UK regional departures available with alternative airlines.

10 minute airport shuttle transfer to your hotel.

• 1 night superior room breakfast included at Lemon Tree Premier Hotel, Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport.

Arrive at Bagdogra Airport, a modest yet bustling gateway to North Bengal and Sikkim, nestled amidst verdant tea gardens at the base of the Himalayas.

If the skies are clear, you'll catch breathtaking views of the expansive Himalayan range during your flight.

Upon arrival, our friendly representative will warmly welcome you and provide a brief overview of your journey before escorting you to your vehicle.

Bagdogra to Darjeeling (Mim Tea Garden): 90 km in approximately 3.5 hours

Stay at the charming Yule Tea Retreat, a former tea planters' bungalow transformed into a serene nature resort.

This unique retreat is a highlight of tea tourism in Darjeeling, offering a blend of fresh mountain air, gentle rain, and unspoiled beauty that nurtures the renowned Darjeeling tea, prized for its distinct and delicate flavor.

Immerse yourself in the world of tea by observing the intricate processing steps that turn fresh leaves into the fine tea on your breakfast table. To complete the experience, enjoy a specially curated tea-tasting session showcasing the essence of Darjeeling's legendary tea culture.

• 2 nights Suite on Half Board basis at Yule Tea Retreat, a Heritage Tea Resort, Eastern Himalayas, India.

Optionally, embark on a drive to Darjeeling (Altitude 6,825 ft / 2,050 m), affectionately called "The Land of the Thunderbolt" and famed as "The Queen of Hills." Known for its temperate climate, stunning views of the world’s tallest peaks, the iconic Himalayan Heritage Steam Train, colonial charm, and warm local hospitality, Darjeeling is one of the most celebrated hill retreats globally.

While there, visit the Tibetan Self-Help Centre to gain insights into its rich culture and crafts. Take a leisurely stroll to the Mall or Chowrasta, the heart of Darjeeling, where locals and visitors gather to socialize, shop, and enjoy the serene ambiance. Later, enjoy a memorable ride on the heritage Steam Train to Ghoom, a quintessential Darjeeling experience. From Ghoom, return to Mim Garden in the evening.

Set against the stunning backdrop of Mt. Narsing and Mt. Karbu’s snow-clad peaks, Kewzing offers picturesque terraced fields, quaint village houses, a serene monastery, and the joyful spirit of its people. It’s an emerging village tourism destination that promises an authentic experience through homestays, nature walks, birdwatching, and delicious local cuisine.

The Kewzing Homestay is a community-driven initiative by the Kewzing Tourism Development Committee (KTDC), a local NGO that fosters sustainable and responsible tourism. This unique opportunity allows you to stay with a local family, enjoy the warm hospitality of Sikkimese culture, and partake in daily or seasonal village activities. Accommodations are simple yet clean and cozy, with wholesome meals prepared fresh from the family kitchen.

Upon arrival, the villagers will extend a warm welcome. After a traditional homely lunch, you’ll check into your homestay. In the afternoon, take a leisurely walk through the village to experience the rural way of life firsthand.

In the evening, enjoy a special cooking session where you’ll learn to prepare traditional Sikkimese dishes. Savor the authentic flavors of local cuisine and sample homemade drinks served in traditional bamboo containers.

• 1 night double room on half board basis at a homestay, Kewzing, India.

Upon arrival, settle into a delightful eco-resort, where the host family will extend a warm and friendly welcome. Spend your evening at leisure, enjoying the serene environment or conversing with your hosts while admiring the spectacular views.

In the afternoon, explore the famous Rumtek Monastery, a cornerstone of Sikkim’s religious and cultural heritage. Built in 1960 by His Holiness the 16th Gyalwa Karmapa, it replicates the Kagyurpa Monastery in Tsurphu, Tibet. Today, it serves as the headquarters of the Dharma Chakra Religious Centre and a prominent hub for Tibetan Buddhism’s Karmapa tradition.

Take a short walk to the Shri Nalanda Institute for Higher Buddhist Studies, situated next to the monastery, for a glimpse into the spiritual teachings of Buddhism. If desired, a special session with a monk can be arranged to delve deeper into the philosophy and practices of this ancient tradition.

• 1 night Cottage unit on half board basis at Teen Taley Eco Garden Resort, Rumtek, India.

Explore the Institute of Tibetology and Research Centre in Gangtok, a leading hub for scholars and students of advanced Buddhist studies. The centre houses an extensive collection of Buddhist texts and manuscripts, as well as an invaluable assortment of rare Thangka (Tibetan scroll paintings).

You can also visit the nearby Tsuklakhang Palace and monastery, one of the oldest structures in Sikkim, located above Gangtok town. Built in the traditional Sikkimese architectural style, this building once served as the Royal Chapel for the Chogyal of Sikkim.

In the late afternoon, take a stroll around Mahatma Gandhi Marg (MG Marg), the most popular and lively area in Gangtok. It’s a vibrant shopping district where both tourists and locals come to relax, shop, or enjoy a variety of cuisines, including Tibetan, Indian, and Chinese.

• 1 night Cottage unit on half board basis at Hidden Forest Retreat, Gangtok, India.

The initial leg of our trip takes us through picturesque hills adorned with enchanting forests and quaint villages. From there, the road descends into the expansive plains of the Dooars. Along the way, we pass through vibrant tea gardens and verdant forests – hallmark features of the Sub-Himalayan Dooars region.

Our destination, Gorumara, is a well-known wildlife haven situated in the Dooars plains of the Himalayan foothills. This National Park is celebrated for its Asiatic One-Horned Rhino, majestic Bison, and Elephants.

Additionally, you’ll have the chance to experience the unique rural lifestyle of the Bengal plains. In the evening, enjoy a cultural performance to enrich your stay.

Tonight, we rest amidst nature at the National Park (Oxytel Club & Resorts).

• 1 night Deluxe room on half board basis at Oxytel Club & Resorts, Gorumara National Park, West Bengal, India.

At the border, your Bhutanese guide and driver will greet you and assist with transferring to your transport for the Bhutan leg of your journey. You’ll then cross into Bhutan through the pedestrian terminal, where you’ll receive your entry stamp at Bhutan immigration.

After lunch, drive from Phuntsholing to Thimphu, a scenic journey of approximately 5 hours. This route takes you from the warmer southern plains up into the stunning foothills of the Himalayas.

In the early evening, enjoy a leisurely stroll through Thimphu’s vibrant streets, exploring its bustling shops and markets while admiring the locals dressed in traditional attire.

• 2 nights Deluxe room on full board basis at Namgay Heritage Hotel, Thimphu.

Begin the day with a visit to the farmers' market, where local farmers showcase a variety of fresh produce and other goods. From there, explore the revered Memorial Chorten, followed by a visit to the iconic Buddha Dordenma statue. This massive statue not only offers a panoramic view of the Thimphu valley but also houses an impressive three-story throne filled with 125,000 smaller Buddha statues and several chapels.

On the way back, consider stopping by Simply Bhutan, an engaging museum designed like a traditional village. It offers an interactive glimpse into Bhutanese culture and heritage.

Later, take a 30-minute drive to Pangri Zampa, Bhutan’s most prominent college for Traditional Astrology, established in the 16th century. The institute plays a vital role in publishing Bhutan’s official calendar and determining auspicious dates for national events. For those interested, astrologers are available for private readings (at an additional cost).

Let your guide know if you have any specific interests to tailor the day's activities.

En route, enjoy a leisurely one-hour walk across the terraced fields of Sopsokha village, leading to Chimi Lhakhang, the Temple of Fertility. This 15th-century temple was built by the famous 'Divine Madman,' Lama Drukpa Kuenley.

In the afternoon, visit the impressive Punakha Dzong, also known as the "Palace of Great Happiness." Built in 1637, it is strategically situated at the confluence of the Po Chu and Mo Chu rivers, offering a stunning backdrop.

• 1 night Deluxe room on full board basis at Zhingkham Resort, Punakha.

Begin the day with a hike to Khamsum Yuelley Namgyel Chorten, starting from the suspension bridge below the temple, near Yebisa village. The walk begins gently, passing through the rice fields of Yebisa village for about 10 minutes. From there, continue the hike for another 40 to 50 minutes, gradually ascending to the temple. While the hike is mostly gentle, there are some steeper sections. Upon reaching the temple, you’ll be rewarded with a stunning view of the valley and surrounding villages. The 30-meter-tall temple is dedicated to Bhutan’s fifth King.

After visiting the temple, descend for approximately 30 minutes until you reach the suspension bridge, where your car will be waiting to take you back.

Next, drive back to Paro, a journey of about 4 hours. Upon arrival, visit a local farmhouse, where you can enjoy traditional Bhutanese tea or dinner, giving you a chance to experience village life. Don’t miss the opportunity to try a hot stone bath, known for its healing properties.

• 3 nights Deluxe room on full board basis at Olathang Cottages, Paro.

Start your day with a hike to Khamsum Yuelley Namgyel Chorten, beginning at the suspension bridge just below the temple, near Yebisa village. The walk is easy at first, passing through the rice fields of Yebisa village for about 10 minutes. Then, continue for 40 to 50 minutes as you gradually ascend to the temple. While the hike is mostly gentle, there are some steeper sections along the way. Once you reach the temple, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the valley and the surrounding villages. The 30-meter-tall temple is dedicated to Bhutan’s fifth King.

After exploring the temple, descend for about 30 minutes until you reach the suspension bridge, where your car will be waiting to take you back.

In the afternoon, drive back to Paro, a journey of approximately 4 hours. Upon arrival, visit a local farmhouse for a traditional Bhutanese tea or dinner, allowing you to experience authentic village life. Be sure to try a hot stone bath, renowned for its healing and restorative properties.

During your hike, you’ll have the chance to rest and enjoy lunch at the Taktshang cafeteria, which offers a breathtaking view of the monastery.

If time allows after your hike, your guide will suggest additional sites for you to explore.

• 1 night superior room breakfast included at Lemon Tree Premier Hotel, Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport.