Sandakphu Trek Overview

Sandakphu trek is one of the exceptional treks in the world that has a vantage point for a group of peaks at 8000 meters. When you look on the left side of Sandakphu, you will find clusters of Everest, like Mount Makalu, Mount Lhotse, and Mount Everest. On your right, you will spot the third highest peak in the world with its family of peaks, named Mount Kanchenjunga. Hence, the Sandakphu unleashes gorgeous panoramic views of the four tallest mountain peaks in the world, forming the structure of the sleeping Buddha with these 8000-meter peaks.

Popularly known as the Trekker’s Wonderland, the trail of the Sandakphu trek goes through the Singalila National Park, which is a biodiversity hotspot for innumerable rare and difficult-to-sight bird species and the Red Panda. This trek also allows you to witness the gorgeous beauty of blooming rhododendrons, spruce, giant magnolias, and a vast array of astonishing orchids.

An interesting thing about the Sandakphu trek is that you will be switching borders between India and Nepal, making the entire experience even more unique. Thus, the Sandakphu trek is a moderate trek that is ideal for both beginners and professional trekkers alike, offering a splendid display of landscapes and scenery.

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Manebhanjan to Srikhola
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Manebhanjan To Srikhola
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11,875
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Highlights
  • Enjoy a scenic trek from Tumling to Kalapokhri, with a brief dip at Gairibas before a gradual climb.

  • Take-in the panoramic views of the world's highest peaks, including Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, and Makalu. 

  • Reach Sandakphu Peak, the highest point in West Bengal with views of the Himalayan Mountain Range.

  • Trekking Distance: 52 km approx. | Highest Elevation: 11,930 ft.| Difficulty Level: Moderate

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Must Know Before You Go
  • Take your time adjusting to high altitudes, as the weather conditions can be different from lower areas.
  • Listen to your trek leaders or instructors carefully for a safe and enjoyable experience.
  • Carry basic medications and a first-aid kit during the tour.
  • Please carry a valid ID proof.
  • No bill will be reimbursed for any missed service/facility.
  • Keep your luggage minimum; the more you carry, the more you hassle.
  • Any personal expenses, items of personal nature, meals not mentioned, etc. will not be in part of the package.
  • Mobile & laptop charging points may/may not be available on campsites at a common point.
  • Avoid using plastic bags and maintain the ecological balance of the destinations.
  • It is recommended to carry enough warm clothes and the right kind of shoes for the trek.
  • Please note that in the event of emergencies or natural calamities, the management reserves the right to modify the trek itinerary. However, any changes due to circumstances beyond our control is not covered in the package cost.
  • The best time to go for this trek is from March to May or October to November.
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Quick Facts of Sandakphu Trek

Quick Facts of Sandakphu Trek

Maximum altitude: 11930 feet

Grade: Easy to Moderate

Duration: 6 days

Trekking distance: 44 kilometers

Trail type: A cross over trail starting from Manebhanjan or Chitrey and ending at Srikhola

Rail head: New Jalpaiguri (NJP)

Airport: Bagdogra

Snow Season: November to March

Base camp: Kopidana

Best season: November to March (winter trek) and September to November (autumn trek)

Region: West Bengal

Who can participate:- People above 10 years of age- Beginners can apply, but previous trekking experience is highly appreciated.- The trekkers must have enough stamina to cover a distance of at least 5 kilometers in just 30 minutes.- Must be fit and able to carry a backpack of around 10 to 15 kilograms.

Short Itinerary for Sandakphu Trek

  • Day 1 - New Jalpaiguri - Manebhanjan
  • Day 2 - Manebhanjan - Tumling
  • Day 3 - Tumling - Kalapokhri
  • Day 4 - Kalapokri - Sandakhphu
  • Day 5 - Sandakphu - Srikhola
  • Day 6- Return to New Jalpaiguri

Sandakphu Trek Detailed Itinerary

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

Arrive at New Jalpaiguri and Drive to Manebhanjan / Chitrey

  • The journey to the Sandakphu trek begins with your pickup from the New Jalpaiguri railway station at 10 am and driving to the base camp in Manebhanjan. It is an uphill drive of about 110 kilometers, which will take you about four hours.

  • On your drive to Manebhanjan, you will pass through the foothills of the Eastern Himalayas (also known as Dooars).

  • You will notice that the altitude starts increasing slowly and gradually.

  • The trekkers will find a steep road with multiple hairpin bends on the last two kilometers from Manebhanjan to Chitrey.

  • Reach the hilltop and check in for a night's accommodation in a lodge or dormitory. All the fundamental mobile networks work relatively well here.

  • Have your dinner and rest for the day.

What to Pack for Sandakphu Trek?

Basic Gear
Clothes
Personal Utensils
Foot Gears
Personal Medical Kit
Basic Gear
  • 50 to 60 liters backpack with comfortable shoulder straps and rain cover
  • 20 to 30 liters day pack and rain cover (if you hire a mule or porter)
  • Personal medical kit after consultation from the doctor
  • At least one walking stick
  • 2 water bottles of one liter each or 1 hydration pack and 1 water bottle along with at least one thermos flask
  • Snacks, like dry fruits, energy bars, and electoral.

General Trivia About Sandakphu Trek

General Trivia About Sandakphu Trek
  • Sandakphu is the most culturally rich trek as you get a chance to observe the local culture very closely.

  • When you stay in the tea houses on the Sandakphu trek, you can witness the lifestyle, cooking, and a lot more of the local people.

  • Bamboo shoot pickles are the favorite of all the tourists and trekkers who go on the Sandakphu trek.

  • You will find the aesthetic designs and vibrant colors on the houses of the people along the Sandakphu trek in the Samanden and Sepi.

  • The people ensure that each tourist or trekker gets a welcoming vibe from the flowers that they display in their homes.

  • Nepal was never conquered by Britishers as they gifted Darjeeling to them out of fear.

  • The people staying in the Nepali region are known as Gorkhas, who generally follow the culture of Buddhism along with the old Tibetan culture.

  • You may find five colored flags in those areas that are regarded as monumental or holy by the local people.

  • The people believe that their prayers are taken to distant places when the wind blows and the flag flutters.

  • The Sandakphu trek is the only trekking experience that allows you to witness four different tallest mountain peaks in the world.

Know Before You Go to Sandakphu Trek

Important Tips for Sandakphu Trek
How to Reach
Best Time to Go
Important Tips for Sandakphu Trek

There are plenty of tips that trekkers should keep in mind when going on a Sandakphu trek. These tips not only help them to prepare for the journey but also assists them on their way to the journey. Some of the significant tips that you should keep in consideration when going for a Sandakphu trek are:

  • Plan your travel in such a way that you reach New Jalpaiguri on Day 0 and stay for the night to avoid any delay.

  • Carry a pair of thermal inners if you are more prone to cold as you will need two pairs of clothing to protect yourself from cold.

  • Walk on the concrete road or the trekking trail if you do not want to take the steep downhill walk.

  • Bring a copy of all the essential documents so you can easily pass the security check between the borders of India and Nepal.

  • If you are trekking for the first time, you should walk for about five to six kilometers every day for a month and practice freehand exercises to pass the fitness level.

  • Reach the base camp a day before so you can acclimatize your body according to the prevailing climate.

  • Plan and accumulate everything at least a few days before the Sandakphu trek to avoid last-minute hassles and delays.

  • Wear appropriate trekking shoes that are comfortable and provide good support for walking and climbing the steep slopes of the hills.

  • Take short breaks whenever possible, and do not exhaust yourself.

  • Drink plenty of water and keep your body hydrated at all times.

Why to Go for Sandakphu Trek?

Sandakphu is a must-do trekking experience as it unleashes striking panoramic views of the four tallest mountain peaks in the world. You will witness Mount Everest, Mount Lhotse, Mount Makalu, and Mount Kanchenjunga, which form the fabled ‘Sleeping Buddha Formation’. On this trek, you will get an opportunity to witness a remarkable snowline that ranges from the snow-capped mountain peaks of Nepal spreading across Bhutan and further east in Tibet. The significant highlight of the Sandakphu trek is the sleeping Buddha formation of the peaks. It is also one of the amazing treks that give you an introduction to the rich biodiversity of the region through the Sangilila National Park. The native wildlife and bird species in the park will definitely invoke the naturalists in you. For all these reasons, the Sandakphu trek is an adventure you should not miss!

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FAQ's of Sandakphu Trek

How Difficult is the Sandakphu Trek?

    The Sandakphu trek is considered to be a moderate trek on the scale of difficulty levels for a variety of reasons. This trek features slightly challenging and uneven trails that reach to the height of more than 11000 feet. The trekking hours on this trek also exceed seven hours a day, and there are only a few exit options. To go on the Sandakphu trek, it is essential for people to have good cardiovascular fitness so they can travel a distance of at least five kilometers in just 30 minutes.

    The best part of the Sandakphu trek is that it does not have any technical or tricky sections, which makes it a great trekking experience for both beginners and seasoned trekkers alike. You can expect to trek on the well-laid trails even without food or a tent as there are innumerable tea houses along the way that provide food and shelter for the night.

How long is the Sandakphu trek?

How long does it take for the Sandakphu trek?

Is the Sandakphu trek for beginners?

How to get fit for the Sandakphu trek?

Can a person above 60 years go on the Sandakphu trek?

Is a cloakroom facility available at the Sandakphu trek?

What are the documents that are required to be carried on the Sandakphu trek?

Is offloading available on the Sandakphu trek?

What are the trekking gears required for the Sandakphu trek?

How is the network connectivity on the Sandakphu trek?

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