“If I were asked under what sky the human mind has most fully developed some of its choicest gifts, has most deeply pondered on the greatest problems of life, and has found solutions, I should point to India.”
- Max Mueller
Eastern Odyssey
Located in the lower ranges of the Himalayas, Darjeeling, Kalimpong and Gangtok display a blend of Eastern and Western heritage. The tea factories, architecture , and educational institutions are a vivid reminder of the British Raj. Contrarily, the scattering of hillside Buddhist monasteries and colorful culture incorporate a particularly Indian flavor. Discover a region of historical splendor in the Eastern hills, a unification of Bengali, Tibetan, Indian and Nepali traditions.
Arrival (evening): Delhi
Namaste. Welcome to India! Arrive at Delhi International airport. You will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel.
Delhi is a bustling metropolis that incorporates the ancient with the modern. Amidst the skyscrapers, the monuments stand as a silent reminder to India’s legacy. Driving from the airport, you will be impressed with Delhi’s spacious, tree-lined streets and garden parks.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 1: Delhi—Darjeeling
After breakfast, fly to Bagdogra. Upon arrival, drive through tea gardens and quaint villages to reach Darjeeling (3 hours). Darjeeling is a town in the Indian state of West Bengal in the lower ranges of the Himalayas. It is internationally famous for its tea industry and the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. Darjeeling maintains a strong European influence from the British Raj, particularly evident in its schools, architecture and cuisine.
Upon arrival, check-in to your hotel. Overnight in Darjeeling.
Day 2: Darjeeling
In the early morning, take a jeep ride to Tiger Hill. From here the great Mount Everest is visible on clear days. At sunrise, the snow-clad mountain peaks constitute a glorious feast of color. Return to your hotel, en-route visiting the Ghoom Monastery. Later, proceed on a half day tour of Darjeeling. Visit Lebong village, the Mountaineering Institute House of Tensing Norgay and the Botanical Gardens. In the evening, tour the enchanting tea gardens. Overnight in Darjeeling.
Day 3: Darjeeling—Gangtok
After breakfast, drive to Gangtok (3.5 hours). Gangtok is the capital of the Indian state of Sikkim. The city became a major stop-over between Tibet and British India in the 19th century. Gangtok is a center of Tibetan Buddhist culture and houses many monasteries and religious institutions. Afternoon at leisure. Overnight in Gangtok.
Day 4: Gangtok
In the morning, visit the Rumtek Monastery, followed by a half day sightseeing tour including the Research Institute of Tibetology, Garden Sanctuary and Buddhist Monastery. Also visit the Deer Park and drive through the colorful bazaar. Overnight in Gangtok.
Day 5: Gangtok—Kalimpong
After breakfast, drive to Kalimpong (2.5 hours.) Well known for its flower markets, particularly the orchid collections, Kalimpong also houses many rare Tibetan Buddhist scriptures. Its location at the base of the Himalayas is breathtaking. Afternoon at leisure to explore the town. Overnight in Kalimpong.
Day 6: Kalimpong
Enjoy a morning tour of Kalimpong. Visit the various Tibetan Buddhist monasteries and flower nurseries. Afternoon at leisure. Overnight in Kalimpong.
Day 7: Kalimpong—Delhi
After breakfast, drive to Bagdogra (1.5 hours) and connect to your flight to Delhi. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel. Overnight in Delhi.
Day 8: Departure
After breakfast, enjoy a tour of India’s capital. Visit Red Fort, a marvel in red sandstone; Jama Masjid, India’s largest mosque; and Raj Ghat, a memorial to Mahatma Gandhi. In the evening, transfer to the airport for your return flight to the U.S.
Bon Voyage!
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Eastern Odyssey is available with standard and superior rates.
Package includes domestic airfare, touring, entrance fees, hotel accommodations with daily breakfast, transportation (including airport transfers), taxes and fees.
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Package does not include international airfare, additional meals, visa and passport fees, optional excursions, gratuities, and any expenses of a personal nature. If requested, Sodha Travel will reserve air travel on behalf of the passenger.
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A visa is required for travel to India.
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Itineraries are subject to change without notice.
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For additional information and rates, please complete a Contact Form.
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