Through Diverse Cultures and Exotic Views: Sandakphu Trek

 Sandakphu, quite mesmerizing, enduring and magical, is a unique trek which not only offers eternal peace and serene views, but also pleasant weather along with surprises of different cultures present along the borders of the state.

Sandakphu Trek, as compared to the western Himalayas, lies at a lower latitude. The sun in winters along with the suitable height of the eastern Himalayas makes a great scene for glaring dusk and dawn skies. While on this trek, the old Silk route can be discovered too. Trekkers here enjoy the view of the world’s tallest and majestic mountains while experiencing Nepalese and Sikkim people hospitality. Introducing to the beauty of orchids and magnolia while discovering the Himalayas wilderness at Singalila National Park is unmissable! Enjoying the early morning tea admiring the Kanchenjunga peaks and witnessing the eye-catching famous and glorious sleeping Buddha structure carved out of the Kanchenjunga peaks just brings the much-needed peace to the lives of everyone.

The highest point in West Bengal within the Darjeeling district that meets Nepal at the border is Sandakphu at an altitude of 11,926 ft. The trek to this peak opens into the famous Singalila Ridge, which lies at the southern end of a long crest running down from the Kanchenjunga massif; a prominent spur of high land. The Singalila ridge currently forms the boundary between India’s Sikkim/Darjeeling and Nepal because of which the Sandakphu trek is also sometimes referred to as the “Singalila Ridge Trek’’.

The heavenly views from the top are one of the greatest pleasures of trekking in the Himalayas. The trail along the ridge also passes through small remote villages which are some of the most hidden scenic places of the Himalayas. The Sandakphu Trek is also an ideal trek for beginners who seek adventure. However, despite the ease even experienced trekkers continue to choose this trek time and again for the overall pleasure and adventure that is found here. Also, one cannot afford to miss out the stunning views of the Himalayas of Nepal, the range of Kanchenjunga, Makalu, Everest, Lhotse, Jannu (Kumbhakarna), Chamlang, Baruntse and some other peaks of Sikkim.

Although the highest altitude on this trek is much lower than the high mountain roads (as one gets to witness in Ladakh and some western Himalayan regions), the gradient followed by sharp curves tends to be much steeper. The total distance accounts to 33km which stretches from the Maneybhanjung to the Sandakphu elevating to an altitude of 5,500ft. The trekking trail consists of terrains and landscapes which give a different experience altogether. Overall, the trekking to Sandakphu is interesting, adventurous and enchanting!

Sandakphu remains accessible for a good duration of 8 months throughout the year, however, it remains closed throughout the monsoon season, from May to August due to unfavorable climatic conditions. Sandakphu trek is recognized for its sunrises and sunsets. One can view a vast variety of flora and fauna from seasons to seasons. The inherent romance in snowfall also adds value to the overall winter trekking experience that everyone dreams to witness once in their lifetime. The Snowfall here is mild and just about the perfect texture! Other similar treks like sandakphu trek are the har ki dun trek, chandrashila trek, tarsar marsar trek and many more!

Sandakphu Trek Package Overview:

● Difficulty level: Moderate

● Duration: 5 Days

● Location: West Bengal

● Best time: October-May