Mangaluru: My tour of North Eastern State of Sikkim, paradise of heaven on earth to beat Covid-blues

By John V Tauro
Bellevision Media Network

Mangaluru, 03 Nov 2021: In order to be free from the confinement induced by Covid-19 lockdowns, I and my wife Regina availed the services of India’s premier Mumbai-based international tour operator – Veena World to visit Sikkim – Darjeeing – Gangtok – Lachung (8-day tour). It was a great stress-buster for us and also 20+ tourist group after 20 months since Janata Curfew announced in India on March 24, 2020.

 

Bagdogra - Gangtok (2 Nights)

 

We boarded GoAir flight from Mangaluru International Airport to Chatrapati Shivaji International Airport – Mumbai on October 9; where we met our tourist group and proceeded to board the scheduled flight to Bagdogra Airport. Upon arrival, we met Veena World tour manager who took us to Gangtok - a city situated amidst natural beauty. In the evening, we enjoyed a short Meet & Greet session.

 

Day 2 Gangtok

 

Today, we explored Gangtok city, we visited Ranka Monastery, Banjhakri waterfall, we enjoyed ropeway ride which gave us a splendid view of Gangtok city, Namgyal Institute of Tibetology and Dordul Chorten Stupa. Later, we visited the Flower exhibition show, Hanuman Tok, Ganesh Tok and Tashi View Point to capture amazing views of Himalayan ranges.

 

Day 3 Gangtok - Lachung (2 Nights)

 

Today, we proceeded to Lachung - One of the most stunning Himalayan villages. En route, we visited Bhim Nala Waterfalls - one of the tallest waterfalls in Sikkim and Lachung Monastery.

 

Day 4 Lachung

 

Today, we visited Zero Point - located very close to the India - China border and Yumthang valley - A paradise for nature lovers with a fascinating blend of flora and fauna and breath-taking scenic beauty. Note: Zero Point is under BSF and the visit is subject to permission.

 

Day 5 Lachung - Gangtok (2 Nights)

 

Today, we proceed to Gangtok. In the evening we enjoyed the local folk dance.

 

Day 6 Gangtok - Tsomgo Lake – Gangtok

 

Today, we visited Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir - a holy shrine honoring Indian army soldier, folk hero and saint Baba Harbhajan Singh. Later, we visited Tsomgo Lake - a high altitude scenic lake considered to be sacred by the Sikkimese. In the evening, we had some free time to explore the nightlife and casinos of Gangtok on our own. Note: Foreigners and NRI’s are restricted to visit Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir as per Government regulations.

 

Day 7 Gangtok - Tista River Rafting - Darjeeling (2 Nights)

 

Today, we proceeded to Darjeeling - a premier destination and hill station. En route we visited Tista River for a thrilling experience of white water rafting. Upon arrival in Darjeeling we visit Mahakal Temple.

 

Day 8 Darjeeling

 

Today, early morning we visited Tiger Hill to enjoy a mesmerizing sunrise on the Kanchenjunga Ranges. Followed by a visit to Batasia Loop, Ghoom Monastery, Himalayan Mountaineering Institute (HMI), Zoological Park and Tenzing Rock. Later, we visited the Tea Estates where clicked pictures din the tea garden as well as taste local world famous Darjeeling Tea. In the evening, we enjoyed some free time for shopping.

 

 

It’s time now to say good bye to our travel companions. We assured each other to stay in touch through email, phone, WhatsApp, Facebook, lnstagram and meet again on yet another memorable tour.

 

We proceeded to Bagdogra Airport as per their schedule flight and started return journey to Mumbai and took onward flight to Mangaluru on October 20. 

 

We regained our spirits being away in Himalayas beating Covid-induced stress by fit and healthy.