Highlights

Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary  – spanning over 104 sq kms, this sanctuary is known for its stunning display of vibrant rhododendron blooms during the spring season. It offers lovely hiking, where you can breathe in the fresh mountain air, and catch glimpses of rare bird species. 

Rinchenpong – a serene and enchanting town situated at 5,500ft. This picturesque town offers panoramic vistas of snow-capped peaks, lush green valleys, and terraced farmlands. The charming village is adorned with Buddhist monasteries, ancient chortens, and prayer flags. 

Pelling – Explore the ancient ruins of Rabdentse Palace, witness the sacred Pemayangtse Monastery, and enjoy panoramic vistas of Kanchenjunga. 

Kurseong – with its pleasant climate, panoramic vistas, and quaint colonial charm, Kurseong is a less touristy alternative to Darjeeling. Surrounded by tea estates, you can also hop on the toy-train.

This itinerary is suitable any time between October and May, though by May Sikkim may already be experiencing rainfall which makes hiking difficult and views of the snow capped peaks unlikely. Winters can be very cold up in the hills, so we recommend travel between October and end of November, and February to April for the most comfortable weather conditions. 

Overview 

Are you yearning for wide open spaces set amidst pristine nature? This itinerary was planned specifically to visit destinations in West Sikkim which has less footfalls. Visiting in April in particular means arriving in time for the rhododendron trees to be in full bloom. 
Off the beaten path, at a height of 10,000 ft., Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary is ideal for day
walks / treks. It shares a border with Nepal and is home to a large concentration of the wonderful
rhododendron flowers and several endangered species of animals including the elusive Red Panda and Musk Deer. The rhododendron flowers bloom prolifically from end March till early
May and parts of the sanctuary are filled with brilliant shades of red and pink. On a clear morning, there is a possibility of spotting most of the important peaks of Sikkim including the Kanchenjunga.

We’ve included a stay at a lovely heritage farm stay near Rinchenpong, where your host can take you on a walk through the farm. Explore Pelling and some of the popular sights of the region.
We will end the trip with a night stay in a heritage property in Kurseong with a last hurrah. 

Day 1 – Bagdogra Airport – Rinchenpong 

On arrival in Bagdogra you will be met by your driver and transferred to Rinchenpong. Check in to your farmstay, and afternoon is free to relax or take a walk round the farm. 

Day 2 – Rinchenpong 

After breakfast we will walk in the forest nearby that is filled with old chestnut trees and wild
berries which we can pluck and eat during our walk. We will provide a light snack too. Gorgeous
views of the countryside and a chance to explore a monastery, watch farmers work on their land
and visit a 100-year-old Lepcha house.

Late afternoon visit the monastery to hear the monks doing their ritual evening chanting.

Day 3 – Rinchenpong

After breakfast around 8.30-9am, we will head out in our vehicles to explore some of the famous
sights of the region – Singshore bridge, Sky walk and Rabdentse ruins. 
Return to the farmstay by evening.
Enjoy a bonfire before dinner.

Day 4 – Rinchenpong – Okhrey 

Check out after breakfast and transfer to Okhrey which is a small Sherpa village at 9000ft. Our homestay is located in a very scenic spot with a garden to sit and
soak it all in. Early evening, explore the village with your host. and at leisure explore the area around, which
offer some great views. 

Day 5 – Okhrey 

Today walk through thick pine forests and a small river known as Gorkhey Khola (which marks the boundary between Sikkim and
West Bengal) to reach the small village of Gorkhey which is occupied by 30 odd families. There is no motorable road to the village, and the hike is a very scenic one, through rhododendron forests. 

Day 6 – Okhrey

Set off early this morning, so our chances of catching a glimpse of the snowy peaks of the Kanchenjunga range at Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary. A guide will accompany us along with a packed breakfast. It’s a lovely hike, with a variety of trees in bloom, wild bamboos and a variety of Himalayan
birds. Walk up to a point for some spectacular views of Kanchanjunga. You’ll be back in Okhrey by lunch. Relaxing afternoon and evening bonfire with rhododendron wine and watch a local
cultural performance.

Day 7 – Okhrey – Kurseong 

Check out after breakfast and drive down to Kurseong with a lunch break in Darjeeling. Check into the heritage hotel by tea time.

Day 7 – Kurseong – Bagdogra Airport 

After breakfast depart
for Bagdogra airport.