Sikkim and Darjeeling get over a million domestic tourists a year, and most of them rush through it in 4 days, leaving exhausted with one decent Kanchenjunga photo. We’ve designed dozens of itineraries here — this 7-day route is our gold standard.
Day 1-2: Arrive NJP, drive to Darjeeling. Day 2 is the classic Tiger Hill pre-dawn run (5 AM start), Batasia Loop, Ghoom Monastery, then the joy ride on the toy train. Sunset at Mall Road.
Day 3-5: Drive to Gangtok (3 hours). Spend Day 4 on the Tsomgo Lake-Baba Mandir-Nathula Pass excursion (need permits, organised in advance). Day 5 is Gangtok city — Rumtek Monastery, MG Marg evening.
Day 6: Drive to Pelling (5 hours, but views). Pemayangtse Monastery + Skywalk + Khangchendzonga Falls. Day 7: Drive back to NJP for departure. Add 2 days for Lachung-Yumthang if you have the time — it’s worth it.