India Expedition: Sikkim, Assam & Nagaland

Namaste! Welcome to India. Your adventure begins in Kolkata – a hub for Bengali theatre, dance, poetry, art, music and film. You’ll have a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. If you arrive early, maybe visit the Victoria Memorial or walk along Howrah Bridge for views of the Hooghly River. Tonight, maybe head out for a welcome dinner and get to know your fellow travellers – your trip leader will always have some great suggestions.

After breakfast leave Kolkata and fly to Darjeeling. Check in to your Tea Planation farm accommodation and take the rest of the morning to relax and enjoy the tranquil farm surroundings. This afternoon head out to explore Darjeeling where you will check out the colonial-era architecture backdropped by mountain peaks. Tonight enjoy getting to know your local hosts over a homecooked meal.

Get up early this morning to go to Tiger Hill to catch a glorious sunrise over the snowy peak of Kanchenjunga – the world’s third-highest mountain. Then, explore the Darjeeling Toy Train Station with your leader. This UNESCO World Heritage site is known for its narrow-gauge tracks and steam engines, which travel through the Himalayan foothills. Learn about the station’s history and how the track became an essential travel path connecting remote mountain communities to the plains below. Later visit a local tea farm. Join in for a handmade tea expereince before sitting down to a tasting with the locals. The afternoon is free to relax in the beautiful surroundings before joining your hosts for a homecooked meal.

This morning, travel to Gangtok – the capital of the northeastern state of Sikkim. When you arrive, maybe head to a local viewpoint and if it's clear, spot the peak of Khangchendzonga in the distance. Tonight, you’re free to find a local dinner or a good spot to watch the sunset.

This morning, visit Rumtek Monastery (Dharma Chakra Centre). When you arrive, explore the colourful architecture and art, and learn about the Karmapa controversy from your leader – a lengthy battle in the Indian courts with two rival organisations each supporting a different candidate for the 17th Karmapa. The rest of the day is free for you to explore Gangtok. Maybe hike to the Old Gompa, explore the Tibetology Museum or try some local tea.

This morning is free for you to explore more of Gangtok. This afternoon, drive to the train station to board an overnight train and take in the scenic views as you travel to New Jalpaiguri.

Drive to Cherrapunji and once settled explore the streets of Shora Village. The area has made a huge commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly living. After, the rest of your afternoon is free. Maybe ask your leader for some dinner recommendations.