Eastern Odyssey

9 days/8 nights

Located in the lower ranges of the Himalayas, Darjeeling, Kalimpong and Gangtok display a blend of Eastern and Western heritage. The tea factories, architecture, and educational institutions are a vivid reminder of the British Raj. Contrarily, the scattering of hillside Buddhist monasteries and colorful culture incorporate a particularly Indian flavor. Discover a region of historical splendor in the Eastern hills, a unification of Bengali, Tibetan, Indian and Nepali traditions.

Highlights

Darjeeling tea gardens

View Mt. Everest from Tiger Hill

Tibetan Buddhist culture in Sikkim

Beaches of Kovalam

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Itinerary Details: 9 days/8 nights

Day 1: Delhi Arrival 

Namaste. Welcome to India! Arrive at Delhi International airport. You will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel.

Delhi is a bustling metropolis that incorporates the ancient with the modern. Amidst the skyscrapers, the monuments stand as a silent reminder to India's legacy. Driving from the airport, you will be impressed with Delhi's spacious, tree-lined streets and garden parks.

Overnight at the hotel.

Day 2: Delhi—Darjeeling

After breakfast, fly to Bagdogra. Upon arrival, drive through tea gardens and quaint villages to reach Darjeeling (3 hours). Darjeeling is a town in the Indian state of West Bengal in the lower ranges of the Himalayas. It is internationally famous for its tea industry and the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. Darjeeling maintains a strong European influence from the British Raj, particularly evident in its schools, architecture and cuisine.

Upon arrival, check-in to your hotel. Overnight in Darjeeling.

Day 3: Darjeeling

In the early morning, take a jeep ride to Tiger Hill. From here the great Mount Everest is visible on clear days. At sunrise, the snow-clad mountain peaks constitute a glorious feast of color. Return to your hotel, en-route visiting the Ghoom Monastery. Later, proceed on a half day tour of Darjeeling. Visit Lebong village, the Mountaineering Institute House of Tensing Norgay and the Botanical Gardens. In the evening, tour the enchanting tea gardens. Overnight in Darjeeling.

Day 4: Darjeeling—Gangtok

After breakfast, drive to Gangtok (3.5 hours). Gangtok is the capital of the Indian state of Sikkim. The city became a major stop-over between Tibet and British India in the 19th century. Gangtok is a center of Tibetan Buddhist culture and houses many monasteries and religious institutions. Afternoon at leisure. Overnight in Gangtok.

Day 5: Gangtok

In the morning, visit the Rumtek Monastery, followed by a half day sightseeing tour including the Research Institute of Tibetology, Garden Sanctuary and Buddhist Monastery. Also visit the Deer Park and drive through the colorful bazaar. Overnight in Gangtok.

Day 6: Gangtok—Kalimpong

After breakfast, drive to Kalimpong (2.5 hours.) Well known for its flower markets, particularly the orchid collections, Kalimpong also houses many rare Tibetan Buddhist scriptures. Its location at the base of the Himalayas is breathtaking. Afternoon at leisure to explore the town. Overnight in Kalimpong.

Day 7: Kalimpong

Enjoy a morning tour of Kalimpong. Visit the various Tibetan Buddhist monasteries and flower nurseries. Afternoon at leisure. Overnight in Kalimpong.

Day 8: Kalimpong—Delhi

After breakfast, drive to Bagdogra (1.5 hours) and connect to your flight to Delhi. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel. Overnight in Delhi.

Day 9: Departure

After breakfast, enjoy a tour of India's capital. Visit Red Fort, a marvel in red sandstone; Jama Masjid, India's largest mosque; and Raj Ghat, a memorial to Mahatma Gandhi. In the evening, transfer to the airport for your onward flight. Bon Voyage!

Inclusions

  • Hotel accommodations with daily breakfast
  • Economy air ticketing from Delhi – Bagdogra – Delhi
  • Vehicle and driver, as per the itinerary
  • Comprehensive touring with an English speaking guide
  • Entrance fees to the monuments
  • Sikkim permit
  • Airport transfers with assistance
  • Road/interstate taxes, fuel surcharges, and parking fees

Exclusions

  • International Airfare
  • Delhi departure tax
  • Any items of a personal nature
  • Additional meals
  • Gratuities
  • Visa Fees

Supplemental Information

  • A visa is required to visit India. Please visit Cox & Kings Global Services for more information.
  • To protect your travel investment, Sodha Travel strongly recommends Travel Insurance.
  • Visit our FAQ page for additional information on traveling to India.

Eastern Odyssey Map