Unlocking Sikkim’s Holy Land: A Guided Gangtok Monastery Trail Itinerary
Day-wise Schedule:
Day 1: Arrival in Gangtok
- Arrive at Bagdogra Airport and take a scenic drive to Gangtok (4-5 hours)
- Check-in at a hotel and rest
- Evening visit the Enchey Monastery, a Nyingma order monastery famous for its meditation and rituals
- Overnight at hotel
Approx. Cost:
- Flights from Kolkata to Bagdogra: INR 3,000 – 4,000 / USD 40 – 50
- Hotel stay: INR 1,500 – 2,000 / USD 20 – 25
- Transportation: INR 500 – 700 / USD 7 – 10
- Total: INR 5,000 – 6,700 / USD 65 – 85
Day 2: Gangtok Exploration
- Morning visit the Rumtek Monastery, a renowned Nyingma order monastery
- Afternoon explore the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, a research center on Tibetan Buddhism
- Evening visit the MG Road for shopping and dinner
- Overnight at hotel
Approx. Cost:
- Transportation: INR 200 – 300 / USD 3 – 4
- Lunch and dinner: INR 500 – 800 / USD 7 – 11
- Total: INR 700 – 1,100 / USD 10 – 15
Day 3: Trek to Yumthang Valley
- Early morning start trek to Yumthang Valley (12 km, 6-7 hours)
- Enjoy the scenic views of the valley and hot springs
- Overnight at a camp
Approx. Cost:
- Trek guide: INR 2,000 – 2,500 / USD 25 – 30
- Camp stay: INR 1,000 – 1,500 / USD 13 – 20
- Food and supplies: INR 1,000 – 1,500 / USD 13 – 20
- Total: INR 4,000 – 5,500 / USD 50 – 70
Day 4: Return to Gangtok
- Return to Gangtok (12 km, 6-7 hours)
- Check-in at hotel and rest
- Evening visit the Do Drul Chorten, a famous stupa in Gangtok
- Overnight at hotel
Approx. Cost:
- Transportation: INR 200 – 300 / USD 3 – 4
- Lunch and dinner: INR 500 – 800 / USD 7 – 11
- Total: INR 700 – 1,100 / USD 10 – 15
Budget Estimates:
Total: INR 14,400 – 20,100 / USD 185 – 255
Additional Suggestions:
- Try the local Sikkimese cuisine, which is a fusion of Tibetan, Nepali, and Indian flavors
- Visit the local markets for some unique souvenirs and handicrafts
- Take a guided tour of the monasteries to learn more about Tibetan Buddhism and its practices
- Explore the scenic views of the Himalayas on a clear day
Important Links:
- For more information on different travel destinations in India, visit xplro.com
Note: The budget estimates are approximate and may vary depending on the time of year, availability, and other factors. It’s always best to research and book in advance to get the best deals.
