Golden Triangle Tour with Northeast India

The best time to visit Darjeeling and Sikkim is from March to June and September to November. During spring and early summer (March–June), the weather is pleasant and perfect for sightseeing, trekking, and enjoying the scenic beauty. This is also when rhododendrons and orchids bloom, adding vibrant colors to the landscapes. Autumn (September–November) offers clear skies, crisp mountain air, and breathtaking views of the snow-clad Himalayas, especially Kanchenjunga, making it a favorite season for photography and outdoor activities. Winter (December–February) brings cold temperatures and snowfall in higher regions, which can be a delight for snow lovers but may restrict travel to some areas. The monsoon season (July–early September) is best avoided, as heavy rainfall often causes landslides and disrupts road travel.

When preparing for a Darjeeling and Sikkim tour, it’s important to pack keeping in mind the mountain weather, which can change quickly. Carry warm clothing such as sweaters, jackets, mufflers, gloves, and woolen socks—even in summer, evenings can get chilly. Comfortable walking shoes or trekking shoes are a must, as both destinations involve plenty of walking, hill climbs, and uneven terrain. Don’t forget essentials like sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm, and moisturizer to protect against the strong mountain sun and dry air. If traveling in the rainy season (July–September), pack a sturdy umbrella or raincoat along with quick-dry clothes. For higher-altitude visits in Sikkim (like Tsomgo Lake, Nathula Pass, or Yumthang Valley), carry heavier woolens, thermal wear, and a cap to handle freezing conditions. Lastly, keep handy items like personal medicines, reusable water bottles, power banks, and government-issued ID proofs, as some areas in Sikkim require permits.

Yes, there are a few important things you should know before traveling to Darjeeling and Sikkim in Northeast India to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip:

1. Permits in Sikkim – Certain areas like Nathula Pass, Tsomgo Lake, Gurudongmar Lake, and Yumthang Valley require special permits. These are arranged by your tour operator, but carrying valid government-issued ID (passport, voter ID, or Aadhaar for Indians) and passport-size photographs is necessary. Foreign nationals may need additional permits.

2. Weather Variations – The weather changes quickly in the mountains. Even in summer, evenings can be cold, so always carry warm layers. Winter travel to high-altitude areas may be restricted due to heavy snowfall.

3. Connectivity – Internet and mobile connectivity can be patchy, especially in remote parts of Sikkim. Jio and BSNL work better in hilly regions compared to other networks.

4. Health & Altitude – Some places in North Sikkim (like Gurudongmar Lake and Yumthang Valley) are at very high altitudes. Travelers may experience shortness of breath or mild altitude sickness. Carry prescribed medicines, stay hydrated, and avoid overexertion.

5. Cash & ATMs – While Darjeeling has good banking facilities, ATMs are limited in remote Sikkim. It’s best to carry enough cash for small purchases, as digital payments may not always work.

6. Local Culture & Etiquette – Both Darjeeling and Sikkim have diverse communities with deep-rooted traditions. Dress modestly, be respectful at monasteries, and always ask before photographing locals.

7. Sustainable Travel – Plastic is banned in Sikkim, so carry reusable bottles and bags. Dispose of waste responsibly to help preserve the pristine environment.

8. Food & Water – Stick to bottled or filtered water and eat at clean, recommended places. If you’re not used to spicy food, request milder options.

Yes, the tour is suitable for solo travelers.

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Yes, we can provide you with a variety of hotels to choose from, based on your preferences and budget. We have a wide network of hotel partners, from mid-range to premium and luxury hotels, so we are confident that we can find the perfect hotel for you. If you have already chosen any particular hotel(s) to stay, we can also provide that hotel(s) to you on request basis. Hotels are suject to availability. Cost may vary depending on your hotel choice.

Absolutely! Booking your flights is a breeze when you choose our tours. Simply share your departure airport and preferred travel dates, and we'll handle the rest. We'll search for flights that seamlessly integrate with your tour itinerary, ensuring a smooth and stress-free travel experience.

Yes, we accept international credit cards. Your payments are highly secure, as we process them through trusted platforms such as CCAvenue and PayPal. This ensures your transaction details are protected with the highest level of security standards.

With Alkof Holidays, you get 24X7 personal assistance from your dedicated tour manager over phone, WhatsApp, or Email.

Yes, your pickup is included in the tour. A representative will meet you at your specified location—whether at the airport, railway station, or your hotel—to ensure a smooth transfer, allowing you to begin your journey comfortably and stress-free. All internal airport pickups and drop-offs are also included in the tour.