Between Tea Gardens and the Tiger’s Nest

Gangtok, Bhutan 16 Days - 15 Nights Group: According To Need
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Trip Description

An Immersive Journey Through Northeast India and Bhutan This SkyZeg journey is designed for travelers who want the Himalayas to unfold slowly, with time to notice the small details that make a place feel real. You begin in Kolkata, where history lives in the streets and mornings start early along the river. You then fly north into the hills of Darjeeling, where tea gardens blanket the slopes and sunrise turns the high peaks gold. From Sikkim’s quiet monasteries and forested ridgelines, you drift toward Kalimpong’s gentler pace before crossing into Bhutan. The border feels like a threshold: the noise fades, the rhythm shifts, and the days grow calmer. You travel through Thimphu, Punakha, and Paro, ending with the unforgettable hike to the Tiger’s Nest, perched high above the valley like a secret kept by the mountains.

DAY 1 – Arrive in Kolkata

You arrive in Kolkata and meet your SkyZeg representative at the airport. A private transfer brings you to your hotel, where you can settle in and recover from the journey. Kolkata has a strong personality. It is artistic, historic, and deeply human. Even your first evening here has a certain atmosphere, especially if you step outside for a short walk and feel the city’s energy. Overnight in Kolkata.

DAY 2 – Kolkata Heritage, Victoria Memorial, Kumartuli at Dusk

This morning is designed to show Kolkata at its most atmospheric, before the roads grow busy. You explore the historic heart of the city, starting near the Hooghly river, where flower stalls fill the air with color and fragrance. Later, you visit the Victoria Memorial if it is open, and continue to the Kali Temple. As evening approaches, you head to Kumartuli, the potters’ neighborhood where clay idols are shaped by hand for major festivals. Overnight in Kolkata.

DAY 3 – Fly to Bagdogra, Drive to Darjeeling

After your flight to Bagdogra, the road climbs into cooler air and rolling tea gardens. Darjeeling welcomes you with misty mornings, colonial traces, and a calm mountain atmosphere. Overnight in Darjeeling.

DAY 4 – Darjeeling Sunrise and Local Culture

Today starts early with a sunrise drive to Tiger Hill. On clear mornings, you watch the light touch Kanchenjunga first, then spread across the horizon. It is one of those travel moments that does not need explanation. It just lands quietly. After sunrise, you visit Ghoom Monastery, where prayer flags and chanting create a calm, grounded atmosphere. Later, you explore Darjeeling’s cultural landmarks, including the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute and the Tibetan Refugee Centre. Overnight in Darjeeling.

DAY 5 – Darjeeling to Pelling

You travel onward into Sikkim, heading to Pelling. Pelling is quieter, surrounded by forest and open views, with mountains forming a steady presence. Overnight in Pelling.

DAY 6 – Pelling Monasteries and Hidden History

Visit Pemayangtse Monastery and continue to the Rabdentse ruins, once the seat of Sikkim’s former kingdom. A short forest walk leads to stone remnants and wide mountain views. Overnight in Pelling.

DAY 7 – Pelling to Gangtok

Drive to Gangtok, Sikkim’s lively capital. The evening is free for exploring the town. Overnight in Gangtok.

DAY 8 – Gangtok Spiritual and Cultural Day

Visit Rumtek Monastery, Do Drul Chorten, and the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology. Time to explore local weaving and handicrafts. Overnight in Gangtok.

DAY 9 – Gangtok to Kalimpong

Drive through greener valleys to Kalimpong, known for orchids and a gentle pace. Overnight in Kalimpong.

DAY 10 – Kalimpong to Phuntsholing, Enter Bhutan

Descend toward the border and enter Bhutan. The atmosphere becomes calmer. Overnight in Phuntsholing.

DAY 11 – Phuntsholing to Thimphu

Drive into Bhutan’s interior and arrive in Thimphu. Overnight in Thimphu.

DAY 12 – Thimphu, Culture and Everyday Bhutan

Visit Buddha Point, Memorial Chorten, cultural institutions, and Trashichho Dzong. Overnight in Thimphu.

DAY 13 – Thimphu to Punakha via Dochula Pass

Drive over Dochula Pass and visit Punakha Dzong. Overnight in Punakha.

DAY 14 – Punakha to Paro

Countryside walk to Chimi Lhakhang and drive to Paro. Visit Ta Dzong, Rinpung Dzong, and Kyichu Lhakhang. Overnight in Paro.

DAY 15 – Paro and the Tiger’s Nest

Hike to Taktsang Monastery and visit Drukgyel Dzong and a traditional farmhouse. Overnight in Paro.

DAY 16 – Depart Paro

Private transfer to Paro International Airport for your onward flight.
Start Planning Your Journey
Departure Month

January 2026

Duration

16 Days / 15 Nights

Group Size

According To Need

Location

Gangtok, Bhutan

€0/-

Per Person
Included in Your Trip:
  • All necessary arrangements
  • Support throughout your journey
  • Essential travel services
  • Assistance for smooth planning
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