Darjeeling & Beyond - Get Wowed by its Splendor

Surrounded by an endless stretch of emerald-green tea plantations set against a backdrop of the majestic Mount Kanchenjunga – the Third Highest Mountain in the World, Darjeeling referred to as the "Queen of the Hills" is both gorgeous and ethereal.  

If you thought Darjeeling wowed you with its splendor, the jaw-dropping magnificence of the lesser-known hill stations of Kalimpong and Kurseong would leave you dumbfounded.  

We tick off the must-dos of Darjeeling and spend the rest of the trip exploring the scenic hamlets perched on the mountain slopes, where time seems to be standing still.  

This trip is perfect for those who are looking for a getaway to replenish both their mind and body.

Day 1 | Bagdogra - Kalimpong (Neora Valley)

On arrival at Bagdogra Airport (IXB), WANDERING SARATHY will personally receive and transfer you to our homestay in Neora Valley, located at the crossroads of West Bengal, Sikkim, and Bhutan, and is one of the richest biological zones in North-East India. This is an excellent place for those who want to see untouched alpine nature while viewing the snow-capped Himalayas from amidst oak, rhododendron, and pine forests. Birdsong will lull you to sleep.  (MEAL PLAN: Dinner)

Day 2 | Kalimpong - Tinchuley

Today we visit Durpin Dara, offering a panoramic view of the town of Kalimpong, the snow-clad Himalayas, the Teesta river & its valleys, and the Jelepla Pass. Atop the hill is Zang Dhak Palri Monastery. Drive up to Deolo hill for a bird's eye view of Kalimpong town. On a clear day, these spots offer a breathtaking view of Mt. Kanchenjunga. We then visit the Arts & Crafts Center, which sells a wide range of handcrafted items such as wall scrolls, masks, jewelry, and other relics. We reach the mystic village of Tinchuley by evening. (MEAL PLAN: Breakfast, Dinner)

Day 3 | Tinchuley

Tinchuley translates to "Three Ovens" (i.e. Tin Chullahs). It was given its name because of the three conspicuous hilltops that encircle the area and resemble ovens or chullahs from afar. Today, we explore the village of Tinchuley starting with a visit to the viewpoint, which is a high point among tea plantations with a view over Sikkim's valley. We also visit the village monastery, hike to the tea gardens, interact with the locals, and also relish the local cuisine. But wait, there's more. We also go exploring the nearby villages.  (MEAL PLAN: Breakfast, Dinner)

Day 4 | Tinchuley - Darjeeling

This morning, we walk around the village and after a late breakfast, we start to Darjeeling. En-route we stop at a few villages to explore the scenic beauty. We reach Darjeeling by lunchtime. The rest of the day is at leisure.  (MEAL PLAN: Breakfast) 

Day 05 | Darjeeling

We start early at 4 AM to Tiger Hills to witness sunrise over Mt. Kanchenjunga. The crest of Kanchenjunga, shimmering in the early morning light, lends credence to the title - The Queen of Hill Stations. Stop at the magnificent Ghoom Monastery and the lovely Batasia Loop on our way back. Post breakfast, we start our trip to explore the Japanese Temple, Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, Himalayan Zoological Park, Peace Pagoda, and Tibetan Refugee Self-help Center. In the evening, we explore the Darjeeling Mall (Chowrasta). Walk, eat, and shop till you drop!  (MEAL PLAN: Breakfast)

Day 6 | Darjeeling - Kurseong

Today we head to Kurseong, a quiet Himalayan getaway hill town best known for its tea estates. Visit Eagles Crag, one of Kurseong’s highest points, to steal a glimpse of the magnificent valley. Pay a visit to Ani Gompa, a monastery managed by female monks. Get a closer look at the tea-making process at the Maikabari Organic Tea Estate. Conclude the tea-tour with a tea-tasting session. (MEAL PLAN: Breakfast, Dinner)

Day 07 | Bid Adieu!

Today we check-out of the homestay after breakfast & transfer to the airport. It’s time to bid goodbye to your co-travelers. Take the return flight with a bagful of sweet memories!!!  (MEAL PLAN: Breakfast)

Start Date: Sunday, June 5, 2022 

End Date: Saturday, June 11, 2022   

Pick-up / Drop at Bagdogra International Airport, (IATA: IXB, ICAO: VEBD) 

Pls ensure that you arrive before 10 a.m. (Airport Pick-up @ 11 a.m.) on the Start Date and book your return ticket for your flight after 5 p.m. (Airport Drop @ 3 p.m) on the End Date.

INR 22000 per person (Pay INR 10000 to Book Now!)

• These rates are for Indian Nationals only.
• Group Size: Minimum of 6 participants - Maximum of 14 participants (+) SARATHY, the Wanderer as your Tour Lead. Please make sure that the trip has reached the minimum number of participants before you reserve your flight ticket.
• Opt for Zero Cancellation Fee Protection Extension while booking your flights so that you get a full refund in case of cancellation.
• Suitable for singles/solo travelers/couples/small groups of friends
• Suitable for members between the age group of 16-50 years. Generally, we have maximum participants between 20-35 years.

INCLUSIONS

• Well-sanitized, comfy stay on a Double/Triple sharing basis for 6 nights/7 days. Married couples get a separate room. Single room supplement available at an additional charge. 
• 6 Breakfast & 4 Dinner (Set Menu) at our place of stay. Meal plan as mentioned in the Itinerary. 
• All transfers/sightseeing trips by a luxury vehicle (Toyota Innova or a similar vehicle).  
• Group airport transfer for arrival and departure in Bagdogra airport. If your flight arrival is at a different time, extra charges will be applicable. 
• Complimentary bonfire on one of the days. 
• Entry tickets to places of interest  
• Services of WANDERING SARATHY who personally leads the group and doubles as a storyteller 
• All Permits, Toll & Parking Charges 
• Service charges & Taxes

EXCLUSIONS

• Airfare from your home town to Bagdogra & return 
• Food/Snacks other than mentioned above. We'll eat lunch on the go at clean, reasonably priced local restaurants (own expense). Given the multitude of dining alternatives in Darjeeling, we have left the dinner selection up to you according to your preferences 
• Camera/Video charges 
• Activity charges i.e., zip-lining, ropeway, paragliding, boating, etc 
• Toy train tickets, if you wish to take a joy ride Additional requests, orders, and services availed in the hotel/homestay 
• Use of transport for personal use and beyond the designated trip route 
• Additional costs arising due to mishaps, political unrest, natural calamities like – landslides, road blockage, etc. In such a case, extra will have to be paid on the spot by the participants directly 
• Personal expenses such as laundry, bottled water, soft drinks, room rental, incidentals, porter charges, tips, medicines, etc Any item not specified in the ‘Inclusions’

Please confirm your participation by paying INR 10000 (Non-refundable Booking Fee**) to book your seat. Rest to be paid 30 days before the tour start date.

 
Pls write to us at unusualescapes@gmail.com for our Bank Account Details to transfer the Booking Fee (or) pay via Google Pay at UPI ID: unusualescapes-1@okicici. Your spot will be confirmed as soon as we receive your Booking Fee.  

** If you can find anyone else to replace you, there’ll be NO cancellation charges. We will then refund your money in full. 

Pls write to us for cancellation conditions and other queries.