Blogs & Articles, Sikkim Tourism.

When planning a serene escape to the picturesque hills of the Eastern Himalayas, one common question arises: Which place is cheaper, Darjeeling or Gangtok? Both locations promise unforgettable experiences, from breathtaking landscapes to rich cultural encounters. To make it easier for you to compare, let us look in detail at the expenses in Darjeeling and Gangtok tourism.

Overview of Costs: Darjeeling Trip vs. Gangtok Tour

Darjeeling is a popular hill station situated in West Bengal and recognized for the tea gardens, colonial architecture, etc., and, of course, the majestic view of the Kanchenjunga peak. It is the 3rd highest mountain in the world. While in Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim, combines natural landscapes and spiritual and adventurous sights with tranquil lakes, monasteries, and the ever-bracing MG Marg.

The Darjeeling trip cost majorly includes accommodation, food, sightseeing, and transportation. A mid-range traveler’s daily expense is between ₹2,500 to ₹4,000, depending on the season and the choices. The same also applies to the Sikkim trip cost and even the Gangtok trip cost, which may differ depending on whether you are only visiting Gangtok or are traveling within Sikkim, including places such as Pelling, Lachung, or Tsomgo Lake. Many of the sites in Sikkim are quite remote, and the attractions are unique; daily costs could range from ₹3,000 to ₹5,000.

sikkim tour packages

Transportation Costs

It is necessary to plan the travel to both places, which include the beautiful towns of Darjeeling and Gangtok. Bagdogra is the nearest airport, and New Jalpaiguri Railway Station is used as the entry point.

Darjeeling: Shared taxis from NJP or Bagdogra should cost about ₹ 500-700 per head.” Taxis charged as high as ₹3,500-4,500 for fares.

Gangtok: Shared jeeps to Gangtok cost between Rs. 1000 and 1500 per head, and hiring a private taxi can cost between Rs. 4000 and 5500. Many people prefer taking a Gangtok tour package that includes transport expenses and others.

Tourist Attractions

The exciting tourist attractions, including Tiger Hill and Batasia Loop, are nearer to Darjeeling, making transport costs within the city cheaper. Travel in Gangtok requires the use of taxis to reach places like Nathula Pass or Tsomgo Lake, which are far thus expensive.

Accommodation Expenses

The cost of accommodation slightly differs due to seasons and types of lodging facilities.

Darjeeling: There are cheap hotels that range between 2000 and 3000 rs per day and expensive hotels that may cost 6000 rs and above per day. It’s possible to get guesthouses at ₹1,000 per night for those who are more cautious with spending.

Gangtok: Housing expenses are somewhat higher in Gangtok. Mid-range hotels may cost anywhere between ₹ 2500-4000 a night, while luxury can go much higher, over ₹ 7000 a night. The cheapest prices start from 1500 INR in guesthouses.

When booking a Sikkim Darjeeling tour, packages often include hotels, which could prove cost-effective.

Food and Dining

Both places provide similar food with local and regional cuisines such as Tibetan and Nepalese.

Darjeeling: Most local restaurants charge between ₹300-500 per head for food. You shouldn’t miss visiting places such as Glenary’s and Keventer’s to get the best of the craze.

Gangtok: Food and eating expenses are also nearly ₹350-600 each in local cafes and restaurants. There are quite a few restaurants and bars that offer conventional and exotic meals. Both traditional and international foods are served at MG Marg in Gangtok.

Sightseeing and Activities

Darjeeling and Gangtok have numerous free sites, but charges are high in Gangtok because it comprises off-lying and selective areas.

Most Darjeeling tour packages cover stops at Tiger Hill, flower orchids, the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, and the famous Toy Train. Both these places have an entry fee ranging between ₹20-100 per site and ₹420-1420 per person for the toy train ride.

The development of Gangtok as a tourist destination focuses on Nathula Pass and Tsomgo Lake and the monasteries of Rumtek and Enchey. The permits to travel through Nathula Pass cost between ₹200 and ₹400. The tour of Tsomgo Lake costs between ₹2,500 and ₹4,000 depending on the number of individuals in the vehicle.

sikkim tour cost

Overview of Darjeeling & Gangtok Costs

Darjeeling Trip Cost

The Darjeeling tour packages vary from ₹7,500 for a budget tour for 3 nights/4 days to ₹13,500 for an actual Darjeeling tour package for 6 days.

Gangtok Trip Cost

On the other hand, a Gangtok tour package can vary between ₹11,500 and ₹30,000 depending upon the number of days and hotels you choose to stay. The average cost in Sikkim tour packages of 5 nights and 6 days is between 22000 and 25000 rs for two individuals.

Conclusion:

The two places are no match in providing wonderful experiences; however, the Gangtok tour package proves more costly than the Darjeeling tour package. The higher cost of transportation, remote access, and special permits to visit some places in Gangtok.

Opting for a comprehensive Sikkim Darjeeling tour package can mitigate costs by adding accommodation, transportation, and sightseeing. From the colonial beauties of Darjeeling or the modern flavors of Gangtok, both places are sure to deliver the experience of a lifetime. Always consider your trip carefully, and let the hills rejuvenate your soul.

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