Sikkim Trip - Planning the Itinerary and Arrival at Gangtok

The Beginnings : It was in the month of March 2016, I started planning for a trip to the Himalayas. I was more interested to visit Bhutan, the Himalayan kingdom – known for its pristine nature and Gross National Happiness(contrary to Gross Domestic Product) – a bold concept in quantifying the well being of a citizen. Budget constraints and the thrill as well as joy of exploring paradises in our own backyard, prompted me to check for Sikkim tour packages! North Sikkim is a must in the itinerary, said my friend Sandeep, a prolific explorer himself! But there were only few packages available, which included it. After careful contemplation, I finalized a package, which had the following itinerary!

Beating the summer heat, the North-East way!

Planning : The mystic Himalayas have always intrigued me. Finally in the month of March 2016, I started planning for the coveted trip. I had tough time finalizing the itinerary. Northern Sikkim is a must visit, said my friend Sandeep. But I could find only few trip packages, which included it. After some deliberation, I finalized the package, exactly a month before the tour!

Escaping the heat:  Bengaluru had already crossed 37 degree Celsius in the mid of April. I was going to beat that heat by going to one of the coldest places in India! But during the packing of warm clothes for the trip, I ensured that they were minimal, so that luggage stays light. Visiting various places within a week, carrying lighter baggage is always better. Following was my itinerary visiting Sikkim and Darjeeling