Darjeeling, Rishop, Lava, Lolegaon, Lamahatta, Sandakhphu, and Kalimpong

Here’s a well-paced 8-day itinerary covering Darjeeling, Rishop, Lava, Lolegaon, Lamahatta, Sandakhphu, and Kalimpong, ensuring a relaxed yet fulfilling experience:

Day 1: Arrival in Darjeeling

Arrive at Bagdogra Airport / NJP Railway Station and transfer to Darjeeling (approx. 3 hrs). In the evening, take a leisurely stroll at Mall Road, sip Darjeeling tea, and visit Chowrasta. Overnight stay in Darjeeling.

Day 2: Exploring Darjeeling

Early morning visit to Tiger Hill for a sunrise view over Kanchenjunga. On the way back, visit Batasia Loop and Ghoom Monastery. After breakfast, explore Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, Padmaja Naidu Zoo, Japanese Peace Pagoda, and take an optional ride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Toy Train. In the evening, visit Rock Garden & Ganga Maya Park. Overnight in Darjeeling.

Day 3: Darjeeling – Lamahatta – Rishop

Drive to Lamahatta Eco Park (1 hr) for a peaceful nature walk. Continue to Rishop (3.5 hrs), a serene hill station offering stunning Himalayan views. Relax at the resort and enjoy the sunset over Mt. Kanchenjunga. Overnight stay in Rishop.

Day 4: Rishop – Lava – Lolegaon

Start the day with a morning nature walk in Rishop. Drive to Lava (1 hr) and visit Lava Monastery, Neora Valley National Park. Head to Lolegaon (1.5 hrs) and explore the Canopy Walk & Hanging Bridge. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Himalayas from Jhandi Dara Viewpoint. Overnight stay in Lolegaon.

Day 5: Lolegaon – Kalimpong

After breakfast, drive to Kalimpong (2.5 hrs). Visit Deolo Hill, Morgan House, Durpin Monastery, and Cactus Garden. Spend a relaxed evening exploring local markets. Overnight stay in Kalimpong.

Day 6: Kalimpong – Sandakhphu (By Jeep)

Early morning drive to Sandakhphu (approx. 6-7 hrs, via Manebhanjan). Explore Sandakhphu, the highest point of West Bengal (3636m) with panoramic views of Mt. Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, Makalu. Enjoy a tranquil evening amidst nature. Overnight stay in Sandakhphu.

Day 7: Sandakhphu – Darjeeling

Witness a mesmerizing sunrise over the Sleeping Buddha Range. Drive back to Darjeeling via Srikhola & Tumling (6-7 hrs). Spend the evening shopping and relaxing. Overnight in Darjeeling.

Day 8: Departure

After breakfast, transfer to Bagdogra/NJP for the onward journey.

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March-May) for clear views & blooming rhododendrons, or Autumn (Sept-Nov) for crisp skies & great weather.

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