Himalayan Rails Expedition
Overview
Gaze at the world’s highest mountains from the terrace of an exquisitely decorated Tibetan monastery, or the veranda of a secluded tea-estate bungalow, on this foray deep into the Himalayan foothills of northeast India. Its starting point is Kolkata – a metropolis whose name has become a byword for ‘poverty’, but which in reality is an exceptionally charismatic city full of fascination and old-world ambience. If you’re hoping for a taste of the Raj you won’t be disappointed with the remnants of British rule in the Bengali capital, nor indeed with the hill stations of Gangtok and Darjeeling further north, where Buddhist minority people rub shoulders with Hindu settlers from the plains in fabulously chaotic, cluttered bazaars! On the horizon, giant ice peaks form a dreamy backdrop to hilltop monasteries located in, quite simply, some of the most magical spots you’ll ever visit.
Breakfast
Sightseeing
Hotel
Transport
Trip Highlights
- Sightseeing at Kalimpong
- Visit Ancient Buddhist Monasteries at Gangtok
- Visit to ice peaks of Kangchenjunga
- Full-day sightseeing of Gangtok
- Visit to Rumtek Monastery at Pelling
- Visit the Pemayangtse monastery at Pelling
- Superb panoramic view of Kanchenjunga and the northeast Himalayas
- Visit the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute today,
- Visit to Kali Ghat temple
- Full day City sightseeing of Kolkatta
Tour Itinerary
Day 1: Kolkata
Kolkata, formerly known as Calcutta, is the capital city of the Indian state of West Bengal. Its unique blend of tradition and modernity, coupled with its warm hospitality, makes it a fascinating destination for travellers and a proud cultural capital of India.
Arrival at Kolkata Airport, greeted by Pals Holidays representative
Transfer to hotel for a two-night stay
Rest and acclimatize, optional visit to College Street Coffee House
Day 2: Kolkata
A full day of sightseeing
Start at the iconic Victoria Memorial
Visit the Indian Museum, New Market, and Park Street Cemetery
Day 3: Kalimpong
Kalimpong's tranquil atmosphere, scenic beauty, and cultural diversity make it a sought-after destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat in the lap of the Himalayas. The town's blend of nature, history, and spirituality adds to its unique charm.
Fly to Bagdogra and drive to Kalimpong
Overnight stay in Kalimpong
Day 4: Gangtok (Sikkim)
Gangtok's blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and adventure opportunities make it a favoured destination for travellers seeking a Himalayan experience.
Morning drive to Sikkim
Two-night stay in Gangtok, the capital
Day 5: Gangtok (Sikkim)
Full day's sightseeing in Gangtok:
Enchey Monastery
Do-Drul Chorten
Namgyal Institute of Tibetology
Flower Exhibition Centre
Zoological Gardens with red pandas and snow leopards
Day 6: Pelling
Pelling's serene ambience, cultural heritage, and stunning vistas make it a sought-after destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat in the lap of the Himalayas.
Drive to Pelling for a two-night stay
Visit Rumtek Monastery en route
Day 7: Pelling
Day trip to Pemayangtse Monastery
Explore the village on foot
Day 8: Darjeeling
Darjeeling's cool climate, scenic landscapes, and cultural richness make it a popular destination for nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, and those seeking a peaceful getaway in the lap of the Himalayas.
Half-day drive from Pelling to Darjeeling
Arrival at the hill station and tea-growing centre
Day 9: Darjeeling
Early morning trip to Tiger Hill for panoramic views of Kanchenjunga
Visit Ghoom Monastery and a tea plantation
Day 10: Darjeeling
Visit the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute
Take a ride on the world-famous Darjeeling railway to Kurseong
Day 11: Kolkata
Kolkata, formerly known as Calcutta, is the capital city of the Indian state of West Bengal. Its unique blend of tradition and modernity, coupled with its warm hospitality, makes it a fascinating destination for travellers and a proud cultural capital of India.
Fly back to Kolkata for a two-night stay
Evening visit to Kali Ghat temple
Day 12: Kolkata
Free day to explore the city
Shopping for souvenirs
Day 13: Kolkata
Departure from India
Head to the airport for the return flight
Bid farewell to the memorable journey in India.
Important Information
● 12 nights accommodation in a hotel.
● All internal transportation and transfers
● English-speaking guides
● Breakfast daily
Packages Exclude
- Airfare is not included in the package.
- Entrance Fee to monuments, and temples. camera charges, cable car charges, boating charges, guide charges, etc.
- Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, tips, mineral water, use of the mini-bar in the room, and shopping expenses are not covered.