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Sandakphu Phalut Trek

Sandakphu Phalut Trek

  • 7 Days
  • Group : 8-15 People
  • Guided Trek
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Start: Manebhanjan
  • Altitude
    Altitude: 3657 m

Do you want to see Mt. Everest, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Makalu, and some of the other highest mountains in the world? Then, the Sandakphu Phalut Trek might be perfect for you. 

This trek covers India and Nepal and offers you the chance to see some of the most stunning parts of this region. Even if you’re not typically used to trekking, this is a great place to start. The views and experience here will be unlike anything else in India. It’s also known as the “trekker’s wonderland.”

This trek gives you an opportunity to visit Darjeeling Railway Station, which is located within a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is well worth a visit. Only Sikkim has the Red Panda as its state animal.

The Sandakphu Phalut Trek takes you to an altitude of approx. 12,000 ft. 

If you are looking for the most memorable experience of your life, then look no further – the Sandakphu trek is for you! This breathtaking hike takes you through a dense forest, to the top of Sandakphu Peak. From this mesmerising viewpoint, you can see Mount Everest.

The trek is rated easy on our difficulty scale. Temperatures can range from 8 to 15 degrees centigrade May to April, while from October to December temperatures range from 8 to -8 degrees centigrade. 

Departure & Return Location

Manebhanjan

Meeting Time

10 A.M

Price Includes

  • Activity: Trekking, Camping, etc
  • Accommodation during Trek (Camping)
  • Meals during Trek (Veg)
  • All season Camping tents on twin sharing basis, Sleeping bags with adequate sub-zero temperature rating, comfortable mattress
  • Safety Equipment includes static rescue rope, seat harness, carabiners, pulleys, ice-axe, micro-spikes, slings
  • Forest Permits/Camping Charges/Permits, Trek Permit Fee/IMF Permission – up to the amount charged for Indian Nationals.
  • Mountaineering course certified Trek Leader with First Aid knowledge
  • Experienced Local guide, cook, helpers
  • Porters or mules for carrying common luggage
  • Exhaustive First Aid kit including portable oxygen cylinder, oximeter

Price Excludes

  • Transportation
  • Meals during the road journey
  • Insurance
  • Any expenses of personal nature
  • Mules or porter to carry personal luggage. (extra luggage, if any can be left at the base camp with the authorities)
  • Cost Escalation due to natural reasons
  • Any expense not specified in the inclusion list
What to Expect
  • Incredible Panoramic ViewsThe Sandakphu Phalut trek offers trekkers stunning panoramic views of four of the world's five highest peaks - Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, and Makalu. From the summit, you'll be treated to a breathtaking 180-degree view of these majestic mountains.
  • Rhododendron and Magnolia ForestsDuring the spring season, the trail is adorned with vibrant blooms of rhododendrons and magnolias. This adds a colorful touch to the green landscape and creates a picturesque setting for your trek.
  • Singalila National ParkThe trek takes you through the Singalila National Park, home to rare and exotic wildlife like red pandas and Himalayan black bears. It's a great opportunity for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts to spot some unique species.
  • Cultural ExperienceThe trek also provides a cultural experience as you'll pass through several small villages and interact with locals. You'll get to witness their simple lifestyle and traditional houses, and maybe even participate in local festivals if your visit coincides.
  • Phalut TopThe second highest peak in West Bengal, Phalut top provides an unobstructed view of the Sleeping Buddha - the Kanchenjunga range, which appears to be in the shape of a sleeping Buddha. The sunrise and sunset views from here are truly mesmerizing.
  • Kalapokhri LakeThis is a sacred lake for the locals, surrounded by prayer flags and believed to be inhabited by a holy serpent. The lake never freezes, despite being located at such a high altitude.
Sandakphu Phalut Trek Itinerary

Day 1New Jalpaiguri to Manebhanjan

Distance: 105 km 
Time Taken: 3.5 hours (Drive)
Altitude: 1,970 m (6,400 ft.)
 
The small town of Manebhanjan is one of the most serene and tranquil places you’ll find in the entire region. Sprawling along the banks of the majestic Teesta river, this sleepy town offers a welcome escape from the bustling life of Siliguri.
 
The nearest railway station to Manebhanjan is New Jalpaiguri which is about 85 kilometres away. Travelling from New Jalpaiguri takes approximately three hours as you need to cross through dense forests and go over a few mountains.
 
When it comes to air travel, Bagdogra airport near Kolkata is your best bet.
 
If you haven’t booked your transport with us, you can travel from New Jalpaiguri or Bagdogra to Siliguri and then take a cab or bus to Manebhanjan.
 
The entire journey will take you along mountain boulevards, passing through tea estates and villages on the India-Nepal border. This location’s ambience is so peaceful that you will be able to relax completely. This is where the Sandakphu trek begins.
 
Note that there are several different starting points for this trek because the road is continuously being constructed in the area. 

Day 2Manebhanjan to Tumling

Distance: 11 km
Time Taken: 7 hours
Altitude : 2,556 m (9,700 ft)
 
The trek from Manebhanjan to Tumling today can be a challenge because this will be the first day of your trek but you’ll come across some spectacular views in the process.
 
On the way to Tumling, there are three water sources – Chittrey, Lamyadhura, and Meghma each 1.5 hours apart.  
 
Tumling is located 9,700 feet above sea level and is home to about ten or so Nepali families. In this area, they provide tea house accommodations for visitors all year round. You can find a signboard indicating the way to Singalila National Park ahead of you. 
 
On the other side, there is an elevated trail that leads to Tonglu, a high mountain settlement. At Tumling, the border between Nepal and India blurs. There are no restrictions on who can enter the area. A magnificent view of the colossal Kanchenjunga peak can be seen. Tumling’s sunset is breathtaking.

Day 3Tumling to Kalipokhri

Distance: 14 km 
Time Taken: 7 hours
Altitude : 3020 m (9,910 ft)
 
We will be trekking to Kalipokhri today. There are two water points on the way to Kalipokhri, Garibas and Kaiyakatta, which are approximately two hours apart. 

You can see the elegant Sleeping Buddha from here, bathed in the first rays of the sun. If the sky is clear, the entire Kanchenjunga family can be seen.

The route to Kalipokhri passes through Singalila National Park’s beautiful forests. These forests are known for their diverse flora colours, and your heart will bloom alongside the flowers.

As you ascend, the trail becomes increasingly green. We’ll have dinner once we arrive at the campsite, and rest for the night. 

Day 4Kalipokhri to Sandakphu

Distance: 6.5 km 
Time Taken: 4 hours
Altitude: 3636 m (11,930 ft.)
 
We will start this day’s trek from Kalipokhri to Sandakphu. On the way, you have the opportunity to take in the breathtaking scenery. Enjoy the sights as you climb steep sections up to 12000 ft above sea level. The trek is relatively easy but has a gradual ascent at first, followed by a steeper ascent. The full length of the trail is about 6.5 kilometres – it’s worth it!
 
During the first hour of the trail, you will go through Bhagsa and Bikheybhanjang. When you reach a comparatively flat piece of land, you’ll have reached the Sandakphu summit point. From here you can see some of the highest mountains in the world – Mt. Everest, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Nuptse, Mt. Makalu etc.
 
The temperature here will suddenly drop after the sunset so make sure that you come prepared.

Day 5Sandakphu to Mole

Distance: 15 km
Time Taken: 7-8 hours
Altitude: 3600 m (11,810 ft)
 
We will be waking up early to see the amazing sunrise over the highest mountains in the world! After being mesmerized by the sunset, we will have breakfast and start on our way to Mole. 
 
From Sandakphu, fill your water bottles because the water sources aren’t plentiful on this trail. 
 
An open pond near the Forest Post makes up Mole. There are a few muddy sections on this trail, as well as rocky paths lined up with gravel roads. However, Forests cover a large portion of the area. The sound of mountain birds chirping is soothing to the ears.
 
The entire trail is lined with rhododendron and alpine berries. This trail is the longest and most difficult of all the others. When it rains, the trail becomes more difficult to navigate. Throughout the trail, you can see spectacular snow-capped mountains.

Day 6 Mole to Gorkhey via Phalut

Distance: 21 km
Time Taken: 9 hours
Altitude: 3,595 m (11,794 ft)
 
On this day, we will trek from Mole to Gorkhey. This section of the trek will be 21 kilometres long and will take approximately 5-6 hours to complete.

Phalut, a zig-zag trail from Mole, will be on the route. From Mole to Phalut, you have the best chance of seeing Kanchenjunga. Phalut is a small grassland with little to no vegetation at all.

It is a small place with only an SSB Post and a guest house. We’ll need to get started early because the descent from Mole to Gorkhey is long and tiring. Gorkhey is located at a height of 7,546 feet above sea level. This is one of the most difficult trails on the Sandakphu trek, but the descent makes it more bearable.

The route has an initial descent followed by a series of gradual ascents to Phalut. Except for the last hour of a steep descent, levelled walks to Gorkhey follow. The harmony of flora and fauna in the forested landscape has a calming effect on trekkers’ minds. You’ll come across a lot of beautiful scenery.

Day 7Gorkhey to Sepi, & Drive to New Jalpaiguri

Distance: 15 km (Trek), 140 km (Drive)
Time Taken: 7 hours (Trek), 5 hours (Drive)
Altitude: 1898 m (6,230 ft)
 
On this day, we will trek to Sepi, a 15-kilometre stretch that takes 5-6 hours to complete. The trail is mostly flat, with a few ascents and descents thrown in for good measure.
 
Today, you’ll come across bamboo forests that are home to Red Pandas and Bears. So, keep your cameras ready. 
 
We’ll arrive in Sepi after crossing the tranquil Sri River.
 
The last leg of this trek is the drive from Sepi to New Jalpaiguri. The distance between Sepi and New Jalpaiguri is approximately 140 kilometres, and it takes approximately 5 hours to travel. The entire journey can be exhausting.
 
By evening, you will have arrived in New Jalpaiguri. You can plan a hotel stay or book further travel according to this itinerary. You can also plan further travels to Darjeeling.
 
The Sandakphu trek is the ideal place to forget about your worries and fall in love with the natural world. It is simple to connect with oneself.

Best Time For Sandakphu Trek

Sandakphu Temperature & Weather

The Sandakphu trek is a spectacular journey through the Eastern Himalayas, offering breathtaking views of some of the world’s tallest mountains. The best time to go on this trek is between March and May, when the weather is at its most pleasant. During this period, temperatures range from 10-20 degrees Celsius during the day and can drop to below 0 degrees Celsius at night.

The months of March and April are especially ideal for this trek as they offer clear skies and stunning views of the snow-capped peaks. This is also when the rhododendrons are in full bloom, making for an even more beautiful experience. The days are generally sunny with occasional rain showers, so it’s important to pack accordingly.

In May, temperatures start to rise slightly but still remain comfortable enough for trekking. However, it’s important to note that there may be some snowfall during this period due to changing weather patterns in the Himalayas.

It’s also worth noting that while these months are considered the best time for Sandakphu trekking, it can be done year-round depending on your preferences and fitness level. Winter treks offer a unique experience with snow-covered trails and frozen lakes, while summer treks provide a different kind of beauty with lush green meadows and blooming flowers.

Sandakphu Trek Route Map

Sandakphu Phalut Trek Photos
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Where is the Sandakphu Phalut trek located?

The Sandakphu Phalut trek is located in the Indian state of West Bengal, specifically in the Darjeeling district. The trek route starts from Sepi, a small village in the Darjeeling hills. The distance from Darjeeling to Sandakphu is approximately 59 kilometers. The trek follows the famous Singalila Ridge, which forms the border between Darjeeling in India and Nepal.

What is the best time to go for the Sandakphu Phalut trek?

The Sandakphu Phalut trek can be undertaken at various times of the year, each offering a unique experience. However, some periods are considered more ideal due to favorable weather conditions and stunning views.

Autumn (October to November) is widely regarded as the best time to undertake the Sandakphu Phalut trek. During these months, the sky is generally clear, providing trekkers with breathtaking views of the mountains. The valleys and forests along the trail also offer a spectacular display of colors during this time, enhancing the overall trekking experience.

Spring (April to May) is another great period for this trek. This season allows trekkers to witness the vibrant bloom of rhododendrons and other Himalayan flowers, transforming the landscape into a colorful spectacle.

Winter (December to March) offers a different perspective of the trek altogether. The entire region gets covered in a blanket of snow, adding a magical touch to the landscape. February to April is particularly popular among travelers seeking to experience snowfall.

It’s worth noting that the Sandakphu Phalut trek is accessible for most of the year, barring the rainy months of May to August. During the monsoon, the trails can become slippery and challenging, and the views might be obscured by fog and rain clouds.

How long does the Sandakphu Phalut trek take?

The Sandakphu Phalut trek typically takes about 6 to 7 days to complete, depending on the specific itinerary. The duration includes both the trek and the return journey from NJP/Bagdogra.

What is the difficulty level of the Sandakphu Phalut trek?

The Sandakphu Phalut trek is often classified as a trek of easy difficulty, but it’s important to note that this can be subjective and may vary based on individual fitness levels and trekking experience.

Key factors contributing to this classification include:

  1. Altitude: The trek reaches a high altitude of 12,000 feet. While the ascent is gradual, allowing for better acclimatization, the altitude can still pose challenges such as altitude sickness.

  2. Trail Conditions: The trails are well-defined and do not require technical climbing skills. However, there are a few steep sections that can be challenging.

  3. Weather Conditions: Weather conditions can significantly impact the difficulty level of the trek. The changing scenes and varying weather conditions, especially during winter months, can make the trek more challenging.

  4. Duration: The trek typically spans around 7 days, which requires a certain level of physical fitness and endurance.

However, compared to other treks in the region, the Sandakphu Phalut trek is considered easy. This could be attributed to the well-marked trails, gradual ascents, and support provided during the trek.

While the Sandakphu Phalut trek has elements of moderate difficulty, with adequate preparation and support, it can be an easily manageable and rewarding experience.

What kind of physical fitness is required for the trek?

The Sandakphu Phalut trek, like other high-altitude treks, requires a moderate level of physical fitness. Here are some specific areas to focus on:

  1. Cardiovascular Endurance: This is perhaps the most important aspect of fitness for any trek. You should be able to jog or run for at least 30 minutes without getting overly tired. Regular cardio exercises like running, cycling, and swimming can help improve your stamina.

  2. Strength Training: Strength training exercises can help build endurance. Focus on exercises that strengthen your core and your lower body, as you’ll be relying heavily on these muscle groups during the trek.

  3. Flexibility: Flexibility can help avoid muscle strains and sprains on the trek. Regular stretching exercises can help improve flexibility.

  4. Altitude Fitness: The trek reaches a maximum altitude of over 12,000 feet. At such altitudes, the air is thinner and contains less oxygen, which can lead to altitude sickness. While it’s not possible to fully prepare for this in advance, spending time at high altitudes before the trek can help your body acclimatize.

  5. Healthy Diet: A balanced diet can provide the necessary energy for the trek. Include plenty of proteins and carbohydrates in your diet, and stay hydrated.

Before beginning any new exercise regimen, it’s recommended to consult with a healthcare provider, especially if you have any pre-existing health conditions. Also, remember that mental preparation is equally important. A positive attitude and determination can go a long way in overcoming physical challenges during the trek.

What are the basic amenities available on the trek?

Here are some common facilities provided on this trek.

  1. Accommodation: We usually arrange for accommodations in tea houses or lodges along the trail. These accommodations are basic and provide shelter from the elements.

  2. Food and Water: Meals are included in the trek package and are served at the accommodations. These meals are usually simple, local cuisine. Safe drinking water is also provided. It’s a good idea to carry personal water purification tablets or filters.

  3. Toilet Facilities: Basic toilet facilities are available at the accommodations. However, these may be rudimentary and might not include running water.

  4. Guides and Porters: Experienced guides lead the trek, and porters/mules are available to carry heavy luggage. This allows trekkers to focus on the trek itself without worrying about navigation or carrying heavy loads.

  5. First Aid: Our guides will carry a basic first aid kit for emergencies. We also provide oxygen cylinders and altitude sickness medication (in case of emergency) for high-altitude treks.

Remember, this trek is in a remote location, so the amenities provided are basic and functional. It’s advisable to read the inclusions, exclusions, and itinerary to get an accurate idea of what to expect on the trek.

Is it safe to do the Sandakphu Phalut trek for solo travelers?

Yes, the Sandakphu Phalut trek is generally considered safe for solo travelers. Many trekkers have successfully completed this trek on their own.

The trail is well-marked and there are tea houses along the route where you can rest, eat, and sleep. These factors contribute to making this trek more manageable for solo travelers.

However, it’s important to note that while the trek is safe, it’s crucial to be well-prepared. Here are a few safety measures:

  1. Physical Fitness: Ensure you are physically fit and acclimatized to high altitudes.

  2. Proper Gear: Carry essential trekking equipment like warm clothes, trekking shoes, a first aid kit, water purification tablets, and snacks.

  3. Stay on the Trail: The trail is well-marked, but it’s still essential to stay on it to avoid getting lost.

  4. Inform Someone: Always let someone know about your trekking plans and expected return date.

  5. Check Weather Forecasts: Weather in the mountains can change rapidly. Always check the weather forecast before you start your trek.

While solo trekking can be an enriching experience, it’s always safer and more enjoyable to trek in a group or with an experienced guide, especially if you’re new to trekking.

Can beginners undertake the Sandakphu Phalut trek?

Yes, beginners can undertake the Sandakphu Phalut trek, but it’s important not to underestimate the challenge. While the trail is not extremely difficult, it is a long one and requires strength and endurance.

What are the necessary items to carry for the Sandakphu Phalut trek?

For the Sandakphu Phalut trek, it’s crucial to pack smartly and carry all the necessary items that you might need during the trek. Here is a list of some essential items you should consider carrying:

  1. Clothing: Pack thermal wear (top and bottom), down jackets, woolen shirts or sweaters, and fleece layers. Also, include cotton shirts, trousers, or shorts for warmer days.

  2. Footwear: Trekking shoes with good grip and ankle support are a must.

  3. Medical Kit: Include bandages, cotton swabs, scissors, medical tape, ORS, pain relief spray like Volini, and medication for altitude sickness.

  4. Water Bottle: Carry a water bottle with at least a 2-liter capacity.

  5. Food: Carry high-energy snacks like nuts, dried fruits, and energy bars.

  6. Accessories: Don’t forget a cap to protect from the sun, sunglasses, and gloves.

  7. Miscellaneous: Other items you might need include a bathing suit, a torch or headlamp with extra batteries, a multi-tool knife, and personal toiletries.

Remember, the weather in the mountains can be unpredictable, so it’s essential to pack for all conditions. Layering your clothes is a good strategy as it allows you to adjust to changing temperatures.

Are there any specific medical precautions to take before going on the trek?

Before going on a trek, it’s crucial to take certain medical precautions to ensure your safety and well-being. Here are some general guidelines based on various sources:

  1. Know Your Limits: Understand your physical capabilities and don’t push yourself too hard. If you feel unwell during the trek, stop and rest.

  2. Acclimatization: If you’re trekking at high altitudes, it’s advisable to ascend gradually to avoid altitude sickness.

  3. Hydration: Stay hydrated throughout the trek. Dehydration can lead to fatigue, headaches, and other health issues.

  4. Vaccinations: If you’re a non-Indian national, you might need specific vaccinations for diseases like polio and typhoid.

  5. First Aid Kit: Carry a first-aid kit with essentials like bandages, antiseptic lotion, pain relief spray, and medication for common ailments like fever and diarrhea.

  6. Pre-Travel Consultation: Visit your doctor or a travel health clinic before your trek for a pre-travel consultation. They can provide personalized advice based on your health history and the specifics of your trip.

  7. Insurance: Make sure you have adequate travel insurance that covers emergency evacuation and treatment in case of illness or injury.

Please note that these are general precautions and the specific requirements might vary depending on your health condition, the difficulty and altitude of the trek, and the country you’re trekking in.

What kind of wildlife can be seen during the Sandakphu Phalut trek?

The Sandakphu Phalut trek takes you through the Singalila National Park, which is home to a diverse range of wildlife. Here are some animals that you might encounter during your trek:

  1. Red Panda: These forests are home to the elusive and endangered Red Panda. This species is quite shy and sightings are rare, but they are a major attraction of the area.

  2. Birds: The national park is known for its bird diversity. There are many species of birds that you can spot during your trek.

  3. Asiatic Black Bear and Common Leopard: These larger animals also inhabit the National Park. However, they are rarely seen along the trek routes.

  4. Flora: The trek route is rich in flora as well, with forests of conifers, chestnuts, rhododendrons, and magnolias.

It’s important to respect the wildlife and maintain a safe distance. Do not feed or attempt to touch the animals. Also, avoid littering to preserve the natural habitat of these animals.

Is there any cellular network available during the trek?

Cellular network availability can vary greatly depending on the specific location along the trekking route. In remote and high-altitude areas like the Sandakphu Phalut trek, cellular network coverage can often be sparse or non-existent.

However, intermittent mobile network coverage is available at certain points along the route, particularly in the villages or campsites. The connectivity may not be consistent and can depend on the weather conditions and your network provider.

It’s advisable to download offline maps and inform someone about your trekking plan before you start the trek. Always remember that safety is a priority over connectivity.

What is the average temperature during the trekking season?

The Sandakphu Phalut trek can be done in two main seasons: Spring (March to May) and Autumn (October to November). The average temperatures during these trekking seasons are:

  1. Spring (March to May): During the daytime, the temperature usually ranges between 8°C to 15°C. At night, it can drop to around -5°C to 5°C.

  2. Autumn (October to November): In the daytime, the temperature can range from 10°C to 17°C. At night, it can fall between -5°C to 5°C.

Please note that these are approximate averages and actual temperatures can vary depending on weather conditions and altitude. Also, it can get quite cold when the sun goes down, especially at higher altitudes, so it’s essential to pack appropriate warm clothing.

What type of food is available during the trek?

The food available during the Sandakphu Phalut trek is typically simple, nutritious, and designed to cater to high-altitude trekking needs. Most trekking groups or tour operators provide meals as part of their packages. Here’s what you can generally expect:

  1. Breakfast: It usually includes items like porridge, cornflakes with milk, bread with butter/jam, eggs, and tea or coffee.

  2. Lunch: The lunch may consist of rice, lentils (dal), a vegetable dish, salad, and pickles.

  3. Evening Snacks: Tea or coffee with biscuits or popcorn are commonly served in the evening.

  4. Dinner: Dinner usually includes soup, chapati (Indian bread), rice, dal, a vegetable dish, and sometimes a non-vegetarian dish.

  5. Drinking Water: It’s important to stay hydrated during the trek. Boiled mountain water is usually provided, but you can also carry water purification tablets or life straws for added safety.

Please note that the exact menu can vary based on the availability of food items. If you have any dietary restrictions or allergies, it’s important to communicate this to your trek leader or us in advance.

What happens in case of an emergency?

In case of an emergency during the Sandakphu Phalut trek, several steps are taken to ensure the safety and well-being of the trekkers:

  1. Professional Guides: Trekking is usually led by professional guides who are trained to handle emergencies. They have basic first-aid training and carry a first-aid kit for minor injuries or illnesses.

  2. Emergency Evacuation: In case of severe illness or injury, emergency evacuations can be arranged. This typically involves descending to a lower altitude as quickly as possible and then arranging transportation to the nearest medical facility.

  3. Communication: While cellular network coverage may be limited, trek leaders often carry radios for communication (where possible) in case of emergencies.

  4. Insurance: It’s highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers hiking up to the altitudes you will reach on your trek. The policy should also cover emergency evacuation and medical expenses.

It’s important to listen to your body and communicate openly with your trek leader about any concerns or discomforts you may have.

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