Himalayan Charm: Darjeeling & Sittong
Overview
Some journeys are about iconic sights and vibrant energy; others are about finding quiet corners and peaceful moments. This trip beautifully weaves them together into one unforgettable story. Get ready for an adventure that moves at the perfect rhythm. First, you’ll be swept up by the magic of Darjeeling, the glamorous “Queen of the Hills.” Here, you’ll experience breathtaking Kanchenjunga sunrises and explore charming colonial streets. Then, just as you’re ready to breathe a little deeper, we’ll guide you to Sittong, her shy, beautiful cousin. Tucked away in a valley of orange trees, this is where the world slows down, and simple joys create the most lasting memories.
This is the perfect mix of “wow!” moments and moments of pure calm, all part of a single, seamless Himalayan escape.
Trip Highlights
- Witness a breathtaking sunrise over Kanchenjunga from the famous Tiger Hill.
- Explore the colonial charm and bustling Mall Road of Darjeeling.
- Experience authentic local life with a cozy homestay in the peaceful village of Sittong.
- Walk through serene orange orchards (seasonal).
- Visit historic sites like the Ghoom Monastery and the engineering marvel of the Batasia Loop.
Itinerary
- Morning: Your beautiful journey begins here! We’ll be there to greet you with a warm welcome upon your arrival at Bagdogra Airport (IXB) or NJP Station. Settle in for the iconic, winding drive up to Darjeeling. Watch as the landscape transforms into a vista of rolling green hills and tea gardens. Upon arrival, check into your charming hotel and take a moment to breathe in the crisp mountain air.
- Evening: The evening is yours to soak in the atmosphere. Take a leisurely stroll along the famous Chowrasta (The Mall Road). Find a bench, sip on a hot cup of Darjeeling tea, and watch the world go by.
- Trip Memories Tip: For a classic Darjeeling experience, pop into Glenary's Bakery & Cafe for their delicious pastries and stunning valley views. It's a perfect first-evening treat!
- Includes: Private Transfer, Accommodation in Darjeeling
- Early Morning (4:00 AM): An early start for a truly unforgettable memory. We'll drive to Tiger Hill to witness the spectacular sunrise over the majestic Kanchenjunga range. Watch as the first rays of sun hit the peaks, painting them in hues of gold and pink.
- Morning: On your way back, we'll visit the historic Ghoom Monastery and the Batasia Loop, a marvel of railway engineering with panoramic views. Return to the hotel for a well-deserved breakfast.
- Afternoon: Time to explore Darjeeling's treasures. We'll visit the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute (HMI), the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park (home to the Red Panda - closed on Thursdays), Tenzing Rock, and take a tour of a lush tea estate to see how the world-famous Darjeeling tea is made.
- Trip Memories Tip: The curio shops at the HMI have some of the most authentic and interesting souvenirs, from prayer flags to locally crafted items.
- Meals: Breakfast
- Includes: Full-day Sightseeing, Accommodation in Darjeeling
- Morning: After breakfast, we say goodbye to Darjeeling and embark on a beautiful scenic drive to the serene village of Sittong. The journey itself is a treat, taking you through winding roads, forests, and small hamlets.
- Afternoon: Check into your cozy, traditional homestay and be greeted by the warm hospitality of your local hosts. After settling in, take a walk through the village. Depending on the season, you might see the famous orange orchards laden with fruit. Visit the local monastery, sit by the Riyang river, and simply enjoy the profound peace of the valley.
- Trip Memories Tip: Don't be shy to chat with your homestay hosts! Ask them about their village and way of life. This is where the most authentic memories are made.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Snacks, and Dinner
- Includes: Transfer to Sittong, Accommodation in a Sittong Homestay
Morning: Wake up to the gentle sounds of the village. Enjoy a delicious, home-cooked breakfast. After breakfast, we'll visit the stunning Ahaldara View Point for a breathtaking 360-degree view of the surrounding hills and the Kanchenjunga range. Take one last walk to capture the beauty of Sittong in your memory (and your camera!).
Late Morning: With a heart full of memories, you will be driven back to Bagdogra Airport (IXB) or NJP Station for your journey home.
Trip Memories Tip: If it's orange season, ask your homestay host if you can buy some fresh, organic oranges directly from the farm. They make for a delicious and healthy travel snack!
Meals: Breakfast
Includes: Transfer to Airport/Station
Includes/Excludes
- Accommodation: 2 Nights in Darjeeling Hotel, 1 Night in Sittong Homestay.
- All transfers and sightseeing in a comfortable, private vehicle.
- All meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Snacks, Dinner) during your stay in Sittong.
- Breakfast in Darjeeling.
- All necessary permits and taxes.
- Driver allowances, fuel, and parking charges.
- 24/7 on-trip support from the Trip Memories team.
- Airfare / Train fare.
- Lunches and Dinners in Darjeeling.
- Additional Services (Entry fees for parks, monuments, or activities).
- Insurance
- Personal expenses.
FAQs
It's best to pack in layers. Carry light woolens for the day and a heavy jacket for the evenings and early mornings, especially for the Tiger Hill trip. Comfortable walking shoes are a must.
Yes, this trip can be suitable. The pace is manageable, and we ensure our vehicles are comfortable and our drivers prioritize safety. We can also customize the itinerary to include more rest time if needed.
Yes, this trip is great for families. The pace is manageable, and the mix of city sights and village calm offers something for everyone. We can also customize the trip to include more rest time if needed.
In Darjeeling, we provide stays in well-regarded, comfortable 3-star and above hotels, known for their good service and location. In Sittong, you will experience authentic local culture with a stay in a cozy and clean traditional homestay, hosted by a warm and welcoming local family.
We provide comfortable and well-maintained private vehicles like a sedan for smaller groups or an Innova/Xylo for larger groups, ensuring a safe and pleasant journey on the mountain roads.
All our tours include a comfortable private vehicle exclusively for you and your group. This ensures you can travel at your own pace, stop for photos whenever you like, and have a more personal and flexible experience.
Meals are included as specified in the day-wise plan. All meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Snacks, Dinner) are included during your stay in the Sittong homestay to give you an authentic local food experience. In Darjeeling, only breakfast is included to give you the flexibility to explore the famous local cafes and restaurants.
The orange season in Sittong, when the valley is most vibrant, is typically during the winter months, from late October to January.
Absolutely! We can customize the pace, add extra days, or change the accommodation to suit your preferences. Just let us know what you have in mind.