Sandakphu Trek

• Starts from Manebhanjan near Darjeeling and follows the spectacular Singalila Ridge along the India–Nepal border.
• Reaches Sandakphu at approximately 11,930 ft (3,636 m), the highest point in West Bengal.
• Famous for offering panoramic views of four of the world's five highest peaks — Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, and Makalu.
• Offers the iconic view of the Sleeping Buddha, formed by the Kanchenjunga massif and surrounding Himalayan peaks.
• Passes through Singalila National Park, featuring dense forests of rhododendron, magnolia, oak, and pine.
• Includes scenic Himalayan villages and campsites such as Tumling, Kalipokhri, Sandakphu, and Srikhola.
• Features beautiful rhododendron forests and colourful wildflowers during spring, while autumn offers exceptionally clear mountain views.
• The trail alternates between forest paths, ridge walks, open meadows, rocky sections, and gradual mountain ascents.
• An optional extension toward Phalut provides additional ridge walking and spectacular views of the Kanchenjunga Range.
• Generally rated Easy to Moderate/Moderate, making it suitable for fit beginners as well as experienced trekkers.
• Best seasons are March to May for rhododendron blooms and October to November for clear Himalayan panoramas.
• Considered one of India's most scenic Himalayan treks because it combines four 8,000-meter peak views, the Sleeping Buddha panorama, Indo-Nepal border trails, colourful forests, and charming mountain villages.

Sandakphu Trek is one of the most rewarding trekking experiences in Eastern India. Located in the Singalila Ridge of West Bengal, the trek offers breathtaking views of some of the highest mountains in the world.

The trail begins from Manebhanjan and passes through picturesque settlements such as Tumling, Kalipokhri, and Gairibas. Trekkers walk through forests of rhododendron, magnolia, pine, and bamboo while enjoying changing views of the Eastern Himalayas.

The biggest highlight of the trek is the summit of Sandakphu at approximately 11,930 ft. From here, trekkers can witness the famous Sleeping Buddha formation and enjoy panoramic views of Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, and Makalu.

Major Attractions

• Manebhanjan
Traditional mountain town and starting point of the trek.

• Tumling
Beautiful settlement located along the India–Nepal border.

• Singalila National Park
Home to diverse Himalayan flora, fauna, forests, and wildlife.

• Kalipokhri
A scenic high-altitude village known for its sacred black lake.

• Sandakphu Summit
The highest point in West Bengal at approximately 11,930 ft.

• Sleeping Buddha Formation
Famous mountain formation created by the peaks of the Kanchenjunga range.

• Everest–Kanchenjunga Panorama
Spectacular views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Kanchenjunga.

Day 1 — Bagdogra/NJP to Manebhanjan
Scenic drive through the foothills and mountain roads of Darjeeling towards Manebhanjan, the starting point of the Sandakphu Trek.
85–95 km | 4–5 hours

Day 2 — Manebhanjan to Tumling
Begin the trek through forests, mountain villages, and scenic trails along the Indo-Nepal border towards Tumling.
11 km trek | 5–6 hours

Day 3 — Tumling to Kalipokhri
Continue along the beautiful Singalila Ridge through forests and high-altitude landscapes towards Kalipokhri.
12 km trek | 6–7 hours

Day 4 — Kalipokhri to Sandakphu
Trek to Sandakphu, the highest point of the trek, with spectacular panoramic views of the Himalayan giants.
6 km trek | 4–5 hours

Day 5 — Sandakphu to Gurdum
Begin the descent through forests and scenic mountain trails towards the remote village of Gurdum.
14 km trek | 6–7 hours

Day 6 — Gurdum to Sepi and Drive to NJP/Bagdogra
Complete the final trekking section to Sepi, followed by a road journey back towards NJP or Bagdogra, marking the conclusion of the trek.
5 km trek + road transfer

Participants should:

• Have basic to good cardiovascular fitness
• Be comfortable walking 5–7 hours daily
• Be able to walk on gradual ascents and descents
• Maintain healthy blood pressure and pulse rate
• Avoid trekking with serious heart, kidney, liver, or respiratory conditions
• Consult organizers regarding asthma, epilepsy, or other medical concerns

Clothing

• 3 synthetic quick-dry T-shirts

• 1 fleece T-shirt

• 1 fleece jacket

• 1 down feather/hollow jacket

• 1 pair thermal innerwear (upper & lower)

• 2 synthetic quick-dry trekking pants

• 1 fleece/wind stopper pant

Head Gear

• 1 head torch

• 1 sun cap/hat

• 1 woollen cap

• 1 synthetic and 1 woollen neck gaiter

• UV-protected sunglasses with side cover

Footwear

• 1 pair water-resistant trekking shoes with good ankle support

• 1 pair sandals with straps

• 6–7 pairs cotton socks

• 1 pair woollen socks

Backpack & Basic Gear

• 50–60 L backpack with rain cover and comfortable shoulder straps

• 20–30 L daypack if your main luggage is being offloaded

• At least 1 walking stick

• 2 one-litre water bottles or one thermos flask/hydration pack

• 1 pair waterproof gloves

• Small tiffin/lunch box/glass or cup

• 1 poncho

• Personal medical kit as advised by your doctor

Personal Essentials

• Sunscreen

• Moisturizer

• Body lotion

• Lip balm

• Hand sanitizer and soap

• Antibacterial powder

• Toilet paper

• Toothbrush and toothpaste

• Quick-dry towel

• Nail cutter

Tip: Don't overpack. Carry essential layers, comfortable trekking shoes, rain protection, proper hydration, and sun protection for a safe and comfortable Himalayan trek.

Refund percentages vary depending on cancellation timing:

• Earlier cancellations receive higher refunds/vouchers.
• Emergency situations may qualify for special refund consideration.