Descriptions

The Sandakphu Trek is one of India’s most breathtaking Himalayan ridge treks, celebrated for offering panoramic views of four of the world’s tallest peaks, including Mount Everest and Kanchenjunga from a single vantage point. 

Located along the Singalila Ridge in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal, Sandakphu sits at an altitude of about 3,636 m (11,930 ft), making it the highest point in West Bengal. The trek is famous among adventure travellers, nature lovers, and photographers across India and abroad due to its rich biodiversity, cultural interactions, and some of the most spectacular Himalayan sunrise and sunset views. Recent news reports show high tourism demand for winter treks to Sandakphu, with accommodations in nearby Darjeeling and the trail region fully booked through early January, thanks to predicted snowfall and a strong season. 

Where Is the Sandakphu Trek?

Sandakphu lies on the Singalila Ridge, running from northwestern West Bengal through Sikkim, forming a natural border between India and Nepal. The trek starts from the village of Manebhanjan, near Darjeeling, and runs through scenic high-altitude trails within the Singalila National Park, renowned for red pandas, oak-rhododendron forests, and diverse Himalayan flora and fauna.

Why Sandakphu Is Unique

Unlike many Himalayan treks, Sandakphu offers:

• Views of Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, and Makalu in one frame.
• Cultural blend: The trail crosses into Nepalese-border villages like Tumling and Meghma, offering a unique Indo-Nepal trekking experience.
• Tea house stays and local homestays, making it comfortable and immersive even for first-time trekkers.

Follow us on Facebook Instagram 

Program

DAY 01 ARRIVE BAGDOGRA - DARJEELING

Arrive at Bagdogra Airport/Railway Station, meet with a representative of Himalayan Holidays Airport, and after that, transfer to Darjeeling (90 km). Darjeeling is known as the "Queen of Hills' and the famous tea state of India. Reach Darjeeling. Rest of the day free at leisure. Overnight at the hotel.
Meal: Dinner

DAY 2: DARJEELING – DOTREY – GAIRIBANS

Drive to Dotrey (2200 m). The village is inhabited by Sherpas Nepalese. From Dotrey, start trekking gradually uphill to Tonglu (3,020 m) in Nepal through a clean forest trail, which continues on over the ridge to Jaubari in Nepal (2,750 m). Thereafter, it is a gradual descent to Gairibas (2620 m) in Nepal.Overnight in Camp/Trekkers.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 3: GAIRIBANS– SANDHAKPHU

After breakfast, trek to SandhakphuThe trail climbs gradually from Gairibas via Kal Pokhari (2,950 m). From Kal Pokhari, the trail gradually up for an hour to Bhikay Bhanjang (3,350 m). A couple of hours more and a rather steep climb take one up to the ridge, with occasional uninterrupted views of mighty peaks. Overnight stay in a tent or trekker's hut.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 4: SANDAKPHU - MOLLE

Trek to Molle (3250 m). This 14-kilometer trek provides the most spectacular views of some of the highest peaks in the world and the valley of Nepal.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner'

DAY 5: MOLLE - PHALUT

Trek to Phalut (3600 m). Phalut provides the most attractive views of some of the highest peaks and a beautiful sunrise over the Khanchendzonga range of mountains. Overnight stay in a trekker's hut or in tents.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 6: PHALUT - GORKHEY

Trek to Gorkhey. This 16-kilometer downhill route passes through dense forests of oak, pine, rhododendron trees, and bamboo bushes. Gorkhey is a small village on the bank of the river Gorkhey. Overnight stay in camp.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 7:GORKHEY- RAMAM - SRI KHOLA

Trek to Sri Khola. The route passes through small villages and dense forests of Oak, pine, etc. Overnight stay in a tent camp or lodge.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 08: SRI KHOLA- RIMBIK - DARJEELING

Early morning trek gradually to Rimbik, 6 km from Sri Khola, through small villages. Rimbik is a small market but very important for the surrounding villages. After having lunch in Rimbik, say goodbye to Trek and drive back to Darjeeling for 4-5 hours. Overnight stay in hotel.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 09: DARJEELING - BAGDOGRA

Morning, after breakfast, transfer to Bagdogra airport. Railway station.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Best Time to Trek

• Spring (March – May): Blooming rhododendrons and warm days. 
• Autumn (October – December): Clear skies and crisp mountain views.
• Winter (Dec – Feb): Snowfall creates magical snowy landscapes and boosts tourism demand, though temperatures can be extremely cold. 

How Long Is the Trek

The typical Sandakphu Trek itinerary lasts 5–6 days, covering the route from Manebhanjan → Tumling → Kalipokhri → Sandakphu → (optional) Phalut → Gorkhey → Srikhola → Rimbick before descending back.

Route & What to Expect

• Manebhanjan to Tonglu: Moderate uphill through dense forests.
• Tonglu to Kalipokhri: Cross villages and enjoy views of Kanchenjunga.
• Kalipokhri to Sandakphu: The most scenic stretch, rewarding trekkers with expansive ridgeline views.
• Optional Phalut Extension: Some trekkers continue to Phalut (3,600 m) via the ridge for even wider vistas of the Kanchenjunga range. 

Tea houses and simple lodges dot the trail, allowing trekkers to rest without heavy camping gear.

Permits & Regulations

Since the trail lies within Singalila National Park, entry permits are mandatory. Permits can be obtained at the Manebhanjan forest entry gate or at various beat posts along the trail. Guides are highly recommended (and often required for permit/legal compliance) and can be hired from Manebhanjan.

Cost & Trek Packages

Costs vary based on package type and season:

• Local DIY budget: Around ₹10,000–₹15,000 per person including permits, lodging, and guide fees.

• Group trek packages: Around ₹11,900 – ₹14,950+ per person including accommodation, meals, permits, and local guide support, though transport to/from Darjeeling may be extra. 

Difficulty Level

The trek is generally rated as moderate — suitable for beginners with good basic fitness. Trails are well-marked, and tea houses provide frequent rest points. However, some stretches, especially above Kalipokhri, can be steep and demanding in wet or snowy conditions.

Flora & Fauna

The trek passes through Singalila National Park, famous for:

• Red pandas
• Rhododendrons and bamboo forests
• Himalayan bird species like monals and blood pheasants 

This biodiversity makes the trek satisfying for wildlife lovers and photographers alike.

Local Culture & Experience

Tea houses along the trail are often run by Sherpa and Nepalese families, offering regional food, warm hospitality, and insights into local traditions. The trek also touches small villages where cultural interaction becomes a highlight.

Safety & Preparation

• Acclimatize properly as temperature drops rapidly at higher altitudes.
• Carry warm layers and rain gear. 
• Ensure adequate permits and a guide for compliance and trail support. 

Latest Trends & News

The 2026 winter season has seen a surge in trekking demand and early bookings due to predicted snowfall in Darjeeling and Sandakphu. 

Price & Inclusions

On Request

Inclusion Details

• Accommodation on Dbl/Twin Sharing Rooms in hotels/guest house and tents as per program
• Meals as per the above itinerary.
• Arrival and Departure from Bagdogra Airport/Railway station
• Services of a local guide for the trekking as per the itinerary.
• One-time entrances to the monuments as per the itinerary
• Transportation using Tempo Traveler, Innova (Depend on group size)
• Trekking equipment.
• Insurance for Shikhar Staff and Porters.
• The documentation and permit of the expedition form the local authority.
• Mules and Porters to carry expedition luggage. We will also carry 10 kg of personal luggage for each member.
• First Aid kit and Oxygen Cylinders
• We will also provide one helper-cum guide for every four members. Any additional helper will be charged extra.
  
  Note: Please ensure that you covered under insurance. Book your Insurance by us at an extra cost by email (tours@shikhar.com)

Exclusion

The cost does not include:

• 5% GST
• Travel insurance
• Personal clothing (We Provide Sleeping bag at an extra cost of 600 INR for full tour)
• Personal Guide
• Personal expenses such as table drinks, room’s services items, laundry, telephone calls at hotels or tips, etc.
• Any additional expenses caused by or liability for a disturbance in the trip program due to or circumstances, such as weather conditions, sickness, natural disasters, riots, etc.
• Liability for or insurance against injury, loss of life, accidents, or loss of goods.
• Personal Belongings such as a down jacket, walking sticks, etc.

Please ensure your insurance covers you for the heights you are likely to attain and for helicopter rescue as well. When you have chosen and booked your insurance, please provide Himalayan Holidays with your insurer's name, their 24-hour emergency telephone number, and your policy number with them. Remember, your insurance is not worth the paper it's written on if we don't know the details and you need their assistance.

Book Your Insurance with Himalayan Holidays Call for information: (9717891140 Vikas Chauhan)

Cancellation Policy

• Cancellation Charges: Notice of cancellation must be made in writing in the name of Himalayan Holidays.
• For cancellations made 60 days prior to the start of the tour, there will be a cancellation fee of 25% of the invoice.
• For cancellations made within 60–30 days of the start of the tour, there will be a cancellation charge of 50% of the invoice. For cancellations made within 30 days of the start of the tour, there will be a cancellation charge of 100% of the invoice.
• In certain cases, the cancellation policy (including conditions applicable to the advance deposit made or required for holding the reservation) may differ and would be applicable as per the cancellation policy of that hotel / service provider. This will be charged in addition to the cancellation policy.
• Unused Services and Refunds
• No refund will be made for any unused services or other arrangements due to any changes in schedule made by passengers while travelling. However, in certain cases, the refund will be considered as per the policy of the carrier, hotel, tour company, or other supplier used for providing services.
• A refund request must be made within 2 weeks of the completion of the trip.
• If there are any additional expenses due to bad weather or any other reason beyond the control of the tour operator on account of hotel stays, transportation, meals, etc., an extra bill will be raised. Neither Himalayan Holidays. nor the participating suppliers or hotels will be responsible for the additional expenses.

Responsibility, Liability

All the packages are sold under the business management of Himalayan Holidays, and they are in no way considered the principal or operator of the subject services. The right is reserved to cancel or alter any package as conditions require. Neither Himalayan Holidays nor the participating suppliers or hotels will be responsible for the additional expenses due to loss, delay or damage caused by accident, illness, bad weather, strikes or riots, roadblocks, etc.

Governing Law

This condition and each term shall be governed by and constructed in accordance with the laws of India without reference to conflict of laws principles, and disputes arising in relation hereto shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of New Delhi.

Making a booking deposit for the above tour will be treated as acceptance of our terms and condition.

Most Asked FAQs

1) What is the Sandakphu Trek?
Sandakphu Trek is a scenic Himalayan ridge trek in West Bengal offering views of Everest, Kanchenjunga, Makalu, and Lhotse.

2) Where does the Sandakphu Trek start?
The trek typically starts from Manebhanjan village, near Darjeeling.

3) How tall is Sandakphu?
Sandakphu’s summit is at approximately 3,636 m (11,930 ft).

4) How many days does it take?
The trek usually takes 5-6 days, depending on itinerary and pace.

5) Do I need a permit?
Yes, a Singalila National Park entry permit is mandatory and can be obtained at Manebhanjan or forest checkposts.

6) Is a guide required?
While the trail is well marked, local guides are strongly recommended and often required for permits and safety.

7) What is the trek difficulty?
Rated moderate — suitable for beginners with basic fitness.

8) What views can I expect?
Panoramic views of four of the world’s tallest peaks, including Everest and Kanchenjunga.

9) Best time to visit?
Spring (Mar-May) and Autumn (Oct-Dec) offer clear views; winter (Dec-Feb) brings snow but colder conditions.

10) How much does it cost?
Budget trek costs roughly ₹10,000-₹15,000+ per person; packaged tours may vary. 

11) Can I do this trek solo?
Solo trekking is possible but not advisable without a registered guide for permits and safety.

12) Is accommodation available on the trail?
Yes — there are tea houses and simple lodges throughout the route.

Enquire Now

Photo Gallery