About a Sikkim & Darjeeling trip
Sikkim and Darjeeling offer monasteries, tea gardens and close-up views of Kanchenjunga, the world's third-highest mountain — all reachable from Bagdogra or New Jalpaiguri.
Gangtok is clean, organised and the base for Tsomgo Lake and Nathula; Darjeeling adds the Himalayan toy train, tea estates and Tiger Hill sunrise.
Day-wise Sikkim & Darjeeling itinerary (6 days)
Day 1: Bagdogra to Gangtok
Drive along the Teesta River; evening at MG Marg.
Day 2: Tsomgo Lake & Baba Mandir
Excursion with permit; Nathula on open days.
Day 3: Gangtok local
Rumtek Monastery, Enchey Monastery, Banjhakri Falls and ropeway.
Day 4: Gangtok to Darjeeling
Drive about 100 km; evening at the Mall (Chowrasta).
Day 5: Darjeeling sightseeing
Tiger Hill sunrise, Batasia Loop, Ghoom Monastery, zoo and tea estate.
Day 6: Departure
Drive to Bagdogra / NJP.
Top places to visit in Sikkim & Darjeeling
- MG Marg, GangtokPedestrian promenade with cafés and shops.
- Tsomgo Lake & Nathula PassHigh-altitude glacial lake and the Indo-China border pass (permit required).
- Rumtek MonasteryOne of the largest monasteries in Sikkim.
- Tiger Hill sunriseSunrise over Kanchenjunga from near Darjeeling.
- Darjeeling Himalayan RailwayUNESCO-listed toy train joy ride via Batasia Loop.
Best time to visit & how to reach
Best time: March to May, October to December.
How to reach: Fly to Bagdogra (IXB) or take a train to New Jalpaiguri (NJP). Gangtok is about 125 km (4–5 hrs) and Darjeeling about 70 km (3 hrs). Pakyong airport near Gangtok has limited flights.
Sikkim & Darjeeling travel tips
- Tsomgo Lake and Nathula need permits arranged through registered tour operators — carry ID photos.
- Nathula is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays (check current schedule).
- Book toy train tickets in advance on IRCTC.
- Try momos, thukpa and Darjeeling tea.
Sikkim & Darjeeling trip FAQs
How many days are enough for Gangtok and Darjeeling?
6 days covers both. Add 2–3 days for North Sikkim (Lachung, Yumthang).
Do I need a permit for Sikkim?
Indian tourists need permits for Tsomgo Lake, Nathula and North Sikkim, usually arranged by the tour operator.
When is the best time to see Kanchenjunga?
October to December offers the clearest mountain views.
Is it a good honeymoon destination?
Yes — mountain views, tea gardens and cosy hill hotels are popular with couples.