Jewels of North East
9 Nights 10 Days
Unveiling the Jewels of the Northeast: A 9-Night, 10-Day Adventure
This itinerary offers a more engaging and informative overview of your Jewels of the Northeast tour, focusing on specific highlights and experiences rather than just transportation details.
Day 1: Coimbatore – Chennai – New Jalpaiguri
- Begin your journey at Coimbatore Railway Station, embarking on an overnight train ride to Chennai.
- In Chennai, take a connecting train towards New Jalpaiguri, the gateway to the Northeast.
Day 2: New Jalpaiguri – Embrace the Journey
- Relax and enjoy the scenic landscapes as you travel by train towards the enchanting Northeast.
- Anticipate the exciting adventures that await you in the coming days.
Day 3: New Jalpaiguri – Gangtok – A Hill Station Adventure
- Upon arrival at New Jalpaiguri, meet your representative and start your ascent to Gangtok, nestled amidst the majestic Himalayas.
- Check into your hotel and acclimatize to the refreshing mountain air, enjoying breathtaking views.
- Spend the evening exploring the lively streets of Gangtok or unwind in your hotel, preparing for tomorrow’s adventures.
Day 4: Gangtok – Tshangu Lake & Baba Mandir – A Breathtaking Escape (Optional)
- Embark on a thrilling journey to Tshangu Lake, a captivating glacial lake at 12,400 feet, surrounded by snow-capped peaks.
- (Note: Foreigners require special permits to visit Baba Mandir, a high-altitude shrine.)
- Enjoy the scenic beauty, capture stunning photographs, and soak in the serenity of the Himalayas.
- Return to Gangtok for a comfortable night’s stay.
Day 5: Gangtok – Darjeeling – Scenic Journey & Cultural Gems
- Bid farewell to Gangtok and embark on a scenic journey to Darjeeling, the “Queen of Hills.”
- En route, stop at Jhakri Waterfalls, Droul Chorten, and the Research Institute of Tibetology (closed on Sundays).
- Immerse yourself in the vibrant flower show and appreciate the local handicraft and handloom industry.
- In the afternoon, arrive in Darjeeling and settle into your hotel, ready to explore tomorrow’s wonders.
Day 6: Darjeeling – Unforgettable Sights & Experiences
- Witness the awe-inspiring sunrise over Kanchenjunga from Tiger Hill (weather permitting), an unforgettable experience.
- Visit Batasia Loop, a mesmerizing railway loop, and Ghoom Monastery, the oldest Buddhist monastery in Darjeeling.
- Embark on a half-day tour, discovering the Peace Pagoda, Japanese Temple, Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, and the Darjeeling Ropeway (optional).
- Explore Gombu Rock and Tenzing Norgay’s statue, paying homage to the legendary mountaineer.
- Visit the Tibetan Refugee Self-Assistance Center and witness their unique culture and handicrafts.
- Immerse yourself in the scenic beauty of tea estates, capturing the essence of Darjeeling’s heritage.
- Enjoy a comfortable night’s stay in Darjeeling.
Day 7: Darjeeling – Kolkata – Unveiling the City of Joy
- After breakfast, travel to New Jalpaiguri Railway Station and board your train to Kolkata, the vibrant capital of West Bengal.
- Upon arrival in Kolkata, settle into your hotel and refresh before embarking on an evening exploration.
Day 8: Kolkata – A Half-Day Journey through History & Heritage
- Immerse yourself in the spiritual atmosphere of the Kali Temple, a significant Hindu pilgrimage site.
- Cross the Hooghly River on the iconic Vidyasagar Setu (Second Hooghly Bridge) and reach the Botanical Garden.
- Marvel at the 200-year-old banyan tree, a testament to the garden’s rich history.
- Enjoy the scenic views of both the renowned bridges of Kolkata along the riverside.
- Spend a comfortable night in Kolkata.
Day 9: Kolkata – A Deeper Dive into the City’s Heart
- After breakfast, embark on a full-day city tour, starting with the magnificent Howrah Bridge.
- Travel to Belur Math, the headquarters of the Ramakrishna Mission, and Dakshineswar Kali Temple, renowned for its intricate architecture.
- Visit Rabindranath Tagore’s house, now a university campus, and learn about the life of the Nobel laureate.
- Explore the British Colonial Area, witnessing Raj Bhavan, Kolkata High Court, and other historical landmarks.
- Be awestruck by the Victoria Memorial, a grand monument dedicated to Queen Victoria.
- Delve into history and science at the Indian Museum, one of the largest in Asia.
- Spend another night in Kolkata, reflecting on the day’s discoveries.