The Riverside Wonders and Timeless Stories tour invites you to explore the serene and historical beauty of India’s riverside destinations. From the sacred ghats of Varanasi to the charming city of Kolkata, this tour offers a rich blend of spiritual and cultural experiences. Enjoy boat rides, historic temples, and local markets. Extend your journey with a visit to the lush landscapes of Kerala or the vibrant cities of northern India for a comprehensive experience.
Itinerary
Day 1 - Arrive Kolkata
Arrive in Kolkata and transfer to your hotel for a two-night stay. Take the rest of the day to relax and acclimate to the city’s vibrant energy.
Day 2 - Explore Kolkata
Start your exploration with an early visit to the colorful flower market and a boat ride on the Hooghly River. In the afternoon, visit the Victoria Memorial, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the Indian Museum. Optionally, take a tour of the Potter’s Colony to gain insights into local pottery traditions.
Day 3 - Fly to Bagdogra & Drive to Kalimpong
Fly to Bagdogra and then drive to Kalimpong, nestled in the hills of the Himalayas. Enjoy an afternoon of leisure at your hotel, taking in the picturesque surroundings.
Day 4 - Discover Kalimpong
Experience a village walk through traditional terraced farmland and rural communities, guided by a local expert. Explore market gardens known for exotic plants and gain a glimpse into the local way of life.
Day 5 - Drive to Gangtok
Travel from Kalimpong to Gangtok via scenic mountain roads. Upon arrival, spend the evening at leisure, exploring the local area or relaxing at your hotel.
Day 6 - In Gangtok
Explore Gangtok with visits to Enchey Monastery, Do-Drul Chorten, and the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology. Enjoy the Flower Exhibition Centre and Zoological Gardens, where you can see red pandas and snow leopards. In the evening, experience Gangtok's vibrant night market.
Day 7 - Drive to Pelling
Drive to Pelling, making a stop at Rumtek Monastery en route. Check into your hotel and enjoy the serene beauty of the Himalayan landscape.
Day 8 - Explore Pelling
Visit Pemayangtse Monastery and take a walk around the charming village of Pelling. Discover the stunning views and the start of popular trekking routes leading to Kanchenjunga.
Day 9 - Drive to Darjeeling
Depart early for Darjeeling, renowned for its breathtaking views of Kanchenjunga. After checking into your hotel, spend the evening at leisure.
Day 10 - Discover Darjeeling
Witness a spectacular sunrise over the Himalayas from Tiger Hill. Visit Ghoom Monastery and enjoy a joy ride on the Darjeeling Mountain Railway, traveling between Darjeeling and Ghoom.
Day 11 - Tea Estates and Relaxation
Visit a local tea estate and enjoy a leisurely afternoon exploring the plantations. Take a walk through the tea gardens or simply relax with views of the valley.
Day 12 - Drive to Bagdogra & Fly to Bhubaneswar
Drive to Bagdogra and catch a flight to Bhubaneswar. Check into your hotel and relax for the evening.
Day 13 - Explore Bhubaneswar
Visit the ancient temples of Bhubaneswar, including the famous Lingaraj Temple, and explore the Khandagiri & Udaigiri Jain Caves. Optionally, visit the Ratnagiri and Udaigiri Buddhist sites.
Day 14 - Drive to Puri
Drive to Puri, visiting the Sun Temple at Konark en route. Explore the heritage artisans' village of Dandasahi and relax at the beach in Puri.
Day 15 - Chilika Lake
Travel to Chilika Lake for a boat tour to spot dolphins and enjoy the rich birdlife. Return to Puri in the evening.
Day 16 - Drive to Rayagada
Embark on a long drive to Rayagada. Visit the weekly market of Langia Saura and explore the villages of the tattoo-faced Kutia Kondh. Stay overnight in Rayagada.
Day 17 - Gopalpur on Sea
Drive to Gopalpur on Sea and relax at the beach resort. Enjoy a leisurely day by the sea.
Day 18 - Return to Kolkata
Drive back to Bhubaneswar and catch a flight to Kolkata. Stay overnight at an airport hotel.
Day 19 - Departure from Kolkata
Transfer to Kolkata International Airport for your flight back home, concluding your journey through Eastern India.
For your “Riverside Wonders and Timeless Stories” journey, the most enchanting time is from November to February. During these months, the journey welcomes you with cool breezes and comfortable temperatures, perfect for riverside walks and uncovering the rich history. October and March are also good, offering pleasant weather as the land transition between seasons. For those who don’t mind a bit of warmth, the summer months from April to September bring a vibrant energy, though the humidity might require some extra refreshments along the way.
Kolkata
First Class, Heritage
Kolkata
First Class, Heritage
Gangtok
First Class, Heritage
Pelling
First Class, Heritage
Darjeeling
First Class, Tea Estate
Kolkata
First Class, Heritage
Kolkata
First Class, Heritage