Overlooked
Paradise
We come to the place where eyes can behold only so much. The ambience, beauty and cleanliness of these places must be admired by us. Away from overflooded tourists with perfect weather year round, North eastern part of India is sadly ignored. With us, we will make sure that you get to experience these places at it’s best
Bagdogra – Darjeeling – Pelling – Gangtok – Kalimpong – Kaziranga – Shillong – Cherrapunji – Guwahati
- Best time to visit is from October to June
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With India Wanders
Day 1 : Welcome to West Bengal!!
Standing high in the Himalayas at an altitude of 2134m, ‘Dorje Ling’, or place of the Thunderbolt, offers breathtaking views of snow-capped mountain peaks, with the Kanchendzonga rising higher than all the others. Often referred to as the “Queen of the Hills”, it remains just as alluring with its tiny waterfalls, little villages and a narrow-gauge railway track. Surrounded by World Famous Tea Gardens and snow-capped mountains, Darjeeling remains one of the most exotic destinations. Graeme Westlake in his book ‘An introduction to hill stations on India’ refers to Darjeeling as having “A view Scarcely Unrivalled on Earth”.
Day 2 : Darjeeling Sightseeing
Early morning visit Tiger Hill for sunrise and back. It is 13 kms from Darjeeling and one can see beautiful sunrise and Himalayan Range like Kanchandzonga. One can see the horizon changing colors just before sunrise and then the entire Himalayan range turn golden. Breakfast at the hotel and go for Enjoy toy train ride. A tiny 4-wheel locomotives (some over 100 years old) like living legends. One can experience the sound, smell and romance of a bygone era. DHR is a work of genius and technological achievement of 1881. It is beautiful and has outstanding universal appeal. Deboard the train and visit Ghoom Monastery, this is oldest Monastery in the area which was built in 1875 and one can see the image of Mythey Buddha 15ft. height. Later move towards Tibetan Self- Help Centre Or Refugee Centre (Closed on Sundays) This institute is run by Tibetan Refugees to preserve their handicrafts and one can see making of Tibetan Carpets, Leather work, Paintings and Wooden work etc. Japanese Temple & Peace Pagoda, also known as Nipponzan Myohoji Buddhist Temple, the shrine was built in 1972 and is located 10 minutes away from the Darjeeling town centre, on the hill of Jalapahar. Showcasing classic Japanese style of architecture, this resplendent white building offers visitors a serene and quiet sanctum where they can meditate and seek inner peace. If time allows, you can also go for ropeway ride.
Day 3 : Transfer to Pelling (80 Kms – 4 Hrs. approx.)
Pelling is a small town that is situated in the state of Sikkim in the West Sikkim region. The town is a laid back place and it attracts travellers from different parts of the country. Pelling is located near the foothills of Kanchenjunga and one can witness an outstanding view of the mountain from here. There are numerous scenic spots that one can visit in the area. The main attractions in the place are the monasteries that dot the countryside.
Day 4 : Pelling sightseeing
After breakfast, start the day with a visit to Sangacholing Monastery, It is the second oldest Gumpa constructed by Gyalwa Lhatsun Chenpo in 1697 AD. This monastery is on the hill top and therefore commands an excellent view of the mountains. Further towards Chengriz Statue, World’s tallest statue, i.e., a 137-ft statue of Chenrezig, in Sikkim. As per the locals, Chenrezig or Avalokiteshvara is the earthly manifestation of eternal Buddha, Amitabha. Then the latest addition to Sikkim is Skywalk, around 2.5 kilometers from Pelling and located at a height of 7,200 feet above sea level, the skywalk is surrounded by the snow-capped Himalayas and overlooks the marvellous137 feet tall statue of Chenrezig and the stairs that lead up to it, with golden prayer wheels on both sides. Later part of the day visit Pemayangtse Monastery, standing at 2085m, built during the late 17th century, it is one of the oldest and most important monasteries of the Nyingmapa order of Buddhism in Sikkim. End the day with the ruins of Rabdantse. The winding track through the forest brings you to a small set of ruins of the early town and eventually on the ruins of the palace with Chorten (stupa) nearby.
Day 5 : To Gangtok via Ravangla (120 Kms – 6 Hrs. approx.)
The Buddha Park of Ravangla, also known as Tathagata Tsal, features a 130-foot high statue of the Buddha as its centrepiece. The site was chosen within the larger religious complex of the Rabong Gompa (Monastery), itself a centuries-old place of pilgrimage. The statue of the Buddha marks the occasion of the 2550th birth anniversary of Gautama Buddha. Driving further to Gangtok, at an altitude of 1750m, Gangtok became the state capital in the mid 19th century and has undergone rapid development since then. The downtown area is dominated by huge government buildings decorated with traditional Buddhist symbols. Surrounded by Monasteries and Orchids, Gangtok is truly a travellers delight.
Day 6 : Gangtok Sightseeing
After Breakfast, being Sightseeing in Gangtok and visit Rumtek Monastery, the world Dharma chakra Centre and the seat of His Holiness, the Gyalwa Karmapa. According to legend, it is believed that after years of meditation, the first Karmapa was said to have been visited by ten thousand fairies who came to congratulate him each of whom offered a strand of her hair as a gift. Moving on to the Do Drul Chorten, built to commemorate the victory of good over evil and the Jhang Chub Chorten, built in the memory of Thrukshik Rinpoche, an ardent devotee, a great spirtualist and interpreter of Buddhism. Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, amidst a serene surrounding of oak, birch and ash lies the unique organization established in1958. Built in traditional style, the namgyal Institute of Tibetology promotes research in Mahayana Buddhism and the language and tradition of Tibet. The Enchey Monastery, perched on a ridge above Gangtok, the Enchey Monastery is nestled within lush woods with a spectacular view of Gangtok town. Built in 1910 on the site of the hermitage of the great tantric saint, Lama DrutobKarpo, who was renowned for his powers of levitation, this monastery houses the monks of the Nyingmapa Order of Tibetan Buddhism.
Day 7 : Drive to Kalimpong (80 Kms – 4 Hrs. approx.)
At an altitude of 1250m, Kalimpong’s location is ideal for a pleasant, relaxed getaway. Its clement weather has made Kalimpong’s orchids and gladiole well renowned. Up to the early 1700s, the Kalimpong area was part of the Sikkim raja’s domain. In the early 18th century, the Bhutan king also took it over. In 1865, after the Anglo-Bhutan War, it was annexed to Darjeeling. Scottish Missionaries came here in the late 1800s. The town thrived as a wool trading center with Tibet till 1950s. Today it’s a quiet hill resort and a haven for retired people.
Day 8 : In Kalimpong
Let’s start day with Zang Dog Palri Fo-Brang Monastery, a fairly new monastery located in Durpin Dara, from here one can get an exclusive panoramic view of the town and surroundings. The prayer room inside the monastery is adorned with wall paintings and there is a rare three-dimensional mandala upstairs. Then comes Thongsa Gumpa, this monastery is of Bhutanese origin and built around 1692. It is the oldest in Kalimpong. Driving further to Flower Nurseries, the climate of Kalimpong is ideal for the cultivation of flowers and plants. Kalimpong is famous for its nurseries which export exotice flowers like Amaryllis lilies, Anthuriums, Roses gerberas, Dahilias, Gladiolias as well as Orchids and Cacti. Then to Delo Hill is one of the two hills at the ridge of which the town of Kalimpong stands. At 1,704 meters above MSL, the hill is a small and peaceful Himalayan hamlet and is located northeast of the town. End sightseeing with Mangal Dham Temple.
Day 9 : Transfer to New Jalpaiguri to board the train to Guwahati
If time permits visit one of the most important Hindu pilgrim Site and a major religious landmark of the city – Kamakhya Temple build in reverence of Goddess Kamakhya or Sati one of the various incarnations of Goddess Durga or Goddess Shakti. OR If time permits, evening we shall enjoy a magnificent sunset on the majestic Brahmaputra River, and return to Guwahati city with plenty of time to enjoy your evening, with this relaxing and unforgettable sunset cruise experience (river cruise is subjected to river conditions and availability).
Day 10 : Further to iconic Kaziranga National Park (200 Kms – 7 Hrs. approx.)
After breakfast we shall drive towards Kaziranga National Park – an UNESCO World Heritage Site and the home of the World Famed One Horned Rhino and rest of the day will be at leisure after a long drive.
Day 11 : In Kaziranga National Park
Early morning we will explore the park on Elephant back – Elephant ride is the best way to behold the vigour and charm of the enchanting wildlife of the park. In lieu of this you may opt for a jeep safari too. Midmorning visit Kaziranga Orchid center. Afternoon we shall go for jeep safari in the western range the most preferred range as the landscape of this zone provides the opportunity to get the very close sight of the one-horned Rhino.
Day 12 : To Shillong, Meghalaya (260 Kms – 7 Hrs. approx.)
After breakfast check out from hotel and head towards Shillong. Shillong has a westernized culture and it has a very young feel to it. It is also famous as the music capital of India, as many prominent musicians have hailed from this place. As the capital of Meghalaya (The Abode of Clouds) it lies on a plateau surrounded by hills with a very comfortable climate through the year.
Day 13 : Shillong sightseeing
After breakfast visit some of the Mawphlang Sacred Forest – this forest are the where the Khasi customs and traditions have been woven into the land and the forests. Also visit Laitlum Perched in the East Khasi Hills of Shillong, Laitlum Canyons is a little-explored haunt of the mountainous state of Meghalaya. Laitlum translates to ‘end of hills’ and this sublimely beautiful hilltop appears to be true to its name. If time permits, witness the Archery Field to witness the famous Traditional Archery Game of Meghalaya (Sunday closed and starts around 4 PM). Overnight.
Day 14 : Drive to Cherrapunjee (60 Kms – 3 Hrs. approx.)
Today we shall start off towards Cherrapunjee. On the way, visit Seven Sisters Waterfalls it has seven different waterfalls that are strategically arranged side by side on a high, rugged cliff, and looks very significant even from a distance. Then to Nahkhalikai Falls – Plunging from a height of 1115 feet amidst evergreen rainforests is one of the finest examples of nature’s plendor. The waterfall, which is famed for being the world’s fourth-tallest plunge waterfall and end the day with Mwasmai Cave, only a distance of 150 meters is open for tourists, while the other section is closed. The stalactites and stalagmites caves have innumerable forms, shapes and sizes inside leaving one to imagine as many life forms as possible. This magnificent natural wonder is the handiwork of years of natural abrasion and underground water.
Day 15 : A day with Nature
After an early breakfast, we move towards the starting point of the Double Decker Bridge trek, located in Nongriate village. We will then proceed towards Double Decker Bridge one of the most unique bridges in the world built by the ancient tribes of Khasi hills. To witness the Double Decker root bridges in Cherrapunjee one needs to trek maximum 4 -5 hrs. This trek is on uneven routes where one needs to climb/descend some 4000 odd number steps and suggestible for people with good health only. Enjoy a nice shower in the pools with pristine blue water. Also get the opportunity to cross the Hanging bridge.
Located in the thick tropical forest of Meghalaya, cloaked with rain during most part of the year is the fantastic man-made cum natural wonders of the living root bridges. Created by the people of the Khasi tribe, these roots grow from the ancient rubber trees, seen only in the northeast region. These roots are trained by the Khasis to grow in such a manner as be in the form of bridges on the top of a river. These bridges are an amazing alternative to wooden bridges that dwindle with so much rain falling on them.
Day 16 : Excursion to Mawllynong and Dawki
We shall go for a day trip to Mawllynong. Located in the East Khasi Hills of Meghalaya, also referred as ‘God’s own garden’ has won the acclaim of being the cleanest village in Asia in 2003 – one can also take stroll around the village. The village offers picturesque natural beauty. Later visit Dawki, the Bangladesh Border (Tamabil Border from Bangladesh side). Main attraction is the Umgot river with crystal clear water.
Day 17 : Drop at Guwahati
After an early breakfast check out from hotel and transfer to Guwahati airport to board flight for your onward journey.
Activities to Opt
- Gangtok : Trek to Yuksom valley to explore silk route, bar hopping on MG Road
- Kalimpong : A visit to Cactus park
- Pelling : Hike through Darap village
- Darjeeling : Adrenaline rush with Paragliding
- Cherrapunji : Kayaking and cliff diving in surreal Dawki, riverside camping.
Day 1 : Welcome to West Bengal!!
Standing high in the Himalayas at an altitude of 2134m, ‘Dorje Ling’, or place of the Thunderbolt, offers breathtaking views of snow-capped mountain peaks, with the Kanchendzonga rising higher than all the others. Often referred to as the “Queen of the Hills”, it remains just as alluring with its tiny waterfalls, little villages and a narrow-gauge railway track. Surrounded by World Famous Tea Gardens and snow-capped mountains, Darjeeling remains one of the most exotic destinations. Graeme Westlake in his book ‘An introduction to hill stations on India’ refers to Darjeeling as having “A view Scarcely Unrivalled on Earth”.
Day 2 : Darjeeling Sightseeing
Early morning visit Tiger Hill for sunrise and back. It is 13 kms from Darjeeling and one can see beautiful sunrise and Himalayan Range like Kanchandzonga. One can see the horizon changing colors just before sunrise and then the entire Himalayan range turn golden. Breakfast at the hotel and go for Enjoy toy train ride. A tiny 4-wheel locomotives (some over 100 years old) like living legends. One can experience the sound, smell and romance of a bygone era. DHR is a work of genius and technological achievement of 1881. It is beautiful and has outstanding universal appeal. Deboard the train and visit Ghoom Monastery, this is oldest Monastery in the area which was built in 1875 and one can see the image of Mythey Buddha 15ft. height. Later move towards Tibetan Self- Help Centre Or Refugee Centre (Closed on Sundays) This institute is run by Tibetan Refugees to preserve their handicrafts and one can see making of Tibetan Carpets, Leather work, Paintings and Wooden work etc. Japanese Temple & Peace Pagoda, also known as Nipponzan Myohoji Buddhist Temple, the shrine was built in 1972 and is located 10 minutes away from the Darjeeling town centre, on the hill of Jalapahar. Showcasing classic Japanese style of architecture, this resplendent white building offers visitors a serene and quiet sanctum where they can meditate and seek inner peace. If time allows, you can also go for ropeway ride.
Day 3 : Transfer to Pelling (80 Kms – 4 Hrs. approx.)
Pelling is a small town that is situated in the state of Sikkim in the West Sikkim region. The town is a laid back place and it attracts travellers from different parts of the country. Pelling is located near the foothills of Kanchenjunga and one can witness an outstanding view of the mountain from here. There are numerous scenic spots that one can visit in the area. The main attractions in the place are the monasteries that dot the countryside.
Day 4 : Pelling sightseeing
After breakfast, start the day with a visit to Sangacholing Monastery, It is the second oldest Gumpa constructed by Gyalwa Lhatsun Chenpo in 1697 AD. This monastery is on the hill top and therefore commands an excellent view of the mountains. Further towards Chengriz Statue, World’s tallest statue, i.e., a 137-ft statue of Chenrezig, in Sikkim. As per the locals, Chenrezig or Avalokiteshvara is the earthly manifestation of eternal Buddha, Amitabha. Then the latest addition to Sikkim is Skywalk, around 2.5 kilometers from Pelling and located at a height of 7,200 feet above sea level, the skywalk is surrounded by the snow-capped Himalayas and overlooks the marvellous137 feet tall statue of Chenrezig and the stairs that lead up to it, with golden prayer wheels on both sides. Later part of the day visit Pemayangtse Monastery, standing at 2085m, built during the late 17th century, it is one of the oldest and most important monasteries of the Nyingmapa order of Buddhism in Sikkim. End the day with the ruins of Rabdantse. The winding track through the forest brings you to a small set of ruins of the early town and eventually on the ruins of the palace with Chorten (stupa) nearby.
Day 5 : To Gangtok via Ravangla (120 Kms – 6 Hrs. approx.)
The Buddha Park of Ravangla, also known as Tathagata Tsal, features a 130-foot high statue of the Buddha as its centrepiece. The site was chosen within the larger religious complex of the Rabong Gompa (Monastery), itself a centuries-old place of pilgrimage. The statue of the Buddha marks the occasion of the 2550th birth anniversary of Gautama Buddha. Driving further to Gangtok, at an altitude of 1750m, Gangtok became the state capital in the mid 19th century and has undergone rapid development since then. The downtown area is dominated by huge government buildings decorated with traditional Buddhist symbols. Surrounded by Monasteries and Orchids, Gangtok is truly a travellers delight.
Day 6 : Gangtok Sightseeing
After Breakfast, being Sightseeing in Gangtok and visit Rumtek Monastery, the world Dharma chakra Centre and the seat of His Holiness, the Gyalwa Karmapa. According to legend, it is believed that after years of meditation, the first Karmapa was said to have been visited by ten thousand fairies who came to congratulate him each of whom offered a strand of her hair as a gift. Moving on to the Do Drul Chorten, built to commemorate the victory of good over evil and the Jhang Chub Chorten, built in the memory of Thrukshik Rinpoche, an ardent devotee, a great spirtualist and interpreter of Buddhism. Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, amidst a serene surrounding of oak, birch and ash lies the unique organization established in1958. Built in traditional style, the namgyal Institute of Tibetology promotes research in Mahayana Buddhism and the language and tradition of Tibet. The Enchey Monastery, perched on a ridge above Gangtok, the Enchey Monastery is nestled within lush woods with a spectacular view of Gangtok town. Built in 1910 on the site of the hermitage of the great tantric saint, Lama DrutobKarpo, who was renowned for his powers of levitation, this monastery houses the monks of the Nyingmapa Order of Tibetan Buddhism.
Day 7 : Drive to Kalimpong (80 Kms – 4 Hrs. approx.)
At an altitude of 1250m, Kalimpong’s location is ideal for a pleasant, relaxed getaway. Its clement weather has made Kalimpong’s orchids and gladiole well renowned. Up to the early 1700s, the Kalimpong area was part of the Sikkim raja’s domain. In the early 18th century, the Bhutan king also took it over. In 1865, after the Anglo-Bhutan War, it was annexed to Darjeeling. Scottish Missionaries came here in the late 1800s. The town thrived as a wool trading center with Tibet till 1950s. Today it’s a quiet hill resort and a haven for retired people.
Day 8 : In Kalimpong
Let’s start day with Zang Dog Palri Fo-Brang Monastery, a fairly new monastery located in Durpin Dara, from here one can get an exclusive panoramic view of the town and surroundings. The prayer room inside the monastery is adorned with wall paintings and there is a rare three-dimensional mandala upstairs. Then comes Thongsa Gumpa, this monastery is of Bhutanese origin and built around 1692. It is the oldest in Kalimpong. Driving further to Flower Nurseries, the climate of Kalimpong is ideal for the cultivation of flowers and plants. Kalimpong is famous for its nurseries which export exotice flowers like Amaryllis lilies, Anthuriums, Roses gerberas, Dahilias, Gladiolias as well as Orchids and Cacti. Then to Delo Hill is one of the two hills at the ridge of which the town of Kalimpong stands. At 1,704 meters above MSL, the hill is a small and peaceful Himalayan hamlet and is located northeast of the town. End sightseeing with Mangal Dham Temple.
Day 9 : Transfer to New Jalpaiguri to board the train to Guwahati
If time permits visit one of the most important Hindu pilgrim Site and a major religious landmark of the city – Kamakhya Temple build in reverence of Goddess Kamakhya or Sati one of the various incarnations of Goddess Durga or Goddess Shakti. OR If time permits, evening we shall enjoy a magnificent sunset on the majestic Brahmaputra River, and return to Guwahati city with plenty of time to enjoy your evening, with this relaxing and unforgettable sunset cruise experience (river cruise is subjected to river conditions and availability).
Day 10 : Further to iconic Kaziranga National Park (200 Kms – 7 Hrs. approx.)
After breakfast we shall drive towards Kaziranga National Park – an UNESCO World Heritage Site and the home of the World Famed One Horned Rhino and rest of the day will be at leisure after a long drive.
Day 11 : In Kaziranga National Park
Early morning we will explore the park on Elephant back – Elephant ride is the best way to behold the vigour and charm of the enchanting wildlife of the park. In lieu of this you may opt for a jeep safari too. Midmorning visit Kaziranga Orchid center. Afternoon we shall go for jeep safari in the western range the most preferred range as the landscape of this zone provides the opportunity to get the very close sight of the one-horned Rhino.
Day 12 : To Shillong, Meghalaya (260 Kms – 7 Hrs. approx.)
After breakfast check out from hotel and head towards Shillong. Shillong has a westernized culture and it has a very young feel to it. It is also famous as the music capital of India, as many prominent musicians have hailed from this place. As the capital of Meghalaya (The Abode of Clouds) it lies on a plateau surrounded by hills with a very comfortable climate through the year.
Day 13 : Shillong sightseeing
After breakfast visit some of the Mawphlang Sacred Forest – this forest are the where the Khasi customs and traditions have been woven into the land and the forests. Also visit Laitlum Perched in the East Khasi Hills of Shillong, Laitlum Canyons is a little-explored haunt of the mountainous state of Meghalaya. Laitlum translates to ‘end of hills’ and this sublimely beautiful hilltop appears to be true to its name. If time permits, witness the Archery Field to witness the famous Traditional Archery Game of Meghalaya (Sunday closed and starts around 4 PM). Overnight.
Day 14 : Drive to Cherrapunjee (60 Kms – 3 Hrs. approx.)
Today we shall start off towards Cherrapunjee. On the way, visit Seven Sisters Waterfalls it has seven different waterfalls that are strategically arranged side by side on a high, rugged cliff, and looks very significant even from a distance. Then to Nahkhalikai Falls – Plunging from a height of 1115 feet amidst evergreen rainforests is one of the finest examples of nature’s plendor. The waterfall, which is famed for being the world’s fourth-tallest plunge waterfall and end the day with Mwasmai Cave, only a distance of 150 meters is open for tourists, while the other section is closed. The stalactites and stalagmites caves have innumerable forms, shapes and sizes inside leaving one to imagine as many life forms as possible. This magnificent natural wonder is the handiwork of years of natural abrasion and underground water.
Day 15 : A day with Nature
After an early breakfast, we move towards the starting point of the Double Decker Bridge trek, located in Nongriate village. We will then proceed towards Double Decker Bridge one of the most unique bridges in the world built by the ancient tribes of Khasi hills. To witness the Double Decker root bridges in Cherrapunjee one needs to trek maximum 4 -5 hrs. This trek is on uneven routes where one needs to climb/descend some 4000 odd number steps and suggestible for people with good health only. Enjoy a nice shower in the pools with pristine blue water. Also get the opportunity to cross the Hanging bridge.
Located in the thick tropical forest of Meghalaya, cloaked with rain during most part of the year is the fantastic man-made cum natural wonders of the living root bridges. Created by the people of the Khasi tribe, these roots grow from the ancient rubber trees, seen only in the northeast region. These roots are trained by the Khasis to grow in such a manner as be in the form of bridges on the top of a river. These bridges are an amazing alternative to wooden bridges that dwindle with so much rain falling on them.
Day 16 : Excursion to Mawllynong and Dawki
We shall go for a day trip to Mawllynong. Located in the East Khasi Hills of Meghalaya, also referred as ‘God’s own garden’ has won the acclaim of being the cleanest village in Asia in 2003 – one can also take stroll around the village. The village offers picturesque natural beauty. Later visit Dawki, the Bangladesh Border (Tamabil Border from Bangladesh side). Main attraction is the Umgot river with crystal clear water.
Day 17 : Drop at Guwahati
After an early breakfast check out from hotel and transfer to Guwahati airport to board flight for your onward journey.
Activities to Opt
- Gangtok : Trek to Yuksom valley to explore silk route, bar hopping on MG Road
- Kalimpong : A visit to Cactus park
- Pelling : Hike through Darap village
- Darjeeling : Adrenaline rush with Paragliding
- Cherrapunji : Kayaking and cliff diving in surreal Dawki, riverside camping.
