The Eastern Himalayan Region boasts a rich and varied plant life and is a haven for the botanically inclined. Tailor made itineraries can be planned for Orchid tours, Palm tours, Rhododendron tours and general botanical tours. In Darjeeling and Sikkim Himalayas' Orchids form the dominant flora and about 460 species in 100 different genera are represented. There are almost 38 different species of Rhododendrons and 22 species of Palms including the rattans. The Lloyds Botanical Garden in Darjeeling is an old establishment well worth a visit. In higher elevations the Primulas, Meconopis, Gentian and other alpine flora carpet these alpine meadows in a riot of colors. Trekking in the lower or higher mountains exposes one to various floras in bloom. These are most abundant during the spring and summer months. From around 6000ft elevation (1500mtrs) and above, the spring months surely belong to Rhododendrons. At higher elevations up to 10,000ft Rhododendrons can be found in bloom till early summer. Spring is also the time for various Orchid species to be in bloom in the forests and trekking trails. On the ground, by the roadside and rocks, one finds various Arisaema (Cobra lily) species in bloom from March onwards. Each season has its own richness of blooming plants at their best. The monsoon period too has many of the wild plants in full bloom adding to the richness of nature's colour palette.

We can organise specialist Botanical Tours for Rhododendron enthusiasts, Orchid enthusiasts and Botanical Tours for niche plants like Arisaema, Hedychium and other Gingers and Palms.

 

1. Orchid Habitats of Darjeeling, Kalimpong & Sikkim

2. The Palm Trip

3. The Rhododendron Trek