Five Days of Bliss: Anup Sahai’s Journey Through Sikkim and Darjeeling with Thrillophilia
Some trips are taken to escape routine, while others are meant to reconnect you with nature, with your partner, and with a slower rhythm of life. For Anup Sahai, this five-day journey through Sikkim, Gangtok, and Darjeeling was all of that and more. Travelling with his partner, the purpose of the trip was not to rush through attractions but to truly experience the Eastern Himalayas, one peaceful moment at a time.
From the outset, Anup knew that the success of such a trip depended heavily on planning. He wanted an itinerary that was well-structured yet flexible, detailed yet unhurried. Booking with Thrillophilia turned out to be the right decision, as the entire journey unfolded exactly as promised. From personalised planning to consistent on-ground support, everything felt reliable and thoughtfully arranged.
Where the Mountains First Welcomed Them
The journey began with their arrival at Bagdogra, followed by a scenic drive towards Gangtok. Almost immediately, the landscape began to change. Flat roads slowly gave way to winding mountain paths, dense greenery, and cooler air. A stop at Kalimpong along the way offered a refreshing pause, allowing them to stretch, take in valley views, and absorb the beauty of the region even before reaching their destination.
By the time they arrived in Gangtok, there was already a sense of calm settling in. After checking into their hotel, the couple decided to keep the first day relaxed. There was no pressure to explore immediately. Instead, they spent time simply being present, looking out at the mountains, enjoying the quiet surroundings, and letting the fatigue of travel melt away.
That first night in Gangtok felt like a gentle welcome. The town carried a peaceful charm, and the cool mountain breeze made everything feel slower and more grounded. It was the perfect beginning to what lay ahead.
High Roads, Sacred Stories, and Still Waters
The second day marked their first real excursion into the higher reaches of Sikkim. The drive to Tsomgo Lake was nothing short of breathtaking. With every turn, the scenery shifted dramatically, revealing steep slopes, distant peaks, and stretches of untouched beauty. The air grew noticeably crisper as they ascended, adding to the sense of being somewhere truly special.
Tsomgo Lake itself was a sight to behold. Calm yet commanding, the lake reflected the surrounding mountains and sky in a way that felt almost unreal. Standing by the water, Anup felt a deep sense of stillness. It was one of those places where conversation naturally fades, replaced by quiet appreciation.
From there, the journey continued to Baba Mandir, a place steeped in belief and reverence. Listening to stories about Baba Harbhajan Singh and the faith that locals and soldiers place in his presence added emotional depth to the visit. It was not just a sightseeing stop, but a moment of reflection. The entire day felt well-paced, giving them enough time to absorb each experience without feeling rushed.
A Shift in Scenery: From Gangtok to Darjeeling
On the third day, the couple began their journey towards Darjeeling, and with it came a noticeable change in scenery and mood. The drive unfolded through rolling valleys, forested stretches, and long expanses of tea gardens. Snow-dusted peaks appeared occasionally in the distance, adding to the magic of the journey.
Arriving in Darjeeling felt like stepping into a different era. After checking into their hotel, the evening was left free to explore at leisure. A walk along Mall Road became a quiet highlight. The streets buzzed gently with life, offering small shops, local snacks, and viewpoints that invited lingering pauses.
That evening carried a sense of nostalgia, blending colonial charm with mountain simplicity. It was unplanned, unhurried, and deeply satisfying.
When the Mountains Turn Golden
Day four began before dawn. Wrapped in warm layers, the couple set out for Tiger Hill, a place known for its iconic sunrise views. The early start proved more than worth it. As the sun slowly rose, Mount Kanchenjunga emerged from the shadows, bathed in soft shades of gold and pink.
The moment felt almost sacred. Silence filled the air as travellers stood still, watching the mountains glow. For Anup, it was one of the most memorable experiences of the trip, a reminder of how powerful nature can be when witnessed at the right moment.
The rest of the day unfolded through Darjeeling’s landmarks. Visits to the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, Darjeeling Zoo, and Tenzing Rock added historical and cultural context to the region. The journey continued to the Peace Pagoda, where the serene atmosphere offered another moment of calm and reflection. Each stop felt meaningful, contributing to a deeper understanding of Darjeeling beyond its scenic views.
Leaving with More Than Memories
On the final day, it was time to begin the journey back home. The drive towards Bagdogra felt quieter, filled with reflection rather than anticipation. The past five days had passed gently, without stress or confusion, allowing every experience to settle naturally.
A strong sense of gratitude stayed with Anup throughout the journey. Special appreciation went to Tanisha, his travel planner, whose meticulous organisation ensured that every detail was covered, and to Shambhu from traveller support, who remained consistently available and supportive throughout the trip. Their coordination meant there were no disruptions, no uncertainties, only smooth transitions from one experience to the next.
Why This Journey Stood Out
This five-day journey through Sikkim and Darjeeling was not about covering as many places as possible. It was about depth, balance, and presence. Thoughtful planning allowed Anup and his partner to truly experience each destination rather than rush through it.
From serene lakes and sacred temples to golden sunrises and tea-covered hills, the trip offered moments that felt personal and unforced. For Anup Sahai, this journey became a reminder of how meaningful travel can be when everything comes together seamlessly.
It was a holiday marked by calm, connection, and quiet joy, a journey he will remember not just for the landscapes but for how effortlessly everything flowed. And it is a trip he already looks forward to recreating, knowing that with Thrillophilia, the experience will be just as smooth the next time around.
Read More: Thrillophilia Sikkim Reviews