Calling all adventurers—young, seasoned, and everything in between! The Sandakphu Trek is your golden ticket to jaw-dropping Himalayan views, charming villages, and a whole lot of “pinch me, is this real?” moments.
Starting from the quaint town of Manebhanjang near Darjeeling, this trek takes you on a journey through magical rhododendron forests, serene monasteries, and tea houses where the chai is as warm as the locals.
At an altitude of 11,941 feet, Sandakphu is the highest point in West Bengal—and trust us, the views up there are totally worth the climb. Think Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, and Makalu all standing tall to greet you. That’s four of the world’s tallest peaks in one frame!
Why This Trek Will Steal Your Heart
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Views That Make Your Jaw Drop: Ever seen Everest and Kanchenjunga in one go? You will here. Bring your camera and your “wow” face.
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A Symphony of Colors: Spring transforms the trail into a kaleidoscope of rhododendrons, while autumn gifts you crystal-clear views of the mountains. It’s nature’s version of a highlight reel.
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Culture Meets Adventure: Interact with Sherpa and Nepali locals, visit monasteries, and sip tea in cozy tea houses. It’s a trek and a cultural immersion rolled into one.
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Wildlife Wonders: Keep an eye out for the elusive red panda, the Himalayan black bear, and barking deer. Birdwatchers, this is your happy place too—Himalayan bird species abound!
Trek Facts
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Location: Darjeeling district, West Bengal
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Altitude: 11,941 feet (3,636 meters)
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Duration: 6-7 days
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Best Time to Visit: Spring (March-May): Blooming rhododendrons, Autumn (October-December): Clear, crisp mountain views
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Difficulty Level: Moderate—perfect for beginners with a sprinkle of fitness.
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Starting Point: Manebhanjang, near Darjeeling
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Cultural Highlights: Sherpa and Nepali traditions, monasteries, and local tea houses
Flora and Fauna: A Nature Lover’s Paradise
Flora: The trail is an artist’s palette come to life—rhododendrons in spring, magnolias, pine, oak, and bamboo groves galore. The lush greenery is a photographer’s dream and a haven for wildlife.
Fauna: This is the land of the red panda, Himalayan black bear, and barking deer. If wildlife spotting is your thing, you’ll feel like you’ve hit the jackpot. And birdwatchers, bring your binoculars—there’s no shortage of feathered friends here.
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Behold the Sleeping Buddha: Get ready to be mesmerized by the “Sleeping Buddha” range featuring Kanchenjunga, lounging like a guardian of the Himalayas.
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Explore Singalila National Park: Welcome to a biodiversity wonderland! Think vibrant rhododendrons, exotic birds, and the occasional red panda sighting (yes, they’re as adorable as they sound).
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Himalayan Villages: Immerse yourself in the charm of quaint Himalayan villages, where every smile feels like a warm hug and every cup of chai tastes like magic.
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Sunrise at Sandakphu: Catch a sunrise that feels straight out of a painting! From Sandakphu, the crown jewel of the trek, watch the sun light up four of the world’s highest peaks—Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, and Makalu. Goosebumps guaranteed!
Day 1: Arrival at Bagdogra and Drive to Manebhanjang
Welcome to the gateway of your Himalayan adventure! Land at Bagdogra Airport by 11:00 AM, and gear up for a scenic 4-5 hour drive (90 km) to Manebhanjang. As you ascend, breathe in the crisp mountain air and marvel at the lush greenery and rolling hills. Wrap up the day with a cozy stay at a homestay in Manebhanjang, where the mountains whisper, “Welcome!”
Day 2: Trek from Manebhanjang to Tumling
Lace up those trekking boots—it’s time to hit the trail! Cover 11 km in about 5-6 hours, winding through dense forests alive with the songs of birds and serene paths that reveal glimpses of the Singalila Range.
Chat with friendly locals along the way and soak in the charm of the Himalayan foothills. Overnight at a homestay or tea house in Tumling, where you’ll rest up for another day of adventure.
Day 3: Trek from Tumling to Kalpokhari
Today’s trek ups the ante with a 14 km journey over 6-7 hours. Stroll through vibrant rhododendron forests, pass quaint villages, and enjoy jaw-dropping views of Kanchenjunga.
Every step offers a new postcard-worthy scene! End your day in Kalpokhari at a cozy homestay or tea house, recharging for the big climb ahead.
Day 4: Trek from Kalpokhari to Sandakphu
It’s the big day—the summit awaits! Cover 6 km in about 5 hours to reach Sandakphu, the highest point of the trek at 11,929 feet. The reward? Unparalleled views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Kanchenjunga standing tall against the horizon. Feel the thrill of achievement as you soak in this once-in-a-lifetime vista. Overnight at a homestay or tea house in Sandakphu.
Day 5: Trek from Sandakphu to Sirikhola via Sepi
Time to descend—but don’t rush, because the journey back is just as stunning. Cover 15 km over 7-8 hours, winding through alpine meadows, rhododendron forests, and valleys with pristine mountain streams.
The tranquility of Sirikhola via Sepi is the perfect place to reflect on your adventure. Overnight stay at a homestay or tea house in Sepi.
Day 6: Drive from Sepi to Darjeeling
Swap trekking boots for a comfy ride as you drive to Darjeeling, arriving by 1:00 PM. The afternoon is yours to explore Darjeeling’s bustling markets, iconic landmarks, and savor local delicacies (hello, momos and chai!). Overnight stay at a cozy hotel in Darjeeling.
Day 7: Departure from Darjeeling to Bagdogra
Say goodbye to the Himalayas as you drive to Bagdogra Airport, reaching by 11:30 AM. With your heart full of memories and your camera packed with stunning shots, bid farewell to this unforgettable adventure and head home.
What is included in the tour
- Transportation from Bagdogra airport to Manebhanjan to Darjeeling
- Stay is included from Day 1 to Day 5 (Manebhanjang - Darjeeling). You will be staying in a Tea/guest house
- Vegetarian meals along the trek route from the Manebhanjang Base Camp to Sepi.
- Professional outdoor experts.
- All trekking permits and forest camping charges are included.
- First aid medical kit.
What is NOT included in the tour
- Meals during transit from Pune to Manebhajang and Darjeeling.
- Medical expenses (apart from first aid).
- Any kind of shopping, mineral water, optional sight-seeing, and any other expenses of personal nature.
- Bag offloading charges.
- Any expenses arising out of unforeseen circumstances like flight delay / cancellation / hike in fare, strike or any other natural calamities or any emergency evacuation expenses.
- Clothing of personal nature like trek shoes, kit bags, day packs, down jackets and other special clothing etc. (You can rent out from us)
- Any other item not mentioned in the cost include section.
Best Time to Visit
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March to May: Rhododendrons in full bloom, turning the trail into a kaleidoscope of colors.
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October to December: Crystal-clear mountain views and those crisp, cool vibes.
Difficulty Level
Moderate—ideal for beginners with a bit of fitness prep. If you can climb stairs without huffing, you’re good to go!
Highest Altitude
11,929 ft at Sandakphu. Don’t worry, the views are worth every step.
Packing Essentials
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Warm clothing to keep you toasty at higher altitudes.
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Sturdy trekking shoes because, well, your sneakers or crocs won’t cut it.
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Rain gear (just in case the clouds get dramatic).
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Other basics like sunscreen, water bottles, and a spirit of adventure!
What Makes This Trek One-of-a-Kind
Views That Take Your Breath Away
Get front-row seats to the Himalayan Hall of Fame featuring Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, and Makalu—the ultimate VIP lineup of peaks. Oh, and don’t forget the endless valleys and forests below.
A Rhododendron Wonderland
Spring turns this trek into a floral explosion! Walk through vibrant rhododendron forests so magical, you’ll half-expect a fairy to pop out (don’t worry, it’s just the breeze).
Culture on the Trail
Experience the warm embrace of Sherpa and Nepali cultures, from their smiles to their stories and, of course, their soul-warming hospitality.
Wildlife Wonders
Spot unique creatures like the adorable red panda, the elusive Himalayan black bear, and the curious barking deer. Bonus points if you can catch these rare beauties on camera!
Trek for Everyone
With its moderate difficulty level, this trek is perfect for both first-timers looking to dip their boots into the trekking world and seasoned hikers wanting a relaxed yet rewarding adventure.
Tea House Bliss
Who needs fancy hotels when you’ve got cozy tea houses along the route? Enjoy warm meals, comfy stays, and that unbeatable local charm that makes you feel right at home.
Sunrise & Sunset Goals
Watch the sky paint itself in hues of orange and pink as the sun rises and sets from Sandakphu peak. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime spectacle that’ll leave you speechless.
