Sandakphu Singalila Ridge Trek - 6 Days

Watch Video
  • Duration6 Days
  • DestinationIndia
  • Difficulty LevelModerate
  • Max Altitude12,139Ft - 3,636Mt

About Trip

Welcome to the ultimate trek in Darjeeling – the Sandakphu Singalila Ridge Trek! Just two hours from the city, the wonderful path begins. Though not a far drive from the city, the trail seems like it is in the middle of nowhere, as you traverse from ridge to ridge. The scenic Singalila Ridge connects the grandHimalayas of Nepal to India.The highlight of the trek is walking this ridge to Sandakphu (3,636 meters 11,929 feet) the highest point in West Bengal, where you get jaw-dropping views of the highest peaks on the planet.

Rise from your peaceful slumber at Sandakphu and make a short climb to a viewpoint. From here, see Mount Everest (8,848 meters), Kanchenjunga (8,586 meters), Lhotse (8,516 meters), and Makalu (8,481 meters) in all their glory. It is truly one of the best if not the best mountain view in India. Where else can you see 4 of the 5 highest peaks in the world in one sweeping view?

What to Expect on the Darjeeling Sandakphu Singalila Ridge Trek?

The Sandakphu Singalila Ridge Trek is the quintessential Northeast India trail. On this 6-day adventure, you emerge from a peaceful forest onto an exposed ridge that presents breathtaking views of 4 of the 5 highest mountains in the world. You can’t get a view like this anywhere else.

The jungles in the lowland house an array of rare flora and fauna that you never knew existed. Singalila National Park is one of the few places on the planet where you can get a glimpse of the Red Panda. Though there are only known to be about 32 of these elusive critters in the park, you may also spot the Himalayan black bear, leopard, pangolin, wild boar, chinkara, barking deer, and dozens of bird species. You can also expect to hike through verdant forests of bamboo, rhododendron, and oak trees. Few visitors trek in Singalila National Park, so you’ll find peace and quiet on the trail.

The highlight of the trek is reaching the Singalila Ridge, which straddles the border of Nepal and India. Behold the snowy vastness of the East Himalayas. The eye-popping vista includes the peaks of Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, and Makalu. Quaint villages and deep valleys below the ridge add to the grandeur. Whatever your expectations are, the Singalila Ridge Trek will fulfill them, and then some.

Sandakphu Singalila Trekking Route 

You will begin the journey by taking a 4 hrs drive from Darjeeling to Rimbeek the path is steeped in sheer natural beauty. on reaching the beautiful quaint hamlet of Rimbeek, you will trace your way to Gurdum by the black forest and get ready to be exposed to the fresh wilderness and vibrancy. from Gurdum, you shall ascend the enchanting Sandakphu. Treat your senses to the jubilant creations of the Universe, soak up the mountain Sun, feel the air brush against your face, and discern the best of adrenaline rush. Here, you shall get a first-hand glimpse of the picturesque view of the mountains. expect to relish every moment that you spend here. From there, you shall trail to Phalut with the mountains being a constant companion. the snow-capped mountain peaks with their untainted splendor are a sight for sore eyes. the next day, you shall skim through the glorious beauty of Phalut to Gorkhey. The next day you will trail from Gorkey to Timburey. and on the last day, you will trek through the magnificent beauty of Timburey till you reach Srikhola and drive back to Darjeeling.

Enjoy the Sandakphu Singalila Ridge in an Eco-Friendly Manner Only with Ashmita Trek and Tours

Experience the Sandakphu Singalila Ridge Trek with Ashmita Trek, a sustainable trekking organization in India, committed to eco-friendly treks in Darjeeling. This trek offers a chance to explore the stunning landscapes while simultaneously ensuring sustainable tourism practices. With Ashmita Trek and Tours, you can embark on the Sandakphu Singalila Ridge Trek, witnessing the natural beauty of the region while minimizing the impact on the environment. As a responsible trekking organization, Ashmita Trek promotes Sandakphu trek sustainable tourism which preserves the pristine beauty of Darjeeling. You must choose the Ashmita Trek for an unforgettable journey that combines adventure and environmental consciousness on the Sandakphu Singalila Ridge Trek in Darjeeling.

Panoramic Views of Himalayan Mountains

Our 6 days trek to the Sandakphu Singalila Ridge offers you wonderful and jaw-dropping views of several Himalayan mountains like Everest region - Everest (8,848 m), Makalu ( 8,481m) Chamlang ( 7,317m ) Chomolonzo (7,815m ) Three sister pks and Khangchendzonga Region – Khangchendzonga ( 8,586m ) Karbu north ( 7,338m ) Karbu South ( 7,317m ) Kabru Dome ( 6,600m ) Kumbhakarna janu ( 7,710m ) Simvo ( 6,811m ) Pandim ( 6,691m ) Tingchen Khang ( 6,010m ) Joponu ( 5,936m) and several other mountains.

Highlights

  • Mesmerizing view from Sandakphu of Mount Everest (8848 meters), Kanchenjunga (8586 meters), Lhotse (8516m), and Makalu (8481m).
  • Trekking through the National Park.
  • Seeing some of the countless species that inhabit Singalila National Park.
  • A range of sceneries: agricultural fields to forests to alpine ridges.
  • Overall Darjeeling area has more than 400 species of birds.
  • Local mountain village and meet with local people.
  • Trek duration  : 6 days.
  • Trek difficulty : We rate Sandakphu as a trek of Moderate difficulty.
  • Accommodation type: Guest houses & Lodges and Trekkers Hut.
  • Max elevation: 3,636m, Sandakphu.

Itinerary

Expand all +Collapse all -

Dear Guest This is our regular Itinerary and most people have done this itinerary.  So If you have any special requests on this itinerary you can contact us via email. We can Customize this trip with your request. If you want to make it shorter Trek please click the link > we have 4 days Sandakphu Timburey Trek 

Trek Distance: 10 km | Trek Duration: 5.6 hours | Altitude Gain: 2,286 Mt. to 2,438 Mt.

We meet at your hotel by 6 am Start your journey with a refreshing drive from Darjeeling to Rimbeek is about a 4-hour drive. Rimbeek is a small hamlet packed with natural serenity and aura. You are bound to imbibe energy by breathing in the fresh mountain air. once in Rimbeek, your trail will commence. You will trek to Gurdum following the path across the dense forests trail.

Gurdum is a small mountain village and undoubtedly a pocket of happiness. on your way, you will be gifted with some of the best views of mountains, variegated rhododendrons, and lush green forest Overnight Stay at a small Family homestay.

  • Homestay
  • 4 hour drive 3 hour Trek
  • Lunch, Dinner
  • 2,438 Mt.
  • Trekking

Trek Distance : 13 km | Trek Duration : 7 hours | Altitude Gain : 2,438 Mt. to 3,636Mt

Today, you will take a steep climb to Sandakphu. No words will ever suffice the beauty of Sandakphu. From this ridge, you will witness 4 out of the 5 highest mountain peaks in the world namely Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, and Makalu.

About Sandakphu

Sandakphu is a mountain peak in the Singalila Ridge on the border between India and Nepal. It is the highest point of the ridge and the state of West Bengal, India. The peak is located at the edge of the Singalila National Park and has a small village on the summit 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 and tour.

  • Lodge /Trekkers Hut
  • 7 hour
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • 3,636 Mt
  • Trekking

Trek Distance : 21 km | Trek Duration : 7.8 hours | Altitude Descend : 3,636Mt to 3,600 Mt

Like the previous day, we recommend waking up for the surreal sunrise over the Himalayas. We climb up a little bit to a perfect viewpoint. Today’s view is even more fabulous than the previous, simply because the panorama is so vast. Head back down for breakfast and resume trekking towards Phalut to continue the circuit. It’s already been an awesome trek and there is more to come! After about 4 hours, we come across a stone house on top of a ridge. Near here is Phalut trekker’s hut, where we stay for the night. Because of the remoteness of this area, there are no guest houses or homestays. Anyways, the place has an amazing view!

  • Trekker Hut
  • 7 hour
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • 3,600m
  • Trekking

Trek Distance : 14 km | Trek Duration : 7 hours | Altitude Descend : 3,600 Mt to 2,346 Mt

Stepping out of the hut as the sun rises, you are reminded of what a gorgeous place we are in. The valley below us is filled with clouds, while the mountain peaks shine in the distance. Upon leaving last night’s “campsite,” we temporarily say goodbye to the awesome views of Kanchenjunga and the eastern Himalaya. Head down through lush rhododendron and magnolia forests, finding peace with the singing birds. Eventually, we reach Gorkhey and stay at a pleasant, family-owned guest house.

  • Home Stay
  • 7 hour
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • 2,143
  • Trekking

Trek Distance : 15 km | Trek Duration : 7 hours | Altitude Descend : 2,346 Mt to 1,996 Mt

After breakfast, begin today’s journey. We hike through a village called Samandin and and after about 5 hours, we reach Ramam. Here, the trail reaches a junction of two streams called Gorkhey Khola – a sight so perfect, it could be on a postcard. Keep going to Timburey, where we stay at Saumbu Homestay, run by a local Tamang family. During dinner, learn about the culture and lifestyle of locals while cooking food with them – a valuable experience!

  • Home Stay
  • 7 hour
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • 1,800m
  • Trekking

Trek Distance : 3 km | Trek Duration: 1 hour Drive Distance : 85 km | Drive Duration: 4 hours | Drop off point Ashmita trekkers: Darjeeling.

The last day will help you traverse through Srikhola, another exotic destination. Srikhola nestles amidst wild growths of magnolia, chestnuts, oaks, pines, and birches. A river runs through the place making it cooler and more vibrant than usual. Seep in the extraordinary scenery and mesmerizing view of the landscapes. You may also witness wild birds and exquisite animals. In short, the experience is bound to transfer you into an entirely different cosmos. Finally, drive back to Darjeeling. In the evening, rest, refresh, and wander around if you would like. Overnight in the hotel onward your journey.

Thank you for taking the Sandakphu Singalila Ridge Trek 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 !

  • 5hour
  • Breakfast, Lunch,
  • 2,130m
  • Trekking and Drive
Want to read it later?

Download this trip's brochure & start trip planning offline.

What's Included

  • All meals (breakfast,lunch,and dinner) during the trekking with hot tea & coffee 
  • Excellent Mountaineering Qualified Trekking Guide who will be a local to this particular area
  • Transportation from and to Darjeeling in public transport by shared jeep
  • Singalila National Park entry permits (INR 500/- per day per person for foreign clients)
  • Accommodations during the trekking in tea houses, lodge 
  • Basic Medical & First Aid kit carried by Trek Guide
  • Food, Accommodation, and wage for guides
  • All government and local taxes
  • All the alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, chocolates, snacks, mineral water, battery recharge
  • Costs from unexpected occurrences (i.e. cancellations, weather problems, damages to property, illness
  • Extra accommodation and meals outside of the itinerary
  • Your travel (necessary), medical, and any other forms of insurance
  • Personal gear and expenses for the trek
  • Accommodations in Darjeeling before trek and after the trek
  • Porter / Horse to Carry your backpack Extra Rs,9500 per porter for 6 days

Dates & Availability

Request Private Trip

Ashmita Trek and Tours provides a unique opportunity to join a fixed departure group for the Sandakphu Singalila Ridge Trek, where you can forge new friendships and create unforgettable memories. As one of the most sought-after treks in Darjeeling, the Sandakphu Singalila Ridge Trek is frequently organized by Ashmita Trek and Tours, with guaranteed departures for your convenience.

We also offer private customize trek departures whatever your preference please click the above Request Private Trip we are here to help make your Sandakphu Singalila ridge trek a memorable and enjoyable experience.

  • Find the fixed dates below to join the group trip and book your most suitable date.
  • The size for the group trek would be from 2 person to 10 people mix in one small groups trek. If you are more than 10, contact us for the discounts and booking process.
Start DateEnd DateStatusPrice 
19 Mar, 202424 Mar, 2024AvailableUS $325
22 Mar, 202427 Mar, 2024AvailableUS $325
23 Mar, 202428 Mar, 2024GuaranteedUS $325
25 Mar, 202430 Mar, 2024GuaranteedUS $325
27 Mar, 202401 Apr, 2024AvailableUS $325
28 Mar, 202402 Apr, 2024GuaranteedUS $325
31 Mar, 202405 Apr, 2024AvailableUS $325

Useful Information

How high and located trek route of the Sandakphu Singalila ridge trek?

The Sandakphu Singalila Ridge is located on the north-south mountain Himalaya ridge which runs about 85km altitude of 3,636mt - 11,929ft along the India–Nepal and Sikkim border in Darjeeling the typical itinerary is over 6 days each day you will be walking about 6-7hours. the trek begins from the Rimbeek trail through the national park then continues to Singalila Ridge with a night at the beautiful village Gurudhum, Sandakphu, Phalut, Gorkhey, and Timburey villages end your trek Sirikhola and you drive to Darjeeling. 

How difficult is the Trek Route to Sandakphu Singalila Ridge?

Moderate: Suitable for Fit Beginners The Trek Route to Sandakphu Singalila Ridge is considered moderately difficult. The toughest portion is in the first couple of days when you ascend to the ridge. The trail climbs about 1500 meters in elevation in two days, which is a bit of a challenge. Also, for several days, you will be trekking and sleeping around the ridge, which lies above 3,636 meters (11,929 feet). Overall, if you have trekked before or if you are motivated, you should not have any issues with the Trek Route to Sandakphu It is suitable for people of all ages and experience levels.

Best Season for Sandakphu Singalila Ridge Trek?

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.

Darjeeling Sandakphu Singalila Ridge Trek Permit?

Yes, you need a national park permit for the Sandakphu Singalila Ridge Trek. The permit allows you to enter Singaila Ridge, National Park. It can be obtained from the Forest Department in Manebhanjan or at the entrance of the park Rimbeek. The cost national park fee (is 500 /- INR per day per person for foreign national and the camera is 100 INR and for Indian national INR 150 /- per day per person and the camera is 100 

Mandatory Documents Sandakphu Singalila Ridge Trek

These are documents required for legal purposes by Ashmita Trek and Tours and the forest department. Without any of these, you will not be allowed to trek.

Original and photocopy of government photo identity card. Anything such as a driver’s license, Aadhar Card, or passport will do. This is required by the forest department for your identification for entry at forest check posts on the trek.

Note: For Indian/Nepali trekkers, it is mandatory to carry 4 copies of their photo ID along with their original ID for entry at forest check posts on the trek. For foreign trekkers, it is mandatory to carry 4-5 copies of their passports along with their visas. And their original Passport along with VISA.

Drinking-Water Sandakphu Singalila Ridge Trek ?

Bottled water is available along the trail until the last village. You can buy boiling water from the lodge or tea shop or you can use Iodine or water-purifying medicines. All the lodges and hotels provide free drinking natural spring water.

Spring for Rhododendron Season in Sandakphu Singalila Ridge Trek?

From mid-March to mid-May. Flowering starts in early March in the lower elevation, and gradually towards the end of spring on higher altitudes. Rhododendron and Giant Magnolia are the two most famous along with several other wildflower species. A cloudy or misty atmosphere is common during the Spring season. Clear mountain views are not uncommon, especially during the morning.

Autumn and winter for clear weather in Sandakphu Singalila Ridge Trek?

From October to January. clouds start moving out from this region and the weather becomes clearer. November and December are particularly known for their crystal-clear views of the mountains. 

Do cell phones work on the way to Trek?

Darjeeling is the last place where you’ll get a mobile network. Make sure you finish your important telephone calls before reaching Rimbeek the starting point of your trek and Please inform family members about poor connectivity on the trek. And yes you can charge there are electricity charging points available on homestay on this trek with an extra charge of about INR 40

Recommended equipment for Trek?

Visiting the high Himalayan region abasedly is cold, so you need to have heat trekking gear. It is a regular hiking trail, so you don’t need to have any technical equipment. Some warm and good quality body wear with daily usage is recommended for the trek. Check our equipment list for the Gear Checklist on the Trekking in the Himalayas page it may help you. 

Meals and drinks are expected on Trek?

The meals are included in the price of the trek and they are taken in lodges; we will have breakfast and dinner at the lodge where we stay overnights and our will guide will choose and stop for lunch on the available place every day we recommend you to bring water purification pills since you will have normal water for free, then you can have the normal water and use the medicine and drink however you have options of buying bottled water or boiled water in every place as well.

How early should I book my Trek?

We recommend you book your trip a few months in advance. Even if you arrive and want to organize your trip we accommodate However, for Trekking like the Darjeeling Singalila Ridge region we need to reserve the accommodation so we highly recommend earliest is best for us.

Trek with a Local Company?

Booking the Himalayan trek directly with a local company is 100% safe and reliable cost. You can book online, and your payment will be secure. There are more than hundreds of local agencies in Darjeeling who are organizing the Sandakphu-Singalila Ridge trek from Darjeeling.

Not only to save money, but it will also be a great support to the local economy if you book your Darjeeling Sandakphu - Singalila Ridge trek with a local company. It will be easy to communicate about the tour if you go with the local agency. They have well-field experience and updated information.

Why Choose Ashmita for the Sandakphu Singalila Ridge Trek?

Ashmita Treks and Tours is local trekking company believes in giving you the best tour experience possible. We love Darjeeling and are passionate about showing visitors the authentic side of Darjeeling. our passion shows through. Since 2007, our knowledgeable staff and guides have strived to fulfill and exceed all of our client’s expectations.

Note

Singalila National Park timing – Restrictions in Sandakphu Singalila Ridge Trek 

The trail to Sandakphu Singalila Ridge mostly runs inside Singalila National Park. During monsoon, no permit is issued inside the Park (the boundary starts just after Tumling Phatak) and the annual closure of the national park is from 15th June to 15th September. So Sandakphu Singalila ridge trek remains CLOSED from 15th June to 15th September every year.

Note: Starting from December 2021 Indian authorities are not allowing foreigners to stay in Nepal side while walking on the Singalila Ridge all stay in India side.

FAQs

During the Trek : we provide Lodge/Tea house during the Sandakphu Singalila ridge trek and the rooms are mostly basic lodges and trekkers' huts. just a bed with a pillow and blankets, A few have electric lights  we offer private rooms do not expect luxury like TV, geyser etc. for most part of the route there is no electricity although some lodges offer limited use of solar powered lights (usually 6pm to 9pm).

There are limit electricity available in some of the villages like Tumling - Tonglu – Sandakphu – Phalut - Gorkhey and Timburey where you can re- charges your camera batteries and there is solar power in some villages we trek through and you can recharges your batteries in those places as well if they have enough power and we suggest you to have spare batteries as well and you will have pay some for recharging batteries on our Singalila ridge trek we suggest you to have spare batteries as well.

On the Sandakphu Singalila ridge trek with Ashmita Trek & Tours, three meals a day are included while trekking. This means that breakfast, lunch, and dinner are covered in the package cost while you can buy additional snacks and drinks on your own. 

Typically, breakfasts on the trek will consist of porridge, thukpa, roti tarkari, or eggs with bread. We will have lunches on the way, while dinners will be served at the lodges we'll spend the night. Meals will typically include rice, lentils, vegetables, and meat or fish, with a variety of spices and flavors. 

Depends on the season of course and generally it's comfortable tours/treks. Please ask for more details based on the tour of your preference. You could be trekking in a T-shirt or with a wind breaker, but mostly the days are fine and the evenings the temperature will be cool to chilly. For Darjeeling it is just perfect for most of the time. If you are doing treks above 3000miters in winter then it could get -10 degree Celsius at the most. 

Yes, Ashmita Trek & Tours will be provided high altitude sleeping bags that can withstand temperatures as low as -10 ºC. only in winter trek from Oct - Fab requred. and other moth like April - may are not requred becouse at home stay are provided blanket.

Tips do not form any part of the wages of guides, porters and other trekking crews. but they are expected by the porters, guide, Sherpa and cook. norm in Asian culture in the Himalayas means there is an expectation it is a nice way of saying thank-you to someone who will play a large part in your trekking experience and who will prove invaluable to you on this trip. Our porters and guides will be paid more than working for other big tour and trek companies. we suggest to tip bellow as guide line This amount must be given in Indian rupee or your currency.

We recommend you to book your trip in few month advances. Even you arrive and want to organize your trip we accommodate However, for Trekking like Darjeeling singalila ridge region we need to reserved the accommodation so we highly recommend earliest is best for us.

Customer Reviews

  • S

    Sarah Anin, United States - January 22, 2024

    We had a wonderful trip with Ashmita Trek and Tours and enjoyed our time with Rupesh Dá! Rupesh was extremely helpful and friendly during our 6 day trek in Singalila national park. We had marvellous views on ‘the sleeping buddha’ at sunrise. Food was very tasty and the communication with the company to arrange the trek according to our wishes. Highly recommended!

  • D

    Dave Powell, United Kingdom - January 10, 2024

    I have been lucky enough to trek in South America, Europe and North Africa and this was up there with the best! Ashmita Trek And Tours is an excellent company. From my first contact with them they communicated promptly and clearly and everything was very well organised. my guide Mr,Tenzi was amazing in every way. he is a great professional, friendly, safety orientated and shared his knowledge of the mountains and culture which enriched the whole experience. I was stretched but had an amazing time. The views of the high mountains were a highlight as was sunrise at dawn on Singalila Ridge.

  • A

    Avinash Collis, India - January 01, 2024

    We did the 6 day Sandakphu - Singalila Ridge Trek with Ashmita Trek and Tours guide Pemba Sherpa and had an incredible experience! Pemba was the best guide we could have asked for. Everything (accomodation, food, itinerary) was perfectly organized. Highly recommended!

  • O

    Odyssey, United Kingdom - December 26, 2023

    We had a lovely 6 day of trekking to Singalila Ridge Sandakphu, the scenery was breathtaking with changing landscapes. It was a cool experience trekking along the borders of India and Nepal. The trekking is a fair distance (~15km) but relatively manageable, as it’s mostly on flat terrain with a few inclines. Needs some getting adjusted to the low altitude though. Rupesh, our guide, was amazing the whole time. He made sure the whole experience was smooth (from pick up to navigating trails to meals), and was so knowledgeable that we could ask him any questions about nature and culture. Thank you Rupesh for giving us this unforgettable experience!

  • J

    Jitendra Chandnani, India - December 21, 2023

    Sandakphu trek was a last minute trek for me. Ashmita Trek and Tours organised a very well laid out plan and route given the fact,I had only four days to do the trek. On the dot punctuality is the hall mark of this trek and tours including the Trek Guide. Sangay Bhutia was my trek guide for the duration and without mincing any words will say he was nothing but Superlative. Sangay is a hidden gem and an asset for Ashmita Trek and Tours. I will strongly recommend this company and more over Sangay our trek guide. He has a vast knowledge of Flora and Fauna and is a trained mountaineer. One feels safe with him as he closely keeps a watch of his trekkers health at every stage. He is extremely polite, courteous and goes out of the way to assist. He has inculcated the spirit of high mountain treks in me. I shall most certainly come back for the Goechala trek too. Thank you Ashmita treks and also many thanks to my Trek guide who is also my personal friend Sangay Bhutia!!!!

Trip Advisor