SANDAKPHU: Heaven on Earth

 Being the highest point in the state of West Bengal, Sandakphu is a gem of the trekking world. It is considered to be one of the most beautiful treks in eastern India. It is a wonderland for trekkers from all around the world. Surrounded by the soaring Himalayas, the trail only gets better during the wintertime. It is considered to be one of the best winter treks, especially during the months of February to May as you are presented with the view of snow-capped mountains as well as blankets of snow that would be gracing the trail. This does not make the trek inaccessible, but only adds to the stunning beauty of the surroundings.

One of the best months to visit the trek is February when the area is embraced by snow. Although the weather conditions are a bit rougher during this month. The winds blow harsh and cold. The temperature during February can go from anywhere between 6℃ to minus 6℃. Usually, during this time the trek is filled with backpackers and seasoned professional trekkers, although a beginner can join this adventure with the help of a professional.

Sandakphu is a one-of-a-kind trek, as often during this journey hikers find themselves crossing over to Nepal. The trek often passes through both countries, adding an exciting thrill to this adventure. The trek also graces its climbers with the jawdropping view of Mt. Everest, Mt Lhotse, Mt. Makalu, and Mt. Chomo Lonjo. Another specialty of the trek is that it offers views to the unique wonder dubbed as ‘The Sleeping Buddha’. The Kanchanjunga range seems to resemble Buddha sleeping while looking over mankind. The position resembles the 46-meter long statue that was built in Bangkok. To enhance its already striking beauty, the Sandakphu trek is also home to over 600 species of orchids.

Sandakphu sits at an elevation of 11,930 ft, the height is approximately 2 times less than that of Mount Everest, hence the name Sandakphu Peak. This exciting journey would take you 7 days and runs to a distance of 73 km. The trek is truly magical, and this continues as you start your travel towards the peak.

The excursion to the Sandakphu Peak starts at New Jalpaiguri. A drive from New Jalpaiguri for 3–4 hours will take you to Manebhanjan. During the journey, you will continually be in the company of mountains, tea plantations, and various villages. From Manebhanjan the trip for Tumling starts. The distance between the two is around 11 km and requires 5–6 hours. Tumling is at an elevation of 9,500 ft. The lines between India and Nepal begin to blur here, Tumling captivates you with its lovely sunsets, making it appear as though you are in paradise.

 The journey from Tumling to Kalipokhri is around 14 km and requires 6–7 hours. Kalipokhri is at a height of 10,400 ft. Here you will be entranced by the excellence of the resting Buddha, just as the full Kanchenjunga, Kumbhakarna, Shimbho, Goecha, Kabru, Rathong, Koktang, and Frey. The staggering excellence of the backwoods of Singalila National Park will certainly keep you awestruck. At last, the day has come to trip to the most noteworthy mark of this excursion, Sandakphu. Sandakphu is around 6.5 km away from Kalipokhri and requests the hard work of around 3–4 hours. Sandakphu is at a height of 11,930 ft. After a short however tiresome journey, you would, at last, arrive at your destination. Here you would be graced by the mysterious views on the mountain pinnacles of Makalu, Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and some more. The temperature after the nightfall hits zero, making it freezing. The views from the highest point of the journey are hypnotizing.

 From Sandakphu our next stop would be Sabargram/Mole. The journey would take around 7–8 hours as the distance to be covered is around 14 km. The path has a progressive descent, to a height of 11,807 ft. The path is covered with alpine berries and rhododendron. The path won’t let you down as you can in any case see the wonderful mountains. The dawn at Sabargram/Mole is amazing. The next day, the excursion to Gorkhey by means of Phalut starts. The best views of the gorgeous Kanchanjunga are on this path. The journey is around 17 km and requires 5–6 hours of difficult work. Gorkhey is at a height of 7,546 ft. Despite the fact that it is probably the longest path of this excursion, as it is a descent it is less tiring. The trip to Sepi takes around 5–6 hours as the movement is around 15 km. Sepi is at a height of 6,230 ft. During this piece of the journey, you will stumble across the Bamboo forests where Red Pandas and Bears are found. Unfortunately, the time has come to drive back to New Jalpaiguri, denoting a lovely finish to this astounding adventure.