zCalcutta & Darjeeling

Check in to the Taj Bengal Hotel, our outstanding luxury hotel in the heart of this vibrant metropolis.

After breakfast, your car, driver and guide will be waiting to take you on a private tour of the city, beginning with the Academy of Fine Arts, established in 1933 and renowned for its fine collection of Indian art. You’ll also see the historic Armenian Church; built in the 18th century, it’s the oldest church in the city. Marvel at the impressive Victoria Memorial and visit Nirmal Hriday, one of the first foundations established by Mother Teresa. End your sightseeing with the Birla Temple and Howrah Bridge, an architectural landmark that has become a symbol of the “City of Joy”.  Meals B

Your private car and driver will take you to the airport for your included flight to Bagdogra. Upon arrival, travel overland to Darjeeling. Situated at nearly 7,000 feet above sea level in the foothills of the Himalayas, this historic town of Buddhist monasteries and awesome mountain views became a favorite hill station of the British more than a century ago. Check in to the deluxe Mayfair Resort Darjeeling, once the summer palace of the Maharajah of Nazargunj. The rest of this day is yours to enjoy the Mayfair’s enchanting gardens and wonderful views. Meals B,D

Early this morning, your private car, driver and guide will take you up Tiger Hill to watch as the golden light of the rising sun strikes the soaring peaks of the Himalayas. On a clear day, you might even glimpse Mt. Kanchenjunga; reaching an elevation of more than 28,000 feet, it’s the third highest mountain in the world! Return to your hotel for breakfast, visiting the ornately decorated Ghoom Monastery en route. Later this morning, your private sightseeing continues with the world-famous Darjeeling Zoo, home to tigers, bears, wolves and the rare snow leopard, as well as the Botanical Garden, established in 1878 and hailed for its fine collections of orchids and cacti. You’ll also visit the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute and impressive geological formations at the Gombu Rock site before returning to your resort, where you’ll have leisure time to enjoy its picturesque setting. Meals B,D

After breakfast, your private car and driver will be waiting to take you on the scenic overland journey to Gangtok, cradled amidst the lush greenery of the Himalayas. Check in to the enchanting Mayfair Resort Gangtok and refresh before joining your guide for a private tour of the small capital city of Sikkim. Meals B,D

Today’s full-day private excursion showcases the historic Rumtek & Enchey Monastery. Originally founded nearly 300 years ago and rebuilt in the early 1900’s, this important Tibetan Buddhist monastery is known for its magnificent Golden Stupa and large prayer wheels. Enjoy a private tour as you learn about Tibetan Buddhism here in northern India and take in the spectacular views of the Eastern Himalayas. Return to Gangtok for dinner and a final night at your enchanting resort.  Meals B,D

After breakfast, you’ll be transferred to the airport in Bagdogra for your included flight back to Kolkata.  Meals B