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Colonial Cities, Tea Estate, Monasteries & Andaman Island

Package price On Request

Product Code : AGORA367

Embark on an unforgettable journey through India’s colonial heritage, serene hill stations, and tropical island paradise on this Colonial Cities, Tea Estate, Monasteries & Andaman Island Tour. Begin in Kolkata, where British-era architecture and cultural landmarks reflect the grandeur of the colonial past. Travel to the misty hills of Darjeeling and Gangtok, surrounded by lush tea gardens and ancient monasteries offering breathtaking Himalayan views. Continue to Kalimpong for a tranquil blend of nature and spirituality before flying to the pristine Andaman Islands. Explore sun-kissed beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and historic landmarks like the Cellular Jail in Port Blair. This journey beautifully weaves history, spirituality, and natural beauty into one captivating experience across India’s diverse landscapes.

Day 1: Arrival in Kolkata

Upon arrival at Kolkata airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative and escorted to your hotel for check-in. Spend the rest of the day unwinding and exploring the bustling streets of Kolkata, soaking in its unique mix of colonial charm and vibrant street life. Admire iconic British-era buildings such as the High Court, reflecting the architectural heritage of the city. Wander through local markets like New Market, where you can browse a diverse range of goods from clothing to local snacks. Enjoy a relaxed evening discovering the sights and sounds of this dynamic city.

Day 2: Kolkata Exploration

After a hearty breakfast, begin your day at the Victoria Memorial, a grand marble structure surrounded by lush gardens, housing an extensive collection of colonial-era artifacts and paintings. Proceed to St. Paul’s Cathedral, a serene Indo-Gothic marvel with stunning stained glass windows. Witness the engineering wonder of Howrah Bridge, spanning the Hooghly River, and stroll through the vibrant Flower Market to experience local colors and aromas. Explore the Indian Museum, home to ancient artifacts, Egyptian mummies, and Mughal paintings. Continue to the Marble Palace with its opulent European art and antiques, and visit Mother House, the headquarters of the Missionaries of Charity, concluding with an evening food and cultural tour to savor local delicacies.

Day 3: Kolkata – Bagdogra / Bagdogra – Darjeeling (62 kms/ 2 hrs Approx)

Following breakfast, board a flight to Bagdogra and drive through scenic landscapes to Darjeeling. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and enjoy the tranquil surroundings of this charming hill station. If time permits, visit the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway station, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and take a short toy train ride, offering panoramic views of the tea gardens and mountains. Stroll through local markets or relax at your hotel to soak in the cool mountain air. Immerse yourself in Darjeeling’s peaceful ambiance and prepare for the days ahead of exploration.

Day 4: Darjeeling Highlights

Rise early to witness the breathtaking sunrise over the Kanchenjunga range from Tiger Hill. Visit Ghoom Monastery, featuring a 15-foot Maitreya Buddha statue and intricate murals depicting Buddhist tales. Explore the Batasia Loop, a unique spiral railway offering scenic views and a Gorkha war memorial. Enjoy shopping at Darjeeling Bazaar for local handicrafts and tea, then visit the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, home to endangered species like the red panda. Complete the day with a tour of the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, learning about mountaineering history and artifacts.

Day 5: Darjeeling to Pelling (75 kms/ 3 hrs Approx)

After breakfast, drive to Pelling through scenic landscapes. En route, visit Pemayangtse Monastery, one of Sikkim’s oldest monasteries, with stunning Himalayan views. Explore the Rabdentse Ruins, the former capital of Sikkim, offering panoramic vistas. Visit Khecheopalri Lake, a sacred and serene retreat surrounded by forests. Check in at your Pelling hotel and enjoy the evening absorbing the tranquil atmosphere and breathtaking mountain vistas.

Day 6: Pelling to Gangtok (120 kms/ 4 hrs Approx)

Start with breakfast and drive to Gangtok, passing through picturesque villages and landscapes. Stop at Rimbi Waterfalls for photos and relaxation. Visit Sanga Choeling Monastery and Enchey Monastery, both offering insight into local Buddhist traditions. Enjoy panoramic views from Tashi View Point of Kanchenjunga and the surrounding Himalayas. Explore the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, housing ancient manuscripts and thangkas, and conclude the day strolling along M.G. Road, experiencing Gangtok’s vibrant shopping and dining scene.

Day 7: Gangtok Excursion

After breakfast, take an excursion to Tsomgo Lake, a glacial lake with serene waters and breathtaking mountain scenery. Visit Baba Mandir, a shrine dedicated to Baba Harbhajan Singh, set in a tranquil environment. Enjoy a yak ride around the lake for a unique experience. If time permits, explore Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary, home to high-altitude flora and fauna. Capture the stunning landscapes and relish the crisp mountain air.

Day 8: Gangtok to Kalimpong (75 kms/ 2 hrs Approx)

Drive to Kalimpong, enjoying scenic hills and charming villages en route. Visit Durpin Monastery, with panoramic views of valleys and mountains. Explore Pine View Nursery, showcasing exotic plants and flowers, and visit Zang Dhok Palri Phodang Monastery, known for its rich collection of artifacts. Enjoy a serene sunset from Deolo Hill and visit the Kalimpong Flower Nursery to admire vibrant floral displays. Relax and soak in the natural beauty of the area.

Day 9: Kalimpong to Kolkata via Bagdogra (75 kms/ 2 hrs) / Flight

After breakfast, drive back to Bagdogra for a flight to Kolkata. Continue exploring the city, visiting New Market for shopping, St. John’s Church for colonial architecture, and Birla Planetarium for astronomy insights. If time permits, explore Science City, an interactive museum with exhibits on technology, space, and natural history. Return to your hotel and prepare for the next leg of your journey to the Andamans.

Day 10: Kolkata to Port Blair (Flight)

Fly to Port Blair, the capital of the Andaman Islands. Visit Cellular Jail, a historic prison with a Light and Sound Show narrating India’s freedom struggle. Explore the Anthropological Museum and Samudrika Naval Marine Museum to understand the region’s tribal and marine heritage. Relax on Corbyn’s Cove Beach, enjoying its calm waters and coconut palms. Conclude the day with the mesmerizing Light and Sound Show at Cellular Jail.

Day 11: Port Blair to Neil Island (Scheduled Ferry)

Take a ferry to Neil Island, known for serene beaches and coral reefs. Visit Bharatpur Beach for swimming and snorkeling, then explore Laxmanpur Beach, famous for its sunsets. If time permits, browse Neil Island Market for handicrafts and souvenirs. Relax and enjoy the tranquil island atmosphere.

Day 12: Neil Island Exploration

After breakfast, explore Sitapur Beach, ideal for sunbathing and swimming. Visit the Natural Bridge, a unique rock formation, and Howrah Bridge, another scenic natural landmark. Enjoy a sunset at Sunset Point, capturing panoramic views of the horizon and the island’s serene beauty.

Day 13: Neil Island to Havelock (Scheduled Ferry)

Take a ferry to Havelock Island, the largest in the Andaman group. Check in at your hotel and relax on Radhanagar Beach, known for turquoise waters and golden sands. Indulge in snorkeling and scuba diving to explore vibrant coral reefs and marine life.

Day 14: Havelock Island Exploration

Enjoy a boat ride to Elephant Beach for snorkeling and scuba diving amid colorful reefs. Visit Kala Patthar Beach with striking black rocks, and explore local markets for souvenirs and handicrafts. Relax and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.

Day 15: Havelock Island Exploration

Visit Vijaynagar Beach and Kalapathar Beach, enjoying swimming, sunbathing, and the serene environment. Relax and witness a stunning sunset with hues of orange, pink, and purple over the islands’ horizon.

Day 16: Havelock to Port Blair (Scheduled Ferry)

Take a ferry back to Port Blair, check in at your hotel, and enjoy leisure time reflecting on your Andaman experiences.

Day 17: Port Blair Insights

After breakfast, go snorkeling at North Bay Island via glass-bottom boat, explore Ross Island, visit Chatham Saw Mill, and enjoy nature walks at Mount Harriet National Park. Spend the evening sampling local cuisine and exploring markets.

Day 18: Departure from Port Blair

Enjoy your final breakfast and our team will assist you with a transfer to the airport, concluding your tour with lasting memories of North East India and the Andaman Islands.

- Assistance on arrival at airport.

- 17 Nights' accommodation in selected price category hotels.

- Daily breakfast at hotels.

- Private AC car/van for airport transfers, sightseeing, and excursions as per the program.

- English speaking tour guide on sightseeing days (local guide in each city), as per program.

- Monument entrances and activities charges mentioned in the itinerary.

- Ferry ticket for island transfer.

- Bottled drinking water in car.

- Government taxes.

 

Hotels used or similar for 17 night accommodation

Kolkata x 3 nights
3* - Regenta Orko's/ The Fern Residency
4* - The Peerless Inn/ The Fern Residency
5* - ITC Sonar, a Luxury Collection/ The Lalit Great Eastern

Darjeeling x 2 nights
3* - Central Heritage Resort & Spa/ Omega Residency 
4* - Elgin Hotel/ The Royal Plaza
5* - Mayfair/ Windamere Hotel

Pelling x 1 night
3* - Green Leaf Resort/ The Pelling Resort
4* & 5* - Elgin Mt. Pandim/ Chumbi Mountain Retreat & Spa

Gangtok x 2 nights
3* - Tamarind Hotels/ Hotel New Orchid
4* - Elgin NorKhill/ Saramsa Resort
5* - Mayfair Spa Resort & Casino/ WelcomHeritage Denzong Regency

Kalimpong x 1 night
3* - Kalimpong Village Retreat/ Summit Barsana Resort & Spa
4* - Elgin Silver Oaks/ Sinclairs Retreat
5* - Mayfair Himalayan Spa Resort/ Morgan House Tourist Lodge

Port Blair x 3 nights
3* - Hotel De Pebbles/ Sun City Resort
4* & 5* - Seashell / Fortune Resort Bay Island

Neil Island x 2 nights
3* - TSG Aura Resort/ Pearl Park Beach Resort
4* & 5* - Seashell/ Symphony Summer Sands Beach Resort

Havelock x 3 nights
3* - TSG Blue Resort/ Munjoh Ocean Resort
4* - Seashell/ Symphony Summer Sands Beach Resort
5* - Barefoot at Havelock

- Any flight tickets.

- Camera charges at monuments if any.

- Meals other than mentioned in the inclusions.

- Expenses of personal nature like liquor, laundry, tips, telephone, fax, internet etc. 

- Gratuities and optional activities.

- Anything not mentioned in inclusions.