Kolkata to Darjeeling - 11 days

tourhub | On The Go Tours | Kolkata to Darjeeling - 11 days | 116/KTD | Map

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11 Days From

~~$3805~~

$3262

Kolkata to Darjeeling - 11 days

11 Days Starting and ending in Kolkata, India

Visiting: Kolkata, Kalimpong, Gangtok, Pelling, Darjeeling

Tour operator:

On The Go Tours

Tour code:

116/KTD

Specialist Group:

Family/Kids

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Low

Age range:

None, though not recommended for under 5yrs

Tour operated in:

English

Interests:

Cultural, Gardens & Nature Tours, History, Religion and Spiritual

Activities:

Sightseeing, Walking

From: $3805 $3262 Operator discount: -$381 Travel Club discount: -$163 -14%

NB: Prices correct on 23-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Embark on an 11-day cultural journey from Kolkata to Darjeeling, exploring the vibrant landscapes and rich heritage of India. Begin in Kolkata, where you'll visit iconic sites like the Victoria Memorial and the bustling Howrah Flower Market. Travel to the serene hill station of Kalimpong, renowned for its monasteries and vibrant bazaars. Continue to Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim, to experience Tibetan culture and breathtaking views of the Kanchenjunga Range. Discover the historic Pemayangtse Monastery in Pelling before heading to Darjeeling, famous for its tea estates and stunning Himalayan vistas. Enjoy guided tours, including a sunrise visit to Tiger Hill and a tea estate tour. With comfortable 4-5 star accommodations, meals, and expert guides, this small group tour offers an unforgettable exploration of India's cultural and natural wonders.

Highlights

Darjeeling - Visit this scenic hill station with Himalayan backdrop, Tiger Hill, Ghoom Monastery, and a tea estate.
Explore the Pemayangtse Monastery in Pelling.
Cultural Kolkata - Take a trip to the famous Victoria Memorial, historic Indian Museum, colourful Howrah Flower Market, and Hooghly River.
Visit the remote and scenic hill station of Kalimpong.
Gangtok - See the home of the Namgyalak Institute of Tibetology.
Enjoy a drive to Tiger Hill in Darjeeling to witness sunrise over the snowy peaks of Kanchenjunga.
Explore the vibrant bazaar area in Kalimpong, known for Tibetan and Buddhist curios and handicrafts.

Itinerary

tourhub | On The Go Tours | Kolkata to Darjeeling - 11 days | 116/KTD | Route Map

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Day 1: Kolkata

Location: Kolkata

Accommodation Name: hotel

Once you arrive into Kolkata you will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is yours to explore Kolkata or relax at the hotel.

Day 2: Kolkata

Location: Kolkata

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

The graft of a European city imposed on an Asian landscape lends Kolkata a bewitching blend of colour, charm and excitement. The city is a compelling medley of ancient and modern with its skyscrapers and Raj-era architecture. It’s colourful, effervescent and overflowing with life and tradition.

Enjoy a city sights tour including a visit to the imposing Victoria Memorial. Opened by the Prince of Wales in 1921, this vision in marble is often called the “Taj” of the British Raj. We also visit the New Market – a bazaar on Chowringhee Road, the stately Indian Museum founded in 1814 and the oldest and largest in India, St Paul’s Cathedral and the extraordinary Marble Palace which houses paintings by Rubens, Titian and Reynolds.

Day 3: Kalimpong

Location: Kalimpong

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Kolkata - Kalimpong. Early this morning enjoy a visit to the famous flower market near Howrah Bridge, followed by a boat ride on the Hooghly River. Later, fly to Bagdogra. From here, a drive to Kalimpong - a remote hill station set among the rolling foothills and deep valleys of the stunning Himalayas.

Kalimpong’s attractions include three monasteries including Tharpa Choeling, Tongsa and Zong Dog Palri Fo-Brang, a handful of ancient churches and a colourful bazaar area known as Tenth Mile bulging with Tibetan and Buddhist curios and handicrafts. Kalimpong is also renowned for its horticulture, with some 50 nurseries devoted to orchids and many other flower varieties.

Day 4-5: Gangtok

Location: Gangtok

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Kalimpong - Gangtok. We drive north to Gangtok. Owing to its proximity to the Tibetan border, the capital of Sikkim is steeped in Tibetan culture. Characterised by mists, fluttering prayer flags, painted roofs and pagoda-styled houses, a rich cultural heritage,

friendly people coupled with excellent views of the entire Kanchenjunga Range from many points in the city, Gangtok is scenically beautiful.

On day 5, enjoy an excursion to the Rumtek Monastery followed by a sightseeing tour of Gangtok, including the Namgyalak Institute of Tibetology. The afternoon is free to relax or explore.

Day 6: Pelling

Location: Pelling

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Gangtok - Pelling (Pemayangtse). Continuing to Pelling via Tashiding, enjoy an afternoon visit to the lofty heights of the hallowed Pemayangtse Monastery - one of the principal monasteries in the state of Sikkim. Founded in the 17th century, the monastery, which has been reconstructed several times, is the main centre of the Nyingmapa sect, established in the 8th century AD. The followers of the sect wear red caps rather than the yellow ones worn by monks in other monasteries. Near the monastery, there are the traditional austere dwellings of the monks. Breath-taking scenery can be witnessed from the vantage point; carpets of alpine vegetation and numerous waterfalls lining the hillsides which are sometimes covered with a blanket of snow.

Day 7-9: Darjeeling

Location: Darjeeling

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Pelling - Darjeeling. The journey continues to Darjeeling. Home of Darjeeling tea and with a panoramic backdrop of the awesome Himalayan snow-clad peaks. Early on day 8, enjoy a drive to Tiger Hill to witness sunrise over the snowy peaks of Kanchenjunga; followed by a visit to Ghoom Gompa (monastery), sightseeing back in town and a visit to a real tea estate.

Day 9 is free for you to explore Darjeeling your way. See some Buddhist monasteries or visit the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, a training school for mountain climbers. Its museum features memorabilia from the first ascent of Everest. It is also worthwhile taking a stroll through town. Owing to Darjeeling’s

proximity to Tibet, the town also has a Tibetan Refugee Centre comprising care for the young and old and craft workshops that produce carpets, leather work and other Tibetan curios, hunt for a bargain or simply go trekking!

Day 10: Kolkata

Location: Kolkata

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Darjeeling – Bagdogra - Kolkata (via New Jalpaiguri). Later this morning, the journey continues to Bagdogra from here you will board the flight to Kolkata. Arrive in Kolkata and transfer to your hotel. The remains of the day is at leisure.

Day 11: Kolkata

Location: Kolkata

Accommodation Name: hotel

Today we bid you goodbye with a transfer from the hotel to airport.

If you'd like to extend your stay, we offer a variety of hotels, short stays and add-ons for you to choose from. Please read our best places to visit or [[best things to see each month|126647]] for suggested places to visit on your holiday. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, please let us know so we can accommodate your request.

For information about visas, top travel tips, best time to travel and much more, browse our [[travel guide|126581]].

What's Included

Accommodation
Our rating: Superior
9 breakfasts, 7 lunches and 7 dinners

The tour includes 9 breakfasts, 7 lunches, and 7 dinners.
10 nights 4-5 star hotels

Accommodation for 10 nights in 4-5 star hotels is included.
Touring and excursions as itinerary

All touring and excursions as per the itinerary are included.
Visit to Tea Estate in Darjeeling

A visit to a Tea Estate in Darjeeling is included.
Drive to Tiger Hill in Darjeeling

A drive to Tiger Hill in Darjeeling is included.
Entrance fees for all included sightseeing

Entrance fees for all included sightseeing activities are covered.
Services of English-speaking Indian specialist guides at some sites

The services of English-speaking Indian specialist guides at some sites are included.
2 Economy class flights: Kolkata to Bagdogra & Bagdogra to Kolkata

Two economy class flights from Kolkata to Bagdogra and Bagdogra to Kolkata are included.
An airport arrival transfer day 1 and a departure transfer day 11

An airport arrival transfer on day 1 and a departure transfer on day 11 are included.
All relevant transfer and transportation in private modern Chauffeur driven air-conditioned vehicles

All relevant transfers and transportation in private modern chauffeur-driven air-conditioned vehicles are included.

What's Not Included

International flights and visas

International flights and visas are not included.
Tipping - An entirely personal gesture

Tipping is not included and is considered an entirely personal gesture.

Age Policy

None, though not recommended for under 5yrs

Mode of Transport

Travel in style with private modern chauffeur-driven air-conditioned vehicles for all relevant transfers and transportation. The tour includes two economy class flights between Kolkata and Bagdogra, along with airport arrival and departure transfers on days 1 and 11.

Accommodation

Enjoy 10 nights in luxurious 4-5 star hotels, providing comfort and elegance throughout your journey from Kolkata to Darjeeling. Each hotel offers a unique blend of modern amenities and traditional charm, ensuring a relaxing and memorable stay.

Check out our Q&As

What kind of meals are included in the tour?

The tour includes 9 breakfasts, 7 lunches, and 7 dinners.
What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?

The tour provides accommodation in 4-5 star hotels for 10 nights.
Are there any flights included in the tour package?

Yes, the tour includes two economy class flights: from Kolkata to Bagdogra and from Bagdogra to Kolkata.
What kind of transportation is used during the tour?

All relevant transfers and transportation are provided in private modern chauffeur-driven air-conditioned vehicles.
Are entrance fees for sightseeing included in the tour?

Yes, entrance fees for all included sightseeing are covered in the tour.

Is there an airport transfer service included in the tour?

Yes, an airport arrival transfer on day 1 and a departure transfer on day 11 are included.
Will there be any guided tours during the trip?

Yes, the services of English-speaking Indian specialist guides are available at some sites.
What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

Ensuring our footprint is light and that the benefits of travelling reach the local communities you visit is paramount to us. We’re proud to say that when travelling with us, the large majority of your holiday funds remain within the countries you visit, supporting local economies at a grass roots level.
How long has the tour company been trading?

Since 1998
Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

With English-speaking tours, it's not a huge surprise that most on our travellers are from English-speaking countries or have English as their second language. Our group tours cater for everyone from 18 years old to 70+
Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

Yes

Reviews of this operator

Nicola Hodgkinson (Google Reviewer)

Recently returned from Greece, a...

07-May-2024

Recently returned from Greece, a 5 day tour with OTG. Unfortunately, I had a negative experience on day 2 where I needed local support to get me out of a tricky situation. Thank you to Alexandra Z from Hetco Tours in Athens for helping me continue on with the trip, to the Hotel Zafolia staffing team and to Danielle and team here in the UK for supporting me with the aftermath. Your kindness will not be forgotten and I will pay it forward. I've now booked 3 trips with yourselves and will continue to go back. Thank you all. Honestly, I am SO grateful. Blessings to you all. Nicola

Calvin

Wonderful experience

05-Jan-2023

Jamal is our tour guide. Right from the start, he created a group chat in whatsapp and if any issues to make sure we contact him. He was on the ball with every issue thrown at him. Luggage being left behind, stragglers wondered off in a different path, hotel room etc. He explains the various site along our route to give us a better understanding of the local cultures. We had a great time, thanks to Jamal.

Trustpilot

Norma Sullivan

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10-Sep-2021

The Land of Northern Lights tour was a triumph! My tour of Southern Iceland was absolutely wonderful. The venues chosen, the timing allotted at each venue and the variety of things to experience was nearly perfect. Our guide, "Thor", was smart, amusing, full of history and anecdotal stories as well as being incredibly hospitable and helpful. This small group experience was my first, but not my last thanks to On the Go.

Trawls (Google Reviewer)

On The Go Tours Sri...

05-Feb-2024

On The Go Tours Sri Lanka was an incredible experience that was made even better by our tour guide Akthar. He was incredibly knowledgeable about his country and he loved sharing it with us. The tour covers a wide range of activities so you can truly experience what Sri Lanka is all about. The beautiful 4-5 star hotels at the end of every day was an absolute bonus. Thanks for a great trip OTGT I’m sure this won’t be my last

Xtreme Floor Care (Google Reviewer)

Traveled through Egypt with On...

30-Nov-2023

Traveled through Egypt with On the Go Tours, professional service, very informative and helpful tour guides. The choice of hotels was excellent... Definitely recommend this company

Gavin Harrigan

King Tutankhamun 10 day tour of Egypt

16-Sep-2021

I have just returned from my tour with On The Go and it was an amazing trip! From arriving at the airport and meeting the OTG representative, everything was well organised and hassle free. Our tour guide was Amir. He is awesome!! From the beginning he was so friendly and enthusiastic about showing us around Egypt, giving us loads of information at each place and time to explore ourselves. Learnt so much from him about this fascinating place, and he was always happy to answer more questions. The trip itself was amazing. There's lots of travelling on this trip, but it's really not too bad, and the sights you see when you get to where you are going are worth it. I'm not a big fan of boats, but the Felluca ride across the Nile was pretty fun too. On the first day I also did the optional tour of Cairo with Ahmed Helal - another excellent guide from OTG. It's worth doing this add on as you don't spend much time in Cairo, and you go to three very different places. I'm so glad that I decided to do this trip. It was just ace. If you're thinking about it too, you should probably just book it. And hopefully you get Amir as your guide.

Paul Kelly (Google Reviewer)

TOTALLY MOROCCO We booked a 9...

26-Feb-2023

TOTALLY MOROCCO We booked a 9 day tour of Morocco visiting many main cities and places of interest. The coach was very comfortable and we felt safe with the driver Suliman. The guide was Hicham Touraouine and he was fantastic. He spoke perfect English as well as French, Arabic and Berber. He was so kind and considerate and made a good tour great. We particularly enjoyed ‘glamming in the Sahara Desert. So much to see and do and great food and company. We would definitely use On The Go Tours again, especially if Hicham was the guide. Paul & Penny

Joyce Heitler (Google Reviewer)

I would give this tour...

09-May-2024

I would give this tour group no stars if possible. The tour was not guaranteed but they did not inform me when I booked and they did not have enough people. Way after I booked they said I needed a doctors letter because I was over 70. Also way after booking I was informed I needed travel insurance. They knew my age when I booked. They would not refund my tour even though it was 4 months away.

Sarah Paterson (Google Reviewer)

Terrible tour of India. For...

27-Dec-2023

Terrible tour of India. For some reason On the Go hadn't realised that my room mate had booked her own room for the first night of tour. So the hotel in Delhi had tried to put me in her room after midnight, by wheeling in an extra bed. She went Crazy!! I then had to sit in hotel reception for hours. While the tour guide said he couldn't find me a room. Throughout the tour the guide consistently ask me and my room mate for money for my room, causing more friction between us. Don't book with this company had the worst experience ever. Go with Intrepid or G Adventure

brandy hoffman (Google Reviewer)

I had used them once...

09-Aug-2023

I had used them once before and loved them. I decided to try them again for a Baltic tour not knowing that they put me on another Tour group- Baltic vision. Loved that tour but was not impressed they marked up the cost for me over 100%. I understand taking some for yourself because of paperwork, but over double the cost everyone else paid on the tour. Just double check before you book with them that you’re not over paying.

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Travel Club discount: -$181

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Travel Club discount: -$181

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Travel Club discount: -$181

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Travel Club discount: -$181

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Travel Club discount: -$181

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Travel Club discount: -$181

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Travel Club discount: -$181

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Travel Club discount: -$181

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Travel Club discount: -$181

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~~$3805~~ $3262

Operator discount: -$381