Overview:

The Sandakphu Trek is one of the best and easily doable treks in India. This trip is a perfect escape into the core of nature amidst the rich Flora and Fauna. Beginners who are looking for an adventurous and exciting expedition will have the best experience on this trail from Maneybhanjan to Sandakphu. Sandakphu being the highest peak of West Bengal, is quite a popular destination for Travellers. Visiting the quaint towns and hamlets and getting in touch with the culture and local people of the region will be some of the most cherishable moments of your life. Trekking to the spectacular destinations beyond Sandakphu like Phalut, Gorkhey, Rammam, and Rimbik, along the graveled paths and rough terrain with Rhododendrons on either side of the winding roads, is truly mesmerizing. Witnessing the diverse wildflowers and wildlife in the dense forests of Coniferous and Oak trees amidst the hills is a delight for nature lovers. Following the trail through the stretched tea gardens, ecstatic valleys, deep gorges, and the lofty, towering mountains touching the clouds are sure to give you one of the best trips of your life. The panoramic views of the majestic mountains and the epic beauty of the snowy peaks as they change color during sunrise and sunsets are a blissful sight. As you hike to the higher altitudes with the cold winds touching your face and camp under the starlit sky, you are sure to have one of the best trekking adventures that will be locked in your hearts forever.

Day to Day Travel Slate:

Day1:

On your arrival at Bagdogra Airport or NJP Railway station, you will be received by our representatives and transferred to Maneybhanjan, which is a 100 Km drive for 4 hours. Maneybhanjan is a small town located in the Darjeeling district that acts as the gateway to Singalila National Park. This popular National Park is located at a very high altitude of 7000 m above sea level and paves the way for your adventurous and exciting Sandakphu Trek. The quaint town of Maneybhanjan, which is known as “the valley of ancient stupas” by the locals, is at an altitude of 2150 m. It is cradled on the International Border of India and Nepal and usually acts as a stopover for acclimatization before the Trek for Sandakphu begins.

Day2:

Today, you will climb uphill from Maneybhanjan to Tonglu/Tumling. It is a beautiful little village at the height of 3050 m, and it will be a spectacular hike of about 11 Km to reach finally. The trekking begins on a moderate level but then towards the end has a steep ascent. The Rhododendrons along the way and the Koshi River is seen meandering when looked down truly adds to the compelling beauty of the scenery. Your first camp will be in this local village Tonglu, from where you can witness the majestic Mt. Kanchenjunga and its neighboring snowy peaks. The enchanting sleeping Buddha is clearly seen from this region during sunsets. Camping under the clear sky and spending the night in the lap of nature is one of the best parts of this trip.

Day3:–

As you proceed towards Kalipokhri from Tonglu, you will tread amidst Coniferous Forests and Rhodendrons on your way. Kalipokhri is a local Himalayan hamlet that has extraordinary views of the towering mountain peaks. It is also a favorite place for bird lovers as they can observe the varied species of Himalayan birds found in that region. With a tiring day coming to an end, you will spend your night in a camp at Kalipokhri or Gairibas, after a sumptuous hot dinner.

Day4:

Today, after two days of continuous ascent, your hard work will finally pay off, as you will proceed to your final and highest trek point Sandakphu. It is the highest peak of West Bengal, and the ridge is flat on the top with an open North. The rough terrains and hurdles on the road are all beautifully balanced by the stunning panoramic views of the towering mountains along the way. The vibrant blooming wildflowers in the higher altitudes and the sunkissed peaks make you forget the tough journey and bring a revived energy amongst the trekkers after the long expedition. The long winding roads have local huts and lodges on either side where you can relax and get acquainted with the local culture and people.

Day5:

Today, you will start retreating from Sandakphu to Phalut. Trek to Phalut can be a little difficult as it is the highest peak in the Singalila range, but the ecstatic conquest from Samdakphu to Phalut is a very exciting one for adventure seekers. The hiking to Phalut requires a steep and steady 5 hours climb, after which the road takes a zigzag route. The rugged terrain, along with high altitudes, keeps pushing limits and challenging the spirits, but the glory in finally attaining the goal of reaching such heights through the dense forests and hills is remarkable. Phalut is a mesmerizing place far from the hustle-bustle of crowds, and the serene ambiance calms one’s soul.

Day6:

With the crossing of a route from Phalut to Gorkhey, you will head forward with your conquest and a few difficulties and hurdles along the way. Gorkhey is a beautiful creation of nature and is one of the most attractive valleys of the North-east. Encapsulated between Tea Gardens and Mountains in the backdrop, this scenic spot is also on the wishlist of most travelers. As you reach Gorkhey, traveling across some thick vegetations and road bumps, you will see the Gorkhey Khola Stream and the blissfully flowing Rammam river. You will spend your night in a tent under the night sky in Gorkhey.

Day7:

Today, you will start from Gorkhey and hike up to Rammam. This day will be a very delightful and colorful one, as the forest is a home to hundreds of species of birds, which includes the vibrant Himalayan Monal, the Emerald Dove, the Maroon Oriole, etc. It also houses the different types of plants and trees like Rhododendrons, Silver Firs, Pines, Spruce, Chestnuts, Oaks, and giant Magnolias. The richly diverse forest attracts a lot of nature lovers to spend their day soaking in its beauty and capturing beautiful pictures of birds, wildlife, and trees. After spending your day amidst the hypnotic nature, you will travel across the stretch of lush green meadows to finally reach the campsite for an overnight stay and to preserve your energy for the trek the next day.

Day8:

As you proceed towards Rimbik today, you know that your exciting trek is nearing the end. Rimbik is a small remote village that is slowly gaining its popularity amidst visitors. It is a heavenly abode confined within the tall coniferous and oak trees and has a peaceful atmosphere. You can enjoy the breath of fresh air and witness the magnificent plantations stretched as far as the hills. Soon after that, you will drive back from Rimbik and return to Maneybhanjan for overnight stay.

Day9:

With your marvelous trip coming to an end, you will prepare to proceed towards your hometown. After breakfast at Maneybhanjan, you will drive to Bagdogra Airport or NJP Railway Station and take back memories of this remarkable trekking experience in the heart of nature.

Inclusions:

• Transporation while receiving and dropping off at NJP Railway Station or Bagdogra Airport.
• During the trek, accommodation with meals will be provided.
• Purified water for drinking.
• All ground transportation according to the itinerary.
• Professional Local Trekking guide will be provided throughout the trek.
• All entry fees.
• The kitchen staff or Cook will be provided.
• First Aid in case of emergency will be provided.

Exclusions:

• Airfare and train fare
• Any kind of beverage such as alcohol, soft drinks, bottled water, etc.
• Any extra food except or meal that is not mentioned in the inclusions.
• Any kind of personal expenses such as tips, laundry, or other services.
• Any costs arising out of natural calamities or unexpected circumstances like landslides, roadblocks, bad weather, etc
• Emergency medical expenses.
• Travel or Health Insurance.
• Any other expenses not mentioned in the inclusions.