified on request to include only a driver and no guide.

What’s Included?

The following are included in the tour package:

– Air-conditioned vehicle
– Private transportation
– All Fees and Taxes
– Accommodation in three-star hotels
– Ride on the Darjeeling Toy Train (a UNESCO World Heritage Site)

The following are not included in the tour package:

– Any air/train fare to reach Bagdogra Airport.
– Personal expenses.
– Lunch not included for the entire tour

Itinerary

The following is a sample itinerary of the tour:

Day 1: Arrive at the Bagdogra Airport and be greeted by your guide. Drive to your hotel in Darjeeling and explore the market.

Day 2: Early morning start to Tiger Hill for sunrise views of Kanchenjunga (the third-highest peak in the world). Visit the Ghoom Monastery and Batasia Loop on the way back.

Day 3: Drive to Pelling in West Sikkim, visiting the Pemayangtse Monastery en route.

Day 4: Visit the 17th-century Sangachoeling Monastery and then drive to Yuksom, the first capital of Sikkim.

Day 5: Visit the holy lake of Khecheopalri and the Rabdentse Palace Ruins.

Day 6: Drive to Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim. Visit the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, the Do Drul Chorten Stupa, and the Enchey Monastery.

Day 7: Drive to the border town of Nathu La, which connects India and Tibet.

Day 8: Return to Bagdogra Airport for your flight home.

Note: The itinerary is subject to change based on your preferences and the weather conditions.

Booking the Tour

Ready to book your Darjeeling Sikkim Road Trip adventure? You can book online through Viator, a trusted third-party tour company: book the tour here.

Conclusion

The Darjeeling Sikkim Road Trip is an incredible way to experience the natural and cultural beauty of North East India. With a custom-made itinerary, private transportation, and knowledgeable guide, you can sit back and enjoy the journey. Book your adventure today and get ready for an unforgettable experience.

Explore North East India – Darjeeling Sikkim Road Trip: How to Plan Your Adventure

North East India is a treasure trove of natural beauty and cultural diversity, and a road trip to Darjeeling and Sikkim offers an excellent opportunity to explore it all. The scenic beauty of the mountains, the lush green valleys, the snow-capped peaks, the rolling tea estates, and the charming Himalayan towns create a surreal experience that will stay with you forever.

Planning a road trip to Darjeeling and Sikkim can be quite challenging, especially if you are doing it for the first time. In this blog post, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about this road trip to help you plan your adventure seamlessly.

1. When is the best time to visit Darjeeling and Sikkim?

The best time to visit Darjeeling and Sikkim is from October to May when the weather is pleasant and clear. During the summer months of June to September, Sikkim experiences heavy rainfall, and landslides are quite common. The winter months of December to February can be quite chilly, and the roads may be blocked due to snowfall. Therefore, it is best to plan your trip during the favorable months.

2. How to reach Darjeeling and Sikkim?

The nearest airport to Darjeeling is Bagdogra Airport located about 95 km away. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Darjeeling. Sikkim does not have an airport, and the nearest airport is Bagdogra, which is around 124 km away. From there, you can take a taxi or bus to reach Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim.

3. Can I drive to Darjeeling and Sikkim?

Yes, you can, but driving in the mountains requires a lot of experience and expertise, especially when navigating through narrow and steep roads. The roads may have sharp turns and steep inclines, and driving can be quite challenging. Therefore, it is advisable to hire an experienced driver or book a taxi with a reliable travel agency.

4. What is the cost of a road trip to Darjeeling and Sikkim?

The cost of a road trip to Darjeeling and Sikkim depends on several factors, such as the duration of your trip, the type of accommodation you choose, the mode of transportation, and the places you plan to visit. On average, a 7-8 day road trip to Darjeeling and Sikkim may cost around INR 20,000 to INR 30,000 per person.

5. What are the must-visit places in Darjeeling and Sikkim?

Darjeeling is a picturesque hill station located in the foothills of the Himalayas, and some of the must-visit places include:

• Tiger Hill – Famous for the sunrise view of the Himalayas
• Batasia Loop – A railway loop with scenic views
• Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park – Home to rare Himalayan animals
• The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway – A UNESCO World Heritage site

Sikkim, on the other hand, is a beautiful state with a rich cultural heritage, and some of the must-visit places include:

• Gangtok – The capital city of Sikkim
• Pelling – A beautiful town famous for its scenic viewpoints
• Gurudongmar Lake – A stunning high altitude lake
• Rumtek Monastery – One of the largest monasteries in Sikkim

6. What are the essential items to pack for this road trip?

It is essential to pack light and carry only the necessary items for this road trip. Some of the essential items include:

• Warm clothes and a jacket
• Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat
• A first aid kit
• A camera to capture the beautiful landscapes
• Cash and cards for expenses

Conclusion

A road trip to Darjeeling and Sikkim is an adventure of a lifetime. The surreal beauty and the cultural richness of these destinations make it a must-visit for all travel enthusiasts. With proper planning and preparation, you can make your road trip an unforgettable experience.

Explore North East India – Darjeeling Sikkim Road Trip: How to Plan Your Adventure

North East India is a region unexplored by many but is a hidden gem that deserves more attention. The region is known for its natural beauty, rich culture, and adventure activities. Darjeeling and Sikkim are two states in the North East that are popular tourist destinations. These states have some of the most breathtaking landscapes in India and offer an ideal road trip adventure. If you have always wanted to explore the North East India region and are planning to take a Darjeeling Sikkim road trip, then this guide will help you plan your adventure.

What is the best time to plan a Darjeeling Sikkim Road Trip?

The best time to plan a Darjeeling Sikkim road trip is from March to June and from September to December. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the skies are clear, making it ideal for road trips. Avoid planning your trip during the monsoon season, which occurs from July to August, as the rains can cause landslides and disrupt the travel plans.

What are the essential things to carry on a Darjeeling Sikkim Road Trip?

Here are the essential things you should carry on your Darjeeling Sikkim road trip:

1. Warm Clothes:

The temperature in Darjeeling and Sikkim can fluctuate, and it is advisable to carry warm clothes, especially if you are planning to visit during winters.

2. Comfortable Shoes:

Carry comfortable shoes as you will be spending a lot of time walking and hiking.

3. First Aid Kit:

Carry a first aid kit that includes common medicines, band-aids, pain relievers, and anti-septic ointment.

4. Snacks:

Carry a variety of snacks as you may not find food joints along the way.

5. Water Bottle:

Carry a reusable water bottle to remain hydrated throughout the journey.

What are the must-visit places on a Darjeeling Sikkim Road Trip?

Here are some of the must-visit places on your Darjeeling Sikkim road trip:

1. Darjeeling:

This hill station is famous for its tea plantations, stunning views of the Himalayas, and its colonial architecture.

2. Gangtok:

Gangtok is the capital city of Sikkim and is known for its Buddhist monasteries, natural beauty, and adventure activities.

3. Nathula Pass:

The Nathula Pass is located on the Indo-China border and is a popular tourist destination. You require a permit to visit this place.

4. Tsomgo Lake:

The Tsomgo Lake is located in East Sikkim and is a beautiful glacial lake, surrounded by rugged mountains.

5. Rumtek Monastery:

The Rumtek Monastery is a Buddhist monastery located near Gangtok and is one of the most important monasteries in Sikkim.

What are the adventure activities that you can do on a Darjeeling Sikkim road trip?

Here are some of the adventure activities that you can do on your Darjeeling Sikkim road trip:

1. Trekking:

There are several trekking routes in Darjeeling and Sikkim that you can explore.

2. River Rafting:

You can go river rafting in the Teesta River in Sikkim. It is a thrilling experience that you should not miss.

3. Paragliding:

If you love adventure sports, then paragliding in Sikkim is something you should try. You can experience the stunning views of the Himalayas while soaring in the sky.

4. Mountain Biking:

You can rent a mountain bike and explore the hills and valleys of Darjeeling and Sikkim.

What are the modes of transportation available for a Darjeeling Sikkim Road Trip?

Here are the modes of transportation available on your Darjeeling Sikkim road trip:

1. Self-Drive:

If you enjoy driving, then you can rent a car and explore the region at your own pace.

2. Public Transport:

Public transport in Darjeeling and Sikkim is efficient, and you can easily travel by buses and taxis.

3. Shared Jeeps:

Shared jeeps are the most common mode of transportation in Sikkim. They can be easily found at taxi stands.

What are the things to keep in mind while planning a Darjeeling Sikkim Road Trip?

Here are some tips that you should keep in mind while planning your Darjeeling Sikkim road trip:

1. Check the weather forecast:

Always check the weather forecast before planning your trip, and avoid traveling during the monsoon season.

2. Carry enough cash:

Carry enough cash as there may not be many ATMs along the way.

3. Book accommodations in advance:

It is advisable to book accommodations in advance, especially if you are traveling during peak season.

4. Carry valid travel documents:

Make sure to carry all your travel documents, including your passport, visas, permits, and identity cards.

5. Respect the local culture:

Respect the local culture and customs while visiting religious places and local communities.

Conclusion

A Darjeeling Sikkim road trip is an adventure of a lifetime that you should not miss. The region has something to offer to everyone, from breathtaking landscapes to adventure activities. Plan your trip well, and you will have a memorable experience that you will cherish forever.