Extension from £489pp
Tour + Extension from £1888pp
To book call us on 0800 781 4893
Once a famous hunting ground for the gallant rulers of Jaipur, Ranthambore National Park is spread over 1,344km2 and is one of the biggest national parks in India. Choose this extension to experience a variety of wildlife including tigers, leopards, deer and much more.
Depart London on your overnight flight to Kolkata
Upon arrival into the 'City of Joy', transfer to tonight's hotel and uncover the magnificent sights of this city of contrasts on an enlightening afternoon orientation tour. Be transported back in time with a visit to one of South Asia's finest surviving Colonial centres, Dalhousie Square, a bustling plaza in the heart of modern Kolkata. Fringed by a spectacular array of historical and architectural wonders catch a glimpse of the high roofed white dome of Kolkata's General Post Office and the impressive St Paul's Cathedral. A remarkable example of Gothic Revival architecture, three intricately embellished stained-glass windows dominate the cathedral's majestic facade and flood its ornate interior with a spectacular kaleidoscopic showcase.
After breakfast, embark on a short flight to Bagdogra before twisting through the fluctuating landscapes of Darjeeling, an area often referred to as the Queen of Hills. With a tranquil ambience, Darjeeling serves as India's core tea growing district, affording breath-taking views of rolling hills and emerald green tea plantations which stretch along the horizon. Framed by some of the world's highest pinnacles, the imposing peaks of the Himalayas establish an unforgettable backdrop.
Early this morning, ascend 8,300ft into the dizzying heights of Tiger Hills to see the first peek of sunlight emerge over the tips of Mount Kanchenjunga and Everest from the highest point in the Darjeeling Hills. A picturesque descent leads you back to the hotel for breakfast. Later this morning, the charming Toy Train zigzags along narrow, mountainous tracks through small villages and lush green vegetation to reach the iconic Batasia Loop, an encircling segment of railway track, constructed to ease the mountain's steep gradient. A popular observation point, disembark to wander twisting pathways and blossoming gardens and discover the centralised poignant war memorial, dedicated to the soldiers who lost their lives in various wars after Indian Independence.
This morning, transfer to the largest town and capital of Sikkim, Gangtok; an area of supreme beauty, this tiered district one of the most beautiful areas in the state. En-route to the heart of Gangtok, stop at the small hillside retreat of Lamahatta, a peaceful village nestled amongst towering pine trees, and embark on a short hike within Lamahatta Park, where nature lovers will relish in this biodiverse haven, laden with an extensive variety of flora and fauna. Continue onwards to experience the charged energy emanating from one of Gangtok's oldest streets, the Lal Bazaar - a swarming market square where local vendors congregate to sell an abundance of produce, traditional clothing and electrical goods, to name just a few. A visual delight, feast your eyes on the market's vibrant showcase of fresh vegetables, before a leisurely stroll leads you to Gangtok's principle shopping boulevard - MG Marg, whose teeming shops, cafes and restaurants generates a dynamic ambience.
A full day city tour of Gangtok commences at the Directorate of Handicrafts and Handloo,, a fascinating museum brimming with a varied collection of local arts and crafts. Next, venture to the Research Institute of Tibetology to examine a splendid exhibition of unique Tibetan artefacts, including statues, paintings and Thangkas; exemplifying traditional Sikkimese architecture, this distinctive establishment's foundation stone was laid by the 14th Dalai Lama in 1957. En-route to Tashiview Point, stop at the Do-Drul Chorten, which, crowned by a gilded dome, can be spotted from numerous vantage points across Gangtok. Later, discover a the 1,001 golden Buddha statues concealed behind the flamboyant walls of Rumtek Monastery, and conclude today's tour at Enchey Monastery, whose literal meaning translates as the 'solitary temple', a fitting name for this peaceful hillside sanctuary.
Departing Gangtok this morning, transfer to the foothills of the mighty Himalayas, visiting the quiet town of Kalimpong. A serene ambience dominates this religiously symbolic district which is intensified by copious monasteries and churches which pepper the landscape. At your own pace, spend the day at leisure to enjoy views of the Himalayas and explore the town's local architecture, where remnants of the British era continue to be seen.
After breakfast, enjoy a city tour of the sleepy town of Kalimpong, beginning at the extravagant Mangal Dham, a distinctive pink temple complex set amongst an excellently preserved garden which booms with a wealth of vibrant flowers, extending over 2 acres of land. Built in memory of the guru ShirMangaldasju who dedicated his life to serving the town's most deprived residents, this unique shrine one of the most significant religious centres in Kalimpong. Next, soar 1,704 metres above sea level upon DeoloHill, catching sight of spellbinding views overlooking the region, and gain an alternative perspective from the neighbouring Durpin Dara Hills. Finally, exhibited at Pine View Nursery, admire a dazzling showcase of more than 1,500 species of Cacti from around the globe, the largest singular collection in Asia, before enjoying an evening at leisure.
This morning, journey to Bagdogra Airport and board your scheduled flight to Kolkata, spending the evening at leisure.
Depart Kolkata on your return flight to the UK or your chosen extension.
After a morning at leisure, proceed to Ranthambore National Park for a wildlife experience of a lifetime, giving you the chance to see the majestic tigers of India.
Enjoy an early morning jungle safari followed by breakfast back at your hotel and some leisure time when you can take advantage of the hotel's outdoor pool. A second safari trip will follow after lunch to visit further areas of the park.
After breakfast take the scenic journey back to Delhi during which a packed lunch will be served. You will be transferred to your hotel followed by a farewell dinner including a cultural dance show.
Depart after breakfast for your return flight to the UK.
India: A visa is required for entry into India. British Citizen Passport Holders will need to obtain an e-Tourist Visa (eTV) for travel to India. We work closely with The Travel Visa Company who will be able to arrange your visa on your behalf. Please call them on 01270 250 590 and quote 'Mercury Holidays'. The cost of the visa is approximately £114 per person. The Travel Visa Company can only apply for this 120 days before your proposed travel date and takes around 10 working days to issue. It is only valid for a 60 day single entry stay from the date of arrival. When calling the Travel Visa Company they will advise you of any changes to the fees or the procedure, they will also advise you of all information they will require in order to apply for the visa. Please inform them that you will be visiting Sikkim and if you plan to take one of our India Extensions as you will be required to have a multi entry visa. Alternatively you can visit The Indian Visa Application Centre in London: 142-148 Goswell Road, London, EC1B 7DU. British passport holders do not need to obtain a visa for Nepal prior to departure.
We strongly recommend that you bring a photocopy of the following documents, together with the original. Namely 06 copies of your photograph, 6 photocopies of your passport, and 6 copies of your valid Indian Visa.
NB The ILP (Inner Line Permit) cannot be given to certain foreign nationals on arrival at the checkpoints and must be arranged before travel. These are: Chinese from mainland China, Hongkong, Macau, Pakistan, Nigeria, Bangladesh & Burma (Mayanmar).
You must obtain suitable travel insurance prior to departure. Mercury Direct is partnered with Holiday Extras which offer insurance at the following prices:
| Age in Years | Up to 64 | 65 - 74 | 75 - 85 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Up to 24 days cover | £48 | £94 | £146 |
If booking more than 10 weeks before departure a deposit of £49pp will need to be paid at the time of booking with the full amount payable at 10 weeks prior to departure. The deposit applies to adults and children. If you are within 10 weeks of travel then the full balance of the holiday will be payable.
Your initial flight is with Emirates to Kolkata, via Dubai departing from London Heathrow Terminal 3.
IMPORTANT: Please note that final flight details will be confirmed on your e-ticket and final documentation which will be sent to you approximately 10 days before departure.
Baggage Allowance (per person):
Each passenger is entitled to 30kg of hold luggage plus 1 item of hand luggage not exceeding 55cm x 38cm x 20cm in size or 10kg in weight. Weight restrictions will be finalized on E-ticket receipt. Should you wish to take additional luggage you will need to pay extra at check - in. Check-In should be at least 3 hours before departure.
If you wish to arrange Airport car parking or accommodation at preferential rates, we recommend you book this in advance with Holiday Extras on 0871 360 2000, quoting HX313.
It is your responsibility to check any health and vaccination requirements applicable to your booked arrangements. We can only provide general information about this. Health and hygiene facilities and disease risks vary from country to country. You should take health advice about your own needs as early as possible and in good time before your departure. Sources of information include; www.fco.gov.uk, www.travelhealthpro.org.uk, www.hpa.org.uk, your General Practitioner or a specialist clinic.
This tour is accessible to most people with a good level of fitness and normal mobility. It involves climbing of steep stairs and getting on and off coaches. This tour is not suitable for anyone with walking difficulties.
There is no minimum number of travellers for this extension however the main tour passenger numbers will apply for the main part of the tour. If in the unlikely event there are less than the required number of people booked on your main tour date then you may be asked to change to a different date. A full refund will be made available to you should this alternative not be suitable.
This is an escorted tour extension, meaning that you will have the services of a local guide during each of your excursions.
The currency in India is the Rupee or Rs. The Rupee is a closed currency and officially you are not allowed to take any cash out of India. US Dollars are also widely accepted in India should you wish to keep an alternative currency on you.
You will need to take some extra money with you to cover any personal purchases, such as souvenirs, laundry and extra drinks and snacks. Approximately £100 - £200 will be sufficient for the duration of the tour, depending on how much of a bargain-hunter you are!
| Depart UK | Arrive UK | Extension Price | Tour Price | Total Price | Book Now |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 17 Feb 2020 | 01 Mar 2020 | £519 | £1399 | £1918 | Book Now |
| 02 Mar 2020 | 15 Mar 2020 | £519 | £1499 | £2018 | Book Now |
| 11 May 2020 | 24 May 2020 | £489 | £1699 | £2188 | Book Now |
| 22 Jun 2020 | 05 Jul 2020 | £489 | £1799 | £2288 | Book Now |
| 07 Sep 2020 | 20 Sep 2020 | £489 | £1899 | £2388 | Book Now |
| 21 Sep 2020 | 04 Oct 2020 | £519 | £1899 | £2418 | Book Now |
| 05 Oct 2020 | 18 Oct 2020 | £519 | £1849 | £2368 | Book Now |
| 09 Nov 2020 | 22 Nov 2020 | £519 | £1849 | £2368 | Book Now |
| 23 Nov 2020 | 06 Dec 2020 | £519 | £1799 | £2318 | Book Now |
We have 2 rooms available on every tour date for single occupancy use, however a single supplement must be paid on the add-on part of the tour.
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