Sandakphu Trek

The literal meaning of Sandakphu is the 'height of the poison plant' which stands true for the poisonous aconite trees growing close to this peak. 58 km from Darjeeling, at a height of 3636 m this captivating mountain trek epitomises the magnificence of the snows. The highest peak of the Singalila Range, Sandakphu is the terminating point of several trekking routes in the Darjeeling-Sikkim region. The mysterious trails of Himalaya take the trekkers through the forests coated with green darkness interspersed with red and white rhododendron and silver fir trees.

Nature at Sandakphu is found at her best and the vistas atop the hill are truly awe-inspiring and take away the strains and exhaustion of hardship one experiences on the way. The clear view of the four highest peaks of the world can be witnessed from Sandakphu Peak. En-route get introduced with the surreal beauty of the landscape dotted with 600 varieties of orchids. The trails are believed to be discovered by the 19th century English Lords. An easy narrow path meanders along the Indo-Nepal border and let one have an idea of the cultural backdrop of Sikkim.

Day 01: Delhi - Bagdogra - Darjeeling

Board on a morning flight for Bagdogra from Delhi. Upon arrival at Bagdogra you will be met by our representative and you will be taken for a drive to Darjeeling. On arrival transfer to the hotel. Evening for exploring the area and acclimatisation. Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 02: Darjeeling - Maneybhanjang - Tonglu

Early in the morning drive towards Tiger Hill to see Sunrise on Kanchenjunga peak. On the return visit the Ghoom Monastery. Built in 1875 the monastery which follows the Gelugpa sect, houses one of the largest statue of the Maitreya Buddha-"the future Buddha".

After breakfast drive to Maneybhanjang, the starting point of the trek. It takes around one and half hour to reach Maneybhanjang from Darjeeling. The days walk is around 6 hours climb that passes through small village of Chitre and forests of Rhododendron and Magnolias. The trekkers' hut is set at Tonglu at an elevation of 3020 m with stunning views of the Himalaya at the backdrop. Overnight in tent.

Day 03: Tonglu - Garibas

In the morning go out for a walk through the forest which is a home to the rare Red Panda and the Tragoapn. After 4 hours walk you will reach trekkers' hut at Garibas at an altitude of 2620 m. Spend the night in Garibas.

Day 04: Garibas - Sandakphu

Another phase of Sandakphu trek starts this morning. After breakfast head for trekking to Sandakphu. It takes around 6 hours. Sandakphu is the place from where one can witness the clear views of the peaks of Lhotse (8501m), Everest (8848m) and Makalu (8475m) of the Nepal Himalaya along with the stunning views of the huge Kanchenjanga massif (8586m). Overnight stay at Sandakphu.

Day 05: Sandakphu - Phalut

On fourth day the trek passes through a ridge and generates a bewildering experience. It can be considered as one of the best enjoyable and scenic walks in the Himalaya. The snowy peaks of the Himalaya never go out of the sight and snakes through high altitude vegetation, dwarf Rhododendron and firs. The walk to Phalut takes around 7 hours. Overnight stay at Phalut.

Day 06: Phalut - Rammam

To view the sunrise over the Himalaya, wake up early morning. After breakfast trek to Rammam that takes around 5 hours. The trail passes through the villages of Gorkhey and Samanden and bird lovers can find a feast for their eyes. Overnight stay at Rammam.

Day 07: Rammam - Rimbik

Today's trek descends to the bridge at Srikhola and passes through a number of small villages to reach Rimbik. Overnight at stay Rimbik.

Day 08: Rimbik - Darjeeling

After breakfast get ready for a four hours drive to reach Darjeeling. Food and nightstay in hotel.

Day 09: Darjeeling - Bagdogra - Delhi (123 kms / 6-7 hrs)

Early morning drive to Bagdogra to board flight for Delhi. On arrival at Delhi reach International Airport to catch onwards flight.

Tour & Services End.