We heartily welcome you to discover the rich and diverse culture of Darjeeling and Sikkim through our Darjeeling & Sikkim Authentic Cultural Tour. The distinct culture found in this area cannot be found elsewhere in India. Become fascinated learning about the history, people, art, architecture, religion, and many more facets of these beautiful places!

Our authentic tour takes you beyond the typical tourist experience for an inside look at the daily lifestyle of locals. Instead of staying for several days in one tourist destination, we spend time in the typical hillside towns of Sikkim, experiencing the charm that makes them each of them unique.

The tour kicks off with a tour of Darjeeling’s most beloved sites and monuments. Visit the Tibetan Self Help Center and watch as Tibetan refugees make beautiful handmade clothes and crafts for purchase. Step into the Dali Monastery, where devoted monks of all ages learn about the dharma and practice the monastic life. If we make the timing right, we’ll hear monks chanting and playing their magnificent instruments.

One highlight of Darjeeling is visiting Tiger Hill for the sunrise. Stare in awe at some of the world’s highest mountains (including Everest, Kanchenjunga, and Makalu!) as the bright orange and red of the rising sun strike them. It is a sight that you will never forget!

After two lovely days in Darjeeling, we move to Pelling and then Yuksom. Pelling is home to the centuries-old Pemayangtse Monastery, a picturesque place with a stunning view. It is the oldest and most well-known monastery in west Sikkim.

The next day of the memorable road trip, we reach Yuksom, where we visit Khecheopalri Lake, originally known as Kha-Chot-Palri (meaning the heaven of Padmasambhava). The lake, considered sacred by both Hindus and Buddhists, is said to grant wishes of those who visit. Every year there is a two-day festival during March or April where hundreds of pilgrims come from all parts of India, Bhutan and Nepal to perform a ritual of floating butter lamps on bamboo boats with khada (sacred scarves) on the lake. If you want to see this for yourself, we can arrange the tour during this festival!

Last but not least, we visit Gangtok, the capital and largest town in Sikkim. Spend the day and a half visiting tea estates and ornate, elegant Buddhist monasteries. Feel a sense of inner peace at these spiritual centers. Rumtek Monastery is a massive monastic center that will blow you away. Enchey Monastery is a more humble-sized one, surrounded by a lush forest. Life is Gangtok moves at a relaxed pace. By the time you leave Gangtok, you will already be planning your next trip there.

Spend a week seeing the best of what Darjeeling and Sikkim have to offer. Learn the history behind the temples, churches, and various historical buildings. Be immersed in the fascinating local cultures, which are exclusive to this area (Darjeeling and Sikkim only). Come and experience their authentic culture!

Join us in the Darjeeling & Sikkim Authentic Cultural Tour anytime of the year. Just be aware of the climate of the area when booking your trip. Ashmita Trek and Tours arranges the tour with full management, including transportation, meals, etc. Please do not hesitate to reach out if you have questions!

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

. Once-in-a-lifetime view of Everest, Kanchenjunga, and Makalu at Tiger Hill (2590 meters)

. Visit the majestic Rumtek Monastery – the largest monastery in Sikkim

. Taste the world-famous Darjeeling tea

. Spend time with the local ethnic groups – most are ethnically Nepali and Bhutia