Eastern Himalayan Adventure

Start your day before sunrise with a visit to the vibrant Mallik Ghat Flower Market, one of Kolkata's oldest and busiest markets, where colourful blooms have been traded since 1855. You will also spend time along the ghats beneath the famous Howrah Bridge, an impressive cantilever bridge spanning the Hooghly River that links Kolkata with Howrah and carries thousands of vehicles and pedestrians every day. Return to your hotel for breakfast before continuing your sightseeing.

Your next stop is the revered Dakshineswar Kali Temple, dedicated to Goddess Kali and admired for its striking architecture and spacious courtyard. Continue to Mother House, where Mother Teresa lived, prayed, and led the Missionaries of Charity for many years, and where her tomb remains a place of reflection. Later, visit the historic B.B.D. Bagh, formerly known as Dalhousie Square, surrounded by colonial-era buildings and centred around the scenic Lal Dighi.

Continue to the Indian Museum, the oldest and largest museum in India, showcasing remarkable collections from across the country. End the day at St. Paul's Cathedral, known for its Gothic Revival architecture and beautiful interiors, followed by the magnificent Victoria Memorial, an enduring symbol of Kolkata's colonial past and rich history.

After collecting your packed breakfast from the hotel, you will be transferred to Kolkata Airport for your flight to Bagdogra. On arrival, our representative will be there to welcome you and assist with your onward journey to Darjeeling. Once you reach your hotel, complete the check-in process and spend the remainder of the day at leisure, relaxing or exploring at your own pace.

Mayfair Hill Resort, Darjeeling

Exuding old-world elegance, this hillside sanctuary is set against a backdrop of mist-shrouded peaks. The property features heritage-style architecture with warm wooden interiors and cosy fireplaces that recall classic mountain living. Accommodation options range from elegant rooms to private villas, all designed to offer panoramic views of the surrounding valleys. A sophisticated restaurant serves diverse culinary choices, while the spa provides refreshing treatments, making it an ideal base for exploring the historic hill station.

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After breakfast, enjoy a memorable ride on the UNESCO World Heritage Darjeeling Himalayan Railway between Darjeeling and Ghoom. As the historic narrow-gauge train winds through the hills, you can take in spectacular mountain scenery while experiencing a railway that has been operating since 1881. At Ghoom, visit the area's oldest monastery, built in 1875 and home to an impressive 15-foot Maitreya Buddha statue.

Then you will head to the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute to learn about Everest expeditions and Tenzing Norgay's legacy, then explore the adjoining Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, home to snow leopards, Himalayan black bears, Tibetan wolves and other native wildlife (closed Thursdays). Later, visit the Tibetan Refugee Self-Help Centre to see traditional carpet weaving, woodwork, paintings and leather craftsmanship (closed Sundays).

Begin your day with an early morning drive to Tiger Hill, around 13 kilometres from Darjeeling, to witness a spectacular sunrise over the Himalayas. As daylight breaks, watch the sky change colours while peaks including Kanchenjunga and, on clear days, Mount Everest glow in golden light. Return to your hotel for breakfast before heading to a local tea estate and factory.

Here, you will learn how tea is produced, from withering and rolling to fermentation, drying and sorting, while gaining an insight into the region's famous tea-making tradition. The visit concludes with a tea-tasting session, allowing you to sample freshly prepared tea. Later, enjoy a relaxed afternoon surrounded by beautiful Himalayan scenery.

After breakfast, leave Darjeeling behind and enjoy a scenic drive to Pelling, passing through beautiful mountain landscapes along the way. On arrival, check in to your hotel and take some time to settle in before your afternoon sightseeing. Later, visit the historic Pemayangtse Monastery, located about 2.5 kilometres from Pelling at an altitude of 2,085 metres.

Founded in the late 17th century, it is one of Sikkim's oldest and most significant monasteries of the Nyingma school of Buddhism. Set on a wooded hilltop, the monastery offers magnificent views of Mount Kanchenjunga. It is also renowned for its spiritual importance, as only its highly respected 'Tasang' monks were once permitted to consecrate Sikkim's former rulers.

The Elgin Mount Pandim Pelling

Perched on a forested hillside next to the historic Pemayangtse Monastery, this heritage retreat offers a magnificent window into Sikkim's royal past. Once a summer home for the King of Sikkim, the property effortlessly pairs regal history with deep tranquillity. Royal portraits, period furniture, and silk drapes fill the interiors with classic character. The beautifully appointed rooms frame spellbinding views of Mount Kanchenjunga, while the expansive garden lawns provide a peaceful space to watch the mountain mist drift across the valley.

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Following breakfast, begin your journey to Gangtok, with a stop along the way at the renowned Rumtek Monastery. Originally established by the Fourth Chogyal, the monastery was destroyed by an earthquake before being rebuilt during the 16th century. Today, it stands as the largest monastery in Sikkim and is celebrated for its striking Tibetan architecture, peaceful surroundings and valuable collection of sacred Buddhist artefacts and religious treasures.

Spend time exploring this important spiritual site before continuing your drive through the scenic hills to Gangtok. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel, where you can complete the check-in process and relax after the day's journey.

MAYFAIR Spa Resort & Casino, Gangtok

Tucked away in a lush, forested valley, this spectacular five-star resort showcases gorgeous Sikkimese architecture and monastically inspired design. The sprawling property offers a mesmerising mix of mountain serenity and high-end entertainment, featuring a world-class casino alongside its peaceful accommodation. When here, you stay in plush rooms or secluded villas that look out onto deep green hills. With an award-winning spa, an outdoor pool, and exceptional multi-cuisine restaurants, it provides an exquisite base for travellers looking to experience luxury in the heart of the Himalayas.

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Today, you will begin your day by visiting Enchey Monastery, a peaceful Buddhist monastery overlooking Gangtok from a forested ridge. Surrounded by lush greenery, it offers beautiful views across the town while providing an insight into the region's spiritual heritage. Built in 1910 on the site where the revered tantric master Lama Drutob Karpo once meditated, the monastery belongs to the Nyingma school of Tibetan Buddhism and remains an important place of worship.

Next you will get to visit the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, established in 1958 and set within tranquil grounds filled with oak, birch and ash trees. The institute is renowned for preserving Tibetan culture through its valuable collection of Buddhist manuscripts, artefacts, religious art and historical exhibits. Later in the afternoon, enjoy a leisurely walk along Gangtok's lively Mall Road, where shops, cafés and local life create a welcoming atmosphere.

Your sightseeing also includes a visit to the Directorate of Handloom and Handicrafts, where you can admire traditional Sikkimese craftsmanship, including beautifully woven textiles, wood carvings, paintings and other locally made handicrafts that reflect the region's rich artistic traditions.

Today you will be travelling from Gangtok to the charming hill town of Kalimpong. On arrival, check in to your hotel before setting out to discover some of the town's best-known attractions. Visit the impressive Durpin Monastery, also called Zang Dhok Palri Monastery, followed by Tharpa Choling Monastery, founded in 1937 and home to an important collection of Buddhist scriptures.

From there, you will head to Deolo Hill, the highest point in Kalimpong, where you can enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding landscapes and visit the historic Dr Graham's Homes. Your sightseeing also includes the area's largest Catholic Church, built in 1890, and the renowned Pine View Nursery, famous for its exceptional collection of rare cactus species from the Americas.

MAYFAIR Himalayan Spa Resort, Kalimpong

MAYFAIR Himalayan Spa Resort, Kalimpong, seamlessly bridges the gap between rich regional heritage and luxurious mountain living. Once a historic property that hosted royalty, this serene sanctuary features elegant rooms and wood-panelled cottages nestled amid manicured gardens. You can savour panoramic mountain vistas from the expansive open-air terrace, relax by the scenic swimming pool, or indulge in holistic treatments at the signature spa. Offering exceptional dining options that highlight local flavours, it provides a truly majestic and peaceful escape in the hills.

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Today, you will travel to Bagdogra Airport to catch your flight to Kolkata. After landing, our representative will meet you and assist with your transfer to the hotel, where you can check in and relax before continuing the final part of your journey.

Taj Bengal, Kolkata

Taj Bengal, Kolkata, stands as a landmark of luxury in the exclusive, leafy neighbourhood of Alipore. This elegant five-star hotel features a striking, sun-lit atrium lobby and sophisticated rooms that offer beautiful views of the city skyline or lush gardens. Travellers can enjoy an exceptional culinary journey across its award-winning restaurants, serving everything from traditional Indian delicacies to fine Mediterranean cuisine. A pristine outdoor pool, an upscale spa, and world-class hospitality complete this tranquil urban oasis.

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At the scheduled time, you will be assisted with your transfer to Kolkata International Airport. From there, board your return flight home, bringing your memorable journey to a close with wonderful experiences and lasting memories from your time in India.