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Kolkata to Darjeeling

11 days

PRIVATE TOUR: From bustling Kolkata, India’s vibrant capital of culture, to the astounding beauty of Darjeeling and surrounding Sikkim, with its verdant tea plantations, Himalayan vistas and Buddhist monasteries - take the road less travelled on this captivating 11 day journey.

For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more download our Trip Notes

Tour Overview

Duration

11 days

Starts

Kolkata

Ends

Kolkata

Range

Private

Tour Guide

Yes - for all included sightseeing

Group Size

Min Private Tour / Max 24

Minimum age

15 yrs, accompanied by an adult

Departs

Any day of the year

Hotel Rating

Our rating: Superior

Countries

India

Arrival Transfer

Yes

Departure Transfer

Yes

Meals included

Breakfast: 9, Lunch: 7, Dinner: 7
1
of 3 pages
Per Person From
AUD$6,295.00
Deposit From
Final payment
AUD$3,778.00
$8,812.00

Tour Highlights

Darjeeling - Visit this scenic hill station with Himalayan backdrop, Tiger Hill, Ghoom Monastery and a tea estate
Pelling - Explore the Pemayangtse Monastery
Cultural Kolkata - Take a trip to the famous Victoria Memorial, historic Indian Museum, colourful Howrah Flower Market and Hooghly River
Kalimpong - Visit this remote and scenic hill station
Gangtok - See the home of the Namgyalak Institute of Tibetology

Included

9 breakfasts, 7 lunches and 7 dinners
10 nights 4-5 star hotels
Touring and excursions as itinerary
Visit to Tea Estate in Darjeeling
Drive to Tiger Hill in Darjeeling
Entrance fees for all included sightseeing
Services of English-speaking Indian specialist guides at some sites
2 Economy class flights: Kolkata to Bagdogra & Bagdogra to Kolkata
An airport arrival transfer day 1 and a departure transfer day 11
All relevant transfer and transportation in private modern Chauffeur driven air-conditioned vehicles

Not Included

International flights and visas
Tipping - An entirely personal gesture

Itinerary

Day 1 - Kolkata

Once you arrive into Kolkata you will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is yours to explore Kolkata or relax at the hotel.

Overnight: Kolkata

Day 2 - Kolkata

The graft of a European city imposed on an Asian landscape lends Kolkata a bewitching blend of colour, charm and excitement. The city is a compelling medley of ancient and modern with its skyscrapers and Raj-era architecture. It’s colourful, effervescent and overflowing with life and tradition.

Enjoy a city sights tour including a visit to the imposing Victoria Memorial. Opened by the Prince of Wales in 1921, this vision in marble is often called the “Taj” of the British Raj. We also visit the New Market – a bazaar on Chowringhee Road, the stately Indian Museum founded in 1814 and the oldest and largest in India, St Paul’s Cathedral and the extraordinary Marble Palace which houses paintings by Rubens, Titian and Reynolds.

Overnight: Kolkata
Meals: Breakfast

Day 3 - Kalimpong

Kolkata - Kalimpong. Early this morning enjoy a visit to the famous flower market near Howrah Bridge, followed by a boat ride on the Hooghly River. Later, fly to Bagdogra. From here, a drive to Kalimpong - a remote hill station set among the rolling foothills and deep valleys of the stunning Himalayas.

Kalimpong’s attractions include three monasteries including Tharpa Choeling, Tongsa and Zong Dog Palri Fo-Brang, a handful of ancient churches and a colourful bazaar area known as Tenth Mile bulging with Tibetan and Buddhist curios and handicrafts. Kalimpong is also renowned for its horticulture, with some 50 nurseries devoted to orchids and many other flower varieties.

Overnight: Kalimpong
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Days 4-5 - Gangtok

Kalimpong - Gangtok. We drive north to Gangtok. Owing to its proximity to the Tibetan border, the capital of Sikkim is steeped in Tibetan culture. Characterised by mists, fluttering prayer flags, painted roofs and pagoda-styled houses, a rich cultural heritage,friendly people coupled with excellent views of the entire Kanchenjunga Range from many points in the city, Gangtok is scenically beautiful.

On day 5, enjoy an excursion to the Rumtek Monastery followed by a sightseeing tour of Gangtok, including the Namgyalak Institute of Tibetology. The afternoon is free to relax or explore.

Overnight: Gangtok
Meals: Breakfast x2, Lunch x2, Dinner x2

Day 6 - Pelling

Gangtok - Pelling (Pemayangtse). Continuing to Pelling via Tashiding, enjoy an afternoon visit to the lofty heights of the hallowed Pemayangtse Monastery - one of the principal monasteries in the state of Sikkim. Founded in the 17th century, the monastery, which has been reconstructed several times, is the main centre of the Nyingmapa sect, established in the 8th century AD. The followers of the sect wear red caps rather than the yellow ones worn by monks in other monasteries. Near the monastery, there are the traditional austere dwellings of the monks. Breath-taking scenery can be witnessed from the vantage point; carpets of alpine vegetation and numerous waterfalls lining the hillsides which are sometimes covered with a blanket of snow.

Overnight: Pelling
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Days 7-9 - Darjeeling

Pelling - Darjeeling. The journey continues to Darjeeling. Home of Darjeeling tea and with a panoramic backdrop of the awesome Himalayan snow-clad peaks. Early on day 8, enjoy a drive to Tiger Hill to witness sunrise over the snowy peaks of Kanchenjunga; followed by a visit to Ghoom Gompa (monastery), sightseeing back in town and a visit to a real tea estate.

Day 9 is free for you to explore Darjeeling your way. See some Buddhist monasteries or visit the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, a training school for mountain climbers. Its museum features memorabilia from the first ascent of Everest. It is also worthwhile taking a stroll through town. Owing to Darjeeling’sproximity to Tibet, the town also has a Tibetan Refugee Centre comprising care for the young and old and craft workshops that produce carpets, leather work and other Tibetan curios, hunt for a bargain or simply go trekking!

Overnight: Darjeeling
Meals: Breakfast x3, Lunch x3, Dinner x3

Day 10 - Kolkata

Darjeeling – Bagdogra - Kolkata (via New Jalpaiguri). Later this morning, the journey continues to Bagdogra from here you will board the flight to Kolkata. Arrive in Kolkata and transfer to your hotel. The remains of the day is at leisure.

Meals: Breakfast

Day 11 - Kolkata

Today we bid you goodbye with a transfer from the hotel to airport.

If you'd like to extend your stay, we offer a variety of hotels, short stays and add-ons for you to choose from. Please read our best places to visit or best things to see each month for suggested places to visit on your holiday. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, please let us know so we can accommodate your request.

For information about visas, top travel tips, best time to travel and much more, browse our travel guide.

Hotels

The hotels listed below are ones which we frequently use on this tour. We reserve the right to substitute these hotels to ones of a similar standard.
The Peerless Inn
Kolkata

Centrally situated in Kolkata, The Peerless Inn offers convenient access to the downtown area of Park Street. Boasting amenities such as a 24-hour restaurant, complimentary Wi-Fi, and free parking, the hotel ensures a comfortable stay for guests. The air-conditioned rooms at The Peerless Inn feature essential amenities including a TV, minibar, and tea/coffee maker. Additionally, the hotel houses a fitness center offering massages and assistance in arranging excursions and car rentals. Guests can indulge in authentic local delicacies at Restaurant Aaheli or savor international dishes at the 24-hour Oceanic restaurant.

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
4 Star Hotel
Hotel Hindusthan International
Kolkata

Hotel Hindusthan International Kolkata invites guests to experience luxury in the heart of the vibrant city. Located just a short stroll from Park Street and Victoria Memorial, this iconic hotel offers 184 appointed rooms and suites, complemented by top-notch amenities and breathtaking views. Dining options abound with Myth, Kalash, and China Bistro serving up delectable cuisines, while UG Reincarnated offers a fine selection of beverages. With a facilities including a fitness center, spa, and complimentary Wi-Fi, along with convenient access to Kolkata's attractions, Hotel Hindusthan International promises an unforgettable journey for every guest.

Our Rating
Deluxe
Local Rating
5 Star Hotel
The Elgin Silver Oaks
Kalimpong

Situated in the picturesque town of Kalimpong, The Elgin Silver Oaks offers a blend of traditional charm and modern amenities. With a 24-hour front desk and complimentary Wi-Fi access, guests are welcomed to enjoy comfort and convenience. The well-appointed rooms feature flat-screen satellite TVs, comfortable seating areas, and ironing facilities, with private bathrooms equipped with showers. Guests can enjoy stunning mountain and garden views from the comfort of their rooms, along with the added comfort of heating facilities. The resort boasts a lush garden and a terrace, providing the perfect setting for relaxation.

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
4 Star Hotel
The Elgin Nor-Khill
Gangtok

Translating as 'house of jewels' in reference to the wealth of natural beauty that surrounds the property, the Nor-Khill is an Elgin heritage hotel with typical Sikkimese architecture and spacious, elegant rooms. Restored to its original grandeur, the snug and cozy interior of the Nor-Khill is decked with etchings and lithographs and period furniture. Each of the deluxe rooms and suites affords a little luxury with rich furnishings and magnificent views of the Himalayas from the windows. An added benefit is the WiFi access throughout the property.

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
Standard Heritage
Elgin Mount Pandim
Pelling

The Elgin Mount Pandim is a beautiful, charming hotel with magnificent views. The rooms have been elegantly decorated with a range of bright colours and adorned with regal pillars and chandeliers. There is a variety of different facilities available at the hotel including a library, where guests can curl up in the evenings with a good book. There is also a dining room where delicious food from a number of different countries is served on a daily basis. The hotel is conveniently located within walking distance from the Pemayangtse monastery.

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
Standard Heritage
Elgin Hotel
Darjeeling

Situated in Darjeeling, The Elgin Hotel offers elegant accommodations amidst serene surroundings, with a garden and terrace providing a peaceful retreat. Each room features breathtaking mountain and garden views, along with modern amenities including free Wi-Fi and a flat-screen TV. Guests can indulge in a culinary journey at the Silver Dining Room Restaurant, which serves a diverse range of Indian, regional, Chinese, and continental cuisine, or unwind at the tea lounge or bar for a relaxing experience.

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
4 Star Hotel

Prices & Dates

'Twin/Double' prices are per person when there are 2 people on the same booking sharing a room. 'Single' prices are applicable to solo travellers and anyone wanting the privacy of their own room, based on a travelling party of at least 2 adults.

Prices are indicative and will vary depending on your chosen hotels, room availability as well as time of travel i.e. during India’s peak travel season of 21 Dec - 10 Jan, additional supplements will apply. Equally, if you with to travel to India during the summer, rates will be cheaper than those quoted. Please bear this in mind if comparing prices as we always aim to deliver exceptional value. This itinerary is based upon superior accommodation. Standard and deluxe properties are also available upon request. Please note that discounts will apply if there are more 4 our more people in your travelling party, since fixed costs like transportation and guiding are shared across the group.

2025
Twin/Double
Single
10 Jan - 20 Jan
$6,295
$9,405
11 Jan - 21 Jan
$6,295
$9,405
12 Jan - 22 Jan
$6,295
$9,405
13 Jan - 23 Jan
$6,295
$9,405
14 Jan - 24 Jan
$6,295
$9,405
15 Jan - 25 Jan
$6,295
$9,405
16 Jan - 26 Jan
$6,295
$9,405
17 Jan - 27 Jan
$6,295
$9,405
2026
Twin/Double
Single
10 Jan - 20 Jan
$6,855
$10,255
11 Jan - 21 Jan
$6,855
$10,255
12 Jan - 22 Jan
$6,855
$10,255
13 Jan - 23 Jan
$6,855
$10,255
14 Jan - 24 Jan
$6,855
$10,255
15 Jan - 25 Jan
$6,855
$10,255
16 Jan - 26 Jan
$6,855
$10,255
17 Jan - 27 Jan
$6,855
$10,255

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