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Day 1: Arrival in Gangtok – Transfer to Dzongu

Arrival: Arrive at Bagdogra Airport or NJP Railway Station and embark on a scenic drive (5–6 hours) through forested hills and river valleys to Dzongu Valley, a serene, protected region home to the indigenous Lepcha community.

Places to Visit & Experience:

• Lepcha Village Walk: Stroll around the nearby village, interact with locals, and witness traditional Lepcha architecture and way of life.

• River Valley Views: Enjoy stunning Himalayan backdrops and the rhythmic sounds of nature.

• Cultural Welcome: Savor warm hospitality, traditional cuisine, and local stories by the fire.

Overnight stay at Dzongu countryside.

Day 2: Explore Dzongu

Travel & Exploration: Begin your day with a light trek or drive through bamboo groves and across rope bridges to explore Dzongu’s hidden gems.

Places to Visit:

• Tholung Monastery: Visit one of Sikkim’s oldest and most sacred monasteries, surrounded by dense forest and spiritual energy.

• Hot Springs: Relax by the river and dip your feet into naturally warm healing waters.

Experience:

• Traditional Lepcha Lunch: Relish locally-sourced meals served in bamboo or leaf plates.

• Nature Immersion: Birdwatching, local flora walks, and moments of pure stillness.

Day 3: Dzongu to Zuluk via Mangan & Rongli

Travel: Hit the road early for a mesmerizing journey (7–8 hours) from Dzongu to Zuluk, winding through high-altitude forests and mountain passes.

Places to Visit:

• Rongli: Stop for permits and light refreshments in this quaint mountain town.

• Scenic Drive: Pass through forests, waterfalls, and glimpses of the eastern Himalayan peaks.

Experience:

• Silk Route Traces: Drive the historic route once used by traders from Tibet to India.

• Evening Bonfire (optional): Warm up with a bonfire and local tales under the stars.

Overnight stay at Zuluk, perched on a Himalayan slope.

Day 4: Explore Zuluk – Transfer to Gnathang Valley

Travel & Exploration: Wake up early to explore the high-altitude terrain before heading to Gnathang Valley, one of Sikkim’s most surreal landscapes.

Places to Visit:

• Thambi Viewpoint: Marvel at the iconic 32 Hairpin Bends and panoramic Himalayan views.

• Lungthung & Kupup Lake: Visit tranquil lakes and ridgeline hamlets often blanketed in mist.

Experience:

• Sunset over Kanchenjunga: Watch the last rays illuminate the towering peak in golden hues.

• Local Culture: Interact with yak herders and understand the high-altitude lifestyle.

Overnight stay at Gnathang Valley.

Day 5: Gnathang to Aritar

Travel: Drive to the charming village of Aritar (3–4 hours), a lush hamlet surrounded by forests and lakes.

Places to Visit:

• Eagle’s Nest Bunker: Watch a glorious sunrise from this vantage point at 13,000 ft.

• Aritar Lake (Lampokhari): Take a walk around Sikkim’s oldest natural lake.

• Aritar Monastery & British Bungalow: Visit colonial relics and hidden spiritual corners.

Experience:

• Leisure Evening: Read a book, sip local tea, or simply gaze at the starlit sky.

Overnight stay at Aritar.

Day 6: Aritar to Temi Tea Garden

Travel: After breakfast, head toward Temi, Sikkim’s only tea estate (approx. 3–4 hours).

Places to Visit:

• Temi Tea Estate: Walk through the rolling plantations and learn about organic tea production.

• Tea Factory Tour: Get a behind-the-scenes look at tea processing.

Experience:

• Tea Tasting Session: Savor different varieties of fresh Sikkimese tea.

• Plantation Walk: Enjoy a serene sunset walk among the aromatic tea bushes.

Overnight stay at a plantation resort with panoramic views of tea-laden slopes.

Day 7: Departure

Travel: After breakfast, bid farewell to the hills as you drive back to Bagdogra/NJP (approx. 4–5 hours).
Experience:

• Reflect on your serene Himalayan journey and the lesser-known stories of Sikkim’s heritage, culture, and untouched beauty.