Eastern Himalayan Retreat!!
So far I am able to judge, nothing has been left undone, either by man or nature, to make India the
most extraordinary country that the sun visits on his rounds. Nothing seems to have been forgotten, nothing overlooked – Mark Twain, from following the Equator
Eastern Himalayan Retreat!!
So far I am able to judge, nothing has been left undone, either by man or nature, to make India the most extraordinary country that the sun visits on his rounds. Nothing seems to have been forgotten, nothing overlooked – Mark Twain, from following the Equator
Day 01: Arrival / Delhi
Welcome to India, or as we say ‘Atithi Devo Bhava’ (The guest is an incarnation of God). Thank you for giving us the opportunity to serve you!!
Meeting and assistance upon arrival as our representatives welcome you and escort you to your car.
Whilst the room keys and check-in is organized, our representative would introduce the tour to you and hand over the documents to you.
Overnight at Claridges, Delhi (Claridges Cabana Room) (No Meals)
Day 02: Delhi / Bagdogra (I5 552 – 1035 / 1225 Hrs) Bagdogra / Kurseong (38 Kms) (01 ½ Hrs Drive)
Morning, we will drive to Delhi airport for your flight to Bagdogra. Meeting and assistance upon arrival as our representative will welcome you and drive to Kurseong. Upon arrival, we will check in to hotel, Taj Chia Kutir.
Overnight at Taj Chia Kutir Resort & Spa, Kurseong (Luxury Room) (B & D)
Day 03: Kurseong / Darjeeling / Kurseong (28 Kms – One way) (01 Hr Drive) (Himalayan Mountaineering Institute is closed on Thursdays)
After breakfast, we would have an opportunity to ride on the exquisite Toy train from Darjeeling to Ghoom – a truly fascinating experience as the train clings on to the hills
Ghoom Monastery -This is oldest Monastery in the area which was built in 1875 and one can see the image of Mythey Buddha 15ft. height on the way back from Tiger Hill
Afternoon, we will proceed on a tour of Darjeeling Himalayan Mountaineering Institute/Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park:– The Himalayan Mountaineering Institute was started in Darjeeling when Tenzing Norgay climbed Everest to give training to learn Mountaineering and other adventure sports related to mountaineering and in that Institute one can see equipment etc.used by Mr. Tenzing Norgay and Everest Museum having complete details on Everest attached to institute one can visit Himalayan Zoological Park where one can see Himalayan animals like Snow Leopard, Tibetan Wolf, Tibetan Yak, Himalayan Black Bear and several varieties of birds. Following the visit, we will drive back to our hotel in Kurseong.
Overnight at Taj Chia Kutir Resort & Spa, Kurseong (Luxury Room) (B & D)
Day 04: Kurseong
Day is free for independent activities (Car, driver and guide are available for local visits) and to soak in the luxury of your incredible resort. There are several interesting options (Not Included) that you can indulge in as below: –
⇒ Morning ritual – Yoga and meditation at the Yoga Deck
⇒ Curated day trips to Kurseong, Darjeeling & serene tea gardens
⇒ Visit to Makaibari Tea Factory for tea plucking & tasting with the resort’s Tea Master
⇒ Guided bird watching, forest treks and trails led by the resort’s naturalists.
This is an ideal venue to have this is an ideal venue to have a memorable downtime and indulge in the natural splendors of this unique destination.
Overnight at Taj Chia Kutir Resort & Spa, Kurseong (Luxury Room) (B & D)
Day 05: Kurseong / Pelling (Pemayangtse) (120 Kms) (04 ½ Hrs Drive)
After breakfast, we will drive to Pemayangtse.
Upon arrival in Pemayangtse, we will check into hotel, Norbughang Retreat & Spa.
Pelling is a small town that is situated in the state of Sikkim in the West Sikkim region. The town is a laid back place and it attracts travelers from different parts of the country. Pelling is located near the foothills of Kanchenjunga and one can witness an outstanding view of the mountain from here. There are numerous scenic spots that one can visit in the area. The main attractions in the place are the monasteries that dot the countryside. Afternoon, we will visit Pemayangtse monastery and Rabdentse Ruins.
Pemayangste Monastery – 2.5 Kms. From Pelling and standing at 2085m. The Perfect Sublime Lotus, perched on a wooded hilltop, commands the most sublime view of the Khangchendzong. Built during the late 17th century, it is one of the oldest and most important monasteries of the Nyingmapa order of Buddhism in Sikkim. To the present day, it is only the monks of this monastery who enjoy the title of ‘Tasang’ or pure monks. The importance of this monastery grew with time and reached its peak when only monks from this monastery could anoint the reigning sovereign of the land with holy water. Pemayangtse monastery follows the Mindroling tradition besides holding the lineage of Lhatsun Chenpo.
Mindroling monastery was founded by Minling Terchen Gyurme Dorje whose famous daughter Jetsun Migyur Paldon
lived near Pemayangtse and taught there during her exile. Her stone throne is still to be seen in this monastery, which has 108 monks. The main attraction of the monastery is the wooden replica of Zangdog Palri the celestial abode of Guru Padmasambhava built by Serdup Lhundrup Dorje Rinpoche in 1971. The annual chaam (monk dance) is held here on the 28th and 29th day of the 12th month of the Tibetan lunar calendar.
Rabdentse – Sikkim’s second capital, the ruins of Rabdentse are worth exploring. The winding track through the forest brings you to a small set of ruins of the early town and eventually on the ruins of the palace with Chorten (stupa) nearby. Farther afield are the Changay Falls.
Overnight at Norbughang Retreat & Spa, Pelling (Super Deluxe Room) (B & D)
Day 06: Pelling (Pemayangtse)
After breakfast, we would visit the peaceful and tranquil Khechipalri Lake and Rimbi Falls.
The view of snow capped Himalayan range is unbelievable. One has to just draw the curtains of one’s bedroom and lo behold! You could almost touch the range. Even the shadows of the great peaks are clearly visible. Sunrise here is soul stirring! The reflections of the rising Sun on the snow capped peaks is magical and cannot be duplicated in words. We also visit the Pemayangtse monastery, which is the second oldest monastery in Sikkim and belongs to the Tantric –Nyingma—Pa sect established by an Indian teacher. The sects’ monasteries are characterized by a prominent image of the teacher along with two female consorts, and this monastery is the head of all others in Sikkim. The sect followers wear red caps.
Khecheopalri Lake: Khecheopalri Lake is considered to be one of the sacred lakes of Sikkim both by the Buddhist and the Hindus. The lake remains hidden in the rich forest cover. It is believed that birds do not permit even a single leaf to float on the lake surface. There is a motorable road from Pemayangtse right up to the lake area.
The Rimbi Waterfalls is one of the tourist attractions of Sikkim which is located about 12kms from Pelling at about 5kms from the Darap Village, another attraction of Sikkim. This waterfall can be seen throughout the year although in the rainy season it looks much more beautiful. The waterfall leads to Rimbi River and is famous for the recreational activities like fishing. The Karchen Powerhouse is the oldest powerhouse in west Sikkim. The power house was built in the early 70s by the last king government. It used to supply water to all the neighbouring villages during that period.
Afternoon visit to Sangachoeling Monastery, Chenrezig Statue, Sky walk.
Sangachoeling Monastery: Located at the top of a ridge in the town of Pelling, Sikkim, Sangachoeling Monastery was established in the 17th century by Lama Gyalwa Lhatsun Chempo. The literal meaning of the word Sanga Choeling is ‘Idea of Guhya Mantra Teachings’ that relates to the faith of Buddhism. Also spelt as Sange Choeling Monastery, this is one of the oldest monasteries in Northeastern Sikkim. In order to reach this place, one has to walk for at least 40 minutes through the forest on a steep hill slope but the end result is absolutely worth it. Stepping inside the Sangachoeling Monastery, you notice various ancient wall paintings, statues, unique clay structures and scriptures that date back to the 17th century. They are extremely beautiful and are well- preserved. From Sangachoeling Monastery one also gets an opportunity to witness a spectacular view of the snow clad mountains and lush greenery around it, providing a feeling of calmness. The fact that the building was restored to its former beauty after catching fire has become the major highlight of the monastery. Due to this reason, people come from nook and corner of the world visit the prestigious Sangachoeling Monastery building to have a close look at the ancient artefacts.
The Chenrezig Statue is one of the world’s tallest statues of Buddha which is considered to be a manifestation of Buddha’s compassion. It is located about 1.7 km away from Pelling skywalk and stands at a height of a whopping 135 feet. The statue is a major tourist hub and one of great cultural significance amongst Budhists, who visit the site seeking Buddha’s blessings. It was consecrated by the Dalai Lama himself and recently unveiled by Pawan Kumar Chamling, the chief minister of Sikkim. The statue can be reached via stairs and once atop, one can feast their eyes on the scenic views of the valley. The meditative chant of the monks, the bustling skywalk and the serene weather makes for a blissful experience.
Skywalk – The Glass Skywalk is India’s first ever skywalk, set in the picturesque town of Pelling in Northeast Sikkim. Built at an astounding height of 7200 feet, this colossal structure allows tourists to look down several thousand feet in the air, from the peak to the very bottom of mountains. The Glass Skywalk is not for the fainthearted, or for people with vertigo as walking on transparent glass at such heights can be spine-chilling! The Pelling skywalk is a transparent foot-over bridge made out of glass that is suspended hundreds of feet in the air. Since its inauguration in November 2018, the skywalk has become a major hub of tourists owing to the odd concoction of thrill and peace that it has to offer. There are several attractions that can be viewed from over the bridge including waterfalls, lush forests and monasteries. It is located adjacent to the marvelous statue of Chenrezig, which is a famous Buddhist pilgrimage site. The skywalk overlooks the magnificent Kanchenjunga, as well as the Teesta and Rangit rivers, which flow alongside adding another dimension to the serenity of the place.
Overnight at Norbughang Retreat & Spa, Pelling (Super Deluxe Room) (B & D)
Day 07: Pelling (Pemayangtse) Gangtok (150 Kms) (05 ½ Hrs Drive)
After breakfast, we will drive to Gangtok. Upon arrival in Gangtok, we will check into hotel, Denzong Regency.
Overnight at WH Denzong Regency, Gangtok (Heritage Deluxe Room) (B & D)
Day 08: Gangtok
After breakfast, we will proceed for a tour of Gangtok including visits to Do Drul Chorten, Tibetology, Enchey Monastery, Cottage Industry & Rumtek Monastery.
The Do Drul Chorten, built to commemorate the victory of good over evil and the Jhang Chub Chorten, built in the memory of Thrukshik Rinpoche, an ardent devotee, a great spirtualist and interpreter of Buddhism. Near the Chorten are housed two giant statues of Lord Buddha and Guru Padmasambhava, also known as Guru Rimpoche, the patron saint of Sikkim.
Namgyal Institute of Tibetology: -Amidst a serene surrounding of oak, birch and ash lies the unique organization established in1958. Built in traditional style, the namgyal Institute of Tibetology promotes research in Mahayana Buddhism and the language and tradition of Tibet. It has one of the world’s largest collections of rare books and manuscripts on Mahayana Buddhism. The Institute also has a retail outlets where related books and commercially produced religious art and craft of Tibet can be bought.
The Enchey Monastery: -Perched on a ridge above Gangtok, the Enchey Monastery is nestled within lush woods with a spectacular view of Gangtok town. Built in 1910 on the site of the hermitage of the great tantric saint, Lama DrutobKarpo, who was renowned for his powers of levitation, this monastery houses the monks of the Nyingmapa Order of Tibetan Buddhism.
Directorate of Handloom and Handicrafts: -This Directorate was set up to promote traditional Sikkimese art and handicrafts. Exquisitely carved wooden friezes, intricate bamboo work, along with beautiful hand woven carpets and handlooms are on exhibit here. Visitors can not only purchase these items here but also see the artisans at work. Among others, a favourite item here is the choktse a wooden table with carved panels that can be folded into a portable pack.
Rumtek Monastery: – 24 Kms from Gangtok is the awe -inspiring Rumtek Monastery, the world Dharma chakra Centre and the seat of His Holiness, the Gyalwa Karmapa, who is the head of the Kagyupa order of Tibetan Buddhism. Behind the main monastery is the lavishly decorated Karmae Nalanda Institute of Buddhist Studies, which attracts students from the world over. Opposite the entrance to the Institute is a small hall featuring a beautiful jewel studded Chorten the Golden Stupa, which contains the ashes and remains of His Holiness the xvi Gyalwa Karmapa. According to legend, it is believed that after years of meditation, the first Karmapa was said to have been visited by ten thousand fairies that came to congratulate him each of whom offered a strand of her hair as a gift. These were said to have been woven into a black hat, which was passed down and is still at the Rumtek Monastery today. It is said that unless held on to by the wearer (who of course, cannot be anyone else but the Karmapa) or kept in a box, the hat would fly away.
Overnight at WH Denzong Regency, Gangtok (Heritage Deluxe Room) (B & D)
Day 09: Gangtok
After breakfast head out for Tsomgo Lake (12,313 ft) – Tsomgo Lake, also known as Tsongmo Lake or Changu Lake, is a glacial lake in East Sikkim, some 40 kilometers from the capital Gangtok. A winding road through rugged mountain terrain and sharp cliffs takes you to Tsomgo, which means source of the water in Bhutia language. The lake derives its water from the melting snow of the mountains surrounding the lake. This beautiful lake looks different at different seasons. In winter the placid lake remains frozen with the area around it covered in snow while in late spring the profusion of flowers in bloom adds a riot of colors around the lake. We will also visit Baba Mandir- Major “Baba” Harbhajan Singh (August 3, 1941 – October 4, 1968) was an Indian army soldier who died in 1968 near the Nathu La in eastern Sikkim, India. He is revered by soldiers of the Indian army as the “Hero of Nathula” and the army men have also built a shrine in his honor.
(Optional Nathula Pass – Indo China Border is included in the package. It may close due to the snowfall/Monday & Tuesday Closed)
Afternoon, we will visit to Phudong Monastery, Labrang Monastery & back.
Phodong Monastery: Distance – 38 km (from Gangtok) This monastery was built by the Chogyal Gyurmed Namgyal somewhere in the first quarter of the eighteenth century in Phodong in North Sikkim. It belongs to the Kagyupa Sect and it is said to be the first Kagyupa monastery to be set up in Sikkim. It is famous for its exquisitely delicate mural painting and frescoes. The original monastery has been rebuilt and is today one of the most beautiful monasteries in Sikkim. It possesses the old mural paintings and has around 260 monks. Like the Ralong and Rumtek monastery the main annual festival is performed on the 28th & 29th days of the tenth month of the Tibetan Calendar when the religious dances are performed.
Labrang Monastery: – Labrang Monastery is situated in North Sikkim, built 2 kms further up hill from Phodong Monastery. This is a much older structure. It is also unique in the sense that unlike most monasteries which were razed by fires sometime or the other, this one still retains the original structure. A pleasure for the eyes given its unique architecture, it is also one of the premier monasteries of Sikkim. The location is a wide and open meadow, ideal for congregations. Dense forests surround the southern, western and northern sides of the compound. Gyalshe Rigzing Chempa commissioned Labrang Monastery in 1814, who then resided in Wangdiche, a palace in the vicinity. It adheres to the Nyingmapa School of Tibetan Buddhism as this was the prevalent school of monastery and inception. Its name literally means the Lamas dwelling It was consecrated to the memory of Latsun Chembo of Kongpu of Tibet, who initiated and propagated this school of Buddhism in Sikkim. Just below the road between the Phodang and Labrang Monastery are the ruins of Tumlong, the third capital of Sikkim.
Overnight at WH Denzong Regency, Gangtok (Heritage Deluxe Room) (B & D)
Day 10: Gangtok / Bagdogra (121 Kms) (05 Hrs Drive) Bagdogra / Delhi (6E 2295 – 1500 / 1655)
In time, we will transfer you to the Bagdogra airport to board the flight to Delhi.
Upon arrival in Delhi, transfer to hotel, Claridges.
Overnight at Claridges, Delhi (Claridges Cabana Room) (B)
Day 11: Delhi / Departure
Though the check out time is 12 noon, every effort would be made to retain rooms till as late as possible without additional charges – subject to availability.
In time, we will transfer you to the international airport to board your onward flight.
NO HOTEL QUOTED FOR THIS DAY (B)
END OF SERVICES
We do hope the flavor of India will remain on your taste buds for all times to come and
hopefully would kindle an indelible fondness for the country and her people; Thank you for being our guest, and as we say in India ‘Please come back soon”
Thank you for giving us the opportunity to serve you!!
COST INCLUDES:
– Accommodation based on Twin Sharing Basis
– Meals as per the itinerary only (B – Breakfast & D – Dinner)
– All journeys as per itinerary in a fine air conditioned Toyota Crysta
– Toy train to Ghoom Monastery
– Accompanying English speaking guide cum escort
– Entrance fees as per the itinerary
– GST Levy, Toll, and Parking
– All driver expenses
– Bottled drinking water for road journeys
COST DOES NOT INCLUDE:
– Camera & video fee to monuments
– Meals other than mention above
– Expenses of personal nature such as laundry, drinks, tips, telephone calls etc
– Credit Card Transaction Fees