Kolkata

Kolkata is perhaps best known as the “City of Joy”. The Ganges is still the inspiration and heart of this teeming metropolis, as it was to Job Charnok, the East India Company officer who founded the city on its shores in August 1690. It was the capital of India under British rule until 1911, and a stroll through the city streets will lead you past many magnificent colonial buildings. One of the most beautiful and remarkable buildings of the Raj era is surely the Victoria Memorial, while Howrah Bridge is one of the greatest testaments to British architecture and engineering. Visit and celebrate mass in Mother Teresa’s house.

Darjeeling

The 'Queen of the Himalayas' is a Colonial town established by the British in the 1850s. From Tiger Hill, at the break of dawn, admire the views of mighty Kanchenjunga, the third highest mountain in the world. You will also have the opportunity to visit some of the world’s best tea gardens. To finish off, take a ride on the famous ‘Toy Train’, a UNESCO World Heritage site, enjoying breathtaking views of red rhododendrons, magnolias, majestic pines, gasping gorges and lush green tea gardens covering the hill slopes.

Gangtok

At an altitude of over 5,600 ft. this picturesque town is blessed with the magnificent backdrop of the snowcapped peaks of the Kanchenjunga range. Gangktok is the capital of Sikkim, surrounded by Nepal, China and Bhutan on three sides. Learn about Tibetan Buddhist culture and art while visiting the famous monasteries. An excursion to Tsongo Lake, which at 13,400 feet is one of the highest lakes in the world, is a mesmerizing and literally breath-taking highlight of the itinerary.

Kaziranga

National Park is another UNESCO World Heritage site. Its tall thickets of ‘elephant grass’ make it one of the last habitats of the highly endangered Indian One-Horned Rhino, of which there are currently more than 1,800 in the park. An early morning safari on elephant back and late evening jeep ride provide opportunities to spot the rhinos, herds of wild elephants, Indian bison, swamp deers, leopard cats, numerous species of birds and if very lucky, even tigers. A thrilling safari and two nights stay in a Jungle Bungalow make a remarkable experience.

Pelling

Enjoy a panoramic drive to Pelling. Catch the golden sunrise over Mount Khangchendzonga as well as spectacular views of its sister mountains from the comfort of your room. Walk around and explore the surrounding areas, dotted with countless waterfalls, cardamom gardens, alpine forests and ancient Buddhist monasteries.

Check also Amazing Taj & Royal India »