Famous Pelling and Gangtok Tour From Siliguri
Famous Pelling and Gangtok Tour From Siliguri
- Pelling and Gangtok
- 4 Nights 5 Days
Places Covered
- Rimbi Waterfalls
- Orange Garden
- Khecheopalri Lake
- Kanchenjunga Falls
- Pemayangtse Monastery
- Rabdentse Ruins
- Pelling Skywalk and Chenrezig Statue
- Buddha Park
- MG Marg
- Tsomgo (Changu) Lake
- Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir
- Nathula Pass
Overview
The provided 5-day, 4-night tour itinerary with pickup and drop-off at New Jalpaiguri (NJP) Railway Station is a well-structured plan covering two key destinations in Sikkim: Pelling and Gangtok. This itinerary balances scenic beauty, cultural exploration, and adventure, offering a mix of natural landmarks, spiritual sites, and leisure time. Below is a detailed analysis and description of the itinerary, including its strengths, potential considerations, and a day-by-day breakdown.
- Travel Time: The drive from NJP to Pelling (135 km, 5–6 hours) and Pelling to Gangtok (120 km, 5–6 hours) is time-intensive, reducing active sightseeing on Days 1 and 3. Early starts are essential to maximize daylight.
- Nathula Pass: Its inclusion is conditional on permits and weather, and the additional cost (approx. INR 2,500–4,000 per vehicle) may not suit all budgets. It’s also physically demanding due to high altitude (14,140 ft).
MAKE A BOOKING
- Limited Gangtok Sightseeing: Day 4 focuses on the Tsomgo Lake excursion, but no local Gangtok attractions (e.g., MG Marg, Enchey Monastery) are included, which might feel rushed for a first-time visitor.
- Monsoon Risks: If traveling in July–September, landslides may disrupt plans, especially on routes like NJP–Pelling or Pelling–Gangtok.
- Leisure Time: While leisure time is a plus, travelers may prefer structured activities on Days 1 and 3 (e.g., Gangtok’s Ropeway or Flower Show).
Itinerary
- Day 01: NJP to Pelling via Teesta Bridge and Teesta View Point
- Pickup from NJP: Begin the journey from NJP Railway Station (approx. 135 km to Pelling, 5–6 hours).
- Route Highlights: Stop at Teesta Bridge (likely Coronation Bridge, a colonial-era structure over the Teesta River) and Teesta View Point for scenic views of the turquoise Teesta River and surrounding hills. These stops break the long drive and offer photo opportunities.
- Arrival in Pelling: Check into a hotel in Pelling (altitude: 7,200 ft), a quiet hill station known for its Kanchenjunga views.
- Lunch: Provided at the hotel or a local restaurant (confirm inclusions with the operator).
- Evening: Free for leisure. Travelers can relax at the hotel, stroll through Pelling’s small market, or enjoy sunset views of Mt. Kanchenjunga (weather permitting).
- Overnight Stay: At a hotel in Pelling.
- Day 02: Pelling Local Sightseeing
- Rimbi Waterfalls: A picturesque waterfall on the Rimbi River, ideal for photos and a quick stop.
- Orange Garden: A lush plantation (also called Kanchenjunga Orange Garden), showcasing Sikkim’s agricultural charm, especially vibrant during harvest season.
- Khecheopalri Lake: A sacred lake revered by Buddhists and Hindus, nestled in a tranquil forest. Known for its wish-fulfilling lore and serene ambiance.
- Kanchenjunga Falls: A stunning waterfall offering a refreshing stop, often paired with adventure activities like rappelling (optional, at extra cost).
- Pemayangtse Monastery: One of Sikkim’s oldest and most significant monasteries (Nyingma order, built in 1705), showcasing intricate Buddhist art and views of the Himalayas.
- Rabdentse Ruins: The remnants of Sikkim’s second capital (17th–19th century), offering historical insights and scenic walks amidst ruins.
- Pelling Skywalk and Chenrezig Statue: A glass-bottomed skywalk with breathtaking views of Kanchenjunga and a towering statue of Chenrezig (Avalokiteshvara), blending adventure and spirituality.
- Evening: Return to the hotel. Free time to relax or explore Pelling’s quiet streets.
- Overnight Stay: At a hotel in Pelling.
- Day 03: Pelling to Gangtok via Buddha Park (Namchi Chardham)
- After breakfast, check out from the Pelling hotel.
- Drive to Gangtok (120 km, 5–6 hours) via Buddha Park (Siddhesvara Dham) in Namchi, South Sikkim.
- Buddha Park: Features a 130-ft statue of Lord Buddha and replicas of the four Chardhams (Hindu pilgrimage sites). A spiritual and cultural stop with scenic views.
- Afternoon: Arrive in Gangtok (altitude: 5,500 ft). Check into a hotel and have lunch (included, confirm venue with operator).
- Evening: Free for leisure. Explore MG Marg, Gangtok’s lively pedestrian street, for shopping, dining (try local dishes like momos or thukpa), or relaxing at a cafe.
- Overnight Stay: At a hotel in Gangtok.
- Day 04: Excursion to Tsomgo Lake, Baba Mandir, and Nathula Pass
- Early departure for a full-day excursion (32 km to Tsomgo Lake, 2–3 hours one way).
- Tsomgo (Changu) Lake: A sacred glacial lake at 12,400 ft, surrounded by alpine scenery. Optional yak rides (at own cost) add a fun element. The lake may be frozen in winter. Permits required (arranged by operator).
- Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir: A shrine at 13,200 ft dedicated to an Indian soldier, revered for his spiritual presence. A unique blend of patriotism and folklore.
- Nathula Pass (optional, 14,140 ft): Visit the Indo-China border (additional cost, approx. INR 2,500–4,000 per vehicle, subject to permit availability, open Wed–Sun). Requires extra documentation (e.g., Voter ID, Passport) and is weather-dependent. Offers thrilling views and a chance to see military outposts.
- Evening: Return to Gangtok by 3:00–4:00 PM. Free time to relax or revisit MG Marg.
- Overnight Stay: At a hotel in Gangtok.
- Day 05: Gangtok to NJP Drop
- Morning: After breakfast, check out from the hotel by 11:00 AM.
- Drive back to NJP Railway Station (120 km, 4.5–5 hours) via the scenic Teesta River route. Optional stops (e.g., Rangpo or Melli) if time permits.
- Afternoon: Arrive at NJP by 2:00–3:00 PM for onward travel.
Inclusion
- Pickup & Drop.
- Welcome Drink on Arrival.
- All sightseeing’s by individual car.
- Transfers: Destination-Hotel-Destination.
- Sight-seeing as per tour itinerary.
- All toll taxes, parking fees and driver’s allowance.
Exclusion
- Charges for early Check-In & late Check-Out at Hotel.
- Air fare/ train fare.
- Monuments Entrance fees during sightseeing.
- Camera Charges/Rides etc.
- Any other item not specified in the Package Inclusions.
- 5% Goods And Services Tax(GST)