Overview
Trekking is a fun and adventurous activity. Sandakphu Trek is among the best trekking destinations in India and offers mesmerizing views of the Himalayan mountains, flora, and fauna. It is a classic adventure trek in the beautiful Himalayas. Sandakphu trek is surrounded by mount Kanchenjunga, mount Everest family, amazing wildlife, and warmhearted locals. All these elements make the trekking experience of Sandakphu trek unique and memorable. You can also visit Indrahar Pass Trek.
About Sandakphu Trek
Sandakphu trek comes under the category of easy to moderate treks. Due to its various features and popularity among the people, it is considered one of the must-to-do treks. The trek begins after the Singalila ridge which lies at the southern end of a long peak that goes down to Kanchendzonga massif. All this forms the outskirts between Nepal and Sikkim. For beginning this trekking journey you need to first arrive at New Jalpaiguri. The actual trekking journey begins from Manebhajan.
Sandakphu trek covers a distance of 47 km. Along the way, you will be able to see some of the most spectacular points. Once you reach Sandakphu, you will be able to get a glimpse of the two highest peaks in the world which are Mount Everest and K2. Avoid trekking in December as the weather conditions are very harsh.
Sandakphu is located in Darjeeling at the border of West Bengal and Nepal. The altitude of the Sandakphu peak is 11,930 ft.
Sandakphu Trek’s Speciality
Sandakphu trek is considered the highest trek in West Bengal. Its amazing height and mesmerizing surroundings with amazing flora and fauna, it is also called the Trekkers Wonderland. The trekking journey begins from Darjeeling and takes you through some of the unexplored parts of Sikkim and Nepal. Once you reach the summit, you will be able to witness the greatness of Mount Everest, K2, and other popular Himalayan mountains of this range. Due to its high altitude, it is recommended not to plan for a trekking trip in winter as the weather conditions are quite harsh.
6-day Itinerary for Sandakphu Trek
Let’s have a look at the 6-day itinerary for the Sandakphu trek.
Day 1: Arrival in New Jalpaiguri and travel to Manebhanjan
Day 2: Begin your trekking journey. Arrive at Tumling.
Day 3: A trip to Singalila National Park and Kalipokhri.
Day 4: Witness the most spectacular views of Sandakphu peak, Mount Everest, and Mount Kangchendzonga.
Day 5: The departure journey begins. Arrive in Srikhola.
Day 6: Departure
Day 1: Arrival in New Jalpaiguri and travel to Manebhanjan
Your trekking journey will start with your arrival in New Jalpaiguri. Once you arrive in New Jalpaiguri you will descend towards Manebhanjan the starting point of the Sandakphu trek. The journey from New Jalpaiguri to Manebhanjan takes about 4 hours.
Day 2: Begin your trekking journey. Arrive at Tumling.
On the second day, your actual trekking journey begins. You will be covering a distance of 11km by walking for about 5 hours. You will descend towards Tumling, one of the most beautiful and mesmerizing places in the Singalila Range. The altitude of this beautiful peak is 9,500 ft.
Day 3: A trip to Singalila National Park and Kalipokhri.
On this day, you will cover a distance of 9 km in about 5 hours. Your destination for this day will be Singalila National Park and Kalipokhri. Once you arrive at the National Park, you will be able to witness the scenic beauty of the surroundings of the National Park. You will be staying there for a night and begin your further journey the next morning.
Day 4: Witness the most spectacular views of Sandakphu peak, Mount Everest, and Mount Kangchendzonga.
On the fourth day, after walking for 4 hours and covering a distance of 8 km you will arrive at a beautiful place that is considered to be the best place in the entire trekking journey. This place will allow you to see Sandakphu peak, mount Kangchendzonga, and mount Everest. The sunset views from this point are spectacular. This will be the most exciting day of your trekking journey.
Day 5: The departure journey begins. Arrive in Srikhola.
On this day, you will be covering a distance of 17km in about 7 hours. The destination for this day will be Srikhola. Within the first half of the 7 hours journey, you will reach Gurdum in about 5 hours and then after traversing for 2 hours you will reach Srikhola.
Day 6: Departure
On this day, you will pack your luggage and descend toward New Jalpaiguri. Once reaching New Jalpaiguri, you will head towards your hometown with lots of sweet and happy memories.
What to see along the Sandakphu Trek journey?
Let’s have a look at the mesmerizing places that you will explore on your trekking journey.
- Manebhanjan
- Chitrey
- Tumling
- Singalila National Park
- Srikhola
Manebhanjan
The trekking journey for Sandakphu begins at Manebhanjan. You can explore this beautiful town on the first day of your trip. Known for the 1960 model Land Rover taxis, Manebhanjan will take you to Sandakphu peak. You can also hire a land Rover ride to reach Sandakphu peak if you don’t want to go on a trekking journey.
Chitrey
Chitrey is about 3km away from Manebhanjan. It is a beautiful mountain village where all the trekkers take their first break. In about one and a half hours you arrive in Chitrey. While in Chitrey, you can visit the old Buddhist monastery and then head towards a restaurant for refreshments.
Tumling
Tumling is a hamlet with spectacular views and comfortable stay options. While in Tumling, enjoy the local food and explore the beauty of the Kangchenjunga range.
Singalila National Park
Singalila National Park is one of the most visited places in West Bengal. While trekking through this national park you will be able to spot animals like red pandas, leopard cats, wild boars, barking deer, and yellow-throated marten. This national park is home to several species of birds like satyr tragopan, kalij pheasant, scarlet minivet, and blood pheasant. Enjoy the mesmerizing views of Sandakphu peak from Singalila National park. You will be staying at Gurdum at night and begin your trekking journey the next morning.
Srikhola
While returning from Sandakphu Peak, you will be accompanied by the Srikhola river. Srikhola river and village are among the most traveled spots in Darjeeling. This is the best place to relax amidst nature and click some beautiful pictures. Located at the foothills of Singalila National park, you can even spot red pandas in this village.
How To Reach Sandakphu Trek
You can take a flight or train to reach here. You need to reach New Jalpaiguri for going on a trekking journey. You can easily reach New Jalpaiguri by train. If you are taking a flight then you can reach Bagdogra airport.
Conclusion
Sandakphu trek is an amazing trekking journey. The beauty of the Himalayan mountains and the amazing flora and fauna makes your journey worthwhile. Explore the beautiful Singalila National Park and spot a few wild animals and beautiful birds. Experience the beauty of Darjeeling and take back sweet memories that will last for a lifetime.
