Trekking in Darjeeling is venturing into the heart of adventure on the mystical Singalila Ridge, cradled in the Eastern Himalayan mountains of India’s northeast.
There are treks in Darjeeling, from one-day to multi-day trekking, but the two best treks in Darjeeling that stands out among the rest are the Sandakphu Singalila Phalut Trek, and the shorter Sandakphu Trek.
These two best trekking routes in Darjeeling are a blend of awe-inspiring views of the snow-capped peaks of the Everest and the Kanchenjunga Ranges, moderate trekking route, and dense forests, of the Singalila National Park.
From day hiking trips to few days of trekking, Darjeeling beckons you with an array of thrilling trek routes with unparalleled beauty that will leave you breathless.
Discover the allure of day hikes or the best multi-day treks in Darjeeling, designed to suit every level of adventurer. Immerse yourself in the stunning Himalayan vistas, traverse the lush forests of Singalila National Park, and conquer the highest mountain peaks of Sandakphu and Phalut, as you explore this enchanting land called Darjeeling.
From the iconic five-day Sandakphu Trek to the awe-inspiring six-day Sandakphu Phalut Trek, each route is meticulously crafted to showcase the best of Darjeeling’s trekking trails.
And if time is of the essence, there are several one-day hiking routes that will give you a taste of trekking in Darjeeling. These treks range from simple, scenic walks to challenging climbs, so whether you’re a beginner or an experienced trekker, Darjeeling has something to offer.
Besides the natural beauty, these trekking routes in Darjeeling also provides trekkers with the opportunity to immerse themselves in the local culture, and witness a unique blend of Nepalese, Tibetan, and Indian influences.
Best season to embark on these trekking routes in Darjeeling are the Spring and the Autumn seasons.
Spring season from March to May beckons hikers with the spectacular view of the Everest, and the Kanchenjunga ranges decorated with the colorful rhododendron, magnolia and other wildflower blooms. This indeed is also a good time to go trekking in Darjeeling for bird watchers too.
The autumn season from October to November gives hikers a chance to view the sleeping Buddha in all its glory with crystal clear views.
These trekking routes from one-day Tonglu Trek to multi-day Sandakphu trek usually starts from Maneybhanjyang, just one hour drive from Darjeeling. while some prefer to start the trek from Dhottrey, a little further from Maneybhanjyang.
Planning Your Darjeeling Day Hiking or multi-day trekking: We have the best hiking trails in Darjeeling for you to choose from.
Sandakphu View Point and the Kanchenjunga Range
Darjeeling, a picturesque hill station in West Bengal, India, is not just famous for its tea and stunning views of Kanchenjunga; it also offers the best trekking trails, from one-day trek to several days of trekking that adventure enthusiasts simply cannot miss. Among the best trekking routes in Darjeeling, you’ll find trails that cater to all levels of trekkers, from beginners to seasoned adventurers.
The two popular and the best multi-day trekking trails in Darjeeling include the five-day Sandakphu Trek, and the six day Sandakphu Singalila Phalut Trek. Darjeeling also offers the best two-day or one-day Tonglu-Tumling Trek, or the one-day Tiger Hill Trek or the one-day Darjeeling Chatakpur Trek.
For someone short on time or on a budget trip, a day walk to the tea gardens is also a convenient way to discover the Darjeeling Hills. A day hike in Darjeeling is also possible, along with a visit to the tea garden and the local historical monuments and monasteries around Darjeeling. We offer complete and customized packages for guided one-day trekking and hiking in Darjeeling.
The five-day Sandakphu Trek is a 51 km long trek that ascends up to Sandakphu and drops down to Siri Khola or Rimbik with a night halt at a small vaillage of Gurdum or Timburey. Alternatively, the Sandakphu Phalut Trek is an extension of the popular Sandakphu Trek, offering trekkers a chance to explore more of the stunning Singalila Ridge. The trekking trail takes you beyond Sandakphu to the remote Phalut, then through the charming villages of Gorkhay and Ramam along the way. The trek culminates in Darjeeling after a scenic hike to Rimbik.
All these treks in Darjeeling offer breathtaking views of the Himalayas, and lush green landscapes, and a unique cultural experience in the mountain villages making them perfect from a few days of trekking to a beautiful one day hike in Darjeeling.
Here are some of the best guided one-day treks around Darjeeling with lunch and transport for 2025:
View of the Kanchenjunga Range from Tongloo Ridge with the Home stay in the foreground
Tonglu-Trek:
Distance Covered:
Dhotrey to Tonglu to Tumling: 6 km.
Tumling to Manebhanjyang: 12 km.
Manebhanjyang to Darjeeling: 1 Hour Drive
The Tonglu trek is a relatively short and easy trek, making it a great option for beginners or those with limited time. Starting from Dhotrey, the trek takes you through dense forests before reaching Tonglu, which offers magnificent views of the snow-covered peaks of the Kanchenjunga range. Tonglu is a quiet, peaceful place, perfect for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
The Darjeeling Dhotrey Tonglu Tumling Manebhanjyang Circuit, with 17 km of total trekking in one day, is the best route for day trekking in Darjeeling. A day hike in Darjeeling through the lush green forest of Singalila National Park with wonderful mountain views definitely makes this one-day trek in Darjeeling something that you can undertake over a weekend.
This scenic one-day hike in Darjeeling starts with a two-hours drive to Dhotrey from Darjeeling. From here the trek route gently climbs up through pine and conifer forest to reach Tonglu (3001 m) and then Tumling (2975 m) along the India-Nepal border. You also have the option of staying overnight in one of those simple but quaint tea houses in Tumling or Tonglu, overlooking the Kanchenjunga Range.
Tumling Village seen from Tongloo Ridge
Trek to Chatakpur: Best place to trek to for day hiking in Darjeeling
Chatakpur, a sublime small village in the middle of Senchal National Park surrounded by conical-shaped pine and fur trees abounding with birds and other wildlife, is definitely among the best trekking routes in Darjeeling for a day hike. The one-day hike starts from Darjeeling, then passes through Aloobari, a quaint little village on the outskirts of the main town, and slowly follows the road to Jorebungalow. From Jorebungalow, the road proceeds towards the 3rd. mile for 2 km, then turns left on a wide, rough road towards Chatakpur.
Chatakpur is a small eco-village developed by the Forest Department in the middle of Senchal National Park, abounding with different varieties of birds and wildlife. From Chatakpur, you can get a bird’s-eye view of the Kanchenjunga Range. The trek to Chatakpur is, in fact, among the best one-day trekking routes in Darjeeling.
Darjeeling to Tiger Hill Trek
Tiger Hill, which falls inside Senchal National Park, is yet another best trekking destination for a day trek in Darjeeling. Due to its proximity to Darjeeling, a day trek to Tiger Hill and back is quite popular among hikers with limited time. Hikers on this day trek in Darjeeling usually start the hike to Tiger Hill early in the morning to catch the first rays of the sun on the Everest and Kanchenjunga Range and then return to Darjeeling.
How much do these day hikes in Darjeeling cost?
Cost: Do contact us or WhatsApp us for more details. (We will need a minimum of two people to run these day treks in Darjeeling successfully.).
What does the cost for these day treks include?
All road transport, as per itinerary, by car or Jeep
Lunch
Evening Tea
Service of an English-speaking guide.
Entrance fees to Singalila National Park
All permits for Darjeeling.
The cost does not include:
Personal clothing/equipment.
The hotel stays in Darjeeling.
Bottled or alcoholic drinks.
Tips, client insurance, and evacuation costs.
Any expenses of a personal nature.
For more details, contact us for more information. You can also call us or WhatsApp us (0091-9933975902), and we will get back to you with all the details.
Two best treks in Darjeeling with views of the four highest mountains in the world.
Can’t spare too much time and have just a few days or a long weekend for a trekking trip in Darjeeling? Then you should check out these treks. The USP of these trekking routes in Darjeeling are the vistas of some of the world’s highest mountain ranges and the opportunity to straddle the porous India-Nepal border and stay in cozy tea houses.
Five-Day Sandakphu Trek
Everest and the Kanchenjunga Range in one frame from the view point at Sandakphu
The Sandakphu trek is undoubtedly one of the most famous, and the most-admired trekking route in Darjeeling, known for offering panoramic views of the majestic Kanchenjunga and Everest range (the third and the highest mountains in the world). This short trek in Darjeeling involves four to five days of trekking from start to finish. The trail begins from Manebhanjyang or Dhotrey depending on your choice, two-hours drive from Darjeeling, and gradually ascends to Sandakphu. On clear days, trekkers can spy four of the world’s highest peaks: Kanchenjunga, Mount Everest, Makalu, and Lhotse in a single frame. Along the trek route, you’ll pass through the villages of Tumling, Gairibas, and Kalpokhori.
Sandakphu (3636 m) is the highest point on this trek, but do not worry as this is a moderate trek in Darjeeling. The trek route takes you through Singalila National Park, lined with rhododendrons and pine trees to the highest point in Darjeeling, that is Sandakphu.
From April to June, the Sandakphu Gurdum trek route looks spectacular in red, pink, and white from the floral extravaganza.
Brief Itinerary for the Five-Day Sandakphu Trek
Day 1: Arrive at Bagdogra Airport or New Jalpaiguri Rail Station. Meet your guide and transfer to Darjeeling. Overnight Hotel.
Day 2: Acclimatization Day in Darjeeling. Walking tour of Darjeeling. Overnight Hotel.
Day 3: Drive Darjeeling to Dhotrey (38 km/2 hour). Start the trek to Tonglu (3001 m/5 km).
Day 4: Trek Tonglu to Tumling to Kalipokhari (15 km/3001 m).
Day 5: Trek to Sandakphu (6 km/3636 m).
Day 6: Trek to Gurdum (10 km/2543 m).
Day 7: Trek to Rimbik (9 km). Trek Ends. Drive back to Darjeeling (3 hours).
Day 8: Drive to Bagdogra Airport or New Jalpaiguri Rail Station for the final departure.
How much does the Sandakphu-Gurdum Trek cost?
Sandakphu Trek Cost: US$630 per person.
We will need a minimum of two people to run this trek in Darjeeling successfully.
What is included and excluded in the cost?
TREK COST INCLUDES:
Hotel accommodation: twin share, including breakfasts in the Standard Hotel.
All road transport is as per itinerary by car or Jeep.
Service of an English-speaking guide.
Entrance fees to monuments visited.
Singalila National Park Fees
All permits for Darjeeling.
DOES NOT INCLUDE:
Sleeping bag; personal clothing or equipment.
Lunches and dinners during the hotel stay in Sikkim and Darjeeling.
Bottled or alcoholic drinks.
Tips, client insurance, and evacuation costs.
Any expenses of a personal nature.
For detailed day-to-day itinerary and other information:click here
Sandakphu-Phalut Trek
Phalut View Point and the Kanchenjunga Range
Considered the best trekking route in the Indian Himalayas, especially during spring, the Sandakphu Phalut Trek is an 81-kilometer hike in Darjeeling that takes six to seven days to traverse across the Singalila Ridge.
The hiking trail along the Singalila Ridge to Sandakphu and Phalut is well-marked. The trekking trail primarily follows wide jeep tracks after Tonglu to Sandakphu and Phalut. To avoid vehicular movement, some hikers prefer starting their trek from Rimbik, ascending through Gurdum to reach Sandakphu. This choice is a matter of personal preference, and we are always ready to accommodate your needs.
Phalut is often considered the best part of this trek in Darjeeling. While Sandakphu provides magnificent views of the Himalayas, Phalut offers an even more spectacular panoramic vista of the surrounding peaks. Phalut is less crowded than Sandakphu and offers a sense of solitude, making it perfect for those looking for the best mid-range trek in Darjeeling.
Brief Itinerary for Nine-Day Sandakphu Phalut Trek in Darjeeling
Day 1: Arrive at Bagdogra Airport. Meet your guide and drive to Darjeeling. Overnight Hotel.
Day 2: Acclimatization Day in Darjeeling. Overnight Hotel in Darjeeling.
Day 3: Drive Darjeeling to Dhotrey (38 km/2 hour). Start the trek to Tonglu (3001 m/5 km).
Day 4: Trek Tonglu to Tumling to Kalpokhari (15 km/3001 m).
Day 5: Trek Tonglu to Sandakphu (6 km/3636 m).
Day 6: Trek Sandakphu to Phalut (22 km/3586 m).
Day 7: Trek Phalut to Gorkhay (15 km/2243 m).
Day 8: Trek Gorkhay to Timburey (12 km/2100 m).
Day 9: Trek Timburey to Rimbik (9 km/2100 m). Drive back to Darjeeling. Overnight Hotel in Darjeeling.
Day 10: Drive back to Bagdogra Airport or New Jalpaiguri Rail Station for final departure. End of the Trek and Tour of Darjeeling
How much does this trek cost?
Cost: US$790 per person.
We will need a minimum of two persons to run this trek in Darjeeling successfully.
What is included and excluded in the cost?
TREK COST INCLUDES:
Hotel accommodation: twin share, including breakfasts in the Standard Hotel.
All road transport is as per itinerary by car or Jeep.
Service of an English-speaking guide.
Entrance fees to monuments visited.
All permits for Darjeeling.
Singalila National Park Fees
DOES NOT INCLUDE:
Sleeping bag; personal clothing or equipment.
Lunches and dinners during the hotel stay in Sikkim and Darjeeling.
Bottled or alcoholic drinks.
Tips, client insurance, and evacuation costs.
Any expenses of a personal nature.
Food
There is limited choice for food on the trekking trail in Darjeeling. The lodges and tea houses enroute on these treks in Darjeeling typically offer traditional dishes such as ‘Dal’, ‘Bhat’, curry, and Chutney or Achaar. However, the main town of Darjeeling provides a variety of cuisine to satisfy your palate.
In the hotels and restaurants in Darjeeling, momos or dumplings are commonly served; these can be either vegetable-filled or meat-filled. Chicken, pork, beef, and fish delicacies are widely available in restaurants though not all establishments serve beef and pork.
Accommodation
As expected on a mountain trail, basic accommodations are available along the trekking route from Manebhanjyang to Sandakphu and Phalut, operated by local Nepali/Tibetan families. There are one trekkers hut each in Tonglu, Gairibas, Phalut, Gorkhay and Siri Khola, while Sandakphu has three trekkers hut. Rooms typically feature dormitory-style beds with triple or quad configurations, with a common restroom and washroom in these trekkers hut. However, Tongloo and Sandakphu also has one private homestay each but with basic facilities.
Conversely, better lodges with electricity, free WIFI and twin-share accommodation featuring twin-share rooms with attached bathroom and restroom with running hot and cold water are found along Singalila Ridge on the Nepal side of the trekking trail. For example, Tumling just a kilometer below Tonglu, Kalipokhri and Sandakphu. Sandakphu on the Nepal side of the trekking trail has two private hotels, of which the Sunrise Hotel boasts of upmarket facilities with inhouse restaurant with food and drinks as per the menu.
Further down in villages, homestays offer twin-share rooms with common restrooms and bathrooms.
Updated trekking rules in Darjeeling, India: As of 2023, foreign hikers planning to trek the Singalila Ridge in Darjeeling will no longer be permitted to stay overnight on the Nepal side of the route. This means our Darjeeling trek packages will now include overnight stays in trekker’s huts or local homestays in Tonglu and Sandakphu.
We’ll work hard to ensure your accommodations are as comfortable as possible. If you had your heart set on crossing into Nepal, this change may affect your plans. But don’t worry, we’ll make sure you have an amazing Darjeeling trekking experience nonetheless! Let us know if you have any other questions.”
WIFI and Electricity on the trekking trail
As is common in remote trekking locations, there is no WIFI along the entire Singalila Ridge in Darjeeling. Mobile network coverage is sparse to non-existent throughout the trek route. However, you may find some connectivity with Airtel and Jio networks at certain spots.
On the Nepal side of the trekking trail, electricity and mobile network access are available if you have a Nepali SIM card. In places like Tumling, Kalpokhri, and Sandakphu, lodges offer WIFI for a small fee that grants access for 12 hours upon payment.
Language
Nepali Language is the predominant and extensively used dialect in the Darjeeling region, comprehensible and spoken by the entire population. Within the Darjeeling region, a diverse amalgamation of cultures exists, ranging from Bhutias to Tibetans to Nepalis. However, even if you do not know Nepali or if it’s rusty, there is no need for concern, as individuals encountered along the trekking route, as well as in tea houses and lodges, will possess a grasp of the English language and be capable of engaging in communication with you. The two most important Nepali word to remember is ” Namaste” ( which is same as saying hello in English) and Dhanyabad ( Thank You).
Religion
Hinduism, Buddhism, Christianity, and to some extent Islam are the predominant religions in Darjeeling. The culture of Darjeeling is richly diverse. In addition to major religious festivals such as Diwali, Christmas, Dussera, Holi, and Ram Navami among others; the town’s varied ethnic communities also celebrate several local festivals.
Sandakphu- with the trekkers Huts, Lodge and the Kanchenjunga Range in the Background
Singalila Ridge
The Singalila Ridge is a north–south mountain ridge in the Darjeeling region that extends from northwestern West Bengal through Sikkim in the Eastern Himalayas in India. The western part of this ridge falls within the Ilam district of Nepal.
This ridge acts as a natural divider, separating the mountain ranges of West Bengal from other Himalayan ranges to its west. Sandakphu (3,636 m or 11,929 ft) and Phalut (3,600 m or 11,800 ft), which are the two highest peaks in West Bengal, are situated on this ridge. Occupying much of this area is Singalila National Park, renowned for its stunning views of Kanchenjunga and Mount Everest.
Adventure travelers frequently visit for trekking routes such as Manebhanjan to Sandakphu and Phalut. Additionally popular among adventurers is mountain biking along these paths.
Packing essentials for your hike in Darjeeling
When preparing for your day in Darjeeling, it is crucial to pack essentials to ensure a safe and comfortable trek. Some essential items to pack include a sturdy pair of hiking boots, a backpack with water and snacks, a first aid kit, a map or GPS device, a flashlight, and appropriate clothing for the weather conditions. It is also important to pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the strong Himalayan sun.
Choosing the right time of year
The best time to go hiking in Darjeeling is during the spring and autumn months, when the weather is pleasant and the skies are clear. The months of March to May and September to November are considered ideal for hiking in the Himalayas, as the temperatures are moderate and the views are spectacular.
It is important to avoid hiking during the monsoon season, as the Singalila National Park will remain closed to outsiders from June 15th to September 15th every year.
By choosing the right time of year for your hiking adventure, you can make the most of your experience in Darjeeling. A trek in December is also possible, from day treks to multi-day treks in Darjeeling, but you may experience snowfall and minus-degree temperatures.
Please note: We can also help you customize your trek and tour itineraries as per your needs.
COSTS : Do write to us for Costs and other Informations
TOUR COST INCLUDES:
Hotel accommodation: twin share, including breakfasts in the Standard Hotel.
All road transport is as per itinerary by car or Jeep.
Service of an English-speaking guide.
Entrance fees to monuments visited.
All permits for Darjeeling.
DOES NOT INCLUDE:
Sleeping bag; personal clothing or equipment.
Lunches and dinners during hotel stays in Sikkim and Darjeeling.
Bottled or alcoholic drinks.
Tips, client insurance, and evacuation costs.
Any expenses of a personal nature.
(All relevant Terms and Conditions apply.)
Some Iconic Treks That We Can Organize For You in Sikkim, Darjeeling & Nepal
Singalila Goechala Trek
Goechala Trek
Darjeeling Singalila Trek
Darjeeling Red Panda Hiking Tour
Everest Three Passes Trek
Annapurna BC Trek
Please Don’t Take Our word for It, Read What Hikers Worldwide Have to Say About Us.
Communication from day 1 with Fabian was clear. Everything from the lodging to all daily trek needs were planned. Did the Singalila trek with a day to see the red pandas in December 2024 with Fabian as my Guide. Terrific sighting in the forest with professional trackers. Fabian provided me with lots of information on various trek
Indranu Hati
Bangkok, Thailand
Fabian at Far Out Trek is a true, experienced mountain professional. Our group spent three wonderful weeks in October 2023, under his guidance and felt like we fully experienced all that trekking in the Himalayas should be. I highly recommend Far Out Trek to anyone searching for a safe and memorable mountain experience.
Tory McKee
BC, Canada
We did two back-to-back treks with Fabian in Oct - Nov 2023, the Singalila Ridge traverse in Sikkim and the Three Passes Trek in Nepal. Fabian organized a fantastic trip. Fabian speaks English very well, allowing us to have interesting conversations throughout the seven weeks we were together. We highly recommend Fabian for both these trips in the Himalayas.
Alain Bates
BC Canada
I trekked the Singallia Traverse in Sikkim with Fabian. He is beyond amazing. His service was amazing, he is kind, flexible, fun and professional. We have done a lot of trekking around the world and Fabian is the best, you cannot go wrong.
Christi Masi
Seattle, USA
Did the Singalila Trek in Dec 2023 with Fabian, the trek ran very smoothly & all I had to do was enjoy the wonderful scenery. While trekking I had a severe cold, Fabian provided ginger soup & hot water bottles taking good care of me. If you are looking to trek in Nepal, Sikkim, or Darjeeling, Fabian can arrange it, he has extensive experience.
Sarah Williams
London,UK
I did the Thinchenkhang Expedition with the Goechala Pass Trek in Sikkim organized by Farout Trek with Fabian Tamang as the head guide. Tashi Sherpa and Richung. We summitted the peak on 2 November 2021, at 4.30 AM with Sherpas Tashi and Richung and myself.
The expedition proved a success thanks to the professional breath of Fabian's Farout Trek team.
Jean Pierre
Zurich, Switzerland
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