Picturesque West Sikkim: Nature & Birding Tour
25 April to 08 May 2025
Embark on a mesmerizing journey to West Sikkim, a region blessed with breathtaking landscapes, unique Himalayan birds, vibrant flowers, and serene lakes. Experience curated homestays, savor local cuisine, and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Sikkim. With expert nature and bird guides, this tour promises an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts and bird lovers alike.
Tour Highlights
Explore the pristine beauty of Kanchenjunga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Birdwatching at Hilay and Barsey Rhododendron Wildlife Sanctuary, home to exotic Himalayan birds and stunning rhododendron forests.
Visit serene lakes like Khecheopalri Lake and Katol Lake, and enjoy the cascading Kanchenjunga Waterfalls. Guided nature walks with local birding experts. Stay in handpicked homestays that offer warm hospitality and introduce you to authentic Sikkimese culture. Explore the vibrant capital city of Gangtok, visiting iconic sites like Rumtek Monastery, Tashi View Point, and the enchanting Flower Exhibition Show.
Itinerary
Day 01, Friday, 04 April 2025
Arrival in Bagdogra • Arrive at Bagdogra Airport and transfer to Courtyard by Marriott, Siliguri or similar. • Relax and prepare for the adventure ahead. • Stay: Courtyard by Marriott (Bed & Breakfast included)
Day 02, Saturday, 05 April 2025
Siliguri to Yuksom • Early morning checkout and scenic drive to Yuksom, the gateway to Kanchenjunga National Park. • Settle into your cozy homestay and enjoy local cuisine. • Stay: Homestay at Yuksom (All meals included)
Day 3, Sunday, 06 April 2025
Yuksom Exploration • Join a local birding and nature expert for a guided exploration of the buffer zone of Kanchenjunga National Park. • Visit Khecheopalri Lake, a sacred and serene lake, Katol Lake, and the majestic Kanchenjunga Waterfalls. • Stay: Homestay at Yuksom (All meals included)
Day 04, Monday, 07 April 2025
Yuksom to Pelling • Begin the day with a guided morning bird walk, spotting rare Himalayan species. • Drive to Pelling, a charming town known for its stunning views of the Kanchenjunga range. • Explore Pelling’s local attractions after lunch. • Stay: Homestay at Pelling (All meals included)
Day 05, Tuesday, 08 April 2025
Pelling to Okhrey • Enjoy a leisurely drive to Okhrey, a serene village in West Sikkim. • In the evening, head out for a guided bird walk, learning about the region’s avian life. • Stay: Homestay at Okhrey (All meals included)
Day 06, Wednesday, 09 April 2025
Barsey Rhododendron Wildlife Sanctuary • Accompanied by a local naturalist and birding expert, explore the Hilay and Barsey Rhododendron Wildlife Sanctuary, famous for its vibrant blooms and birdlife. • Enjoy packed meals amid nature and soak in the breathtaking landscapes. • Stay: Homestay at Okhrey (All meals included)
Day 07, Thursday, 10 April 2025
Okhrey to Gangtok • Take a leisurely drive to Gangtok, the vibrant capital of Sikkim. • Check in to a carefully curated homestay offering stunning views and a warm Sikkimese welcome. • Stay: Homestay at Gangtok (All meals included)
Day 08, Friday, 11 April 2025
Gangtok Sightseeing • Explore the sights of Gangtok with visits to: • Rumtek Monastery – One of the most significant monasteries in Sikkim. • Sikkim Zoo – A home to native Himalayan fauna. • Flower Exhibition Show, Hanuman Tok, Ganesh Tok, and Tashi View Point. • Stay: Homestay at Gangtok (All meals included)
Day 09, Saturday, 12 April 2025
Departure • Check out and drive to Bagdogra Airport with an enroute lunch. • Depart with cherished memories of Sikkim's natural beauty.
- 8 nights’ accommodation:
- 1 night at Courtyard by Marriott, Siliguri (Bed & Breakfast)
- 2 nights in Yuksom (All meals included)
- 1 night in Pelling (All meals included)
- 2 nights in Okhrey (All meals included)
- 2 nights in Gangtok (All meals included)
- All transfers and transportation in an Innova for 9 days (as per itinerary).
- Guided nature and birding walks with expert local guides.
- Entry fees to all attractions and sanctuaries.
Exclusions:
- Airfare to/from Bagdogra Airport.
- Additional costs due to flight delays or unforeseen circumstances in Himalayan terrain.
- Any increase in fuel prices, which may lead to a surcharge.
- Expenses not explicitly mentioned in the inclusions.
Important Notes:
- No services are booked or blocked; rates and availability will be confirmed at the time of booking.
- All activities are weather-dependent and may be subject to local conditions.