Traversing through the immortal woods and mountain ridges is nothing less than a dream come true as it imparts a closer perspective of the cosmos. Spread loftily across West Bengal, Sikkim, and Nepal, the Singalila Ridge separates the mountain ranges of Bengal from the rest and is a haven for trekkers. The immaculate mountain ridge shelters the Singalila National Park. On the zenith of this luscious ridge and against the backdrop of snowy mountain peaks sleeps the evergreen creation called Sandakphu. Hailed as being the highest point in West Bengal, Sandakphu stands at an elevation of 11,930 feet. The valley that leads up to this highest point of ecstasy is embellished with Nature’s favourite ornaments like verdant forests, kaleidoscopic flora and fauna, and pristine natural beauty. The most astounding feature of this majestic peak is that it offers you a sweeping view of four of the five highest peaks in the world namely Mount Everest (29,029 feet), Kanchenjunga (28,169 feet), Lhotse (27,940 feet), and Makalu (27,838 feet). If you are a lover of run-of-the-mill activities, then Sandakphu will impart you a life- changing picturesque trek.
SANDAKPHU- AN OFFBEAT TREK ROUTE
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Sandakhphu is a renowned name in the world of trekking. Although very recently tourists have started frequenting Sandakphu via Land Rovers, the only accessible car, it is a fact that the true essence of this place can be discerned only by trekking. The trail can be a little challenging for amateur trekkers, but all it needs is a tad bit of determination. Trekking is the perfect way to discover oneself as it helps you identify yourself with the forces of nature. The wilderness blended with the will to lurk vehemently through rugged landscapes bestows a sense of belonging. Therefore, trekking is not just a physical activity it also widens the mental horizon. so therefore we plan to open new trekking trail call An Offbeat Trek Route To Sandakphu where you away from the car route.
The An Offbeat Trek Route To Sandakphu journey begins with a 4 hrs drive through the mesmerizing path of Darjeeling to Rimbeek. From Rimbeek, you will trail your way through the black forest until you reach Timburey. After seeping in the freshness of nature, you will ascend the summit of Sandakphu. It is a heaven waiting to be explored as you can witness the jaw-dropping view of the mountains against the glowing hue of the Sun. Do not forget to capture this scenic beauty as this is a memory that you would lean on time and again. From there, you will move to Phalut with the mountains being by your side throughout. From there, you will descend to Gorkhey followed by Srikhola, and finally back to Darjeeling.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome to Bagdogra Airport and transfer to Darjeeling (2,130 meters), 4 hours-90km.
We welcome you at Bagdogra Airport near Siliguri and bring you to Darjeeling. Drive past Assam tea plantations and little villages along the way. Admire the rolling hills as we rise above the clouds through the brilliant green landscape. Lying on top of a ridge, Darjeeling faces the Himalaya and is a popular destination for Westerners and Indians alike. Overnight at a hotel in Darjeeling.
Day 2: 4 hours drive from Darjeeling 6,700 ft to Rimbeek. Trek to Gurdum via black forest 7,150 ft.
The journey will start at Darjeeling from where you will take a drive to a quaint hamlet named Rimbeek. Your trek begins at Rimbeek, so gear up for the most rejuvenating experience of your life. From Rimbeek, trace your way through the black forest till you reach Gurdum. Gurdum again is a small village packed with beauteous wonders. The effete landscape is imbued with green luscious meadows, colourful rhododendrons and pleasant mountain views.
Day 3: Trek from Gurdum 7,150 ft. to Sandakphu 11,950 ft
The clandestine village of Gurdum will lead you to a picturesque view of Sandakphu. Get an uninterrupted view of four of the five highest mountain peaks in the world namely Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse and Makalu.
Day 4: Trek from Sandakphu 11,950 ft to Phalut 11,900 ft.
On your third day, you will trek from Sandakphu to Phalut which lies at an elevation of 11,900 ft. At Phalut, observe the green patches contrasted again the snow-lad mountain peaks. The view is as enticing as ever and the feeling is steeped in endless charm and tranquility.
Day 5: Trek from Phalut 11,900 ft. to Gorkey 7,700 ft
The splendor continues as you descend from Phalut to Gorkhey, a canvas of beauty. Gorkhey is adorned with a thick growth of pine trees and a freshwater rivulet makes the place pristine as ever.
Day 6: Trek from Gorkhey 7,700 ft to Timburey 6,550 ft.
From Gorkhey, travel to the exotic Timburey which is embellished with quaint hamlets and verdant forest covers. The fresh and serene ambience moves even the sturdiest of hearts and you will surely experience uninterrupted pleasure in the lap of Nature. We also organize farewell local dinner for our guests at Timburey. So get prepared to add memories to your life
Day 7: Trek from Timburey to Srikhola. Then, drive back to Darjeeling.
Lastly, you explore the exquisite land of Srikhola embellished with wild growths of magnolia, chestnuts, oaks, pines, and birches. Not just this, you can also view rare animals and birds. This once in a lifetime experience must be lived through the end of time. Finally, you take a drive back to Darjeeling and put a sweet halt to this refreshing adventur
Day 8: Explore Darjeeling Local Culture Tour.
After the trek, one mustexperience the novelties of Darjeeling. After breakfast, begin a fun day of sightseeing. We visit Observatory Hill, the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute and the famous Everest Museum. Of course, we visit the Toy Train, an UNESCO World Heritage site. Another famous spot is the Padam Naidu Zoological Park, where you’ll see the rare Red Panda, as well as the Himalayan Black Bear and Royal Bengal Tiger. In the afternoon, see the Tibetan Self Help Center and the nearby Happy Valley Tea Garden to taste Darjeeling’s world famous tea. Later, we can visit Dali Gompa/Monastery (also known as the Druk Thupten SangagChoeling Monastery). If the timing is right, sit in the monastery and listen to the monks as they pray. In the evening, wander around the main marketplace. Overnight in hotel.
Day 9: Farewell Darjeeing Himalayas!!!
Enjoy your last meal in Darjeeling before our team transfers you to Bagdogra airport or NJP Train station for your next destination. Thank you for taking the An Offbeat Trek Route To Sandakphu with Ashmita Trek & Tours! We look forward to seeing you again.
Sandakphu is not just a travel destination, it is an emotion personified. Hence, it is pertinent that you experience every trace of this lingering feeling. Trekking offers clarity as it brings you closer to the crafts of the universe. Now that we have discovered an unknown route, pick up your backpack and bear testimony to one of the best wonders of the world.
Namastey !
Main Highlights
- Enticing view of Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse and Makalu from Sandakphu
- Trekking through the effete landscapes of Singalila National Park and getting a chance to witness rare species of animals and birds.
- Stargazing at Phalut by ‘camping out.’
- Mingling with local people and coming closer to the culture.
- Trekking through the most charming natural sceneries and alpine ridges.
How to Reach
To visit Sandakphu trek, you can avail flights to Bagdogra Airport or take a train to NJP. From there, you
will either be escorted by a guide or take a cab to Darjeeling.
will either be escorted by a guide or take a cab to Darjeeling.
Best Time to Visit
Sandakphu trek can be visited in two different seasons. The first season starts from March to May when the temperature ranges between 10 to 15 degrees. The second season starts from October to early December when the temperature ranges from 5 to -5. It doesn't matter when you visit as both the seasons have their glory and you will surely bear testimony to a sight to remember.
Ashmita Trek and Tours is a renowned travel group that will assist you in getting a glimpse of this wonderful creation of nature. Sandakphu offers a reticent feeling to enthusiastic trekkers with their idyllic and unsurpassed beauty. If you truly want to discover mountains, then it cannot be justified by travelling in a car. It needs to explored by trekking. The gift you will receive at the end of this labour is a spectacular view of the Himalayan mountain range. The calm, bliss, solitude, sailing clouds, and the panoramic view of the mountains shall remain engraved in your heart forever. So, get prepared to leave your soul at this wonderful enigma!
Why Trek with us
We only run quality treks to Himalaya region with the best staff, service, acclimatisation and itinerary. all our team members for tours and treks, are local, multilingual guides, ensuring the best possible knowledge of the area including historical, cultural and heritage sites. we are recommended by lonely planet travel guide book trekking Agency highly rangket based on Adventure Outdoor Activities organizer for Nepal, Sikkim, and Darjeeling or you can even read our reviews on Tripadvaisor page they are real reviews what they have experienced with us, so, you can plan your adventure holidays with Ashmita Trek and Tours Teams without any doubt so.
Recommended Trekking Equipment & Packing List
- Luggage/Bag pack on trek :
Your main luggage will be carried by our porters and horse during your trek and you simply carry a day pack with water bottle, camera, sun-screen, spare jacket, your personal thinks and etc, during the trek. Four seasons Sleeping bag (Optional/we can provide one from our site if you do not have on your own and it is to be returned after your trek.
- Clothing & Accessories :
The trek routes go from low to high altitudes. we suggest you T- shirt, pentagon with cap Extra socks, a water proof jacket, (rain coat requred in ranny Season ) Down Jacket/Gore tax Jacket, Light wind & water proof jacket , Inner sleeping sheet , Long sleeve T-shirts , Warm hat/ gloves,a good trekking shoe, make sure you choose the right footwear shoes have to be lightweight and durable, that offers complete and grip. a sun protection cream. Woolen cap and hand gloves. Warm jacket or a sweater and also a wind-cheater You experience strong cold winds especially in the months of September and October.
- Backpack :
a backpack (-10 C) (50 - 60 ltr) with multiple-compartments will surely help you to keep your personal belongings safe and organized a good quality haversack as to make all things to fit in one it must be comfortable while walking with it Sleeping bag. Duffel or Rucksack bag to keep your all the gear and this will be carried by the porters. Daypack for yourself.
- First Aid Kits :
Extra Strength Excedrin for altitude related headaches. Ibuprofen for general aches and pains. Immodium or Pepto bismol capsules for upset stomach or diarrhea.Diamox 125 or 250mg tablets for altitude sickness. 1 small personal sized first-aid kit with blister treatments such as mole skin, band-aids, some waterproof tape, anti-infection ointments, etc. Flashlights : 1 Nos Torch with extra battery or head light in important.
- Supplements :
Water bottle , packet food like biscuits dry fruits (dates,cashew,almonds,resins etc) and sweets (Dry packet sweets-Cadbury-peanut candy) are to be carried as supplements during the treks.
- Water bottle : Hydration pack 2 bottles of one litre each People who use hydration pack.
