A Journey to Remember: Karn's Sikkim Experience with Thrillophilia
In March 2023, I set out on a memorable journey to the serene hills of Darjeeling and Gangtok with my mother. This was the first time that I booked my holiday with Thrillophilia and I must say that they made it truly special. Right from the start, their team impressed me with their professionalism, attention to detail and honesty. Being a businessman, I value efficient communication, and the meticulous planning of Thrillophilia not only met but exceeded my expectations.
Arrival in Darjeeling
Our adventure began right from the time we landed at Bagdogra Airport, where a warm and friendly guide-come-driver greeted us. The drive to Darjeeling was enchanting in itself, with winding roads that offered glimpses of tea gardens and misty hills. When we reached our hotel, I was delighted to find it comfortable and well-equipped with all the amenities we could ask for.
After freshening up and settling in, my mother and I decided to enjoy a leisurely walk along the iconic Mall Road. The vibrant shops and quaint cafes were a delightful start to our exploration. During our walk, we even picked up a few souvenirs to take home with us.
Sunrise at Tiger Hill and Darjeeling Exploration
Our second day in Darjeeling began early at 4 AM and despite the chill, the promise of witnessing the sunrise at Tiger Hill kept us excited. As the first rays of sunlight lit Mt. Kanchenjunga, the sight was nothing short of magical. The sight was a wonderful display of how spectacularly beautiful nature can be, and the experience completely awed us.
The rest of the day was packed with sightseeing and we visited the Batasia Loop which offered a stunning 360-degree view of Darjeeling and the surrounding mountains. Then we visited the Ghoom Monastery which provided a moment of spiritual reflection. My mother particularly enjoyed a visit to the Tibetan Refugee Centre. She took her time exploring and admiring the beautiful handicrafts created by local artisans.
We also visited the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute and the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park. I was completely captivated by the red pandas in the zoo. We ended our day of explorations at the Japanese Temple and Peace Pagoda. The serene and panoramic views of the Kanchenjunga range created a wonderful experience that I will carry with me forever.
Off to Gangtok
After a delicious breakfast, we bid farewell to Darjeeling and set out for Gangtok. The drive was scenic, and we enjoyed views of endless tea gardens and snow-capped peaks along the way. Once we reached Gangtok, we checked into another well-appointed hotel.
The evening was spent exploring MG Marg, a beautiful and bustling promenade filled with shops and restaurants. The lively atmosphere was infectious, and we could not resist the temptation to try out some authentic momos and Thukpa.
Exploring Gangtok’s Charm
The fourth day of our trip was dedicated to Gangtok’s vibrant culture and natural beauty. The Tashi Viewpoint offered breathtaking views of the Kanchenjunga ranges. We also found Ganesh Tok and Hanuman Tok a wonderful blend of spirituality and spectacular views.
My mother was completely taken by the Cottage and Handloom Centre that we visited, where we learned about the local handicrafts of Sikkim. The Institute of Tibetology was next on our itinerary and was another enriching stop that shed light on the region’s Tibetan heritage.
Our day ended with visits to Gangtok’s beautiful waterfalls like Ban Jhakri Falls, Lhasa Waterfalls, and Bakthang Waterfalls. Each one was unique in its own way, and the sound of cascading water was incomparably soothing.
A Himalayan Excursion
The fifth day of our trip was undoubtedly one of the best. First, we visited the ethereal Tsomgo Lake which was a glacial marvel surrounded by snow-clad peaks. The shimmering water and the crisp mountain air left us completely in awe.
Then we visited the famous Baba Mandir which is a shrine dedicated to an Indian soldier whose spirit is believed to protect those residing in the harsh Himalayan terrain. The legends and stories we heard there were both touching and inspiring.
It was unfortunate that we couldn’t visit Nathula Pass due to time constraints. But I was still thrilled with the unforgettable experiences that I had that day.
Bidding Farewell
As our trip came to an end, I couldn’t help but reflect on how smooth and enjoyable the entire holiday had been. The team at Thrillophilia ensured that every detail was taken care of, from the comfortable hotels to the courteous and skilled drivers.
Here I would like to make a special mention of Surbhi from Thrillophilia, whose regular check-ins made us feel valued. She was always just a call away to address any issues and concerns that we encountered. Avik and Shivadri from the team were equally accommodating, ensuring our comfort.
Final Thoughts
This trip to Darjeeling and Gangtok was not just a getaway; it was a deeply enlightening experience. As I was travelling with my mother, I was particularly grateful for how Thrillophilia’s team understood and catered to the needs of senior citizens.
The wonderfully planned and detailed itinerary, seamless execution, and exceptional customer service have truly satisfied me. If you’re considering your next holiday, I highly recommend their services.
Kudos to Thrillophilia for creating lasting memories. I can’t wait to plan my next adventure with them!
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