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Brief Description
Sandakphu, located in the North West of Darjeeling at an altitude of 11,900 feet is the highest peak of West Bengal State. Sandakphu trek has everything going for it. After all where else you will see 4 of the world's highest mountains - Mt. Everest, Makalu, Kanchenjunga, and Lhotse. The heavenly experience of walking through the Forest of blooming rhododendrons, giant magnolias, spruce and a wide range of amazing orchids is something you will find nowhere else. Sandakphu is part of Singalila range. The trekking route passes through Shilgalila National Park which is another attraction of this trek. The park boasts rare animals like Red Pandas and Pangolins & a wide variety of birds. Offering you epic views of the Kanchenjunga range known as the "Sleeping Buddha", Sandakphu Phalut trek is a moderate trek ideal for both beginners and experienced trekkers alike looking for a simple yet stunning display of landscapes and scenery. Being one of the best treks in the Eastern Part of India close to the Sikkim border, Sandakphu Phalut trek is best done from September to April making it one of the best winter treks there is. The starting point of the trek, Jaubhari is approx. 5 hours drive away from New Jalpaiguri (NJP) which is the closest railway station. If you want to travel by Air then closest Airport is Bagdogra. Most of the trail on Sandakphut trek is now accessible by road. Thus, we suggest you go for Goecha La trek in Sikkim instead. Although, Goecha La is more difficult compared to Sandakphu, if you want to do a trek in Sikkim, it is your best bet!
Itinerary
Itinerary
Show complete Itinerary
Arrive in Jaubhari
Arrive at Jaubhari by evening. Team introduction in the evening. From Jaubhari the closest railway station is NJP & closest airport is Bagdogra. The travel time from NJP/ Bagdogra to Jaubhari is approximately 5 hours. On this day we stay in Jaubhari. Trek will start the next morning.
Jaubhari to Tumling
Today we begin the trek to Tumling. The trek is moderate with flat sections & some steep ascents. Today we will cover a distance of 10 Kms approx. Be careful as the trail can be slippery during the rainy season. The trail constitutes rocky paths, some muddy sections & meadows. Fill your water bottles at the start of trek. Water sources are available only at Chittrey, Lamaydhura and Meghma. We will halt at Chittrey Monastery. India Nepal border starts at Chetrey. From here India is on your right & Nepal is on your left. From Chittrey there are stairs made till Meghma. Chimla and Magnolia flowers are in abundance on the trail. If you are lucky, you can also spot a Red Panda in this region. From Chettrey walk for another 3 kms to reach Lamaydhura which is a small village with few Tibetan families. From Lamaydhura walk for another 3 kms over a flat terrain to reach Meghma. Then we reach SSB checkpost where our IDs will be checked. Foreigners should keep their Visa & Indians should keep their photo identity card with them. Tumling is on the India Nepal Border. We will stay at Tonglu which is a few hundred meters before Tumling.
Tumling to Kalipokhri
Wake up early to view sunrise over the Kangchenjunga range of peaks which is also known as sleeping Buddha owing to its shape. Ask your guide for the names of various peaks visible from here. Today’s trek is approx. 13kms. Notice the two roads diverging as you start the trek. We trek on the Nepal Road & reach the Singalila National Park entry point. Once we enter the national park we can see Mt. Everest. Next place is Gairibas which is 5 kms away and takes about 3-4 hours with a few staying options on the Nepal side of it. From Gairibas, Kaiyakatta is at a distance of 2 km. From Kaiykatta, Kalipokhri is about 4 kms. Kalipokhri translates to the Black lake and is exactly on the Nepal India border. There is a small Buddha temple near the lake. We camp near the lake tonight.
Kalipokhri to Sandakphu
Start early so that you do not miss the view of Snow clad peaks. Today’s trek is an easy one of 7 km & will take about 4-5 hours. From Kalipokhri the trail gradually ascends to Bikheybhanjang which is a small hamlet. It literally means the “Poisonous valley” because of the Poisonous Aconite plants that grow here in plenty. The trail just before you reach Sandakphu is very steep. At places, you might have to use all 4 limbs to climb. All the pain of steep climb will be gone in seconds when you reach Sandakphu from where you get a panoramic view including 4 of the highest mountains in the world - Mt Everest, Makalu, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, Chomolhari, Pandim, Three Sisters, Kumbhakarna, etc. Ask your guide for more information about the peaks. Overnight stay at Sandakphu.
Sandakphu to Sabargram
Start trekking early morning from Sandakphu to reach Sabargram. Today’s Trek is moderate but a long one covering 15 km in approximately 8 hours. Today’s trek is a treat for the eyes as the scenery is one of the best. Rhododendron trees are in plenty & in full bloom if you happen to come here in April or May. Camp for the night at Sabargram.
Sabargram to Gorkhey via Phalut
Today's trek is an easy one with mostly a descending trail. Views of Kangchenjunga on your left will keep the photographer in you alive. Trek will take about 5 hours to reach Gorkhey. Once we cross Gorkhey river we enter Sikkim. Camp overnight at Gorkhey.
Gorkhey to Sepi
Start early from Gokhey. Walking through Sammamden and Rammam villages, we will reach Sepi at around 2 PM. Trek ends here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Pick your question
About the Trek: Why should I go for this trek?
Sandakphu Trek
Sandakphu Trek is one of the best treks in West Bengal giving you glimpses of 4 of the world's highest peaks including the famous Kanchenjunga range known as the "Sleeping Buddha". Being an easy trek this trek takes you through dense forests, rhododendron studded trails and scenic landscapes that will keep you engrossed and leave you awe-struck. Ideal for both beginners and experienced trekkers the Sandakphu Phalut trek is a beautiful trek in the North-east.Eligibility: Is this trek good for me?
Sandakphu Phalut trek is ideal for both beginners and experienced trekkers. For the novice, Sandakphu Phalut is a great start to enter the world of trekking. It can get a bit rigorous for the first timers. Therefore, it is recommended to the first timers to maintain good physical stamina and read extensively. Any experienced trekker would love to go on this weekend trek for the love of its views and trekking.
Eligibility: Experience required
Sandakphu Phalut trek is apt for the first-timers. Those coming for the first time should prepare and read extensively about the trek. A basic knowledge about how to use a sleeping bag, toilet tents, sleeping tents, and mountain mannerisms will come in handy.
Eligibility: Fitness benchmark
Fitness Benchmark
- Jog/Run for 3 Kms in 30 mins and
- Hold your breath for 20 seconds
Eligibility: Requisite Skills
One should be familiar with the following:
- Know campsite basics like how to use a sleeping bag, sleeping tent, toilet tent
- Ascending & Descending technique for mountain trails
- Basic mountain mannerisms
- Ascending & Descending on snow
- Basics of Mountain Sickness
- Basics of Mountain Hazards
- How to cross small water streams
Best Season:
September to April is the best season to do this trek.
Packing List: What to pack
Click here for packing list.
Packing List: How should I pack my rucksack?
Packing List: How should I select my trekking shoe?
Connectivity: How to Reach the base of the trek & how to go back from the end point?
The starting point of the trek is Jaubhari that can be reached from NPJ. NPJ is easily accessible by rail or flights from all parts of the country. The nearest airport is Bagdogra.
Connectivity: What is the cellular network connectivity for this trek?
An intermittent network of BSNL and Airtel.
Age limit: What is the minimum & maximum age limit?
The minimum age limit is 9 years. However, minors aged between 9 to 17 should be accompanied with their parents or guardians. If you are above the age of 60, kindly carry a medical certificate from your doctor that deem you fit for adventure activities like trekking.
Accommodation type: What will be the accommodation type in this trek?
On trekking days accommodation will be on twin/triple sharing basis in 4 season tents.
Equipment and facilities: What kind of tents and sleeping bags will be provided to us?
We provide 4 seasons tents by Gipfel for higher altitudes which can easily withstand heavy snowfall and storms. They are spacious enough to accomodate 3 people at once with a vestibule to place the backpacks Our sleeping bags are made up of Heatseeker Pro synthetic insulation that can provide you comfort in -10 degrees celsius. We also use additional fleece liners to have thermal efficiency even in the extreme temperatures of -17 degrees Celsius. If you carry your own sleeping bag, you will get a cashback reward, provided that you inform us as soon as you have booked your trek.
Equipment and facilities: Are there any washroom/toilet facilities on the trek?
Toilet tents will be provided to you on the trek.These are portable toilets tents where a deep pit will be dug. A shovel will be provided inside the tent to cover the waste after you have made your business. You can take a toilet roll inside. Make sure you dig used toilet paper along with the waste. Though water is recommended in place of toilet paper. Please refrain from using wet wipes as they are non-biodegradable. There will be no facility for bathing on the trek. Go through our blog section for tips on how to maintain personal hygiene on treks.
Equipment and facilities: If we trek in snow, what equipment will you provide?
You will be provided with good quality of gaiters and microspikes from us depending upon the situation of the snow. Our trek leaders will also be carrying ropes and ice axe.
Equipment and facilities: What kind of food will be provided for the trek?
Vegetarian food will be served throughout the trek. The only non-vegetarian item served on our treks are eggs. Our kitchen staff follows a proper menu for breakfast, lunch and dinner which has been designed in order to fulfil the nutritional requirements of the participants. There will be milk, poha, eggs, muesli/corn flakes, bread and butter served for breakfast. Rice or simple roti sabzi will be packed for lunch. In dinner, you will have dal, egg curry or any other vegetarian dish along with rice, roti, and a dessert item. Packed lunch will be provided to you on the days you are trekking. You are requested to carry your own tiffin box and a mug to consume food. The meals consumed on journey and arrival day are not included in our cost.
Equipment and facilities: What equipment can I rent from you?
You can rent following items from us- Trekking Pole, Trekking Shoes, Fleece Jacket, Rucksack
Weather conditions: When will there be snow on this trek?
Yes there will be snow on this trek in the winter season between December to March
Miscellaneous : Is there an option to offload my backpack?
If you want to offload your rucksack, you will have to make a request for offloading a few days prior the trek through an email so that arrangement can be made in advance. You will be charged per day for offloading your rucksack. In case you decide to offload on the spot, you may have to pay a higher price than usual. However offloading your rucksack is not recommended since it is not a safe practice.
Miscellaneous : Who will lead us on the trek?
A team of participant will be led by a course certified trek leader and a local guide. All participants are requested to abide by what their leader says. There will also be a team of kitchen staff and porters on the trek. We maintain 1:8 ratio of trek leader and participants. All our trek leaders and staff have a certified training in first-aid and rescue operation.
Miscellaneous : Is the trekking pole necessary?
It is not mandatory but it is more convenient with the pole. If you don’t want to buy one, you can rent it from us on minimal daily basis charges. You can request the renting link from us.
Miscellaneous : Are there any local stores/shops from where I can shop trekking necessities?
It is recommended that you come prepared with all the stuff. Please do not leave anything for last minute buying.
Miscellaneous : Is it safe for a solo woman traveller to trek in Fixed departures?
Yes, it is absolutely safe for solo woman to travel in fix departures. Women on the trek will be sharing tent with each other. In case you are the only woman on the trek, you will be given a separate tent.
Miscellaneous : Will you give certificates on completion of trek?
Yes, e-certificates will be given at the end of each trek provided that you completed it. It will bear your name, the trek, and the maximum altitude you achieved on the trek.
Transport: In case we opt for the transport with you, where will you pick us from and where will you drop?
We will pick you up from NPJ railway station. Drop off point remains the same.
Transport: What time will you drop us at the end point on last day of the trek?
Expect to reach your destination by evening.
Mandatory documents: What are the mandatory documents required for the trek?
Please carry your ID card (Soft copy should be sent to us over email).
Transport: In case we opt for the transport with you, where will you pick us from and where will you drop?
If you are arriving at NJP/Siliguri/Bagdogra Airport, then, you can avail transportation till Jaubhari through us.
Transport: What time will you drop us at the end point on last day of the trek?
Expect to reach NJP by late evening.
Mandatory documents: What are the mandatory documents required for the trek?
It is mandatory to carry ID Proof for the trek. (Soft Copy to be sent to us in Advance & original to be carried along)
Eligibility: Is this trek good for me?
Sandakphu trek is ideal for both beginners and experienced trekkers. For the novice, it is a great start to enter into the world of trekking. It can get a bit rigorous for the first-timers. Therefore, it is recommended to maintain good physical stamina and read extensively. Any experienced trekker would love to go on Sandakphu trek for the love of its views and trekking.
Eligibility: Experience required
Since Sandakphu is a beginner’s trek, you need no special prior experience. Although one is required to have mental preparedness and stamina before he begins the trek. Running is recommended.
Eligibility: Fitness benchmark
1. Jog/Run for 3 Kms in 30 mins and
2. Hold your breath for 20 seconds
If you are not meeting these benchmarks, please use the preparation schedule to improve your fitness till you achieve the above benchmarks.
Eligibility: Requisite Skills
1. How to choose a right rucksack: It is essential that you choose a right rucksack for the trek since you are going to carry it all the time while trekking. Make sure you don’t make these common mistakes while buying a rucksack.
2. How to pack a rucksack: Trekking in mountains become more fun when your rucksack is well-organized. It also makes it easier for you to carry without being much load on your shoulders. Follow the guidelines on how to pack a rucksack.
About the Trek: Why should I go for this trek?
Sandakphu Trek
Sandakphu trek is a great option for beginners as well as seasoned trekkers. The USP of Sandakphu trek is that one gets a stunning view of 4 of the highest peaks in the world along with Mt. Kanchenjunga. Sandakphu Trek is one of the most famous winter treks in India.Best Season: What are the best months to visit this trek?
The best time to do this trek is between the months of October to April.
Packing List: What to pack
Click here for packing list.
Packing List: How should I pack my rucksack?
Packing List: How should I select my trekking shoe?
Connectivity: How to Reach the base of the trek & how to go back from the end point?
The start point of Sandakphu trek is Jaubhari. There are no direct buses or trains to this place.
By rail:
The nearest railways station to Jaubhari is New Jalpaiguri Station (NJP). it is located 120 km from Jaubhari. There are a number of trains from Delhi to NJP that you can board like Avadh Assam Express, Ndls Njp Sf Express. The jeep ride from NJP to Jaubhari will take about 5-6 hours. Get an early morning taxi from the taxi stand at Siliguri Railway Station. Avoid travelling in night since the road condition is bad.
By air: The nearest airport to Jaubhari is Bagdogra Airport, about 150 km from Jaubhari and 12 km from Siliguri. There are direct flights from New Delhi to Bagdogra. The jeep ride from Siliguri to Jaubhari will take about 5-6 hours to reach. For backward journey, the taxis are easily available from Jaubhari to bagdogra/NJP/Siliguri. Start your road journey in the morning.
Connectivity: What is the cellular network connectivity for this trek?
Intermittent network during the trek.
Age limit: What is the minimum & maximum age limit?
The minimum age limit for Sandakphu is 9 years. However, minors aged between 9 to 17 should be accompanied with their parents or guardians. If you are above the age of 60, kindly carry a medical certificate from your doctor that deem you fit for adventure activities like trekking.
Accommodation type: What will be the accommodation type in this trek?
At Jaubhari your stay will be made at a local guesthouse. The rooms will be provided on either twin or triple sharing basis. You will receive the details of your accommodation through email a few days prior to the trek. On trekking days, all the trekkers will be accommodated in twin or triple sharing tents. Along with this, there will also be a toilet tent and a dining tent installed at every campsite as we roll.
Equipment and facilities: What kind of tents and sleeping bags will be provided to us?
We provide 4 seasons tents by Gipfel for higher altitudes which can easily withstand heavy snowfall and storms. They are spacious enough to accomodate 3 people at once with a vestibule to place the backpacks. Our sleeping bags are made up of Heatseeker Pro synthetic insulation that can provide you comfort in -10 degrees celsius. We also use additional fleece liners to have thermal efficiency even in the extreme temperatures of -17 degrees Celsius. If you carry your own sleeping bag, you will get a cashback reward provided that you inform us as soon as you have booked your trek.
Equipment and facilities: Are there any washroom/toilet facilities on the trek?
Toilet tents will be provided to you on the trek.These are portable toilets tents where a deep pit will be dug. A shovel will be provided inside the tent to cover the waste after you have made your business. You can take a toilet roll inside. Make sure you dig used toilet paper along with the waste. Though water is recommended in place of toilet paper. Please refrain from using wet wipes as they are non-biodegradable. There will be no facility for bathing on the trek. Go through our blog section for tips on how to maintain personal hygiene on treks.
Equipment and facilities: If we trek in snow, what equipment will you provide?
You will be provided with good quality gaiters and microspikes from us depending upon the situation of the snow. Our trek leaders will also be carrying ropes and ice axe.
Equipment and facilities: What kind of food will be provided for the trek?
Vegetarian food will be served throughout the trek. The only non-vegetarian item served on our treks are eggs. Our kitchen staff follows a proper menu for breakfast, lunch and dinner which has been designed in order to fulfil the nutritional requirements of the participants. There will be milk, poha, eggs, muesli/corn flakes, bread and butter served for breakfast. Rice or simple roti sabzi will be packed for lunch. In dinner, you will have dal, egg curry or any other vegetarian dish along with rice, roti, and a dessert item. Packed lunch will be provided to you on the days you are trekking. You are requested to carry your own tiffin box and a mug to consume food. The meals consumed on journey and arrival day are not included in our cost.
Equipment and facilities: What equipment can I rent from you?
You can rent following items from us- Trekking Pole, Trekking Shoes, Fleece Jacket, Rucksack
Weather conditions: What will the temperatures be like during this trek?
In winters, during the day, the temperature will range from 10-15 degrees Celsius. The nights will get cold dropping the temperature to 0 to -8 degrees Celsius. The higher the altitude you gain, the colder it gets.
Weather conditions: When will there be snow on this trek?
You can expect snows from December to March. It is difficult to expect snow during summers or monsoons.
Miscellaneous : Is there an option to offload my backpack?
If you want to offload your rucksack, you will have to make a request for offloading a few days prior the trek through an email so that arrangement can be made in advance. You will be charged per day for offloading your rucksack. In case you decide to offload on the spot, you may have to pay a higher price than usual. However offloading your rucksack is not recommended since it is not a safe practice.
Miscellaneous : Who will lead us on the trek?
A team of participant will be led by a course certified trek leader and a local guide. All participants are requested to abide by what their leader says. There will also be a team of kitchen staff and porters on the trek. We maintain 1:8 ratio of trek leader and participants. All our trek leaders and staff have a certified training in first-aid and rescue operation.
Miscellaneous : Is the trekking pole necessary?
It is not mandatory but it is more convenient with the pole. If you don’t want to buy one, you can rent it from us on minimal daily basis charges. You can request the renting link from us.
Miscellaneous : Are there any local stores/shops from where I can shop trekking necessities?
Do not leave anything for last minute buying as there will be no time for shopping because of immediate transportation to Jaubhari. It is advisable to come prepared with all the necessities,
Miscellaneous : Is it safe for a solo woman traveller to trek in Fixed departures?
Yes, it is absolutely safe for solo woman to travel in fix departures. Women on the trek will be sharing tent with each other. In case you are the only woman on the trek, you will be given a separate tent.
Miscellaneous : Will you give certificates on completion of trek?
Yes, e-certificates will be given at the end of each trek provided that you completed it. It will bear your name, the trek, and the maximum altitude you achieved on the trek.
Why Bikat
Why Bikat
Learning Experience
- We are an Adventure Learning Organisation first.
- We want you to not just complete a trek safely but also pick up some basic trekking knowledge and skills along the way.
- To achieve this we have integrated learning modules into our itineraries.
- These modules will help you build the necessary skills to progress from trekking to mountaineering over time.
Loyality Programs
Our community is an integral part of us and we take pride in our trekkers and climbers. When you complete at least three days on any trek or expedition with us, you become eligible for our membership and referral programs.
- Currently we have three levels:
- Basic Membership
- Summiteer Membership
- Leader Membership
Personalized Attention
- Our group sizes on treks don’t exceed 15 members in order to maintain a healthy Participants : Leader Ratio of 8:1.
- Over time we have found this number to be optimum when it comes to ensuring personalised attention to every member of our group.
- On mountaineering expeditions this number is even smaller. Our group sizes are capped at 12 members ensuring a Participants : HAP Ratio of 2:1.
Best Expedition Leaders
- Our Expedition leaders are advanced mountaineering course qualified, specially trained in rescue procedures from NIM and certified first-aid responders.
- Even our local guides are certified first-aid responders.
Eco-friendly Practices
- Group sizes are capped at 15 people.
- Batch sizes are capped at 250 people per trail per season.
- We follow a rolling campsite model.
- We are constantly exploring and introducing new trails to reduce the burden on existing ones.
Safety
For us, a successful summit is not about reaching the highest point of a mountain but about making it safely back to base.
- To ensure this:
- Every region of ours is mapped with an emergency evacuation plan.
- The equipment we use is UIAA certified.
- Our trek leaders are AMC certified with specialisation in rescue procedures.
- Our support staffs are trained in first aid as well.
Reviews
What's Included
Whats Included
- Veg Food as per menu on trekking days. Three Meals a day
- Forest Permits/Camping Charges/Permits, Trek Permit Fee/IMF Permission (Upto the amount charged for Indian nationals)
- Camping tents, Temp rated sleeping bags, mattress
- Safety Equipment includes static rescue rope, seat harness, carabiners, pulleys
- Mountaineering course certified Trek Leader with Wilderness Emergency Responder & Rescue. course from NIM Uttarkashi
- First Aid Certified Local guide, cook, helpers
- Porters or mules for carrying common luggage
Whats Not Included?
- Meals during road journeys
- Any kind of Insurance
- Any expense of personal nature
- Any expense not specified in the inclusion list
- Carriage of personal rucksack
- Meals during Hotel Stay
Cancellation Policy
Cash Refund
Cancellations up to 30 days prior to departure date
5% Deduction
Between 30 days to 15 days prior to departure
50%
deduction
Less than 15 days of departure
No Cash Refund
Voucher Refund
Cancellations up to 5 days prior to departure date
No Deduction
Cancellations less than 5 days prior to departure
No Refund
Please note
- Cash refund is applicable only in case of bookings made without using any promotional offer code or vouchers.
- This is only a brief of cancellation terms. For finer details please refer Detailed Cancellation Policy.
Blog Posts
How to Choose : Trekking Boots
Sarthak Madan 26 October 2018
Bikat's HOW TO CHOOSE series provides information about how to choose and use trekking or climbing equipment like backpacks, boots, gaiters, microspikes and a lot more.
A good pair of boots is the most essential piece
Read More
