Spectrum Tours » India Package Tour » East India Tour

Hidden in the Himalayas between India and Tibet, lie the magical kingdoms of Sikkim and Bhutan, which until recently, were closed to the outside world. Steeped in religion, ancient traditions and ancestral customs, these gentle mountain lands retain the charms of a bygone age.

Day 01. Kolkata:
Arrive in Calcutta (Kolkata). Assistance and garland welcome on arrival and transfer to pre-booked hotel. Morning free. Afternoon sightseeing around Calcutta. The name derives from Kalikata, the name of one of the original three villages on the banks of the Hooghly which today form Calcutta. The village was devoted to the fearsome Hindu goddess, Kali, - hence Kalikata (this was later anglicised to Calcutta). We will be visiting the famous Kali temple as well as the Victoria Memorial- the starkest reminder of the Raj to be found in India. Built in white marble, the monument is a combination of classical European architecture, with distinct Moghul influences. Overnight in hotel.

Day 02. Kolkata to Bagdogra:
Morning flight to Bagdogra, from where we drive to Darjeeling, founded by the British in the 19th Century. Darjeeling, meaning "thunderbolt", is spectacularly situated on a ridge surrounded by snow capped mountains and dense conifer forests. The town is full of exotic bazaars selling everything from vegetables to colourful handicrafts. The night is spent in a charming hotel.

Day 03. Darjeeling:
Early morning drive to Tiger Hill (2590 metres) to watch the stunning sunrise over the mighty Kanchenjunga. Return to Darjeeling via Ghoom Buddhist monastery, which belongs to the Yellow Sect of Mahayana Buddhists. Afternoon, visit the fragrant tea gardens of the Happy Valley Tea Estate.

Day 04. Darjeeling to Gangtok:
After breakfast, a spectacular 105km drive through the mountains, takes us to Gangtok - capital of Sikkim - located on a ridge above the Ranipul River. The views across to Kanchenjunga (the world's third highest mountain) and Singali Ridge between Nepal and Sikkim, are stunning. A two night stay in a beautiful hotel.

Day 5. Gangtok:
Today we visit the 11th Century Rumtek Monastery, seat of the Gyalwa Karmapa, head of the Kangyupa sect of Tibetan Buddhism. Next we visit the Institute of Tibetology, which was established in 1958 to promote the language and cultural traditions of Tibet. The Institute houses an extensive library, stocked with ancient Tibetan manuscripts and valuable tankas. O/n in hotel.

Day 06. Gangtok to Phuntsholing:
After breakfast, we drive on to Phuntsholing - the gateway of Bhutan, a magical land of spectacular contrasts and stunning beauty. Overnight in hotel. Enroute stop for lunch.

Day 07. Phuntsholing to Thimpu:
Morning visit to Kharbandi Monastery, followed by a breathtaking drive through jungle-clad mountains and passes to Thimpu, the capital of Bhutan. Overnight in hotel.



Day 08. Thimpu:
Our day begins with a visit to the National Memorial Chorten, built in honor of the late King Jigme Dorji Wangchuk. Next we visit Tashichho Dzong-the nation's largest monastery (the summer abode of 2000 monks) and also the seat of Government. After lunch, we visit the fascinating Traditional Medicine Institute, where medicines are prepared according to ancient Tibetan practices. Evening free for shopping. Overnight in hotel.

Day 09. Thimpu to Paro: A two hour drive to the beautiful valley of Paro, located on the old trade route to Tibet. Transfer to Hotel Druk, our stopping place for the night. Afternoon, a thrilling uphill walk to the 300yr old Taktsang Temple, also known as the Tiger's Nest. The approach to this" Temple of Heaven" is up a steep winding trail. Although the walk can be strenuous, you are rewarded with a breathtaking panoramic view from the top. Ponies are also available for those who prefer an easier option! Overnight in hotel.

Day 10. Paro to Kolkata:
After breakfast, Druk Air flight to Calcutta. Arrive and transfer to hotel.

Day 11. Kolkata:
A free day for independent activities and last minute shopping. Rooms will be retained until 1200hrs. Late night transfer to airport.

Day l2. Kolkata to Europe:
Early morning flight back to your country.