Sandakphu Trek Complete Travel and Trekking Guide

Introduction to the Sandakphu Trek

Sandakphu is not only the most popular trek in West Bengal but also one of the finest high-altitude treks in Eastern India. Standing at an altitude of 3636 meters or 11930 feet, it is the highest point in the state. For generations of trekkers, Sandakphu has represented the raw elemental beauty of snow mountains, forests and open ridgelines.

Often called the Paradise of Trekkers, the summit of Sandakphu offers one of the most dramatic Himalayan panoramas anywhere in India. From the top, you can witness four of the world's five highest peaks, Everest, Kanchenjunga, Makalu, and Lhotse, forming a continuous snow-clad arc on a clear day. The sense of scale and silence at this height is something that stays with travellers long after the trek ends.

The trek itself is considered relatively easy and is suitable for younger as well as older travellers with reasonable fitness levels. While Sandakphu can also be reached by vintage Land Rover jeeps, the road conditions are rough, and the vehicles themselves are old, which makes trekking the preferred way for experiential travellers.

The trail passes through Singalila National Park, a protected forest known for its unique biodiversity, including the elusive Red Panda. Much of the trek follows a high mountain ridge that also serves as the international border between India and Nepal, giving the journey a fascinating cultural and geographical character.

The name Sandakphu literally means the height of the poison plant, a reference to the abundance of poisonous aconite plants found near the summit. It is the loftiest peak of the Singalila Range and the culmination point of multiple historic trekking routes in the Darjeeling Sikkim region.

Maneybhanjang to Sandakphu Trek Distance and Planning

Maneybhanjang, located at an altitude of 2134 meters, is the official gateway to the Sandakphu trekking region. It lies about 25 kilometres from Darjeeling and serves as the last major settlement for permits, meals and supplies. After completing forest entry formalities, most trekkers begin their journey from here, although an overnight stay at Maneybhanjang is often recommended to start early the next morning.

The total trekking distance from Maneybhanjang to Sandakphu is approximately 31 kilometres. This distance is usually covered over two to three days, depending on fitness acclimatisation and route choice. After reaching Sandakphu, trekkers may continue towards Phalut or descend towards Rimbik with several itinerary variations allowing the trek to extend anywhere from one to four additional days.

Distance and Altitude Overview of Key Points

Maneybhanjang stands at around 7000 feet and serves as the starting point. Chitrey lies slightly higher at about 8300 feet, followed by Meghma at 9500 feet. Tonglu reaches approximately 10100 feet while Kalepokhri rises to around 10200 feet. Sandakphu itself stands tall at 11930 feet, making it the highest point in Bengal. Phalut follows closely at around 11800 feet.

Detailed Description of the Trek and Places on the Way

Starting Points and Maneybhanjang

The trek can begin from Darjeeling, Maneybhanjang or Chitrey. Travellers staying in Darjeeling usually drive to Maneybhanjang, which takes about an hour. Maneybhanjang is famous for its vintage Land Rovers, some of which are over seventy years old and still operating on mountain tracks. It is also a border town where Nepal lies on one side of the road and India on the other. There are small hotels and trekker huts here suitable for an overnight halt.

Chitrey and the Forest Ascent

To avoid a steep initial climb, some trekkers drive a few kilometres ahead to Chitrey before starting the trek. The trail ascends sharply through pine, fir birch forests and bamboo groves and takes about one and a half hours to reach Chitrey at 2530 meters. The Indo-Nepal border continues to run along this section with settlements on the Nepal side and the trail on the Indian side. Chitrey also has a monastery and basic accommodation options.

Lamey Dhura and Meghma

About three kilometres ahead lies Lamey Dhura, a small settlement with a few tea stalls catering to trekkers. The route here follows an exposed ridge offering early glimpses of distant mountains. Another three kilometres brings you to Meghma a larger settlement with a security camp, monastery and primary school. At Meghma, the trail splits with one route going uphill towards Tonglu in India and the other passing through Nepal towards Tumling.

Tonglu and Tumling

Tonglu, perched atop a hill, offers mesmerising views of the Kanchenjunga range reflected on Tonglu Lake. Some trekkers choose to start their trek from Dhotrey near Tonglu, reducing the total distance. Tumling, located along the Nepal route, is known for its peaceful atmosphere and variety of lodges. On clear nights, the lights of Darjeeling, Kurseong, Siliguri and even parts of Nepal are visible from here.

Entering Singalila National Park

Beyond Tumling lies the forest check post for Singalila National Park, where entry permits are required. From here, multiple trails lead towards Gairibans either through Indian or Nepalese routes or directly over a hilltop. The forest in this region is rich with rhododendrons and wildlife and is a prime habitat for Red Pandas.

Gairibans Kaiyakatta and Kalepokhri

Gairibans, situated at a lower altitude of around 2621 meters, has trekkers' huts and is often used as a night halt by those completing the trek in two days. From here, the trail climbs steeply to Kaiyakatta a small village known for its curious historical name and tea stops. Kalepokhri, located about three kilometres ahead, is a windy ridge village at 3108 meters with a dark crystal lake surrounded by prayer flags, which gives the place its name, meaning black lake.

Bikeybhanjan and the Final Ascent

Bikeybhanjan is the last settlement before Sandakphu and lies just two kilometres from Kalepokhri. Despite the short distance, this section is the steepest and most challenging part of the trek. After a demanding climb of around three hours, trekkers finally reach Sandakphu, the highest point in West Bengal. A halt here allows time to absorb the incredible Himalayan panorama.

Trekking Options Beyond Sandakphu

From Sandakphu, trekkers have several route options. A direct descent through dense forests leads to Rimbik. Continuing along the Singalila ridge takes trekkers to Sabarkum and onward to Phalut, the second-highest point in Bengal. Sabarkum itself offers stunning views and Phalut serves as a major overnight stop before descending towards Gorkey Srikhola or further exploring routes towards Sikkim for experienced trekkers.

Gorkey is a popular stop on the descent known for its riverside setting. From Gorkey, trekkers often proceed to Srikhola, which marks the end of the trek and connects to motorable roads leading back to Rimbik Maneybhanjang and Darjeeling. Another descent option from Sandakphu is through Gurdum, a forested route leading to Srikhola via Timbure village, which offers homestay accommodation.

Sandakphu Trek Tour Packages and Travel Support

Experienced tour operators play a crucial role in ensuring safety, comfort and proper acclimatisation on the Sandakphu trek. Customised Sandakphu trek tour packages are typically organised for groups of six to fifteen, although smaller or larger groups can also be handled with ease. Trek duration usually ranges from six to eleven days, depending on route choice and pace.

Trekkers generally need to carry warm clothing, good walking shoes, a rucksack and rain protection. Food along the trek is simple, nourishing and sufficient with rice chapatti and hot meals prepared by support teams. For international or special diet requirements, customised meal arrangements can be made with planning. All organised treks are supported by experienced guides, porters and full camping or lodge-based logistics depending on itinerary design.

Jeep Safaris to Sandakphu

Sandakphu is not only for trekkers. Jeep safaris using the vintage Land Rovers of Maneybhanjang are popular among domestic and international tourists who may not wish to trek. These safaris can reach Sandakphu in a single day, though travellers should be prepared for a rough and bumpy ride due to steep stone-paved roads.

Sandakphu Trek Cost and Planning Advice

The cost of a Sandakphu trek depends on factors such as group size, duration and level of service required. Independent trekkers may spend less while fully supported treks with guides, porters, meals and permits offer greater safety and comfort, especially for first-time or international travellers. Budgets are best finalised after discussing specific requirements with experienced operators familiar with the region.

Why Travel with NBTT for Sandakphu Trek

NBTT Travel Solution Private Limited brings decades of on-ground Himalayan trekking experience to every Sandakphu journey. With deep operational knowledge of the Singalila region, NBTT designs well-paced itineraries prioritising safety, acclimatisation and authentic mountain experiences. From expert local guides to reliable logistics, NBTT ensures that trekkers focus on the journey rather than the challenges.

In addition to trekking, NBTT also organises Sandakphu jeep safaris, sightseeing extensions and combined Darjeeling and Singalila travel plans. Whether you are an experienced trekker or a nature lover seeking Himalayan views, NBTT creates customised Sandakphu travel solutions suited to your expectations.

For detailed Sandakphu trek packages, jeep safari options, hotels, sightseeing, and itinerary planning, contact NBTT Travel Solution Private Limited at +919733300696 and let experienced professionals design your Himalayan journey.