Day 1 Kolkata
Arriving in Kolkata, you will be transferred to your hotel.
|
Day 2 Kolkata
Enjoy an early morning escorted tour of the Flower Market, a unique wholesale market of flowers which is situated in the bank of the River Ganges near the famous Howrah Bridge. Drive around the Heritage Buildings of Dalhousie Square and visit Mother Teresa’s House followed by Victoria Memorial and Saint Paul’s Cathedral. Hop on an old local tram and travel to the famous Kali Temple. After lunch, visit the charming Dakshineswar Kali Temple and go on a river boat to Belur Math across the River Ganges.
|
Day 3 Kolkata / Bagdogra / Darjeeling
After a morning flight to Bagdogra, you will be transferred to Darjeeling, one of India’s most celebrated tea growing districts. The Darjeeling area offers unrivalled views of the impressive Himalayas and generous hospitality from the charming Himalayan locals. (D)
|
Day 4 Darjeeling
Experience the famous World Heritage “Toy Train” and enjoy an enchanting ride through the Hills of Ghoom. Disembark at a tea plantation for grand views of the tea garden coupled with the mountains and the foothill forests of the Eastern Himalayas from exclusive private bungalows. Travel to the Tibetian Refugee Self-Help Center, Himalayan Mountaineering Institute and Zoological Garden (closed on Thursdays and Sundays). (B/L/D)
|
Day 5 Darjeeling / Gangtok
Visit Tiger Hill in the early morning to bask in a glowing sunrise over the Himalayas. See Ghoom Monastery on the way back to the hotel for breakfast before embarking on a scenic drive to Gangtok, the capital city of Sikkim state. Experience the relaxing calm of the area filled with mountains and forests with a wide variety of flora such as maples, birches, magnolias, ferns and orchids. Take a private tour of Rumtek Monastery which boasts an impressive display of unique artefacts, ancient manuscripts and icons. (B/L/D)
|
Day 6 Gangtok / Jaldapara Wildlife Santuary
Enjoy a scenic drive to Jaldapara Wildlife Santuary which is the home of the Indian one-horned rhinoceros. In the afternoon, spot elephants, tigers, leopards and deers whilst going on a jeep safari as part of your tour package. (B/L/D)
|
Day 7 Elephant Safari / Phuntsholing
Ride on an elephant to explore selected parts of the jungle; lucky visitors might see the wild animals in their natural habitats. Return to the lodge for breakfast before travelling to Phuntsholing. (B)
|
Day 8 Phuentsholing / Thimphu
In Phuntsholing, visit a small temple of Zangtho Pelri before traveling to Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan. (B/L/D)
|
Day 9 Thimphu / Punakha
Enjoy an escorted tour of Thimphu’s attractions including Chorten (a huge Stupa) built in memory of the third King of Bhutan, the Handicrafts Emporium where Bhutanese textiles are displayed, Tashichho Dzong, the main secretariat building, the National Library where a vast collection of ancient manuscripts are preserved and the Painting and Wood Craft School. Enjoy a drive to Dochu-La Pass with its spectacular views of the Himalayan peak. (B/L/D)
|
Day 10 Punakha / Paro
Visit Punakha Dzong, a 17th century fortress which lies between two rivers, Phochu and Mochu - the ‘Male River’ and ‘Female River’. Driving to Paro for your guided tour, you will also see Wangdiphodrang Dzong. (B/L/D)
|
Day 11 Paro
Trek Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest) in the morning and see the Cliffside Monastery which stands on a rocky ledge with a sheer drop of over 800 metres. The hike takes approximately four hours so there will be an opportunity to ride a donkey. Travel to Ta Dzong, a former watchtower which now houses the National Museum. Take a stroll through the colourful markets and enjoy a relaxing walk along the Paro River. (B/L/D)
|
Day 12 Paro
Your small group tour will end with a transfer to the airport for your flight to Kathmandu, Kolkata or Bangkok. (B)
|