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Darjeeling & Gangtok Tour – Trip Itenary, Hotels, Cost

Darjeeling and Gangtok are two of the most beautiful hill stations to visit in India.

They offer you a perfect destination to spend your holidays amidst the panoramic landscapes of the mountains.

The beauty of the emerald green tree gardens, tranquil mountains, majestic lake & mountain views will rejuvenate your holidays.

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The two popular tourist destinations engulfed in the mists and clouds, and peacefulness will offer you a jaw-dropping experience.

Tinkling of the bells, prayers, and chants of the lamas will heal your soul like nowhere.

Today I will tell you all the details about the Darjeeling-Gangtok trip. It’s just a guide. You can modify the trip in any way you like.

In this article, you will get to know the following points about the Darjeeling-Gangtok trip,

  1. Location
  2. Where to go first
  3. How to reach
  4. 7-Days Itinerary

So come let’s explore these points…

Location of Gangtok to Darjeeling

Gangtok is the capital city of Sikkim. It is one of the blessings of mother nature and one of the eminent Buddhist Pilgrimage centers in India.

Darjeeling, known as the Queen of Hills is another paradise located in the northern region of West Bengal.

This distance from Gangtok to Darjeeling is about 98 km.

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Where to go first Gangtok or Darjeeling?

The Queen of Hills Darjeeling in West Bengal can be reached in about 3 hours from Bagdogra NJP by car and on the other hand, it takes 4.5 hours to reach Gangtok (the capital of Sikkim) from Bagdogra.

Both Gangtok and Darjeeling are well connected by road.

I recommend you to travel to Gangtok first because I and my friends always preferred to roll up the hassles first and then end up enjoying and relaxing the rest of the trip.

Since there is only one route from Bagdogra/NJP to Gangtok, the route usually remains congested and you may face heavy traffic jams.

If you face such traffic jams returning from Gangtok you may end up missing flights or trains. 

Darjeeling is closer to Bagdogra Airport and NJP rail station, and there is more than 1 route to reach.

So you are unlikely to face any major traffic jams.

While returning you may feel more relaxed and comfortable, and you may end your journey smoothly, without much harassment.

Therefore, try visiting Gangtok first. 

How to reach Gangtok

By rail

New Jalpaiguri is the nearest railway station to Gangtok and is approximately 117 kilometers away.

You can simply take a train to New Jalpaiguri and then take a shared jeep or a private cab to Gangtok.

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By Air

If you want to fly to Gangtok, the nearest airport will be in Bagdogra, West Bengal.

It is around 124 kilometers away from Gangtok.

This is a relatively new airport with well-connected and regular flights to and from major cities.

By Road

From Siliguri, you may take a public bus, a shared cab, or a private taxi to Gangtok.

If you want to go by car, the distance between Siliguri and Gangtok is around 114 kilometers.

To reach Gangtok you have to take the national highway 10 from Bagdogra/NJP as there is no alternative route.

Darjeeling and Gangtok Trip Itinerary

This is a 7 day-6 Night Itinerary trip

Day 1 : Arrive at NJP/Bagdogra

Gangtok, Sikkim

Take a cab and head towards Gangtok.

Reserved Cars will charge you Rs 3000- Rs 5000

Once you reach the hotel or resort in Gangtok, set out to explore the nearby MG Market during the evening. You can also choose to relax in the resort/hotel itself.

It’s a pleasure being at the lovely MG Market as I and my squad have been there, lazily strolling, taking photographs, and buying some pretty stuff.

Stay overnight at the resort/hotel.

Places to visit

MG Market: It is the most thriving and charming shopping hub in the heart of Gangtok. The smoke-free boulevard is lined by restaurants, hotels, and shops.

Cleanliness and decoration is the first and foremost thing in this market that will impress you.

You can sit on the benches or you may choose to shop for Tibetan items, Sikkimese cups, trinkets, garments, shoes, souvenirs, and many more.

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Day 2: Gangtok Local Sightseeing

In the morning, plan local sightseeing in Gangtok. This includes Tsongmo Lake, Baba Mandir, and Nathula.

If you have time, you can also visit the Rumtek Monastery and Himalayan Zoological Park. 

A reserved car fare to see this sightseeing from Gangtok is about Rs 4000-Rs 7000.

Stay overnight at the hotel/resort.

Places to visit

Tsongmo Lake: This oval-shaped lake located at 12400 ft above sea level is a sacred lake surrounded by impressive scenic beauty. It is also known as Changu Lake. Lying amidst the snow-topped mountains and alpine forests, the aquamarine glacial lake is a must-visit attraction in Gangtok. It is 40 km from Gangtok. You can also enjoy piping hot momos, or Thukpa on the roadside cafes too 

Baba Mandir: Baba Mandir is the holy shrine of Baba Harbhajan Singh. The sacred ambiance created by the bells and the samadhi of Baba Harbhajan attracts many people to pay homage to Baba. You can have food in the local Army Canteen shop. 

Nathula: This motorable road is a sight of unmatched beauty. If you are traveling in winter, then undoubtedly you can experience snowfall. Click amazing photos of the picturesque beauty of the surrounding.

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Day 3: 7-point sightseeing

Gangtok during sunset

Enjoy the Majestic views of Mt. Kanchenjunga while you wake up early in the morning.

Freshen up, have breakfast, and set out for a 7-point sightseeing tour.

7 point sightseeing will include Tashi View Point, Hanuman Tok, Ganesh Tok, Bakthang Waterfall, Enchey Monastery, Flower Exhibition Center, and Handicraft Center.

The Taxi rate for these wonderful sightseeings is from Rs 3000-Rs 5000.

The scenic beauty of these places will surely mesmerize you.

Stay overnight at the hotel/resort.

Day 4: Gangtok to Darjeeling

After having breakfast, head towards Darjeeling from Gangtok.

The beautiful journey from Gangtok to Darjeeling will take you through the sweeping beauties of mountains, valleys, and the majestic beauty of the lakes & waterfalls. 

The cabs or taxis will charge you approximately Rs 4000-Rs 5000.

Reach Darjeeling and check into your resort or hotel.

In the evening you can explore the Darjeeling mall road, and enjoy some leisure time in the peaceful delights of nature.

Stay overnight at the Hotel.

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Day 5: Local sightseeing in Darjeeling

Darjeeling Mall

Start your day early, because you can’t miss the spectacular sunrise view at the Tiger Hills and also the illuminated peaks of divine Mt. Kanchenjunga.

Then set out for the wonderful and famous spots like the Batasia Loop and Ghoom Monastery. 

The reserved taxis will charge you Rs 1200- Rs 1400.

Batasia Loop is a spectacular attraction in Darjeeling that will offer you an impeccable view of Darjeeling Town.

It is also famous for the War Memorial. Many people sit here and relax in this place. 

In Batasia enjoy the delicious samosas and you can also take your breakfast in the local stalls.

My friends and I preferred the local street-side stalls as these sell delicious momos and Thukpa.

Then you can walk up to the Observatory Hill to Mahakal Temple.

Soak yourself in the serene and spiritual atmosphere. You can also enjoy the toy train ride in Darjeeling.

You have to pre-book tickets for this.

In the evening you can relax in the resort or you can stroll along Nehru Road and shop from the stalls. 

Stay overnight at the resort or hotel.

Day 6: 7-point sightseeing tour (Darjeeling)

Another day full of excitement and thrills!

Yes, it was one of the special days for me because the 7-point sightseeing tour of Darjeeling was one of the most awaited trips for me.

I’m pretty sure, you will also love these places wrapped with alluring beauty.

The 7-point tour includes Zoo, Peace Pagoda, Rock Garden, Tenzing & Gombu Rock, Happy Valley Tea Estates, Tibetan Refugee Centre, and Japanese Temple.

are the 7 tourist attractions on this sight tour.

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There is a multitude of things you can enjoy here! You will wish you could stop time.

Apart from these, if you wish you can set some alternate routes and visit some other places.

You can also board the cable car of Darjeeling Ropeway to witness the eye-catching vistas of Rangeet River, tea estates, and snow-covered peaks to have one of the most thrilling experiences.

Click amazing photos in the backdrop of beautiful sceneries of Tea estates.

Return and have your dinner at the famous Glenary’s Restaurant.

Stay overnight at Darjeeling resort/hotel.

Day 7: Back to NJP/Bagdogra

With lots of memories and a heavy heart, leave for NJP station or Bagdogra Airport from your hotel or resort in Darjeeling.

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If you have more time, you can also extend your trip to more iconic as well as offbeat destinations near Gangtok and Darjeeling.

Yumthang Valley and Zero Point are some of the other beautiful destinations in Gangtok.

From Darjeeling, you can also travel to other places like Kurseong, Lepchajagat, Mirik, and other offbeat destinations.

These places are not only the true examples of paradise but also ideal romantic destinations.


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