The Himalayas
The Facts
Major Urban Settlements: Gangtok (pop. 50,000); Darjeeling (pop. 100,000); Kalimpong (pop. 20,000)
Climate: Cold during winters from November to February. Sunny and bright from March to mid-May. Thereafter rainy and damp till October with moderate temperatures
Clothing: Informal, except for special occasions. Around towns and monasteries, women are advised against wearing shorts and skimpy tops. Similarly, men are advised to be attired in full-length trousers and shirts with sleeves. Warm sweaters or jackets are essential for mornings and evenings throughout winter and early spring
Transfers: While touring the hills of Darjeeling and Sikkim, much of your travelling hours will be spent in vehicles every day. However, the monotony is offset by the sights and spectacles of the changing scenery as you move along. Each guest is offered a window-side seat to enable a good view of the countryside on such drives.
The infrastructure for tourism in this region has not developed to a high degree due to the low volume of visitors. Although the hotels we use are the best in the region, they do not match modern international standards. The same can be said of the vehicles available including the condition of the roads.
The essential requirement for enjoying a tour of this region is to come with a flexible attitude, a sense of humour, curiosity, and an enthusiasm to see new people and places. Most importantly, be prepared to expect the unexpected. Come with the spirit of adventure and a positive outlook, and we will make sure that you have a very pleasant experience.
Health and Safety: Your enjoyment of the tour depends on your health. Foods in the hotels we use are absolutely safe. Do not drink tap water. Ask the hotel to provide boiled and filtered water or better still, drink only bottled water. We recommend you check with your GP who will advise you of the up to date requirements.
Security: Statistically, Sikkim has the lowest crime rate in all of India. The vast majority of the hill people are friendly and trustworthy. However, in crowded places you should be careful of pickpockets. Rest assured that the chances of getting mugged are practically non-existent but a petty thief may ruin a perfectly good trip.
Cultural Considerations: As in most Asian countries, people from the West may find it difficult to fully comprehend the practices, traditions and rituals involved in the everyday life of the people of this region. A seemingly innocent act could turn out to be something offensive to the local inhabitants. When in doubt, do not hesitate to ask. Ask before taking a photograph, entering a temple or home, touching a baby or even a water tap.
