Planning a holiday to the Eastern Himalayas is always exciting, especially when the destinations are as enchanting as Darjeeling and Gangtok. Both places offer breathtaking views, peaceful monasteries, vibrant local markets, and the kind of mountain charm that stays with you long after the trip ends. But one of the biggest questions travellers ask before booking is—How much does Darjeeling–Gangtok tour package cost ?
Here is a detailed guide explaining the cost factors, inclusions, exclusions, budget expectations, and the best way to plan your tour package smoothly. Everything is written in easy-flowing paragraphs with clear headings to make your planning effortless.
Why Choose a Darjeeling–Gangtok Tour?
The Darjeeling–Gangtok circuit is one of the most popular Himalayan holiday routes in India. Darjeeling, often known as the “Queen of Hills,” is loved for its colonial charm, panoramic tea gardens, toy train rides, and stunning views of Mount Kanchenjunga. Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim, offers a balanced mix of culture, spirituality, adventure, and scenic landscapes.
Together, they create a perfect blend of nature, comfort, and adventure—ideal for families, couples, solo travellers, and honeymooners alike. This route offers multiple sightseeing options, delicious food, and affordable travel plans. But the overall cost varies depending on several factors like season, hotel category, transportation, itinerary choices, and additional permits.
Understanding the Darjeeling–Gangtok Tour Package Cost
On average, a Darjeeling–Gangtok tour package costs between ₹12,000 and ₹35,000 per person for a 4N/5N itinerary. This price varies based on time of travel, accommodation type, transportation, number of sightseeing points covered, and additional travel preferences. While budget travellers can explore this route economically, premium holidaymakers can enjoy a luxurious and comfortable experience with curated services.
The key to understanding the actual tour cost lies in the breakdown of components—hotel selection, transport type, food, sightseeing, and permits. Once you understand these factors, planning becomes much easier and more transparent.
Hotel Selection and Its Impact on the Package Cost
Accommodation takes up the biggest chunk of any Himalayan holiday. Darjeeling and Gangtok offer countless options—from budget stays to premium boutique hotels.
Budget Hotels (₹1000–₹1800 per night)
Ideal for backpackers and students, these hotels provide basic rooms, modest comfort, and simple lodging.
If you choose budget hotels for your Darjeeling–Gangtok tour, expect your total package cost to fall in the lower range.
Standard Hotels (₹1800–₹3500 per night)
These are the most preferred among family travellers. They come with spacious rooms, decent amenities, and comfortable stays.
Most standard tour packages include this category—making the overall cost moderate and balanced.
Deluxe to Luxury Hotels (₹4000–₹10,000 per night)
These hotels elevate your experience significantly. Premium experiences, valley-view rooms, and high-end services influence the cost.
Choosing deluxe or luxury stays can easily increase the package price by 30–40%.
Your choice of hotel category directly affects the total cost, so selecting based on comfort level and budget is important.
Transportation Cost in Darjeeling & Gangtok
Your mode of transportation is another major cost factor. The terrain of the hills requires reliable vehicles, and taxi rates are fixed for different routes.
Shared Cabs (Lower Cost Option)
Available mostly for NJP–Siliguri–Gangtok routes.
Cheapest but less comfortable.
Private Cabs (Most Preferred Option)
Tourists typically choose private vehicles like Bolero, Innova, or WagonR depending on group size.
This ensures comfort, ease of travel, and the flexibility to explore more places.
Average Transport Costs (Approx.)
- NJP/Bagdogra to Gangtok: ₹3,000–₹4,500
- Gangtok to Darjeeling: ₹3,500–₹5,000
- Local Sightseeing (Day Trip): ₹2,500–₹4,000
- Nathula Pass Trip: ₹4,500–₹6,500 (depending on group size)
The more sightseeing points and transfers you add, the more the cost increases.
Sightseeing & Permit Costs
Sightseeing in both hill stations usually comes included in your package, but some places have additional charges.
Gangtok Sightseeing Costs
- Tashi Viewpoint, Ganesh Tok, Hanuman Tok, Bakthang Falls, Flower Exhibition Centre usually fall under standard sightseeing.
- Tsomgo Lake, Baba Mandir & Nathula Pass require additional amount for permits and vehicle clearance.
Darjeeling Sightseeing Costs
- Tiger Hill sunrise trip has a fixed rate.
- Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, Zoo, Tea Garden, Japanese Temple, and Batasia Loop come under regular sightseeing.
- The Toy Train ride is NOT included in most packages and needs to be purchased separately.
Permit Costs
- Nathula Pass: ₹200 per person (approx.)
- Tsomgo Lake permit fees: Usually included but varies seasonally.
Sightseeing choices affect your budget, especially if you include Nathula Pass or Zero Point.
Food & Meals Included in the Tour Package
Most Darjeeling–Gangtok tour packages include breakfast.
Lunch and dinner expenses vary depending on restaurant selection.
Average Food Costs:
- Budget meals: ₹150–₹250 per plate
- Standard meals: ₹250–₹450
- Premium restaurants: ₹500+
If you choose a package with MAP meals (breakfast & dinner), the cost increases slightly but offers more convenience.
Season-Wise Cost Variation
Tour prices vary greatly depending on the time of the year.
Peak Season (Higher Cost)
- April to June
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October to early December
High demand increases hotel and transport rates.
Off Season (Lower Cost)
- January to March
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Mid-July to September
Rainy season and cold months bring lower prices, making packages cheaper by 15–25%.
Travelling during off-season can reduce your overall Darjeeling–Gangtok tour package cost significantly.
What’s Usually Included in the Tour Package?
- Accommodation in chosen hotel category
- Breakfast each morning
- Private vehicle for all sightseeing and transfers
- Driver allowances, fuel charges, parking
- Gangtok sightseeing
- Darjeeling sightseeing
- Pickup & drop from NJP/Bagdogra
Depending on your travel agency, some packages also include travel insurance or special add-ons.
Exclusions That May Affect the Cost
- Flight or train tickets
- Nathula Pass fees
- Zero Point or Katao trip (additional cost)
- Toy Train tickets
- Entry fees to parks, zoo, monasteries, museums
- Personal shopping expenses
- Meals apart from breakfast
- Anything not explicitly mentioned in inclusions
Always check the inclusions carefully before booking.
Tips to Reduce Your Darjeeling–Gangtok Tour Package Cost
- Travel during off-season or shoulder season
- Choose standard hotels instead of luxury
- Avoid unnecessary sightseeing add-ons
- Book flights/trains early
- Travel in a group to share taxi costs
- Choose a reliable travel agency offering customisable packages
Smart planning can help you enjoy a great trip without overspending.
Conclusion: Plan Your Dream Himalayan Escape
A Darjeeling–Gangtok tour is one of the most memorable travel experiences you can enjoy in the Eastern Himalayas. Whether you’re travelling for leisure, adventure, or a romantic getaway, the two destinations offer unbeatable natural beauty and soulful mountain charm. The total tour package cost depends entirely on your travel style—budget, standard, or luxury. Understanding the cost breakdown helps you plan better and ensures a stress-free holiday experience.
With the right planning, you can design the perfect Darjeeling–Gangtok holiday within your budget and enjoy every moment among misty mountains and serene valleys.
