DESCRIPTION
Sandakphu and Phalut, two magnificent peaks nestled in the Singalila Ridge on the border of Nepal and West Bengal, India, are favored by trekkers for their expansive Himalayan views.
Encompassing four of the world’s highest peaks – Everest, Kangchenjunga, Lhotse, and Makalu – these peaks provide a breathtaking sight. Sandakphu towers above West Bengal at an impressive 3,636 meters (11,929 feet). Its title as the “Mountain of Poisonous Plants” is earned by the abundance of Himalayan Cobra Lilies present. Journeying to Sandakphu, you’ll trek through the picturesque Singalila National Park, where vibrant rhododendron and magnolia forests beckon.
Witnessing the glorious sunrise and sunset over the Kangchenjunga range is a highlight of the trek. Phalut, also known as F, is another must-see peak in the area.
PROGRAM
Day 1: Siliguri to Dhotrey
- Pick up from NJP railway station in the morning by 10 am and drive to Dhotrey, trekkers will travel to the base camp on their own. Distance around 110 km and takes 4 hours.
- The road goes through the foothills of Eastern Himalaya (also called Doors) and gradually gains height.
- All the major mobile networks work here. Upon reaching, rest of the day at leisure.
- Night accommodation in dormitory/ lodges.
Day 2: Trek to Jaubari
- After your breakfast, start trekking towards Jaubari, An Ethinic Sherpa village.
- Sandakphu Trek route often defines the border between India and Nepal so the posting of Paramilitary camps of SSB (Sashastra Seema Bal) at all the major points is common
- Overnight stay
Day 3: Trek to Kalipokheri
- Get ready to trek to Kalapokhri.
- While walking past the Singalila National Park, explore and discover the enchanting beauty of the vicinity.
- The road enters into the dense forest and we take shorts cuts often which meet the jeep road while gaining altitude in a short distance. In spring this stretch is particularly vibrant with blooming Rhododendrons.
- The trail climbs up back to the singalila ridge rather steeply and we again follow the ridge till we reach kalaipokhari.
- During the last part of the trek, a small pond is seen on our left. This is called Kalipokheri.
- Enjoy staying overnight in a trekkers hut in kalipokheri
Day 4: Treak to Sandakphu Peak
- On this day you will be trekking in Sandakphu, the highest point in west Bengal
- This portion of the trail is inside Nepal and the Indian road joins here from the other side of the mountain. There is a tea stall on our left and a forest check post on the right.
- We proceed via Bikhey Bhanjang(valley of poisonous plants) and the 5km of the trail is a steep ascent till we reach Sandakphu.
- Sandakphu is a window to one of the finest views of the snowy mountains. From the mighty everest in Nepal to the revered Khangchendzonga in Sikkim and the legendary chomolahari in Bhutan.
- Relish the sight of a mesmerizing sunset as well.
- Enjoy your overnight.
Day 5: Trek to Phalut
- Wake up early in the morning and enjoy a beautiful sunrise over the snowy Himalayan
- Have your breakfast early and start your trek to Phalut via Moley.
- The stretch between Sandakphu to Phalut is the best experience throughout the trek.
- The trail at first climbs back to join the main trail and after some decent, there is a 3km steep ascent to Phalut which in an important viewpoint on the trail.
- Upon reaching Phalut, enjoy an overnight stay.
Day 6: Trek to Gorkhey/Samanden “Lost Valley”
- Start your day early in the morning and take a walk to the viewpoint to see one of the most beautiful sunrise
- Energize yourself with a hearty breakfast and start.
- The route ahead is certainly not for anyone with weak kneesas one has to decend 1200mts in 15kms through a wonderful forest area.
- The low hill are covered with moss-laden trees, different varieties of rhododendron, silver firs, pine , spruce, chestnuts, oaks, giant magnolias, and hemlocks.
- You reach the small village of Gorkhey at 2390mts and then samaden a beautiful village hidden between two valleys, hence this area is also called “lost valley”.
- Enjoy the overnight.
Day 7: Trek to Rimbik
- Have a hearty breakfast in the morning and start your trek.
- On the way you will get a small village called Sirikhola
- Rimbikis 2hr hike from Sirikhola
- Enjoy the overnight
Day 8: Back to Siliguri
- Enjoy the breakfast, Take a cab for Siliguri.
PACKAGE INCLUDES
-
- Transportation
- Accommodation on Deluxe Hotel / Homestay
- Breakfast
- Lunch (Veg/Non-Veg
- Dinner (Veg/Non-Veg
Excludes
– Entry Passes
– Additional Transportation, Rooms and Meals.
– Natural Calamities or Strikes (Bandh). And Trekking grears.
