By Charita Negi 
The Sandakphu Trek is considered as one of the most beautiful treks in the Eastern Himalaya providing view of four of the five tallest mountains in the world namely Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse and Makalu. Located in the Singalila Ridge of West Bengal, the trail comprises dense forests, alpine pasture routes across high altitudes and the culture of the Sherpa people, an experience that any adventure fanatic or nature explorer cannot miss.
Trek The Himalayas (TTH) is one such professional trekking agency which makes this trek, both accessible and safe to both the beginner and the moderately experienced trekkers through their trained guides, organized camps, food, and medical care.
Overview of Sandakphu Trek
- Altitude: 11,929 ft. (Sandakphu Summit)
- Duration: 5–7 Days
- Region: West Bengal – Singalila Ridge
- Best Time: March to May (rhododendron bloom) and September to November (clear skies)
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
The trek would commence at Manebhanjan, a small village at the foothills of the Singalila Ridge and go through scenic villages like Tonglu, Tumling, and Gairibas. As they walk along, trekkers trek through dense forests of rhododendrons, oaks and pines, inhale the fresh mountain air, bask in the serene sounds of nature.
Using the trail, one gets to traverse through the many alpine meadows, sparkling streams, and rocky ridges that offer amazing views of the Himalayas at every corner. As you head up, the scenery is slowly changing to panoramic views of the snow-covered mountains, vistas in the distance, and swirling waterfalls, and small Sherpa towns you pass on the way where one can see the local people living in rather traditional wood and stone houses, and welcoming to guests. With natural beauty and cultural experience, Sandakphu Trek is an adventure journey to remember by the trekkers.
Day-Wise Itinerary
Day 1: Manebhanjan to Tumling
The trek starts from Manebhanjan, gradually ascending through forested paths filled with ferns and wildflowers. Trekkers reach Tumling, a small Sherpa village, and enjoy views of Mt. Kangchenjunga from the ridge. Camps and meals are arranged by TTH for a comfortable overnight stay.
Day 2: Tumling to Kalipokhri
The trail continues along the Singalila Ridge, offering glimpses of Everest in the distance. Trekkers cross charming bridges and rhododendron forests, reaching Kalipokhri, famous for its small sacred lake. Evening views of surrounding peaks are stunning, and guides ensure acclimatization is gradual.
Day 3: Kalipokhri to Sandakphu
This is the highlight day as trekkers make the final ascent to Sandakphu Summit. The panoramic views include Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, and Makalu. Professional guidance ensures that even first-time trekkers can manage the elevation gain safely. Camps are set up near the summit or nearby settlements.
Day 4: Optional Phalut Extension or Descent to Gairibas
Adventurous trekkers can extend the journey to Phalut, another ridge with breathtaking Himalayan vistas. Alternatively, descent begins towards Gairibas, passing through alpine meadows and forests.
Day 5: Gairibas to Manebhanjan
The trek concludes with a descent back to Manebhanjan, offering final glimpses of the Eastern Himalayas. Trek leaders handle logistics and transportation, ensuring a smooth end to the adventure.
Why Sandakphu Trek is Special
- Unrivalled Panoramic Views: Summit views of Kanchenjunga, Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu offers one of the best panoramas in the Himalaya.
- Varying Borders: Trekkers stroll through the thick cover of rhododendron forest, alpine meadows and rocks.
- Wildlife and Nature: Encounter red pandas, Himalayan birds and butterflies in transit.
- Cultural Experience: The encounter with Sherpa communities makes the trip worth more and they learn about local culture, cuisine and traditions.
- Moderate Difficulty: Well marked trails, and mild climbs make it a passable climb for the beginner with moderate fitness.
Trek Preparation Tips
- Fitness: A moderate to high-level of fitness is enough; frequent cardio exercise, squats and leg workouts are recommended.
- Dressing: Winter clothes and waterproof jackets, hats and gloves are a must. Footwear: Highly-gripping and sturdy trekking shoes suitable to snow and rocky terrain.
- Equipment: First aid kit, water bottle, backpack and trekking poles.
- Acclimatization: Acclimatization is gradual and would ensure there is safety as risk of altitude sickness is minimized.
Also Read: Best 5 Winter Treks in India for Snow Lovers
Trek Highlights
- Sandakphu Summit: Speechless 3600 degree Himalayan.
- Halut Peak: Added opportunity with amazing panoramas along a ridge.
- Rhododendron blooms: There is a bloom of Rhododendron during spring trek which gives a colorful scene of the forest.
- Singalila National Park: Spotting wildlife and tranquil treks.
- Cultural Villages: Sherpa villages enhance genuineness to the trekking activity.
FAQ
The best time to visit this mountain range is March to May to see the flowers of the rhododendron and September to November when skies tend to be clear with a great view.
Indeed, as agency partners, such as TTH, support and guide trekkers across the journey, trekking is an entry-level ordeal with calibrated climb and professional assistance.
It usually takes 5 \`7 days with or without Phalut extensions.
TTH provides camping facilities as well as tents and meals in a sharing style (2 persons)
Singalila national park is home to panda reds, birds of Himalayas, butterflies as well as small wild animals.