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Sikkim Culture Tour

Embrace Himalayan Culture – Sikkim, Darjeeling, and Kalimpong Awaits!

Sikkim Culture Tour

Trip Overview:

Location

Sikkim

Transport

Private

Max-Elevation

3,780

Duration

12 days

Accommodation

Hotel/Guesthouse

Best Seasons

Spring and Autumn

Group

Min. 1 Pax

Difficulty

Easy-Moderate

Start Point

Bagdogra/Bhadrapur

End Point

Bagdogra/Bhadrapur

Entrance Fees

Required

Food

Breakfast

Introduction to Sikkim Culture Tour

The Sikkim Culture Tour offers an immersive journey into the rich cultural heritage of one of India’s most fascinating regions. Located in the Eastern Himalayas, Sikkim blends ancient traditions with modern influences, and this tour explores both its Buddhist legacy and the colonial charm of Darjeeling and Kalimpong.

Start your adventure in Gangtok, where you'll visit the Rumtek Monastery and the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, offering insights into Tibetan Buddhism and culture. From there, travel to Pemayangtse and Pelling, home to the ancient Pemayangtse Monastery and stunning views of Kanchenjunga, the world’s third-highest mountain. Next, head to Yuksom, the historical heart of Sikkim, where the first king was crowned.

Continue to Kalimpong, a peaceful town known for its monasteries, flower markets, and panoramic views. End your journey in Darjeeling, famous for its colonial charm, the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, and the breathtaking sunrise at Tiger Hill.

This Sikkim Culture Tour provides a deep dive into the region’s spiritual, cultural, and historical treasures, covering Gangtok, Pemayangtse, Pelling, Yuksom, Kalimpong, and Darjeeling. It’s a perfect journey for those seeking to explore the cultural richness and natural beauty of the Eastern Himalayas.

Highlights of the Sikkim Culture Tour

Itinerary

If you arrive at Bagdogra Airport, it is a 130 km drive, taking approximately 4 hours to reach Gangtok. From Bhadrapur Airport, the drive is about 155 km and takes around 4.5 hours. You will be received by our representative and transferred to Gangtok. Check-in at the hotel and overnight stay.

After breakfast, enjoy a half-day sightseeing tour of Gangtok. Visit Rumtek Monastery, Do Drul Chorten Stupa, Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, Directorate of Handicrafts & Handloom, Flower Show, Enchey Monastery, and Nam Nang View Point. Return to the hotel for an overnight stay.

After an early breakfast, depart for a day excursion to Tshangu Lake, located at an altitude of 3,780 meters and known for its serene beauty and crystal-clear waters. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks, the lake offers breathtaking views and a peaceful atmosphere. After sightseeing, return to Gangtok. Overnight stay at the hotel.

After breakfast, drive to Pemayangtse (116 km / approx. 5 hours) via the scenic Temi Tea Garden and the town of Rabangla. Upon arrival in Pemayangtse (Pelling), check in at the hotel. In the evening, enjoy a leisurely walk and take in the beautiful sunset over Mt. Khangchendzonga. Overnight stay at the hotel in Pelling.

After breakfast, set out for a full-day sightseeing tour around Pelling. In the morning, visit Rimbi Waterfalls, Rimbi Hydel Project, Khecheopalri Lake, and Kanchenjunga Falls. Return to the hotel for lunch. In the afternoon, continue with visits to the historic Pemayangtse Monastery, Changey Falls, Singshore Bridge, and Dentam Village, which includes a stop at the Alpine Cheese Factory. Overnight stay at the hotel in Pelling.

After breakfast, drive to Yuksom (35 km / approx. 2 hours). En route, visit the sacred Khecheopalri Lake, a revered Buddhist site believed to grant wishes made in front of its still waters. According to local legend, even a fallen leaf is quickly picked off the lake's surface by birds, keeping the water pristine. Continue the drive to Yuksom, known as the “meeting place of three monks” and the first capital of Sikkim. It is also the historic site where the first Chogyal (Sikkimese king) was crowned. Overnight stay at the hotel in Yuksom.

Early in the morning, take a 35-minute moderate walk through forested trails to Dubdi Monastery, built in 1700 AD and considered the oldest monastery in Sikkim. Afterward, visit Tashi Namgyal, the historic stone throne where the first Chogyal (king) of Sikkim was crowned. Return to the hotel. Overnight stay in Yuksom.

After breakfast, drive to Kalimpong (85 km / approx. 4 hours). Upon arrival, check in at the hotel. In the evening, enjoy a short sightseeing tour visiting flower nurseries, Durpin Dara Hill for panoramic views, and the peaceful Durpin Monastery. Overnight stay at the hotel in Kalimpong.

After breakfast, enjoy a full day of sightseeing in Kalimpong. Visit Delo Hills for panoramic views, explore the historic Dr. Graham’s Homes, and stroll through the vibrant flower nurseries. Continue to the Nature Interpretation Centre, Durpin Dara Hills, and the beautiful Jang Dong Palriffo Brang Monastery. Return to the hotel for an overnight stay.

After breakfast, drive to Darjeeling (70 km / approx. 3 hours). Upon arrival, check in at the hotel and take in the stunning panoramic views of the Himalayas, including Mount Kanchenjunga, the third-highest mountain in the world. The rest of the day is at leisure, where you can relax or take a stroll around the town to soak in its colonial charm and scenic beauty. Overnight stay in Darjeeling.

Early in the morning, embark on a trip to Tiger Hill (around 4:00 AM) to witness the breathtaking sunrise over Kanchenjunga Peak (subject to clear weather). On your way back, visit the Ghoom Monastery and the famous Batasia Loop, a unique railway loop with stunning views. After breakfast, explore Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute (closed on Thursdays), and the Tenzing & Gombu Rock. Also, visit the Tibetan Refugee Self-Help Center (closed on Sundays) and a local Tea Estate. Overnight stay at the hotel in Darjeeling.

After breakfast, drive to Bagdogra Airport (IXB) (approximately 70 km / 3 hours) or Bhadrapur Airport (approximately 95 km / 4 hours) for your onward journey, marking the end of our services.

Not Satisfied with the above itinerary? We also offer flexible, tailor-made trips according to your preferences and specification.

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Customer Reviews:
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Thad Ball and Timothy Litzenburg

A Memorable 5 day Trek with Alpine Adventure

My friend and I booked a 5-day trek in the Annapurna region and had a fantastic time. Binod of Alpine Adventure Club is very professional and guided us through all the requirements of trekking in Nepal. He created an itinerary based on our interests and we could not be happier...

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David & Wendy Galloway

A Highly Recommended Everest Adventure

I goggled companies that do the trekking in the Everest region and 3 came up immediately. I replied to them all and Alpine Adventure Club Treks & Expedition answered me straight away. They were excellent with informing me with what you would expect and what we needed to bring etc....

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Jack Richeson

Memorable Annapurna Adventure with Expert Guidance

This was my first trip to Nepal and my first time trekking. I was only able to spend a short time here and there was a lot that I wanted to do. The Alpine Adventure Club Treks & Expedition group was very helpful in planning my trip to make the...

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Flavia and Alexandre

Great Service! Highly Recommended

Namaste! Our 6 days trekking was amazing. It was wonderful to walk through out the lovely villages, meeting people and also the breathing views of the mountains.We loved the guest house too. And the staff is very very good. Our guide and porter were great!! We are happy to say...

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