Sandakphu is one such location, offering views of four of the world's highest peaks. The Kanchenjunga family, which includes Lhotse and Makalu (4th and 5th tallest peaks in the world, respectively), rises lofty, while Everest, the highest mountain in the world, looms between them, towering above them. In this article, our experts will provide you with all the Sandakphu trek details - Sandakphu trek package, Sandakphu trek cost, Sandakphu trek route map, Sandakphu trek time, and much more. Scroll through to know more about this awesome adventure.

Introduction

Sandakphu is a Sanskrit word that means "height of the toxic plants." This is the case because of toxic aconite plants in Sandakphu, the highest peak in the Singalila range. The roots of aconite plants are used to make medicines; however, the little purple-blue blossoms of the same species are deadly if eaten.

Sandakphu trek is West Bengal's most well-known trip and one of the top treks in Eastern India. It is the highest point in Bengal, standing at 3636 metres (11930 ft). Sandakphu captures the snows' raw, natural beauty. Nature is at its most pristine here, and the view from the summit is well worth the effort it takes to get there. The summit, aptly named the Trekkers' Paradise, is a stunning location from which one can view four of the world's five tallest peaks - Everest, Kanchenjunga, Makalu, and Lhotse - in a perpetually snow-covered arc. The walk is quite straightforward and may be completed by young or elderly persons in reasonable physical condition. Jeeps may also reach Sandakphu; however, the route is terrible, and the Jeeps are from the 1970s.

On the road to Tumling, you'll pass through a picturesque alpine meadow with views of the adjacent mountains. Scenic sunrises over the Himalayas will enchant you at multiple stops, and even more, beautiful vistas will only serve to break the enchantment. Due to the sudden climb in altitude, the last road to the Sandakphu trek will be the most demanding and rewarding. When you reach the top and take in the breathtaking view, you'll forget about your troubles and exhaustion.

  • Trek Type: High Altitude Trekking
  • Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate 
  • Sandakphu Trek Height:  3636 metres (11930 ft)
  • Trek Duration: 5 Nights/6 Days
  • Sandakphu Trek Start Point: NJP
  • Cost: Rs.6,000 (approx.)

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Best Time To Visit Sandakphu Trek

Sandakphu trek may be done at any time of year. However, the region takes on a varied appearance depending on the season. The Sandakphu trek has its own specialities, depending on the season.


Sandakphu in April (spring)

April is one of the finest months to go on the Sandakphu trek or drive to Sandakphu. Because of the blossoming rhododendrons, the entire woodland erupted into colour at this time. Everything appears to be vibrant and colourful. You can also view some of the incredible wildlife that the area has to offer.


Sandakphu Trek in October & November (Autumn)

The fall months of October and November are the finest time to visit Sandakphu if you want to view the mountains in all their grandeur. The sky will remain clear, giving you magnificent views of the mountain ranges and spectacular sunrises. If you hike in the late winter months of January and February, you may see snowfall on the trail.


Sandakphu Trek Temperature

The Sandakphu trek may be done in three distinct seasons. The temperature in Sandakphu changes with the seasons.


Autumn is the most popular trekking season. The monsoons have passed, the days are bright and sunny, the air is crisp, and the temperature ranges from -5 to 15 degrees Celsius. Winter is the next popular season when hikers go to the trail to experience snow. The hike is one of the few that get moderate snowfall. As a result, the trail is seldom obstructed. In the winter, the temperature may drop to -11 degrees Celsius and rise to 7 degrees Celsius.


Sandakphu receives little rain in the spring, and the overcast weather may obscure the view. However, this is the time of year when the rhododendrons blossom, and the entire route becomes vibrant. In the spring, the temperature ranges from -3 to 10 degrees Celsius.

  • Sandakphu temperature in December: The weather in Sandakphu in December is quite cold. The lowest temperature is expected to be about -9°C, with a high temperature of approximately 7°C.
  • Sandakphu temperature in January: The weather turns colder, and the temperature in Sandakphu in January will drop even lower at night. In January, temperatures drop to -11°C at night and roughly 7°C during the day.
  • Sandakphu temperature in February: The weather improves during the day, with an estimated temperature of roughly 9°C, but the Sandakphu temperature at night remains around -7°C in February.
  • Sandakphu temperature in March: The Sandakhphu weather is comfortable in March, and there is some snowfall. In March, the temperature in Sandakphu ranges from -3°C to 11°C.
  • Sandakphu temperature in April: The temperature rises to roughly 16°C during the day, and winter clothing is no longer required. However, the evenings are rather chilly, with the Sandakphu temperature in April hovering about 1°C.

Sandakphu Trek Height

Sandakphu is West Bengal's highest peak and one of India's tallest. At 11930 feet/3636 metres above sea level, the summit is the highest point in the area. The base camp's average Sandakphu height is around 6400 feet or 1951 metres. After that, it steadily grows.

  • Sandakphu height in feet - Sandakphu is 11,930 feet tall at its highest point, and it provides a spectacular perspective of the world's largest mountain ranges. Before embarking on the Sandakphu trip, you may want to look up Sandakphu height in feet to ensure that you are not suffering from Acute Mountain Sickness.
  • Sandakphu altitude - Sandakphu altitude, at 11,930 feet, is home to spectacular Alpine vegetation such as the ever-present rhododendrons, towering fir, birch, and even bamboo trees. The Sandakphu Phalut trip is one of the few high-altitude hikes that include a relaxing teahouse stay.

Trek Cost

Before embarking on a journey, a trekker must consider the cost of the trip. We guarantee to take the bare minimum while providing pleasant lodging and tasty cuisine at Glacier Trek and Adventure.


The Sandakphu trip costs INR 6,000 per person and includes a five-night, six-day itinerary. Our trip pricing covers your lodging and food from when you arrive in Chitrey until you finish your walk in Srikhole.


On request, we may organise pick-up and drop-off from New Jalpaiguri railway station and/or Bagdogra airport for an additional fee. We want to provide you with a once-in-a-lifetime trekking experience filled with wonderful memories, excellent accommodations, delectable cuisine, and a gorgeous landscape.


Sandakphu Trek Route Map

There are various Sandakphu hiking paths to choose from in this area. We can plan the Sandakphu Trek route map based on the season, the physical fitness of the participants, and the number of days available.


We'll go through the most popular route, which is also the most picturesque. Chitrey is the trek's starting point. The journey begins at Chitrey, a little village. The Chitrey monastery is the primary attraction here, aside from its picturesque beauty.


Tonglu is the next stop, and it's another important stop on the road to Sandakphu. It seems to tourists as a sanctuary in the Himalayan foothills, with natural beauty and a spectacular view of Mt. Kanchenjunga. Tumling is another popular tourist site; the lovely green town entices guests. The lights from Darjeeling, Kurseong, and the adjacent village provide a beautiful environment for visitors if the night is clear.


Kalipokhri is a Nepalese town with a spectacular view of the country's highest mountain ranges. The town, which is perched on the crest of a hill, offers hikers a breathtaking view of the Himalayas. The final stop is Sandakphu, from where you can see the world's most prized panoramas and enjoy the best perspective of the four largest mountain ranges.


How To Get To The Sandakphu Trek?

  • By Flight: You have the option of flying to Bagdogra. On the other hand, flights to Bagdogra are usually more expensive than flights to Kolkata. You may look at your budget and select an option based on it.
  • By Train: NJP is the closest train station. It is an important railway station in Sikkim's southwest corner. You can take a direct train or a combination train to Kolkata and then to NJP.
  • By Bus: Buses run between Kolkata and Siliguri and NJP. If there are no seats available on the train, you can take the bus. Though the travel is not particularly pleasant, you may book a sleeper bus for a reasonable price. Begin your road adventure after arriving in NJP or Bagdogra and taking in the breathtaking scenery.
  • By Car: Tourists can drive to the base camp and then hike from there. The second option is to drive the entire Sandakphu, which eliminates the need to walk and instead allows you to sit in the cab, enjoy the scenery, and be in touch with nature.

Sandakphu Trek Itinerary

Day 1: Bagdogra or NJP to Rammam (Rammam height 2560 meter/8400 feet )

Our representative driver will meet you at Baghdogra airport or railway station (New Jalpaiguri, NJP) and drive you 6-7 hours (117 kilometres) to Rammam. You'll go down a mountain path, pausing along the way to observe the lovely pine trees and tea gardens. Continue your journey to Rammam through Ghum station after a 10-minute pause for a cup of tea. When you arrive, check-in and take your bags to your room. Rest up, and your team leader will brief you about the hike for the next day over supper. Stay the night with us. Rammam village is a little hamlet with around 15-20 buildings that have been around for more than a decade and is completely connected to the Singalila range.


Day 2: Rammam to Sabargram (Sabargram height 3545 meter/11630 feet)

Today is the first day of the Sandakphu trek; eat a hearty breakfast and begin your preparations. You'll begin your hike by trudging through lush woodland before arriving at a lookout with a breathtaking view of the gorge. You'll go through a variety of trails along the way, including dry, muddy areas and magnificent meadows. You will be in a vast hilly meadow when you conclude this route. There are many different types of Rhododendrons in the gorgeous woodlands, and those who are lucky enough to view a Red Panda will be rewarded. Another attraction of the Sandakphu trek is that you can view the Sleeping Buddha for the majority of the journey. You arrive at camp after an 8-hour hike and take time to calm your body and mind.


Day 3: Sabargram to Phalut and back (Phalut height 3600 meter/11811 feet)

You may watch the gorgeous dawn this morning before eating your nutritious and filling meal. You'll be moving on to the next part of your journey. You'll be trekking for at least 14 kilometres today. Enjoy the strange splendour of Phalut, have lunch, and then return to Sabargram. It's your campground; spend the remainder of the night there. Phalut is the trek's second-highest point, with a vista that differs from Sandakphu. The mountains in the distance can be seen from the Sandakphu, but the mountains in the close distance can be seen from the Phalut; therefore this is the primary attraction.


Day 4: Sabargram to Sandakphu (Sandakphu height 3636 meter/11929 feet)

This morning, wake up to a beautiful sunrise, enjoy a hearty meal, and set off on your 14-kilometre journey to Sandakphu. The Sandakphtrek in this segment is a little more difficult than the others. After having a brief rest in a peaceful place, you may begin your hike to Sandakphu. The following trek will become progressively difficult as the hill's elevation rises until you reach the peak. You'll lose speed and have to take pauses due to it. Before reaching the top, however, three passes must be negotiated. Sandakphu's last ascent is sluggish, steep, and zigzagging. As you reach Sandakphu, the vista all around you will make you forget about your tiredness. On top of Sleeping Buddha, don't miss the sunset.


Day 5: Sandakphu to SriKhola (Srikhola Height 1950 meter/6400 feet)

Trek to the highest viewpoint early in the morning for a spectacular 180-degree vista of the mountain and the greatest glimpse of Sleeping Buddha. Return to camp after taking in the beauty of the mountain, then pack your bags and depart for Srikhole. Today you'll go down the trail, through lush forest, and take in the stunning vistas of the Alps. On the other hand, the trek is challenging but rewarding because it passes through a variety of beautiful foliage and animals. This may be the best option for photographers. Spend the night at Srikhole after arriving.


Day 6: Drive back to Siliguri (112 km)

Admire the magnificent woodland this morning before packing your things for your return travel. From Srikhola to NJP, you may take a shared cab; the journey would take around 6-7 hours. Arrive at the station and take the train to your next location, carrying many happy memories with you. 


Important Things To Carry On Sandakphu Trek

We're here to help you jot down some of the mandatory and suggested items you'll need to bring when packing the essentials.

Basic Gear:

  • Backpack & Rain Cover: (50 - 60 ltr) with cushioned shoulder straps
  • Walking Stick: Advisable
  • Head Torch
  • Water Bottle: 2 bottles of one litre each. People using hydration packs should carry 1 hydration pack and 1 bottle of one litre. Carry at least one thermos flask, Snacks Energy bars, dry fruits, and electoral powder.
  • Personal Medical Kit.

Think about your head

  • Sun cap
  • Woollen cap
  • Balaclava
  • Neck-gaiters
  • Sunglasses Dark with side cover.

Be comfy at the trek

  • T-shirts
  • Fleece T-shirts
  • Fleece jacket
  • Down feather / Hollofil jacket
  • Wind & waterproof jacket & pant
  • Thermal inners
  • Trek pants
  • Poncho
  • Trekking shoes
  • Floaters/flip-flops
  • Cotton socks
  • Woollen socks
  • Gaiters

Personal Utilities

  • Sunscreen cream
  • Hand sanitiser
  • Moisturiser
  • Antibacterial powder
  • Toilet Paper & wipes
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Lip balm
  • Quick-dry towel

Major Attractions/Nearby Places

  • Chitrey - It is a beautiful mountain town located 3 kilometres from Manebhanjan and serves as the trek's base camp. You may explore the historic Buddhist Monastery at Chitrey during your stop. After that, visit the Chitre restaurant to sample delectable foods such as Maggi, momos, and noodles.
  • Tumling - Tumling, a hamlet with beautiful vistas and decent lodging choices, is the first stop on your walk. While taking in the picture-perfect vista of the Kangchenjunga Range, you stay in this community and even try the native cuisine.
  • The Sleeping Buddha - From the first day, you may get glimpses of the mountain. The Sleeping Buddha begins to play hide and seek after three hours of walking. When possible, try to catch a sight of the sleeping Buddha.
  • Singalila National Park - Get ready to be enthralled with the trek's next location. The most visited attraction in West Bengal is Singalila National Park. Animals such as the leopard cat, red panda, yellow-throated marten, barking deer, and wild boar may be seen when hiking in this national park. Several bird species such as the satyr tragopan, scarlet minivet, kalij pheasant, and blood pheasant may be found in the national park. The spectacular view of the Sandakphu trek can surely be enjoyed from Singalila National Park. You can spend the night in Gurdum and then start your walk back the next day.
  • Srikhola - You will pass through Srikhola on your way back from the Sandakphu trek. The Srikhola River and the village are two of Darjeeling's most popular tourist destinations. If you're looking to unwind in nature while taking gorgeous photographs, this is the place to go. This settlement is located in the foothills of the Singalila National Park, and you may even see Red Panda here when crossing. At Srikhola, you may sit near the town and take in the fresh air while admiring your surroundings.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is Sandakphu trek height? 

Sandakphu is located at an elevation of 11,950 feet above sea level. The majestic mountain ranges and peaks you get to see on the trek make Sandakphu remarkable, even if the elevation isn't particularly impressive.


2. Is Sandakphu trek for beginners? 

Sandakphu trek is an excellent beginner's hike. However, be prepared for daily long walks. You cover 65 kilometres in six days, averaging 11 kilometres every day.


3. Are hotel accommodations there at Sandakphu? 

On the Nepalese side, you'll find two privately run hotels (Hotel Sunrise and Hotel Sherpa Chalet), whereas, on the West Bengal side, you'll find Govt Trekkers Hut and PWD rest house.


4. How long is the Sandakphu trek? 

The walk to the Sandakphu trek is 65 kilometres long. The hike begins at Chitrey and leads to Sandakphu, West Bengal's highest peak at 11,950 feet.


The Bottom Line

These were the complete details about another awesome trekking experience in India - the Sandakphu trek. We hope this detailed guide will help you plan your journey for the Sankdakphu trek better. However, our experts strongly advise the readers to get an up-to-date status of various factors before confirming anything on their trip.


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