Dzongri Trek
Sikkim
09 Days
To tantalise your senses, wetake you to two of India’s most influential north-eastern trekking destinations, Darjeeling and Sikkim. Our 14-day and 13-night trek to Darjeeling and Sikkim leads you into the lap of foggy weather where you traverse through the lush forest, trek through the alpine meadows, and stroll on ridgelines while basking in the warmth of the sunlight. At the top, relish the expansive views of the magnificent Himalayan Range.
Your trek begins with a breathtaking view of tea plantations on a short drive to Darjeeling. You’ll witness the sunrise over Tiger Hill, visit the holy Ghoom Monastery, and stop by at the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute. From the base point, ManayBhanjang (2134 m), you trail through the Rhododendron forest and stay in the trekker’s hut. As you move upwards, to Sandakphu (3640 m) and Phalut (3600 m), see the beautiful massifs of Kanchenjunga and other majestic Himalayan peaks. Afterwards, trek through Yak herd suspension bridges, peaceful hamlets, and dense forests before dropping down to Rimbik (2280 m).
Then you will be traversing through different hill stations in Sikkim, visiting ancient monasteries, which showcase the rich Buddhist culture of Sikkim. Seclude yourself from mundane stresses in Gangtok’s amazing Orchid Sanctuary, where you can applaud the richest collections of Thangkas and religious works.
Throughout this journey, you will be experiencing high-altitude treks, spiritual exploration, and the alluring beauty of north-east India, building a strong connection with the Himalayas.
On arrival at Bagdogra airport meet our representative and transfer to Darjeeling. A charming 4-hour journey, through Assam tea plantations and tiny villages takes us to Darjeeling. Built on top of a ridge, Darjeeling faces the Himalaya and is a popular destination for Westerners and Bengalis alike. Overnight in Darjeeling.
We could take an early trip to Tiger Hill to see the sunrise. Afterwards we visit the famous Ghoom monastery that enshrines an image of the Maitreya Buddha (the coming Buddha). Later on, we can visit the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute and tea plantations. Overnight in Darjeeling.
Early morning drive from Darjeeling to ManayBhanjang. The trail overlooks the Bengali plain south, and we have tantalising glimpses of Kanchenjunga ahead, as we zigzag through rhododendrons. Overnight in trekkers hut.
In the morning after breakfast trek towards Garibas through the Rhododendron and birch forest. One can have a spectacular mountain scenery on the way. Overnight in trekkers hut.
We steadily climb to join the ridge trail towards Kalpokhari. Afterwards we start a long and steep climb onto the Singalila ridge that leads us to Sandakphu. A remarkable 360 ° view from the top. Overnight in trekkers hut.
We walk to a prominent viewpoint for the magnificent sunrise over the Kanchenjunga, Jannu, Everest, Lhotse, Makalu and Cho Oyo. Throughout the day, there are ever-changing views: yak herds, silvery pine forests, tiny lakes ringed with grass, and the snow-capped Himalayan range in the background. Overnight in trekkers hut.
A pleasant descent through the woods takes us to Gorkhey (2500m) then we climb up towards Raman.
We pass through numerous villages and cross the Sri Khola over a remarkable suspension bridge.
After an early breakfast drive to Pelling by Car. On arrival check in to hotel. Overnight stay in Pelling.
2.5 km from Pelling, we will visit the Pemayangtse monastery. Perched at 2800m, it is one of the oldest and most impressive Gompas in Sikkim. Later drive to Yuksom. On arrival check in to hotel. Overnight stay in Yuksom.
En route, we visit the Tashiding monastery, one of the most isolated in Sikkim, perched on the top of a hill set between two rivers. Overnight stay in hotel.
We visit the Rumtek monastery, reputed for its religious Tibetan art. Visitors are welcome to attend prayers. On arrival at Gangtok check in to hotel. Overnight stay.
We will enjoy a visit of the amazing Orchid Sanctuary, where we can see a few of the 454 orchid species listed in Sikkim. To complete the day we will visit the Enchey and Do Drul monasteries, and the Tibetology Institute, which houses one of the richest collections of Thangkas and religious works in the world.
In the morning after breakfast drive to Bagdogra airport and from here catch a flight for onward destination.
Tour & Services End