Tea & Buddhism in West Bengal & Sikkim

Explore Calcutta’s hidden gems on a walking tour. Our guides tailor the tour to your wishes — this is a great opportunity to see some of the city's more unusual sights and a superb way of getting off the beaten track in this vibrant city.

Fly from Calcutta to Bagdogra and travel by road to Kalimpong. Being in the hills of the Himalaya, you will find yourself surrounded by stunning mountain scenery. This evening, you might like to enjoy drinks in the hotel's garden, overlooking the flickering lights of the villages below.

Today, enjoy a village walk. Escorted by your friendly local guide, you will pass traditional terraced farmland in a scenic valley, through rural villages, and across streams. Depending on your fitness level, there are a variety of routes.

A five-hour journey from Kalimpong along winding roads will bring you to Pelling, a picturesque hill station in West Sikkim home to the Pemayangtse and Sanghak Choling monasteries. Pelling is situated right under Kangchenjunga, the third-highest mountain in the world. It's worth asking for an early wake-up call to see the sunrise over the peak.

Drive to Darjeeling to explore the former colonial hill station and ride the Toy Train. One of the only Indian steam trains in operation, it travels up to Ghoom, the town above Darjeeling. This evening, you might like to visit one of the local markets that sell a variety of textiles.

Day at leisure to explore Darjeeling. Exploring the town's eclectic mix of nationalities and attractions, such as the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, and the Tibetan Refugee Self-Help Centre, or the Lloyd Botanical Gardens makes it worthwhile.

Take a short drive to spend the next couple of nights at a tea estate to relax and unwind. Walk through the tea plantations, visit a local village, or simply relax with views right across the valley.

Enjoy a serene escape in Ging, one of Darjeeling's oldest and most picturesque tea plantations. Nestled amid lush greenery and rolling hills, this heritage estate offers stunning views. Sip fresh tea, explore the gardens, and experience the timeless beauty of the Himalayan foothills.

Fly from Bagdogra to Calcutta and spend a night there.

Transfer to Calcutta Airport for your onward or homeward-bound flight. Your return flight will arrive the same day.