Route: Bagdogra - Darjeeling - Gangtok - Bagdogra
Places covered: Darjeeling, Tiger Hill, Ghum, Batasia Loop, Gangtok, Rumtek Monastery, Tsomgo Lake
This is the plan we suggest for most first-time visitors with a week. It covers the two best-known bases of the region, Darjeeling and Gangtok, with three nights in each, so that you can see the sights without rushing. It starts and ends at Bagdogra, so you never retrace the same road twice.
Who it suits
Couples, families with older children and groups of friends. It works best from March to May and October to early December. In winter, nights are cold, but the plan works. In the monsoon, we keep the route but add buffers, and views are less likely.
How the days flow
You arrive at Bagdogra and drive three to four hours to Darjeeling. The first morning is an early start for Tiger Hill and Kanchenjunga, if the sky allows, with a stop at Ghum Monastery and the Batasia Loop. A Toy Train joyride and a tea estate fill the next day. On day four, you drive to Gangtok, about four to five hours. Day five is the excursion to Tsomgo Lake, subject to permits and weather. Day six is for Rumtek, the ropeway and MG Marg. Day seven is the drive back to Bagdogra for your flight.
Why this route works
Darjeeling gives history, tea and views, while Gangtok gives culture, food and access to the high places. The drive between them is a full half-day but is the only long leg. Splitting the trip into two bases with three nights each means you unpack twice and still see most of the highlights.
The honest part
- Kanchenjunga is often hidden by cloud. We build in two mornings, but cannot promise a view.
- The Toy Train has limited seats and schedules change, so we book early.
- Tsomgo Lake and Nathu La need permits and good weather. Nathu La is open to Indian citizens only, and may be cancelled at short notice.
- The road from Siliguri to Gangtok can be closed after heavy rain. We keep the first and last days flexible.
- Weekends are busy in both towns.
What a typical day feels like
Mornings are for early starts, before the clouds gather. Lunch is a relaxed break. Afternoons are for tea, cafes and markets. Evenings are cool, with dinner by eight and an early night.
Customising
Add a night in Kalimpong, include Pelling, add a Lachung extension or replace Tsomgo with a Gangtok day. Tell us what you would like and we will price it.
