East India Journey: Kolkata to Darjeeling

Welcome to Kolkata, fondly called the “City of Joy”. Once the capital of British India, Kolkata is a city where colonial charm meets artistic vibrancy and modern life. Wide avenues lined with old mansions, iconic yellow taxis, and a thriving cultural scene give the city its unique character. It is also the intellectual heart of India, home to poets, filmmakers, and revolutionaries who have shaped the nation’s story.

On arrival at the airport, you will be greeted and transferred to your hotel for check-in. The rest of the day is at leisure to relax and soak in the atmosphere of this historic city.

Overnight stay in Kolkata.

This morning, set out on a fascinating guided heritage walk that takes you deep into Kolkata’s colonial past. Walking through the historic heart of the city provides an intimate glimpse into Calcutta’s living British heritage, where stories of empire and trade still echo through the architecture.

Your walk will include some of the city’s most iconic colonial-era landmarks. Admire the grandeur of Raj Bhavan, or Government House, once described by Governor-General Wellesley as proof that “India should be governed from a palace, not a counting house.” Continue to St. John’s Church, where the grave of Job Charnock, regarded as the founder of British Calcutta, lies. Nearby, pause at the Black Hole of Calcutta Memorial, a somber reminder of one of the city’s most tragic events.

As you pass Lal Dighi, the historic water tank that once served as a popular promenade, you will also see other architectural gems such as the stately General Post Office, the commanding Writers’ Building, and the elegant St. Andrew’s Kirk. Each site reflects a chapter of Kolkata’s layered history, offering you a vivid sense of the city’s unique heritage.

Overnight stay at Kolkata

Today’s journey takes you beyond the city to explore the rich European heritage that flourished along the banks of the Hooghly River. The British were not the only colonial power drawn to India’s wealth and strategic location; the Danes, French, Portuguese, and Dutch all left their mark here.

Your first stop is Serampore (formerly Frederiksnagore), founded by the Danes in 1755. Although transferred to the British East India Company in 1845, the town still bears traces of its Scandinavian past. Here, you will visit historic cemeteries and colonial-era buildings, reminders of the town’s unique Danish connection.

Continue onward to Chandernagore, once a thriving French settlement that, for a time, even outpaced Calcutta in trade. Its fortunes changed in 1757, when Colonel Robert Clive and Admiral Watson captured the settlement during the Battle of Chandernagore. The French later regained control in 1816, holding it until India’s independence in 1947. As you walk through Chandernagore, discover its charming riverfront promenade, colonial mansions, and historic churches that speak of its enduring French character.

In the afternoon, unwind on a scenic cruise along the Hooghly River, the lifeline of Bengal, as you take in panoramic views of colonial landmarks, bustling ghats, and tranquil stretches of countryside unfolding along its banks.This experience not only offers leisure but also a deeper appreciation of how the river shaped trade, culture, and colonial ambitions.

Return to Kolkata in the evening. Overnight stay in Kolkata.

Today you will travel to Barrackpore, a town steeped in military and colonial history. Its very name derives from the English word “barracks”, as it was established as the first major military base of the British East India Company. Barrackpore occupies a special place in both Indian and British memory for being the site of early resistance against colonial rule.

The first uprising occurred in 1824, led by Sepoy Binda Tiwary. The second, in 1857, became a defining moment in India’s struggle for independence. Here, the young soldier Mangal Pandey attacked his British commander in what is often regarded as one of the sparks that ignited the great Indian Uprising (or Mutiny) of 1857. He was court-martialed, executed, and his regiment disbanded – but his act of defiance remains etched in history.

Your visit will include several important landmarks:

• Mangal Pandey Park, dedicated to the revolutionary who inspired future generations.
• Gandhi Ghat, where a solemn memorial and the Gandhi Museum house an extraordinary collection of artefacts related to the Mahatma.
• Nishan Ghat, built by the East India Company for the convenience of the Governor General and his guests.
• Explore the Flag Staff House and the nearby Vice Regal Lodge, enduring symbols of Kolkata’s colonial administration and its imperial past.
• Beautiful colonial-era churches, including St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral, St. Joseph’s, and the Sacred Heart Church.

You will also stroll through the Barrackpore Cantonment, still resonant with echoes of its military past. Finally, as you pass by the Kali Temple, pause to reflect on the story of Job Charnock – the so-called founder of Calcutta – whose Indian wife is said to have been a devotee there.

Return to Kolkata in the evening. Overnight stay in Kolkata.

This morning, board a flight to Bagdogra, the gateway to the Eastern Himalayan foothills. Upon arrival, enjoy a scenic drive through rolling tea gardens, lush valleys, and charming mountain villages as you make your way to Sourenee Leaves Tea Estate, your home for the next three nights.

You will be warmly welcomed by your hostess and assisted with check-in at the elegant colonial-style bungalow. After a freshly prepared lunch, spend the afternoon at leisure, perhaps take a gentle stroll through the estate’s scenic trails or enjoy a cup of authentic Darjeeling tea as you take in the breathtaking views of the rolling hills and misty landscapes.

In the evening, gather for a relaxed dinner at the estate, embracing the tranquil atmosphere of your Himalayan retreat.

Along the way, enjoy refreshments at an exotic stop, allowing you to soak in the fresh mountain air and picturesque surroundings. On arrival at Sourenee, you will be warmly welcomed by your hostess and assisted with check-in at the elegant heritage bungalow.

After lunch, take time to explore the estate at your own pace, wandering along its tranquil walking trails amidst sprawling tea plantations. You may choose to indulge in a delightful high tea at a breathtaking viewpoint or at the comfort of the bungalow itself.

As evening sets in, unwind in the serene atmosphere of the estate before enjoying a relaxed dinner at Sourenee. Overnight stay at Sourenee Leaves Tea Estate.

Wake up to the misty Himalayan air and begin the day with a leisurely breakfast overlooking the tea gardens. Today is dedicated to experiencing the rhythms of life at Sourenee Tea Estate.

Start with a guided Tea Tour, where you will stroll through lush tea gardens and observe the delicate art of plucking the “two leaves and a bud” the tender shoots that eventually become the world-renowned Darjeeling tea. Along the way, interact with estate workers, learn about their traditional techniques, and witness how these leaves make their journey from plantation to teacup. A refreshing break with light snacks will be arranged at a scenic spot within the estate.

For the adventurous, a trek through tea bushes and forest trails takes you down to the serene stream at Subitang, about a two-hour walk. If you prefer, you may also drive down. Here, a delightful picnic lunch by the gurgling stream awaits, accompanied by the sound of birdsong and the tranquility of the surrounding hills.

Discover Mirik’s charm as you visit its serene Buddhist Monastery, the quaint Swiss Cottages, and the scenic Observation Point, before enjoying a leisurely walk around Mirik Lake. Conclude with time to browse the bustling Mirik Bazaar for local crafts and textiles.

On your return, pause at the Tingling Viewpoint, where sweeping views of the tea-carpeted hills unfold before you. Sip a steaming cup of Sourenee’s signature Darjeeling tea at the estate’s tea joint while soaking in the breathtaking panorama.

The day concludes with a relaxed barbecue dinner at the estate, under the starlit sky, bringing a perfect close to your immersive tea country experience. Overnight stay at Sourenee Leaves Tea Estate.

After an early breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to the charming hill station of Kurseong, often referred to as the Land of White Orchids. Nestled amidst rolling tea gardens and misty hills, Kurseong offers a quieter, more laid-back charm compared to its bustling neighbor, Darjeeling.

Your sightseeing will include:

• Eagle’s Craig, a beautiful viewpoint offering panoramic vistas of the plains below.
• Deer Park, a tranquil spot surrounded by greenery.
• St. Mary’s Hill (Grotto), a serene pilgrimage site tucked into the forest.
• A visit to the local museum, which preserves the history and heritage of the region.

A packed lunch will be served at a convenient scenic location during the trip. In the afternoon, return to Sourenee via Rohini, enjoying breathtaking landscapes along the way.

The evening is free for you to relax at the estate – perhaps with a quiet stroll through the gardens or a refreshing cup of Darjeeling tea. Overnight stay at Sourenee Leaves Tea Estate.

After an early breakfast, begin the day with a fascinating visit to the Tea Factory. Accompanied by the Estate Manager, enjoy a guided tour that takes you behind the scenes of Darjeeling’s most famous creation. Watch the freshly plucked leaves arrive at the factory, then follow the entire journey as they pass through the stages of withering, rolling, fermenting, drying, and sorting.

The tour concludes with a delightful Tea Tasting Session, where you will learn to appreciate the subtle differences in aroma, flavor, and appearance of various Darjeeling teas – an immersive journey that connects you deeply with the spirit of the region.

Later, depart from the estate and drive to Darjeeling, the legendary “Queen of the Hills.” On arrival, check in at the Hotel, your home for the next three nights. Perched on Observatory Hill, this historic hotel retains the charm of the British Raj, offering a perfect blend of heritage and comfort.

Overnight stay at Darjeeling.

 Rise before dawn for an unforgettable excursion to Tiger Hill, where you will witness the magnificent sunrise over Kanchenjunga, the world’s third-highest peak. On a clear morning, the golden rays light up the entire eastern Himalayan range – and with luck, you may even catch a distant glimpse of Mount Everest.

Return to the hotel for breakfast before setting out to explore the many charms of this beloved British hill station. Highlights of the day will include:

• A visit to Darjeeling’s historic cemeteries, which reflect the town’s colonial past.
• Jalapahar Hill, home to the serene Japanese Temple, and nearby, the impressive Peace Pagoda featuring four striking avatars of Lord Buddha.
• The Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, founded in honour of Tenzing Norgay, one of the first climbers to summit Everest.
• Observatory Hill, a revered site steeped in legend, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
• A leisurely stroll through the Lloyd Botanical Garden, showcasing Himalayan flora.
• A walk along The Mall, leading to Chowrasta Square, the lively hub of Darjeeling lined with shops, cafés, and viewpoints.

The day blends natural beauty, spiritual calm, and colonial heritage, giving you a true taste of Darjeeling’s timeless charm. Overnight stay at Darjeeling.

No visit to Darjeeling is truly complete without experiencing a ride on the world-famous Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Toy Train, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After a leisurely morning and an early lunch, board the charming narrow-gauge train as it huffs and puffs along the steep, winding hillsides, a feat of engineering first completed in the late 19th century.

The journey offers spectacular views of Darjeeling’s rolling tea gardens and, towering above them all, the majestic Kanchenjunga, its snow-clad peaks glistening against the sky.

Your destination is Ghoom, the highest railway station on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway line, standing at an altitude of 2,225 metres (7,407 feet). Here, the train pauses for about 30 minutes, allowing you to visit the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Museum, which houses fascinating exhibits, photographs, and vintage engines that tell the story of this legendary mountain railway.

Return to Darjeeling in the late afternoon and enjoy the rest of the evening at leisure, perhaps strolling around the Mall or relaxing at your hotel. Overnight stay at Darjeeling.

After breakfast, bid farewell to the misty hills of Darjeeling and drive down through the scenic landscapes to Bagdogra Airport, where you’ll board your flight back to Kolkata. On arrival, you will be met and assisted with a private transfer to your hotel in the city.

Check in and unwind with some time to refresh and relax. Spend the rest of the day at leisure, whether enjoying the comforts of your hotel, strolling through the lively streets, or taking an evening walk to absorb the vibrant charm of historic Kolkata. Overnight stay in Kolkata.

Today is a day to relax and soak in the final moments of your journey before your flight home. Visit the Jain Temple, renowned for its intricate marble work and peaceful ambiance, and marvel at the grandeur of the Victoria Memorial, a majestic white-marble monument surrounded by lush gardens, symbolizing Kolkata’s colonial past. Continue to Jorasanko Thakur Bari, the ancestral home of Rabindranath Tagore, which now serves as a museum celebrating his literary genius and Bengal’s cultural renaissance. Conclude the day with a visit to Mother Teresa’s Orphanage, reflecting the life and humanitarian work of the Nobel laureate, and witness the impact of her mission on the city.

For a more leisurely day, enjoy some last-minute shopping at local markets or boutiques, or simply unwind by the hotel pool, taking in the vibrant yet tranquil atmosphere of Kolkata.

In the evening, gather for a farewell dinner, celebrating the memories of your journey across India—from the bustling streets and colonial heritage of Kolkata, to the serene tea gardens of Darjeeling, and the majestic Himalayan vistas. Overnight stay at Kolkata.

After breakfast, check out from The hotel and transfer to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport for your onward flight. Bid farewell to India, carrying with you unforgettable memories of your journey—from the colonial charm and heritage of Kolkata, the rolling tea gardens of Darjeeling, to the Himalayan vistas and cultural treasures along the way.

Safe travels!