TEA GARDENS 2 MOUNTAIN LODGES

Upon arrival met by representative at the airport and later board the waiting vehicle and drive to Hotel.

18:00 Hrs:  A short briefing about the tour will be carried out at the hotel lobby. Later board the waiting vehicle and proceed for a welcome dinner at typical Restaurant.

After dinner, return to the hotel

Overnight at the Kathmandu Guest House or Similar

After breakfast, drive to Airport for the 1st Flight to Bhadrapur (Jhapa). It takes around 45 minutes to reach Bhadrapur by flight.

Your journey begins as you arrive at Bhadrapur Airport, a small but well-connected airport in southeastern Nepal, near the Indian border. Upon arrival, board the waiting vehicle and begin your cross-border transfer to India.

Immigration and Border Formalities:

We proceed to the Kakarvitta border checkpoint, where our team will assist you in completing the required immigration and customs formalities to enter India. Once formalities are completed, we begin our picturesque road journey to Kalimpong.

As you leave the plains of Siliguri behind, the road ascends gently through lush green landscapes, winding rivers, tea gardens, and forested hills. The drive offers beautiful views of the Himalayan foothills and gives you a glimpse of the terrain that defines this region. En route, enjoy the gradual change in temperature, vegetation, and scenery as you climb toward the serene hill town of Kalimpong, nestled at an altitude of 1,250 meters (4,100 ft).

Arrival in Kalimpong & Hotel Check-in

Overnight at The Elgin Silver Oaks, Kalimpong

After enjoying a hearty breakfast at the hotel, we begin a full day of sightseeing in and around Kalimpong, a tranquil hill station known for its colonial charm, monasteries, scenic ridges, and botanical beauty. The day’s excursion covers approximately 60 kilometers of driving across the undulating terrain of the Eastern Himalayas, with an estimated total travel time of 6 hours, including stops. The roads are mostly paved but narrow and winding, with occasional steep ascents and sharp curves typical of hill regions.

Our first stop is the scenic Delo Hill and Park, located at an altitude of 1,704 meters. It is one of Kalimpong’s highest points and offers sweeping views of the Teesta Valley, nearby villages, and even snow-capped peaks on a clear day. The well-maintained garden is perfect for a morning stroll, and if you're feeling adventurous, you might spot paragliders launching nearby. Next, we pass by the Kalimpong Golf Course, a picturesque 9-hole course tucked among pine trees, ideal for a quick photo stop.

We then visit the peaceful Mangal Dham Temple, a spiritually uplifting site dedicated to Lord Krishna, known for its pristine white architecture and calm ambiance. Following this, we ascend to Durpin Dara Hill, home to the, which houses rare Buddhist scriptures and offers panoramic views from the hilltop at 1,372 meters. On our way back to town, we stop for a brief visit or drive-by of the historic Morgan House, a colonial-era mansion that stands as a remnant of British architecture and is now a heritage hotel.

In the afternoon, we visit the famous Pine View Nursery, renowned for its extensive and rare cactus collection, making it a treat for plant enthusiasts and photographers. We conclude our tour at the prestigious Dr. Graham’s Homes, a century-old school founded in 1900 by Reverend Graham. The campus, nestled on a hillside, features charming architecture, a chapel, and beautiful views — an ideal way to wrap up the day.

Overnight at The Elgin Silver Oaks, Kalimpong

After breakfast at the hotel, we check out and begin our scenic road journey from Kalimpong to Darjeeling, a distance of approximately 70 kilometers, taking around 3 to 3.5 hours depending on traffic and road conditions. The route winds through picturesque mountain roads, with stretches of narrow hill highways and sharp bends, flanked by deep valleys and dense forests. The roads are mostly paved, though some segments may be rough or require cautious driving, especially after recent rains.

As we descend from Kalimpong and follow the flow of the Teesta River, we stop at the charming Teesta View Point, which offers a stunning aerial view of the Teesta River winding through the emerald hills. It’s a perfect spot to stretch your legs and take photos of the dramatic landscape below. Continuing on, we gradually ascend toward Darjeeling and make another stop at the peaceful Lamahatta Eco Park — a small, forested retreat surrounded by pine trees and prayer flags. You can enjoy a short walk here on the nature trails or simply take in the serene surroundings and fresh mountain air.

The drive to Darjeeling is one of the most scenic in the Eastern Himalayas, as the altitude gradually increases from 1,200 meters to over 2,000 meters. Upon arrival in Darjeeling — fondly known as the “Queen of the Hills” — we proceed to check in at the hotel.

Overnight at The Elgin- Heritage Resort and Spa, Darjeeling

After a refreshing breakfast, we set out for a full day of sightseeing around Darjeeling, a charming hill station perched at an altitude of 2,042 meters, offering a perfect blend of colonial heritage, Buddhist culture, and Himalayan scenery. The day’s tour will take approximately 8 hours, covering around 35 to 40 kilometers of travel, mostly within and around the town. Roads are narrow and winding, typical of hill terrain, but mostly well-paved. Expect occasional traffic delays, especially near tourist hubs and market zones.

Our first stop is the iconic Himalayan Mountaineering Institute (HMI), established in 1954 under the guidance of Tenzing Norgay after his historic Everest summit. The institute houses a museum filled with legendary mountaineering gear, Everest expedition displays, and photographs celebrating the Himalayas. Nearby, we visit the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, known for its efforts in breeding endangered Himalayan species like the red panda, snow leopard, and Tibetan wolf. (Please note: HMI and the Zoo are closed on Thursdays.)

We continue to the Tibetan Refugee Self Help Centre, a unique facility that showcases traditional Tibetan craftsmanship. Here, refugees produce exquisite hand-woven carpets, wood carvings, and woolen garments — an initiative started in 1959 after the Dalai Lama’s arrival in India. (Closed on Sundays.)

Next, we drive past the lush green tea gardens that surround Darjeeling, offering an outer view of the sprawling plantations that produce the world-renowned Darjeeling Tea. While the tour doesn’t include a guided tea factory visit today, there’s plenty of time for photo stops and short walks among the tea bushes if you wish.

The day also includes a visit to the peaceful Japanese Temple and Peace Pagoda, built by the Japanese Buddhist Nipponzan Myohoji order to promote peace and unity. From this serene spot, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Darjeeling landscape and surrounding peaks.

By late afternoon, we return to the hotel to relax. The remainder of the evening is free for you to explore the local bazaar, sip tea at a heritage café, or simply unwind.

Overnight at The Elgin- Heritage Resort and Spa, Darjeeling

Today begins before sunrise, as we embark on an early morning excursion to the legendary Tiger Hill, located at an altitude of 2,590 meters (8,500 feet), the highest point in Darjeeling. Departing from the hotel around 4:30 AM, we drive through the sleepy, mist-laced town as we make our way up to the hilltop viewpoint. The journey takes about 45 minutes, covering roughly 13 kilometers. The roads are narrow and winding, and while well-paved, traffic builds quickly due to the popularity of the sunrise view.

Upon arrival, we await the dawn with fellow travelers, hoping for a clear view of the sunrise over Mt. Kanchenjunga, the world’s third-highest peak. On exceptionally clear mornings, you may also catch a glimpse of Mount Everest in the distant skyline. The golden and pink hues lighting up the snow-clad peaks make this an unforgettable Himalayan moment. Please note that access to Tiger Hill is regulated by Darjeeling Traffic Police, and entry is subject to availability of passes, which are arranged in advance.

After soaking in the breathtaking views, we begin our descent back to Darjeeling. En route, we may make a brief stop at the Batasia Loop, a spiral railway track that allows the famous Darjeeling Toy Train to gain elevation — a marvel of engineering with manicured gardens and great photo opportunities.

We return to the hotel for breakfast and a well-earned rest. The rest of the day is kept relatively light to allow you time to explore at your own pace. In the late morning or early afternoon, you may wish to visit the historic Planters Club, a colonial-era social club that once hosted tea estate managers and British officers. While its operations are limited, the building and its legacy are a fascinating window into the region’s British past.

For lunch, we recommend a visit to Glenary’s Bakery and Café, a Darjeeling institution offering great food and even better views. Please note that lunch is not included in the tour package.

The remainder of the day is free for leisure. You can browse local markets for Tibetan handicrafts and Darjeeling tea, stroll down Mall Road, or simply enjoy the cool mountain air from your hotel balcony.

Overnight at The Elgin- Heritage Resort and Spa, Darjeeling

After a relaxed breakfast, we check out from the hotel in Darjeeling and begin our descent towards the quiet hill station of Kurseong, often referred to as the “Land of White Orchids.” Located at an altitude of 1,458 meters, Kurseong lies along the famous Darjeeling Himalayan Railway route and offers a more peaceful, less commercialized alternative to Darjeeling. The drive covers approximately 35 kilometers and takes about 1.5 hours, depending on road and traffic conditions.

The route between Darjeeling and Kurseong follows the same narrow-gauge railway line, and if you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of the toy train chugging its way through the hills. The road is winding but scenic, passing through tea gardens, misty forests, and small colonial-era settlements. The descent is smooth, with paved roads throughout, though some bends and hairpin turn require slow, cautious driving.

On arrival in Kurseong, we check in to the hotel, after which the day is free for you to unwind and explore at your own pace. Kurseong is known for its serene atmosphere, historic charm, and verdant tea estates like Ambootia and Castleton. You may choose to take a quiet walk through the local market, visit a nearby monastery, or enjoy a cup of fresh tea while gazing at the cloud-kissed hills.

For those interested in heritage, a stroll to the Kurseong Railway Station offers a nostalgic look at the region’s colonial railway legacy. Alternatively, you may simply relax at the hotel and enjoy the tranquility of this lesser-visited gem of the Eastern Himalayas.Overnight at Taj Chia Kutir Resort and Spa, Kurseong

After breakfast and check-out from hotel in Kurseong, and will begin your journey back to Bhadrapur Airport, Nepal, to catch your onward flight. The drive covers approximately 110 kilometers, descending from the hills down to the plains, and typically takes around 5 to 6 hours, depending on road and border crossing conditions.

The route retraces your earlier path through picturesque tea gardens, winding roads, and mountain scenery, passing through Siliguri and the border crossing at Panitanki/Mechi Bridge. The roads are mostly well-maintained national highways in the plains, but the hill segments remain narrow and curvy with occasional traffic.

Crossing the international border formalities at Panitanki can take between 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on queues, so it’s advisable to start early. Once back in Bhadrapur, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Kathmandu.

Upon arrival at Kathmandu, drive to Hotel.

Overnight at Kathmandu Guest House

AM: Visit Kathmandu Durbar Square, the social, religious and urban focal point of the Capital City, a cluster of ancient temples, palaces, courtyards and streets that dates back to the 12th and 18th century.

The major tourist attractions on this tour includes a visit to the Hanuman Dhoka (Hanuman gate) which takes its name from the Monkey God, Hanuman from the epic, Ramayana The palace of the Malla Kings located in the Hanuman Dhoka is of the 14th Century and was a ceremonial palace of the Shah dynasty. Important traditional Royal ceremonies including the coronation of the King of Nepal used to be conducted at Hanuman Dhoka Palace.

Near the Hanuman Dhoka is the house of the Living Goddess Kumari - Kumari Bahal. Two painted stone Lions stand guard at the entrance. Visitors may enter the courtyard to see the Living Goddess but are forbidden to take photographs.

After the sightseeing tour of Kathmandu city we continue our walk through Asan Bazaar, the heart and soul of Kathmandu up to Thamel. 

Asan is a ceremonial, market and residential square in central Kathmandu, the Capital of Nepal. It is one of the most well-known historical locations in the city and is famed for its bazaar, festival calendar and strategic location. Asan has been described as one of the fine Newari examples of traditional Asian Bazaar. The Tuladhar, Shrestha, Baijracharya and Shakya castes make up most of the population of Asan. Six streets converge on Asan giving the square a perpetual bustle. The bazaar at Asan attracts shoppers from all over Kathmandu because of the tremendous variety of merchandise sold here, ranging from foodstuffs, spices and textiles to electronics and bullions. Asan is also one of the popular tourist spots in the city because of its architectural sights and charming ambiance. 

Upon arrival, halt for Lunch at Graden Of Dreams.

After sightseeing drive back to hotel.

Overnight at the Kathmandu Guest House or Similar

AM: Today we are visitng two UNESCO World Heritage sites. In the morning we’ll visit   Swayambhunath Stupa, also known as the “Monkey Temple” because of the monkeys that guards the hill where it lays. It is situated on the top of the hill 4 kilometers away from west of Kathmandu. It is believed the stupa is of 2,500 years old, this ancient landmark is connected to the visit of Manjushree who created Kathmandu – a lake than – by draining its waters. The sage saw a celestial lotus in bloom on the top of this hill and sacrificed it. It is an important pilgrimage center as well as the center of art, architecture, religion and culture of Mahayana Buddhism.

After Sightseeing tour of Syambhunath Stupa, Drive to Pashupatinath Temple and Boudhnath for the sightseeing Tour. 

Pashupatinath Temple - is the most sacred Hindu Temple in the world and is amongst the five principle pilgrimage sites for the Hindus. On an annual pilgrimage during Shivaratri Festival thousands of devotees of Lord Shiva from all the Hindu communities of the world pay their homage here. Pashupatinath is the reincarnation of Shiva in his most benevolent form as the shepherd of fertility and so there are no animal sacrifices in this temple, only fruits. Flowers and vermilion are offered. It lies on the banks of the Baghmati River and for the Hindus, to be cremated at Pashupatinath means a direct passage to heaven.

Later on we visit Boudhanath, a colossal stupa, just beyond the Pashupatinath Temple. It is an imposing structure standing about 36 meters and is one of the oldest Buddhist monuments ever built in Nepal. The stupa stands on the massive three level mandala style platforms surrounded by colorful family style houses. The stupa is said to have been built in the 5th Century and is a sight of great veneration.

Rest of the free on own.

Overnight at the Kathmandu Guest House or Similar

After breakfast, board the waiting vehicle and fly from Kathmandu Domestic airport. It takes around 30 minutes of flight to reach Pokhara.

Pokhara stands at 822 meters above sea level and is an ideal vacationer’s paradise. With its crystal clear lakes, magnificent views of the Annapurna Mountain Range and its bustling but quaint lake side bazaar, it is a major tourist attraction. From here most of the treks starts for the western region and is a haven for people who wants to relax in this serene mountain beauty. The Annapurna mountain range is impressive by any standard and looming ahead to take the center stage is Machapucchre or “Fish Tail Mountain”, which gets its name from the shape of its summit and flanking it from either side are the great mountains of the range including Annapurna I (8091 m), the first 8000 m peak to be scaled in 1950. The range continues to meet the Lamjung Himal in the east while to its west looms the massive dome of Dhaulagiri (8161 m).  Upon arrival, the Guests will be welcomed with the welcome drink and assigned their rooms.

Upon arrival at Airport, drive towards Nayapool the trek starting point which is approximately 47 kilometers and takes us about a hour and a half drive.

Upon arrival, meet the rest of the team here we do the final rearrangements of the luggage’s before we start to trek. The treks begins in Nayapool, past the town and descend to the bridge where we cross the river over a suspension bridge. Then climb up to the other side of the valley and continue to walk. There is an ACAP check post just at the trail junction, where the National Park entry permit must be shown prior to starting of the trek here where we do the document formalities continue further to the main village located on the ridge. Walk through on cobbled stones and then follow the trail along the Modi River for about 30 minutes to arrive at the settlement of Birethanti.

Trek Duration: 30 Minutes

Altitude Gain: From Pokhar (825m) to Birethanti (1025m)

Difficulty: Easy trail

Dinner and Overnight at Lodge

Stay at a Mountain Lodges of Nepal (MLN)- BIRETHANTI LODGE in Ghandruk.

Begin your day with breakfast in Birethanti (1,025m) and start your ascent toward Ghandrung, one of the most picturesque Gurung villages in the Annapurna region. The trail gradually climbs alongside the Modi Khola, passing through lush forests, terraced fields.

The route is a mix of stone steps and natural trails, with regular uphill sections, especially after reaching Kimche, where the path becomes steeper as it winds through rhododendron and oak forests.

The trek from Kimche to Ghandrung is around 2 hours, leading you to an altitude of 1,940 meters (6,365 feet) at Ghandrung. This adventure offers stunning views of the Annapurna range and a glimpse into the traditional culture of the region.

Ghandrung is the one of largest Gurung village in Annapurna region in Nepal where the sons and male member of the local community have sacrificed their lives to serve for the Gurkha Armies and security Forces around the world. The brave and chivalrous Gurkhas have earned themselves the reputation as the most loyal and indomitable soldiers in the world! The afternoon is free for rest or optional activities such as a visit to the Annapurna Conservation Museum and a tea break at the home of a renowned Gurkha soldier who may show you his Victoria Cross won during the first or Second World War.

VISIT:

Ghandruk Museum: You can visit the local Ghandruk Museum, which showcases the history and culture of the Gurung people, along with the local wildlife and flora.

Explore the Village: Wander around Ghandruk’s narrow alleys, observe traditional architecture, and enjoy the serene mountain environment.

Trek Duration: 4–5 hours.

Altitude Gain: From Birethanti (1025m) to Ghandruk (1,940m).

Difficulty: Moderate- challenging with uphill sections and stone steps towards the end

Dinner and Overnight

Stay at a Mountain Lodges of Nepal (MLN)- HIMALAYA LODGE in Ghandruk.

After the breakfast, Hike back to Kimche, board your waiting vehicle for a scenic drive back to Pokhara, which takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, passing through Syauli Bazaar and Nayapul, with optional stops for local snacks or photos along the way.

PM: BOATING IN Fewa Lake and Walk Along the Lakeside

Trek Duration: 1–5 hours.

Drive Duration: 2 – 3 hours

Altitude Gain: From Birethanti (1025m) to Ghandruk (1,940m).

Difficulty: Easy Downhill

Overnight at Hotel Fishtail Lodge or Similar

After Breakfast, board the waiting vehicle and drive to Brindabasini Temple, the most famous temple of Pokhara. It is situated in the old part of the city and was constructed by the Rajas of Kaski before unification of Nepal. It was renovated in 1965. The main deity is the goddess Durga. During Dasain, a major Nepali festival in October, animals such as the goat are sacrificed to appease the goddess. 

After visiting the temple, take a walk around the old market surrounding the temple. This is also the starting point of trek to Sarangkot. There are a number of old buildings but these are not as old as in Kathmandu valley. These are perhaps a century old. Some old buildings at Ramakrishna and Bhairav Toles are planned to be preserved in “monument zone” to be set up in the area. Pokhara’s traditional bazaar is bright and colourful, as are its ethnically diverse traders. it is a pleasant, shady spot, strewn with shops selling everything from edibles and cloth to cosmetics and gold! We will take a stroll around the stores, and our local guide will point out the oddities, direct us to the best stores to buy from and give us pointers on how to bargain with the locals!

After sightseeing of Brindabasini Temple, transfer to Airport for your flight back to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel.

Afternoon: Arrive in Kathmandu. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some free time for last-minute shopping or activities.

EVE: FAREWELL DINNER

Overnight at the Kathmandu Guest House or Similar

Free for last minute packing and shopping until departure to Airport for final Departure.

***END OF ARRANGEMENT***