Sandakphu Trek with great mountain views and well defined 50Km of gentle trail is a a short four days begineers hike in Darjeeling, and as well for seasoned hikers too. A trek that climbs gently from Manebhanjyang to Sandakphu making it sufficiently easy to trek for hikers accustomed to long walks in the mountains.
But after having said that, there are two steepest climb on the Darjeeling Sandakphu Trek. First, the three kilometre trek on the first day from Manybhanjyang to Chitray, and second, the four kilometre hike from Bikheybhanjyang to Sandakphu on the thrid day of the Sandakphu Trek. Otherwise, the entire trek is a gentle hike to Sandakphu.
But, the 10Km downhill trek from Sandakphu to Gurdum is an easy trek. Perhaps the most secluded and isolated stretch during the entire Sandakphu Trek. A downhill trek through pine fur and rhododendron forest. Otherwise, the entire trail on the Sandakphu Trek is gentle making it the most attractive trail to hike around in the entire Himalayas
Sandakphu is a small village sitting atop the highest point on the Singalila Ridge at a height of 11,920 feet that provides impeccable view of four of the highest mountains in the world. Thus making Sandakphu a wonderland for adventure seekers looking to do a short trek in Darjeeling within a limited time frame.
Christi Masi December 5, 2013 near Seattle, WA, United States If you are considering a trek to Sikkim Darjeeling Nepal or Bhutan you need to go with Farouttrek (Fabian Tamang). He goes above and beyond your wildest dreams to make your vacation perfect. Not only is he fun, personable, and an all around great guy - he also has a superb staff, provides excellent food and will make sure your trip exceeds all of your expectations. Scott and I have trekked all over the world, and this trip- the 18Days Sikkim Singalila Ridge Trek by far - was the best service we have ever experienced - anywhere.
Hello Fabian, From May 8 to May 16 2014 my husband and I had the pleasure of visiting Darjeelig and the Singalila national park under the guidance of Mr Fabian Tamang. We went on a six-day Sandakphu Phalut Trek with the mountain views at Sandakphu as the main attraction. With Fabian as a guide nothing is impossible. He chooses the best co-workers, arranges Everything to the best and is very responsive to both visible and not so visible requests from his guests. We warmly recommend anyone thinking of visiting this area to use the services of Farouttrek and especially of Fabian. Many thanks from Anette and Torbjörn from Sweden!
Mar 28, 2014 Hi Fabian...Just a short message to say that we had a fabulous Langtang Gosaikunda trek which i am totally satisfied of...and to say that i have particularly appreciated the team we trekked with...The guide, Kuman GURUNG, and the porter, Lapa SHERPA, are really nice people and were extremely helpful for both of us, especially for my wife, who got some difficulties in altitude and to cross the gosaikund pass..They were extremely professionnal from the first to the last minute, and it would really be a pleasure to do another trek with them..By the way, Fabian, can you send me some details for Manaslu Circuit Trek ? Thanks a lot for the job you and your staff did for us Fabian... and have an excellent day. Best regards... Christophe
Dec 30, 2012 Hello Fabian, thank you for your email. We found the Dzongri Trek difficult in parts, but the joy was being with you and the rest of the crew - you are a very special group of people and we were so fortunate to be able to meet you all. Once again, Fabian, thank you for all your efforts. We had a wonderful time trekking in Sikkim and very much appreciate all your efforts to ensure that we had the best of experiences. Please keep in touch. We hope 2013 brings you happiness, laughter and sunshine. Kind regards, Marilyn and Michael.
Thanks to Farout Trek (Fabian and the team) for a very enjoyable and successful trek in the Singalila National Park. The pace was good, the views of the Himalayas obviously stunning, and the support and help was always professional and thoughtful. The trekkers huts were very basic with little heat, so Fabian providing hot water bottles at night was always appreciated. He also had a few extra goodies in his pack that were produced at exactly the right time. I picked Farout Trek because after sending e-mails to them and 7 other places, their reply was prompt (next day), was addressed it to me personally, and most important, it answered my questions, so I knew someone (Fabian) had actually read the e-mail, rather than just sending a standard response. Would recommend Farout Trek to any one planning to visit Sikkim, Darjeeling Nepal or Bhutan Himalayas. Cheers and all the best for 2018 Mark & Maureen
Amazing company and great experience! Our guide Kuman was more than we could ever expect! Full of knowledge, friendly and an absolute pleasure to spend 10 days doing the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek with. We had the treat of having his son Ohm come along with us too! Fantastic porters and well organized trek. We will be coming back and definitely using them!"
27 October 2014 Today we returned from India to Hamburg! Thank you so much for the excellent organisation of our Sandakphu Phalut Trek and Darjeeling Tour ! These were amazing holidays we will never forget! Everything was perfectly organized and Fabian was the perfect guide, he is such a hearty and lovely person! He did an amazing job and has an excellent knowledge! He took very good care of us! We felt very safe with him! We already recommended Fabian a lot, because it was really excellent and an unforgetable experience ! And we are also thinking about an other tour with Fabian! Thank you so much! Kidest regards Kathi and Bart
Jean Pierre 5 Jan 2020 Thinchenkhang Expedition (6010m) summited on 2 Nov. 2019 The eleven days expedition organized by Farout Trek based in Kalimpong was composed by nine members. On top of Fabian Tamang, head of Farout Trek, there were two Sherpas, one cook, two cook assistants and two poney-men. The group started off from Yuksom on 23 October and reached the base camp at Toriphuley (Thinchenkhanh Base Camp) on 28 October. A C1 just below 5000m and a C2 at 5500m were set up. The summit was reached on 2 November at 4.30 AM by Sherpas Tashi and Richung and myself. The Thinchenkhang expedition proved a success thanks to the professional breath of Fabian's Farout Trek team
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Why Trek with us
Farouttrek is a local company, Registered & recognized by Govt. of India, Tourism Deptt. Govt. of Sikkim. Also registered and Recognized by Govt. of Nepal, employing a small number of local Guides, Cooks & Porters.
Therefore, when you book your trip with us, you contribute to the local economy directly. This in turn helps the local economy grow & at the same time help a number of households maintain a healthy lifestyle
With more than 25 Years of experience travelling the Himalayas, we have an intimate knowledge about the places we travel to. So, give us an opportunity to serve you with our vast experience in handling Trekking, Expedition & Tour Activities in Sikkim, Darjeeling & Nepal Himalayas. Come Join us for a lifetime of Adventure.
Sandakphu Trek is a simple trek to get you started. A mild four days trek in Darjeeling, and indeed the finest trek in India from hills covered with Rhododendron flowers to gorgeous views of the world’s highest mountains. A rewarding trek recomended for Family Treks and as well for beginners too. A simple trek, popular among avid hikers too.
Everest Range as Seen from Sandakphu
A short and scenic trek in Darjeeling
Sandakphu Trek located in Darjeeling spectacular beyond words, offers views of Everest and Kanchenjunga Range that are out of the world. Home to untouched greenery, at 11,920 feet above sea level, Sandakphu is a natural wonderland for trekkers and hikers planning to do a short trek in Darjeeling.
Kanchenjunga Range as seen from Sandakphu
Set in the lap of the Himalayas and famed for it’s moderate trail and great mountain views, Sandakphu Trek is a spectacular destination for an adventurous holiday. A promise of the glorious Himalayas, an eye opener for hikers. Fifty Kilometre Sandakphu Trek in Darjeeling is a cultural wonder that can be covered within a period of four days, but can also be extended as per your need.
Kanchenjunga Range from Tongloo Hut on the Sandakphu Trek
What makes Sandakphu Special ?
The beautiful Himalayan scenery that you can see with your own eyes is a sublime experience that you can get from the Sandakphu Trek. Sandakphu the highest point in Darjeeling and in West Bengal, India, is perhaps the most popular paradise for trekkers from the world over. Mainly, because of the unparalled views of the four highest mountains, Everest, Makalu, Lhotse and Kanchenjunga that can be seen on the Sandakphu Trek.
Kanchenjunga Range seen on the Sandakphu Trek from Sandakphu
Also, Sandakphu Trek is time friendly and Pocket friendly trek for budget traveller coupled with great mountain views.
A Trail for Nature lovers and bird watchers
An added attraction of the Sandakphu Trek in Darjeeling is that, the trail is located inside the Singalila National Park. This in turn makes it attractive and inspiring among Bird watchers, Botanists and on the whole among nature lovers too. And as the Sandakphu trail meanders through rich natural reserves of the Singalila National Park, this in turn allows you to witness nature in it’s best form. while also giving you a glimpse into the local Nepali and Indian culture.
Birds of Singalila National Park. Photo credit to Mr. Noel Foning and Birds of Darjeeling & Eastern Himalayas
Who can do this Trek ?
Anyone with a moderate level of physical fitness and acclimatized to long hours of walking can complete the Sandakphu Trek with ease. However, one will have to remember, with an average distance of ten kilometer of hiking per day, certain amount of preparation is essential.
Getting Around
Sandakphu Trek starts from Manebhanjyang, a small border town located approximately twenty six kilometre and an hours drive from Darjeeling. Singalila National Park’s office is located at the end of the Town and the Foreigners Registration Office and the Guides Office at the entrance of the Town. Sandakphu is 58Km from Darjeeling and 32Km from Manebhanjyang.
Trekking inside the Singalila National Park
Four day Darjeeling Sandakphu Trek cuts through the Rhododendron, Magnolia and Pine forest of the Singalila National Park. Before we forget, during spring the added attraction of this trek is the huge number of birds that Singalila National Park attracts and the glorious infestation of Rhododendrons, Magnolias and wild flower blooms which seem to compensate for the loss in view of the mountain range. In fact, every season Sandakphu Trek offers it’s own unique landscapes and views, so you are faced with a problem of plenty.
Best time to Hike in Darjeeling
Sandakphu Trek in April and May will be flooded with different colors of the Rhododendrons flowers and wild flower blooms which add a blush to the entire Singalila Ridge. However, the Horizon may remain a little hazy for the mountain views.
While Sandakphu Trek in October and November presents clear skies with beautiful mountain views and many colors of nature.
Sandakphu Trek in December and January will see snow and sub zero temperatures. Snowfall will not be hard for the trail to get blocked, but just enough for one to experience snowfall.
Therefore, Sandakphu is an all season destination and is possible to trek even in the winter months as the Snow line is much below as compared to western Himalayas.
Trek Grade and Accommodation provided
A Lodge in Kalpokhari
Sandakphu Trek is a moderate to easy tea house / lodge trek, ascending up to Sandakphu (3636m) the highest point on the trek. Lunch will be provided in tea houses located along the way to Sandakphu. Dinners and Breakfast will be provided in the lodges of stay.
Accommodation at Tongloo and Sandakphu will be provided in trekkers huts. While accommodation in lodges run by local families will be provided in Kalpokhari and Gurdum. Personalized Private Camping Trek can also be organized on a date of your choice.
Main baggage will be carried by porters/ponies. Trekkers carry their day packs only with their essential Items in them and walk at their own pace.
Trek Availability : Join a Group on the dates given below
Climate : Days are normally warm. Nights can at times be(general) very cold and in winter even below the freezing point. Monsoon showers in summer (heaviest in July & August). Sometimes even in spring and autumn.
Customized Private Camping Trek can be arranged for a minimum of 2persons on request on a date of your choice
GROUP DEPARTURE DATES FOR DARJEELING SANDAKPHU TREK 2022
8th.Feb – 15th.Feb, 2022
22nd.Feb – 29th.Feb, 2022
7th.March – 14th.March, 2022
28th.March – 4th.April, 2022
4th.April – 11th.April, 2022
18th.April – 25th.April, 2022
2nd..May – 8th.May, 2022
16th.May – 23rd.May, 2022
18th.Sept – 25th.Sept, 2022
02nd.Oct – 09th.Oct, 2022
16th.Oct – 23rd.Oct, 2022
06th.Nov – 13th.Nov, 2022
27th.Nov – 4th.Dec, 2022
11th.Dec – 18th.Dec, 2022
21st.Dec – 28th.Dec, 2022(Christmas Trek)
SANDAKPHU TREK ITINERARY
Day 1: Arrive at Bagdogra Airport / NJP Rail Station/Nepal Border. Drive to Darjeeling (1686m/90Km/3Hrs). Overnight Hotel.
Day 2: Acclimatization Day. Walking tour of Darjeeling. Overnight Hotel.
Day 3: Drive to Maneybhanjyang (1981m/1Hr). Darjeeling Sandakphu Trek Starts. Trek to Tongloo / Tumling (3001m/13Km/5Hrs). Overnight Trekkers Hut/Lodge
Manebhanjyang (1981m) to Chitray (2800m/2Km)
Chitray to Lamedhura (2810m/2Km)
Lamedhura to Meghma (2900m/4Km)
Meghma to Tongloo (3070m/4Km)
Tongloo to Tumling (2970m/1Km)
After the entry formalities with the Singalila National Park and the Foreigners Registration Office, the Sandakphu Trek starts immediately with a 2Km steep uphill trek to Chitray. Trek to Chitray takes about two hours on a tarmac road. Once at Chitray stop for a breather and a cup of tea and take a look around. Beautiful views of Darjeeling and the Hills around towards the Nepal side of the Ridge can be seen. With a gain of just 100m from Chitray to Meghma the trail is gradual and easy sometimes on trekking trail and sometimes on Jeep track. From Meghma it’s a 4Km climb up hill on a winding stone track till Tongloo, and the second climb on the Sandakphu Trek. Tongloo to Tumling is an easy downhill trek of 30minutes.
Day 4: Trek Tongloo to Kalpokhari (3100m/15Km/6Hrs). Overnight Lodge.
Tongloo to Tumling (2970m/1Km)
Tumling to Jaubari ( 2750m/4Km)
Jaubari to Gairibas (2620m/5Km)
Gairibas to Kayakatta (2800m/1Km)
Kayakatta to Kalpokhari (3001m/4Km)
From Tongloo the Sandakphu Trek proceeds gently downhill till Tumling, a small village with a couple of lodges on the Nepal Side of the trek route. The trail then follows a gentle path till the Singalila Check Post where the entry Pass will be checked and stamped. From here the Sandakphu Trek Route has two paths. Either follow the jeep track on the Indian side of the Singalila National Park or follow a gentle downhill path through the small village of Jaubari, joining Gairibas a little below on the Nepal Side of the Sandakphu Trek. Further, a 1Km uphill trail leads to Kayakatta. A small village on the Nepal side consisting of a couple of houses and a lodge. This is our lunch spot for the day. With a gain of just 200m the trail from Kayatta to Kalpokhari is a an easy trek on a wide path. Kalpokhari is a small village with about 5-8 lodges with a small lake at the entrance on the Nepal side of the Sandakphu Trekking Trail.
Day 5: Trek Kalpokhari to Sandakphu (3636m/6Km/3Hrs). Overnight Trekkers Hut/Lodge.
Kalpokhari to Bikheybhanjyang (3030m/ 2Km)
Bikheybhanjyang to Sandakphu (3636m/4Km)
The Days trek to Sandakphu from Kalpokhari starts with a gently on a wide path on the Nepal Side of the border till Bikheybhanjyang 2Km away. The path is wide and unleveled used by age old Land Rovers ferrying tourists to Sandakphu for a quick tour and back. Bikheybhanjyang as the name suggests is a tri junction of poisonious flowers. The last part of the final ascent on the Sandakphu Trek starts from here. The path is wide and unlevelled on a jeep track and is a steep uphill till Sandakphu. Total gain in altitude is 636m.
Day 6: Trek to Gurdung (2700m/10Km/4Hrs). Overnight Lodge.
Trek from Sandakphu to Gurdum is perhaps the easiest and the lonliest of the 10Km of hiking on the Sandakphu Trek through Rhododendron, Bamboo, Pine and Fur forest. Look out for the Himalayan Sloth Bear on this part of the Trek from Sandakpu to Gurdum. Gurdum is a small village on the peripheri of the Singalila National Park and the main income of the village people is Agriculture.
Day 7: Trek Gurdung to Rimbik (2331m/15Km/5Hrs). End of Darjeeling Sandakphu Trek. Drive back to Darjeeling. Overnight Hotel.
With no gain in the altitude the trek from Gurdum to Rimbik is an easy hike through terraced pea and potato fields till Timburey. Here we cross over the Siri Khola (River) and then trek through a dense forest till Rimbik where the Sandakphu Trek ends with a three hours jeep ride back to Darjeeling.
Day 8: Drive to Bagdogra Airport/NJP Rail Station/Nepal border for Final Departure. End of the Trek Extension can be made to Sikkim, Bhutan or Nepal.
Sandakphu Trek Cost : US$630/Person
Indian Participants kindly enquire within for quotes in India Rupee.
Sandakphu Trek Cost Includes :
Hotel accommodation – twin share including breakfasts.
Twin share Rooms in Lodges with mattress during Trekking.
Fully organized trek services with guide, porters, Ponies.
Fixed three meals everyday during trekking.
All road transport as per itinerary by car/jeep.
Service of an English speaking guide.
Entrance fees to monuments visited.
All Permits for Darjeeling.
Airport Transfers.
Sandakphu Trek Does not Cost :
Sleeping bag; personal clothing/equipment.
Lunches and dinners during hotel stays.
Bottled or alcoholic drinks.
Tips, client insurance, evacuation costs.
Any expenses of personal nature.
Note: The above itinerary is a sample, intended to give you a general idea of the likely trip schedule. Numerous factors such as weather, road conditions, physical ability of the participants etc. may dictate itinerary changes either before departure or while on the trail. We reserve the right to change this schedule in the interest of the trip participant’s safety, comfort and general well being.
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