A Perfect Getaway for Families, Couples & Honeymooners

Embark on a mesmerizing journey through the enchanting landscapes of Sikkim and Darjeeling, perfect for family vacations, couple getaways, and unforgettable honeymoon experiences. This tour takes you through breathtaking mountain vistas, serene lakes, vibrant monasteries, and lush tea gardens, ensuring a blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural exploration. Whether you’re seeking a romantic escape or a rejuvenating retreat amidst nature, this itinerary offers an ideal balance of sightseeing and leisure.

This tour plan covers

• Gangtok
• Tsomgo Lake, Baba Mandir, Optionally Nathu La Pass
• Pelling
• Namchi
• Darjeeling

Best Time to Visit Sikkim Darjeeling

The best time to visit Sikkim and Darjeeling is from March to June and September to December. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather, blooming rhododendrons, and clear views of the Himalayas, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The autumn and early winter months provide crisp air, stunning fall colors, and a chance to witness the snow-capped peaks. Monsoon (July-August) should be avoided due to heavy rainfall and landslides.

Quick Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Gangtok
Day 2: Excursion to Tsomgo Lake & Baba Mandir
Day 3: Transfer to Pelling via Namchi
Day 4: Pelling Sightseeing & Transfer to Darjeeling
Day 5: Full-Day Darjeeling Sightseeing
Day 6: Darjeeling to NJP / Bagdogra / Siliguri Drop

Full Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Gangtok

Upon arrival at New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP) or Bagdogra Airport (IXB), you will be warmly received and transferred to Gangtok in a private vehicle. The scenic drive offers stunning views of lush green hills and winding mountain roads. Upon reaching Gangtok, spend the evening exploring the vibrant local markets, indulging in shopping, or simply unwinding at your hotel. Overnight stay in Gangtok.

Day 2: Excursion to Tsomgo Lake & Baba Mandir

After breakfast, proceed for a scenic excursion to: 

• Tsomgo Lake (12,400 ft) – Locally knows as Changu lake, a glacial lake that remains frozen during winter.
• Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir (13,200 ft) – a revered shrine dedicated to an Indian soldier.

Return to Gangtok by afternoon / evening. Free time for leisure or an optional visit to local attractions / shopping from MG Market.

NathuLa Pass can be approached on this date but additional permit is required which costs approx. Rs.4000-Rs.5000 per vehicle. But getting the NathuLa permit depends on few things like weather, Army Movement so getting Nathu La permit is not guaranteed. Nathu La remains closed on Monday & Tuesdays. Overnight stay in Gangtok.

Note: In case of permit restrictions due to snowfall, alternative sightseeing in Gangtok will be arranged.

Day 3: Transfer to Pelling via Namchi

Post breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Pelling with an en-route stop at Namchi. Visit the famous Char Dham, a spiritual complex with replicas of India’s four sacred shrines, Temi Tea Garden, the only tea estate in Sikkim, and Samdruptse Hill, offering panoramic views and housing a towering statue of Guru Padmasambhava. Continue the journey to Pelling, where you will check in and relax. Overnight stay in Pelling.

Day 4: Pelling Sightseeing & Transfer to Darjeeling

Start your day with a half-day sightseeing tour of Pelling.

• Khecheopalri Lake
• Rock Garden
• Darap Valley
• Kanchenjunga Falls
• Rambi Falls

After an enriching experience, proceed to Darjeeling. Upon arrival, check in and enjoy the evening at leisure. Overnight stay in Darjeeling.

Day 5: Full-Day Darjeeling Sightseeing

Early morning (4 AM): 

• Visit Tiger Hill (8,364 ft) to witness the mesmerizing sunrise over Mt. Kanchenjunga (weather permitting). En route back,
• Batasia Loop – a famous spiral railway track with scenic views.
• Ghoom Monastery – one of the oldest Tibetan monasteries in Darjeeling.

Return to the hotel for breakfast. Later, proceed for a half-day sightseeing tour covering: 

• Tibetan Refugee Self-Help Center (Closed on Sundays).
• Japanese Temple & Peace Pagoda – symbols of harmony and tranquility.
• Tea Estate OR Rock Garden & Ganga Maya Lake – explore Darjeeling’s famous tea gardens or visit scenic picnic spots.
• Tenzing & Gombu Rock – iconic rock formations for mountaineering practice.
• Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park & Himalayan Mountaineering Institute (Closed on Thursdays).

Day 6: Darjeeling to NJP / Bagdogra / Siliguri Drop

After breakfast, bid farewell to the mesmerizing hills as you proceed to NJP Railway Station or Bagdogra Airport (100 km / approx. 3 hours) for your onward journey. Depart with unforgettable memories of your Sikkim and Darjeeling adventure.

This itinerary ensures a perfect mix of scenic beauty, cultural experiences, and relaxation, making it an ideal choice for families, couples, and honeymooners looking to explore the charm of Northeast India.

All the above mentioned destinations are enjoyed best when you stay in a authentic sikkimese family run homestays. If you want to book homestays in Sikkim you can visit FusionStays as that is the best online portal to book offbeat destinations and homestays in Sikkim and Darjeeling.