The splendid Sandakphu and Phalut Trek

 At the farthermost corner of the State of West Bengal lies the Singalila Ridge that bridges the two countries of India and Nepal. Towering high on the Singalila Ridge is the Sandakphu Phalut peak rising up to an altitude of 11,930 ft, which remains one of the most sought-after destinations for trekking in India.

Hanging at the edge of the state of West Bengal, the Sandakphu and Phalut peaks offer trekking enthusiasts an electric and spine-chilling ride into the mountains. As trekkers gradually gain height on this expedition, they are introduced to the exotic and drool-worthy sights of the gigantic, fierce, and glorious Himalayas of Nepal nestled at a distance.

The easily accessible dramatic views of four of the world’s tallest mountains — Mt. Everest, Mt. Makalu, Mt. Chomo Lonjo, and Mt Lhotse- set the Sandakphu and Phalut trek apart from the other trekking expeditions across the country. The cinematic views of these mountains appear even more fascinating than imaginable because of the majestic peaks of Kanchenjunga, Chamlang, Kumbhakarana, and Chamlang resting gloriously in the backdrop. Words truly fall short before the breathtakingly beautiful views of nature’s bounty from the Sandakphu and Phalut peaks.

Besides the splendid mountainscapes, the trail to Sandakphu and Phalut peaks remains embellished with a variety of blooming orchids making the experience of trekking in India unparalleled.

Apparently, as many as 600 types of Orchids are known to bloom in regions traversed during the Sandakphu trek; this elevates the fun of trekking in India to another level. The vibrancy, aesthetic beauty, and satisfaction experienced during the Sandakphu and Phalut Trek are inexplicable and must be felt first-hand to taste the magic truly.

The best part about the trek is its short duration. In a mere span of 6 days, trekkers climb the Sandakphu and Phalut peaks, relish the mountainscapes wholeheartedly, and even return to the starting point.

The well-pathed trails, topographic diversity, scenic landscapes, and pleasant weather make the Sandakphu and Phalut Trek my all-time favorite trek. To me, it offers a perfect blend of adventure, drama, and thrill like none other. It is also one of the safest and ideal destinations for solo trekking in India.

Kopidana, nestled at 6,400 ft, marks the starting point of the Sandakphu and Phalut trek. There are two ways of reaching Kopidana — railway and airway. I prefer taking a train to the NJP railway station. However, trekkers can also board a flight to Bagdogra airport. Kopidana lies approximately 84 km away from the NJP railway station, and it takes roughly 5 hours to cover the distance. The drive from the railway station to Kopidana offers an excellent start to the expedition; it is smooth, fascinating, and all things pleasant.

Distanced 11 km away from Kopidana is the village of Tumling perched at an altitude of 9,700 ft. The trek from Kopidana to Tumling lasts about 6 hours. As you trek towards Tumling from Kopidana, you will begin to catch glimpses of the mesmerizing Mt Kanchenjunga and its sister peaks standing aloof at a distance. The ascent along this route is gradual and evened out, which makes it an easy climb uphill. Tumling is where most trekkers retire on the second day. It is a beautiful and accommodating camping sight to swear by.

The third day of the Sandakphu and Phalut trek begins with a hike to Kalapokhri, situated at an altitude of 10,400 ft. The climb to Kalapokhri remains the second most exciting part of the Sandakphu and Phalut trek after the climb to the summit. Since the Singalila National Park lies en route, trekkers get innumerable opportunities to witness exotic flora and fauna species unique to the region. The overall experience is frightening but equally thrilling and adventurous.

During peak seasons, one can also find bright and vibrant Rhododendrons as well as Magnolias blooming all across the region. If you are lucky, you may even spot the exotic Red Pandas this day. Red Pandas are rare species found in limited areas, and the Singalila National Park happens to be one of them.

As one gains height to reach Kalapokhri, peaks of Kumbhakarna, Shimbho, Goecha, Kabru, Rathong, Koktang, and Frey become more and more apparent, enriching the unparalleled experience of trekking in India. Kalapokhri serves as the camping site for the 3rd night of the expedition.

Approximately 6 km away from Kalapokhri lies the summit of Sandakphu and Phalut, perched at a whopping altitude of 11,929 ft. The trek from Kalapokhri to Sandakphu peak is moderately complex. It is slightly steep but not very daunting. It remains the most anticipated part of the entire Sandakphu and Phalut Trek since many notable peaks begin to surface en route. Peaks of the mighty Mt Everest, Makalu, Baruntse, Chamling, Chomolonzo, Lhotse, Everest, Nuptse, etc., appear more evident and close-sighted as one climbs uphill. The grandeur of witnessing the collective beauty of some of the world’s most exotic and drooled-over mountains is genuinely unforgettable and remains truly unmatched.

Upon reaching the summit, you will be able to access a 360-degree view of the entire valley that will leave you stunned for a brief moment. The Sandakphu peak is capable of accommodating enough trekkers, so most of them stay back at the summit for camping.

The sunrise from the Sandakphu Peak is to die for. It is surreal, arresting, and absolutely transfixing. After enjoying a beautiful morning at the summit, trekkers immediately begin to descend towards Sepi. Sepi is the last destination of the Sandakphu and Phalut trek. It remains 15 km away from the summit. The descent from the top remains steep initially but gradually opens into flattened trails. It takes approximately 6 hours to cover the distance. You will traverse the enticing bamboo forests famous for Red Pandas to enter the hamlet of Gurdum. A little away from Gurdum lies the village of Timburay. The Sri River, also known as River Khola, is also found meandering en route. The trek from Sandakphu peak to Sepi is long and tiring yet equally refreshing and endearing.

Sepi marks the last camping site of the Sandakphu and Phalut trek. Most trekkers depart from Sepi to their respective destinations the following day.