Phoktey Dara Trek Overview

Phoktey Dara trek takes you to the hilltop at 3733 meters above the ground level. Located in Sikkim, the enchanting trek is a package of thrill, beauty, and fun as you pass through the dense forests of rhododendrons, magnolia, and bamboo. The 7-day and 6-night trek starts from base camp Hilley in Sikkim. The Phoktey Dara trek is easy enough to be taken by beginner-level trekkers as you can easily cross 26-30 km with prior training. Located just 5 km from Hilley, you can start trekking from Barsey Sanctuary. The trek takes you through forests, and swamplands to reach the places of Kharka Dara, Singalila Pass, Kalijhora, Phoktey Dara, Uttarey, etc. Each place is unique in its own way as you witness the charm of the mighty Himalayas from India and Nepal. The stunning views of Mount Everest, Mount Kanchenjunga, Mount Simvo, Mount Pandim, Mount Baruntse, Mount Chamlang, and Mount Tenzing Khang. The sunrise views of Kalijhora’s top point present you with the distant views of Frey Peak, Kabru Range, Fork 1 & 2, Mount Rathong, etc on clearer days. Moreover, the exciting thing about the trek is you get to witness the rarest animals like Red Pandas, Kalij Pheasant, Satyr Tragopan, Red Crossbill, and Parrotbills.

Quick Facts of Phoktey Dara Trek

Quick Facts of Phoktey Dara Trek

Maximum altitude: 12,245 feet

Grade: Moderate

Duration: 7 days

Trekking distance: 26 kilometers

Airport: Bagadogra Airport

Snow Season: January and February

Service from: Pickup from Bagadogra Airport

Base camp: Hilley

Best season: Winter season (January and February)

Region: Sikkim

Phoktey Dara Trek Itinerary

Day 1
Day 2
Day 3
Day 4
Day 5
Day 6
Day 7
Day 1

Reach Hilley via Road

  • Get a pick-up from Bagdogra Airport or New Jalpaiguri Railway station to reach Hilley in a private car.

  • The journey is approximately 140 km and takes 5-6 hrs to complete.

  • Pass through the lush green path of Jorethang Forest.

  • Say hello to Red Crossbill, and Parrotbills in the Kitam Bird.

  • Reach Hilley and enjoy a scrumptious dinner.

  • Sleep overnight peacefully in the hotel.

What to Pack for Phoktey Dara Trek?

What to Pack for Phoktey Dara Trek?
  • Trekking shoes feature a good grip and ankle support and are appropriate for any terrain.

  • Wearing an extra layer of clothing like jackets, sweaters, gloves, socks, and thermal clothing is required to beat the cold.

  • Make sure to have a raincoat with you in case of unexpected rain.

  • Prepare a Backpack (50-60 L).

  • Sunglasses, a sun cap, and sunscreen are all recommended for sun protection.

  • Carry a headlight that has a wider beam than a single-beam flame.

  • Multiple refillable bottles of water, toiletries, food, cutlery, medicines, and a first-aid kit.

  • Carry chargers, extra batteries, and power banks, and charge any electrical devices before the hike if feasible.

Know Before You Go to Phoktey Dara Trek

How to Reach
Important Tips for trekkers
How to Reach

By Air: Bagdogra Airport is the nearest airport to Hilley at a distance of 140 km. You can take a flight to Bagdogra Airport and reach Hilley in 5-6 hrs.

By Train: The nearest railway station to Hilley is New Jalpaiguri, West Bengal, located at a distance of 134 km. From there, you can take a private taxi/cab to reach Hilley.

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FAQs of Phoktey Dara Trek

How much time is required to do Phoktey Trek?

    Phoktey Dara Trek takes 7-days and 6-nights to finish. The total distance of the Phoktey Dara trek is 26-30 km which takes you through Uttarey, Barsey, Kharka Dara, Singalila Pass, Kalijhora, Phoktey Dara, etc. Most of your journey is through the dense forests, which stretches the trek up to 7 days for completing 26-30 km distance.

Where is Phoktey Trek located?

How difficult is the Phoktey Trek?

What is the best time to do a Phoktey Trek?

Is Phoktey Trek worth doing?

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