Sikkim, Darjeeling and Bhutan

The exquisite mountain realms of Sikkim and Bhutan are treasure-troves of ancient culture and wild Himalayan beauty. In Sikkim, mighty Kanchenjunga (28,162') stands sentinel on the northern border with Tibet, reigning over deep-cut river valleys lush with tea estates, rhododendron forests, and a profusion of orchids. In Bhutan, a kingdom closed to the world until the 1970s, gold-roofed fortress-monasteries grace nearly every mountain valley, and the traditional way of life and Tibetan Buddhist culture thrive. With day hikes to explore fascinating monasteries and villages and a range of delightful accommodations including a 19th century tea plantation, this is an unforgettable Himalayan adventure.

Itinerary at a Glance

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Days 1-5
Delhi / Bagdogra / Gangtok, Sikkim / Rumtek / Pemayangtse

From Delhi, we fly to Bagdogra and journey up to Gangtok (5,600'), a hill station on a former trade route to Tibet, where we visit the venerated Rumtek Monastery, seat of the Karma Kagyu or Black Hat sect of Tibetan Buddhism. Heading deeper into Sikkim, we contour along bright green rice terraces and fields of cardamom to discover stunning Pemayangtse (“Perfect Sublime Lotus”), a 17th century monastery poised high above the roaring Rangit River. Our forest hike at sacred Khecheopalri Lake offers fantastic views of Mount Pandim (21,946').

Days 6-8
Darjeeling / Kanchenjunga Views / Tea Estate

Darjeeling (7,000') is the classic Victorian hill station and still a major tea growing center. From our charming accommodation, a historic 1,600-acre hilltop tea plantation, we set out for tea tasting, forest walks, and stupendous sunrise views of Kanchenjunga from Tiger Hill.

Days 9-11
Phuentsholing, Bhutan / Thimphu

Crossing tea plantations on our drive from Darjeeling to Phuentsholing, Bhutan, we head up bucolic mountain roads and through mystical rhododendron forests to the country’s tiny capital, Thimphu, at 7,700 feet. We stretch our legs with a hike to the 15th century Tango Monastery and visit the fascinating Folk Heritage Museum.

Days 12-13
Punakha Valley

Crossing the Dochu La Pass (10,200') brings us to Punakha, a deeply traditional region. Here we explore the extraordinary 17th century Punakha Dzong, a true masterpiece of Bhutan’s unique architecture, and hike a riverside trail past whitewashed farmhouses.

Days 14-16
Paro / Taktsang Monastery

In the beautiful green Paro Valley, our grand finale is a hike to Taktsang, the famed monastic retreat called the “Tiger’s Nest,” built into a sheer cliff face. Depart from Paro on Day 16.

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What the Trip is Like

This trip is Level 2+, Moderate, according to trip rating system. It features vehicle-based sightseeing with day walks and hotel/lodge accommodations throughout. Our optional day hikes take place at altitudes of 4,000-7,000 feet. All hiking is with a daypack only, and you always have the option to skip any hike you don’t want to undertake. This trip is appropriate for anyone in good health living an active outdoor lifestyle. Although you carry only a daypack on the walks, we recommend that you make a special effort to be in good physical condition. Daily brisk walking and/or regular hiking (or using a stair-climbing machine at your gym) are excellent preparatory exercises. You should wear sturdy, well-broken-in footwear.

Explanation of Trip Levels