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Eastern Essence & Western Grandeur Expedition

0/5
Duration

12 Nights / 13 Days

Tour Type

Daily Tour

Group Size

10 people

Languages

English

Overview

Embark on the Eastern Essence & Western Grandeur Expedition, a captivating journey through India’s diverse cultural and natural landscapes. Begin in the vibrant city of Kolkata, exploring colonial monuments and sacred temples, before venturing into the serene tea estates and monasteries of Darjeeling and Sikkim. Experience the tranquil beauty of Gangtok and Kalimpong, followed by a scenic drive to Mumbai, where history and modernity converge. Discover the ancient wonders of the Ajanta and Ellora Caves in Aurangabad, marveling at centuries-old art and architecture. This tour offers a perfect blend of Eastern spirituality and Western heritage.

Highlights

  • This is a private tour/activity only for your group.
  • Enhanced cleaning/ traveler safety.
  • In-depth cultural experience.
  • Flexible sightseeing & stopover.
  • Most travelers can participate.

Bulk discount (by Percent)

Bulk discount adult
# Discount group From adult To adult Value
1 Discount on 2-person group 2 2 47.0%
2 Discount on 3-person group 3 3 45.1%
3 Discount on 4-person group 4 4 50.9%
4 Discount on 5-person group 5 5 50.9%
5 Discount on 6-person group 6 6 53.4%
6 Discount on 7-person group 7 7 53.0%
7 Discount on 8-person group 8 8 58.1%

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive Kolkata

Assistance on arrival at Kolkata Airport, followed by transfer to your hotel. Settle into your accommodations and unwind after your journey. The remainder of the day is free for personal activities. You can explore the local area, shop for souvenirs, or simply relax at the hotel. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 2: Kolkata

After breakfast, visit Fort William, a historic fortification built in 1781, overlooking the Hooghly River. It played a pivotal role in British India's defense strategy. Continue to Victoria Memorial, a grand marble building set in lush gardens, dedicated to Queen Victoria. It houses an extensive collection of artifacts from the British Raj era. Visit Netaji Bhawan, the ancestral residence of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, now a museum chronicling his life, leadership, and the Indian independence movement. Explore Howrah Bridge, an engineering marvel and one of the busiest cantilever bridges globally, connecting Kolkata with Howrah. The bridge offers stunning views of the Hooghly River. Conclude your day at Dakshineswar Kali Temple, an iconic Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Kali, located on the banks of the Hooghly River. The temple is a major pilgrimage site. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 3: Kolkata - Bagdogra/ Darjeeling (62kms)

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Bagdogra. On arrival, drive through scenic landscapes to Darjeeling, a picturesque hill station renowned for its tea plantations and panoramic views of the Himalayas. En route, you’ll pass through lush tea gardens, offering a preview of the region’s famous tea culture. Check in at your hotel and relax. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 4: Darjeeling

Early morning, embark on a 4am excursion to Tiger Hill to witness the breathtaking sunrise over Mt. Kangchenjunga, the world’s third-highest peak. On clear days, you can also glimpse Mount Everest. On the way back, visit Ghoom Monastery, the oldest Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Darjeeling, housing a 15-foot high statue of Maitreya Buddha. Stop at Batasia Loop, a spiral railway track offering panoramic views of the Darjeeling landscape, with a memorial to Gorkha soldiers who died in wars. Enjoy a toy train ride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offering a charming journey through the hills. Later, visit the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, a tribute to mountaineering in India, with exhibits on famous climbs and mountaineers. Visit the Zoological Park, home to rare species such as the snow leopard and red panda. Explore Tenzing Rock, a popular spot for rock climbing, and enjoy a cable car ride at Ropeway viewpoint for stunning aerial views. Conclude the day with a visit to the Tibetans Refugee Center, where you can learn about Tibetan culture and handicrafts, and a stroll through a local Tea Garden, where you can witness the tea-making process. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 5: Darjeeling - Pelling (75kms)

After breakfast, drive to Pelling, a serene town in West Sikkim known for its spectacular views of the Himalayas. Visit Pemayangtse Monastery, one of Sikkim’s oldest and most significant monasteries, known for its stunning murals and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Explore Rabdentse Ruins, the remnants of the second capital of the former Kingdom of Sikkim, offering a glimpse into the region's history amidst beautiful surroundings. Visit Tashiding Monastery, an important religious site for Buddhists, believed to cleanse the sins of those who visit. The monastery is perched on top of a hill with commanding views. Explore Sanga Choeling Monastery, one of the oldest monasteries in Sikkim, accessible via a short trek, offering a peaceful ambiance and beautiful vistas. End the day with a visit to Rimbi Waterfalls, a tranquil spot surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for photography and relaxation. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 6: Pelling - Gangtok (120kms)

After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim, via NH 31A. The route offers breathtaking views of lush forests, valleys, and Tea Gardens. Pass through the picturesque towns of Temi, Taraku, Singtam, Rangpo, and Ranipool, each offering unique glimpses of Sikkimese culture and landscapes. Arrive in Gangtok and check in at your hotel. The rest of the day is free for leisure activities or exploring the local market. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 7: Gangtok

After breakfast, set out on an excursion to Tsongo Lake, a glacial lake located at an altitude of 12,400 feet. The lake is surrounded by steep mountains and is a haven for migratory birds. Visit Do Drul Chorten, one of Sikkim’s most important stupas, built in 1945, housing sacred relics and offering a peaceful atmosphere for meditation. Explore the Himalayan Zoological Park, dedicated to the conservation of Himalayan species, where you can see animals like the snow leopard, red panda, and Himalayan black bear in a naturalistic setting. Visit the Directorate of Handicraft and Handloom, where you can see traditional Sikkimese crafts being made and purchase souvenirs. Stroll through Lal Bazaar, a bustling market where locals buy their daily essentials, offering a vivid slice of local life. End the day with a visit to The Mall, Gangtok’s main shopping street, lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 8: Gangtok - Kalimpong (75kms)

After breakfast, visit Rumtek Monastery, the largest monastery in Sikkim, known for its stunning architecture and spiritual significance. See the beautiful Bakthang Waterfall, a popular spot for photography, surrounded by greenery and offering a refreshing ambiance. Visit Tashi Viewpoint, offering stunning views of the Kanchenjunga range, especially during sunrise and sunset. Explore Enchey Monastery, a 200-year-old monastery believed to be blessed by Lama Druptob Karpo, known for its peaceful atmosphere. Later, drive to Kalimpong, a charming hill station known for its colonial architecture, flower markets, and monasteries. Check in at your hotel. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 9: Kalimpong - Bagdogra (75kms)/ Mumbai

After breakfast, visit MacFarlane Memorial Church, a historic church built in 1891, reflecting the Scottish missionary influence in the region. Explore Dr. Graham's Homes, a school founded in 1900 by a Scottish missionary, known for its beautiful campus and historical significance. Visit Durpin Monastery, perched on Durpin Hill, offering panoramic views of the Teesta River and the surrounding mountains. The monastery houses rare Buddhist scriptures. Stroll through Deolo Park, a popular spot offering breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys. The park is also a great place for paragliding and other adventure activities. Visit Thongsa Gompa, the oldest monastery in Kalimpong, built in 1692, known for its colorful prayer flags and peaceful environment. Explore Palri Fo-Brang Gompa, a serene monastery with intricate murals and a large prayer wheel, offering a tranquil atmosphere for meditation. Later, transfer to Bagdogra airport for a flight to Mumbai. On arrival, transfer to your hotel and check in. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 10: Mumbai

After breakfast, take a morning excursion to Elephanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring rock-cut temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. The intricate sculptures and carvings date back to the 5th to 7th centuries (closed on Mondays). Return to Mumbai and visit Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CST), an architectural marvel combining Gothic and Indian styles, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the busiest railway stations in India. Explore the Prince of Wales Museum, also known as Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya, housing an extensive collection of ancient artifacts, including sculptures, coins, and paintings. Visit Mani Bhawan, a museum dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi, where he stayed during his visits to Mumbai. The museum chronicles his life and work for Indian independence. Conclude your day at Dhobi Ghat, the world’s largest outdoor laundry, where Mumbai’s washermen (dhobis) wash clothes by hand in open-air troughs. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 11: Mumbai - Aurangabad

After breakfast, transfer to the airport to board a flight for Aurangabad. On arrival, visit the magnificent Ellora Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage site, featuring 34 rock-cut temples and monasteries dating from 600 to 1000 CE. The caves represent Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain faiths and are renowned for their intricate carvings and sculptures. Visit Grishneshwar Temple, one of the 12 Jyotirlinga shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, located near the Ellora Caves, known for its impressive architecture. Explore Daulatabad Fort, a 12th-century fortress famous for its robust defenses and strategic location atop a hill. The fort offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Visit Bibi ka Maqbara, often called the 'Taj of the Deccan', a beautiful mausoleum resembling the Taj Mahal, built by Aurangzeb in memory of his wife. See Panchakki, a 17th-century water mill driven by underground water channels, originally built to grind grain for pilgrims. End the day at Aurangabad Caves, rock-cut Buddhist shrines dating from the 6th to 8th centuries, known for their intricate carvings and serene ambiance. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 12: Aurangabad

After breakfast, embark on a full-day excursion to Ajanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring 30 rock-cut Buddhist caves dating from the 2nd century BCE to about 480 CE. Explore the exquisite frescoes and sculptures depicting the life of Buddha and various Jataka tales. The caves are a masterpiece of Buddhist religious art and architecture. Return to Aurangabad in the evening for an overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 13: Aurangabad - Departure

After breakfast, transfer to the airport to board a flight for Mumbai or Kolkata, concluding your tour.

Included/Excluded

  • Assistance on arrival at airport.
  • 12 Night's accommodation in 4-star hotels.
  • Daily breakfast and meal as per day plane.
  • Private air-conditioned deluxe car for airport transfer, sightseeing and excursion as per program.
  • English speaking tour guide on sightseeing days (local guide in each city), as per program.
  • Monuments entrances and activities charges mentioned in the itinerary.
  • Bottled drinking water in car.
  • Government taxes.
  • Kolkata - Bagdogra - Mumbai - Aurangabad - Mumbai flight fare approx INR 20,500 per person in economy class.
  • Camera charges at monuments.
  • Expenses of personal nature like liquor, laundry, tips, telephone, fax, internet etc.
  • Gratuities & optional activities.
  • Anything not mentioned in inclusions.

Tour's Location

FAQs

What is the standard of the hotels on this tour?

Hotels used or similar for 12 nights accommodation

4 Star Hotels
Kolkata x 2 nights: The Elgin Fairlawn/ ZONE By The Park
Darjeeling x 2 nights: Elgin Hotel/ TRamada by Wyndham
Pelling x 1 night: The Elgin Mount Pandim/ Chumbi Mountain Retreat & Spa
Gangtok x 2 nights: Elgin NorKhill/ Denzong Regency
Kalimpong x 1 night: The Elgin Silver Oaks
Mumbai x 2 nights: Fariyas Hotel/ The Gordon House
Aurangabad x 2 nights: Lemon Tree Hotel

Can travelers upgrade the accommodation to 5-star hotels?

Yes, travelers can upgrade the accommodation to 5-star hotels by paying the supplement. Please send inquiry for same from the booking page to get the price quote.

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