Tour Location: Sittong, Takdah, Tinchuley, and Dawapani
Pickup Location: NJP (New Jalpaiguri Railway Station) or Bagdogra Airport
Tour Durations: 3 Nights / 4 Days
Sittong
Sittong is a quaint village nestled in the Darjeeling district, renowned for its stunning orange orchards and picturesque landscapes. This serene location offers visitors a chance to experience the rich culture and warm hospitality of the local community. As you wander through the village, you’ll find charming cottages and lush green hills, making it a perfect spot for nature walks and photography. Sittong is particularly vibrant during the orange harvest season (November to January), drawing visitors who want to see the fields ablaze with color. Don’t miss the chance to interact with friendly locals and enjoy traditional cuisine at local homestays.
Takdah
Takdah, meaning “the place of a single tree,” is known for its breathtaking views of the Eastern Himalayas and expansive tea gardens. The region is less commercialized than some other areas, offering a peaceful retreat for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle. Visitors can explore the Takdah Tea Estate, which produces high-quality tea, and enjoy guided tours that reveal the tea-making process. The area is also home to the serene Takdah Monastery, where you can experience the tranquility of Buddhist culture. The lush green landscapes and the cool climate make Takdah an ideal spot for leisurely walks and soaking in the natural beauty.
Tinchuley
Tinchuley is a hidden gem located close to the popular hill stations of Darjeeling and Kalimpong. This small village is known for its breathtaking views of the Kanchenjunga mountain range and its serene environment. The area is dotted with vibrant tea gardens and stunning viewpoints like Ahaldhara, where visitors can enjoy panoramic vistas of the mountains and valleys. Tinchuley is an excellent destination for nature lovers, with opportunities for trekking and birdwatching. The warm hospitality of the homestays provides a unique chance to experience local culture and enjoy delicious home-cooked meals made from fresh ingredients sourced from the surrounding farms.
Dawapani
Dawapani is a tranquil and lesser-known destination that offers an escape into nature. Surrounded by dense forests and stunning mountain scenery, it is perfect for hiking and exploring the great outdoors. The region is characterized by its rich biodiversity, making it an ideal spot for birdwatching and photography. The peaceful ambiance of Dawapani allows visitors to unwind and connect with nature, providing a much-needed respite from city life. You can embark on various trekking trails that lead to stunning viewpoints, where the Himalayan panorama unfolds before your eyes. Dawapani is a place where you can truly relax, rejuvenate, and soak in the beauty of the natural world.
These destinations collectively offer a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and tranquility, making for a memorable journey through the heart of the Himalayas.
Day 1: Arrival in Sittong
- Morning:
- Arrive at NJP or Bagdogra Airport.
- Pickup and drive to Sittong (approx. 3 hours).
- Check into your homestay.
- Afternoon:
- Enjoy lunch at the homestay.
- Explore the picturesque village of Sittong, famous for its orange gardens and charming landscapes.
- Evening:
- Visit the local market and interact with villagers.
- Enjoy a sunset view.
- Dinner:
- Traditional dinner at the homestay.
Day 2: Sittong to Takdah
- Morning:
- Breakfast at the homestay.
- Depart for Takdah (approx. 1 hour drive).
- Mid-Morning:
- Visit the Takdah Tea Garden for a guided tour and tea tasting.
- Explore the beautiful surroundings and the famous Takdah Monastery.
- Afternoon:
- Enjoy lunch in Takdah, sampling local cuisine.
- Evening:
- Leisure time to stroll through the village or relax at your homestay.
- Dinner:
- Enjoy a meal with your hosts, featuring local dishes.
Day 3: Takdah to Tinchuley
- Morning:
- Breakfast at your homestay.
- Depart for Tinchuley (approx. 1 hour drive).
- Mid-Morning:
- Check into Pine Nest Homestay.
- Visit the nearby viewpoints, such as the Ahaldhara viewpoint, for stunning views of the mountains.
- Afternoon:
- Lunch at the homestay.
- Explore the local tea gardens and take a nature walk.
- Evening:
- Visit the local monastery and enjoy the serene surroundings.
- Dinner:
- Traditional dinner at the homestay.
Day 4: Tinchuley to Dawapani
- Morning:
- Early breakfast at the homestay.
- Depart for Dawapani (approx. 1.5 hours drive).
- Mid-Morning:
- Enjoy a nature walk in Dawapani, known for its tranquility and beautiful landscapes.
- Visit local viewpoints for panoramic views of the Himalayas.
- Afternoon:
- Picnic lunch amidst nature.
- Explore nearby trails or relax and enjoy the scenery.
- Evening:
- Return to Tinchuley or head back to NJP/Bagdogra for your departure.
Package Inclusions:
- Standard homestays at Sittong, Takdah, and Tinchuley.
- All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner).
- Private sightseeing.
- Pickup and drop from NJP/Bagdora.
Exclusions:
- Entry charges for specific sites.
- Camera charges.
- Train or airfare.
- Room heater charges.
- Porter charges.
Here’s a set of policies that you can implement for the Sittong – Takdah – Tinchuley – Dawapani itinerary package. These policies can help ensure a smooth experience for both your guests and your homestay:
Booking Policies
- Advance Booking:
- Reservations should be made at least 7 days in advance to secure accommodations and arrangements.
- Confirmation:
- A confirmation email will be sent upon successful booking, detailing the itinerary, accommodations, and payment instructions.
- Payment:
- A deposit of 30% is required at the time of booking, with the remaining balance due 3 days before arrival.
- Payments can be made via bank transfer, online payment methods, or cash upon arrival.
Cancellation Policies
- Cancellation by Guest:
- Cancellations made 14 days before the check-in date will receive a full refund of the deposit.
- Cancellations made between 7 to 13 days before check-in will incur a 50% cancellation fee of the deposit.
- Cancellations made less than 7 days before check-in will forfeit the entire deposit.
- Cancellation by Management:
- In case of unforeseen circumstances leading to cancellation by the management, guests will receive a full refund or an alternative arrangement.
Refund Policies
- Refunds will be processed within 7-10 business days after the cancellation request is approved.
Itinerary Changes
- Guest-Initiated Changes:
- Any changes to the itinerary requested by guests must be communicated at least 48 hours in advance and are subject to availability.
- Management-Initiated Changes:
- The management reserves the right to modify the itinerary due to weather conditions, road closures, or unforeseen circumstances, ensuring the safety and comfort of guests.
Inclusions and Exclusions
- Inclusions:
- Standard homestays at Sittong, Takdah, Tinchuley, and Dawapani.
- All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner).
- Private sightseeing and guided tours.
- Pickup and drop from NJP/Bagdogra.
- Exclusions:
- Entry charges for specific tourist sites.
- Camera charges.
- Train or airfare.
- Room heater charges (if applicable).
- Porter charges.
