9 Days Best of East India

Price from $3418 per person on twin sharing basis + Domestic flights from $297 per person

Kolkata – Darjeeling – Kalimpong – Gangtok – Kolkata

This trip starts in the legacy of British India with an introduction to Kolkata, the capital of British India till 1911 and traditionally known as the centre of art, music and literature in India. Then continue on to the mountains, visiting the origin of world’s best Tea – Darjeeling, with its panoramic views of Himalayas, tea gardens, Buddhist monasteries and colonial past, continue to visit arguably the most beautiful Indian state of Sikkim.

Itinerary

Day 1

Arrive Kolkata

On arrival in Kolkata and transfer to your hotel.

Day 2

Kolkata (B)

Full day tour visiting the India Museum with its Italian architecture, Howrah Bridge, the most famous symbol of Kolkata, Victoria Memorial, a splendid architectural structure in white marble, and St Paul's Cathedral.

Day 3

Kolkata – Bagdogra - Darjeeling (B/D)

Transfer to airport for a flight to Bagdogra. On arrival, drive on to Darjeeling and the afternoon at leisure. 

Day 4

Darjeeling (B/D)

City tour of Darjeeling including a visit to Ghoom monastery and the magnificent statue of Maitreya. Visit Himalayan Mountaineering Institute and Tibetan Refugee Self Help Centre where you can see Tibetan craftsmen making traditional items like carpet, woollen boots, wood carvings and leather goods.

Day 5

Darjeeling (B/D)

Day at leisure to discover Darjeeling on own.

Day 6

Darjeeling - Kalimpong (B/D)

Drive to Kalimpong and the visit Tharpa Choling Monastery, belonging to the Gelugpa sect followed by a visit to flower nurseries. Drive back to Darjeeling in the evening.

Day 7

Kalingpong - Gangtok (B/D)

Drive to Gangtok and afternoon tour visiting Dodrul Chorten and Enchey Monastery. Also, visit the Research Institute of Tibetology and Directorate of Handicrafts & Handloom; it is a centre for promoting and keeping alive the traditional arts and crafts, a veritable storehouse of exquisite carpets, blankets and shawls in Lepcha weaves.

Day 8

Gangtok (B/D)

Enjoy an excursion to Rumtek Monastery, the seat of the Kagyupa order, one of the four major Tibetan Buddhist sects. Afternoon, visit Tashi viewpoint which offers an enchanting view of Mt. Kanchenjunga and Mt. Siniolch.

Day 9

Gangtok – Bagdogra - Kolkata (B)

Transfer to Bagdogra Airport to connect flight to Kolkata. Depart or extend stay in India by choosing various add on tours we offer.

 

Private program - can start any day of the week and can be customised

Note: Contact us if you require more options on Hotel categories.

Included: Accommodation in 4* Hotel, meals as shown above, transfers & sightseeing, local English speaking guides, entrance fees at monuments, current taxes

Prices quoted are valid till 30 September 2025. Cost above is indicative, based on Low Season in NZ Dollars and subject to change due to fluctuation in exchange rates. Please read T&C before booking. Call 09 410 5060 or 0508 EXOTIC (0508 396 842) or email info@exotic.net.nz for more information.