Loading ...
Reflections on the trip
Sikkim exceeded our expectations. It’s a beautiful country, and the people are justly proud of its natural beauty. They are looking to position themselves as an eco-tourism destination. Unlike the rest of India, you don’t see trash by the side of the roads. All of my reading about the history of Sikkim enhanced my visit there. The Royal Guesthouse in Gangtok is filled with photos of the royal family. I felt like I was visiting the ancestral home of an old friend.
If I had it to do over again I’d add in more time in Gangtok. I would have visited the orchid garden and wandered the downtown area more. I might even have added a day to Pelling, as it is such a beautiful, idyllic setting.
I’d skip Darjeeling, not only because of our bad experience at Glenburn, but also because I found Darjeeling to be an unattractive town after spending time in Sikkim. While the setting and buildings of Glenburn were lovely, the problems there were such that I wouldn’t return.
I’d add another day to Kolkata and another Calcutta Walks tour. The Oberoi Grand was lovely and the location is perfect. Calcutta Walks was able to give us an experience of Calcutta that would have otherwise been impossible in such a short time.
You can read the full report on the Fodors community site here.
