Sandakphu Trek

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.

• 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.

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.