Trip Info
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Min 1 Max 12
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Grade: Moderate
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Mar-May, Sept-Nov
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Max. 3,636m/11,929ft
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Duration: 9 Days
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Private A/C Vehicle
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New Elgin Hotel/ Tent
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All meals are included
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Sikkim Sandakphu Trek Highlights
- The trail crosses between India and Nepal, offering a unique, international trekking experience
- Trekkers pass through dense forests of bamboo, rhododendrons, and magnolias, which are vibrant in spring
- Sunrise and Sunset Views of Himalayan range from Sandakphu top and view Kanchenjunga, Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu
- The route passes through charming villages like Tumling, Kalipokhri, and Gurdum, offering a glimpse into Sherpa and Tibetan culture.
- The area is known for wildlife, including the rare Red Panda, Himalayan black bears, and various bird species.
- It is considered a relatively easy-to-moderate trek with both teahouse or camping accommodations, making it popular for both beginners and experienced
Sikkim Sandakphu Trek is one of the most popular trekking routes in Sikkim. The Sikkim Sandakphu Trek offers a magnificent view of the entire Kanchenjunga mountain range, including four of the world’s five highest peaks, Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse and Makalu, from the Sandakphu Hill. Sandakphu is also known as the land of poisonous flowers. Apart from this; it offers beautiful landscapes, lush forests and green valleys.
Furthermore; on the Sikkim Sandakphu trekking route, one can spot red pandas or other rare wildlife in the Sandakphu area located within the Kanchenjunga National Park, which is their natural habitat. Therefore, trekkers should pay attention to the bamboo trees to spot the animals. This is a testament to the healthy environment of the park under wildlife protection.
The Sikkim Sandakphu Trek offers an experience that can never be compared. Sandakphu Trek takes you to the heart of Sikkim and Darjeeling. Autumn and spring are the best times to trek in Sikkim Sandakphu but we at AlpineTrav arrange Sikkim Sandakphu treks throughout the year as per the wishes and vacation schedule of the travelers. Sikkim Darjeeling Trek is a wonderful trekking destination. Sikkim Sandakphu Trek requires at least two weeks of vacation and good physical fitness.
Customize Your Sikkim Sandakphu Trek:
- This is a general itinerary, which can always individually be “tailormade”. The Sikkim Sandakphu trek package can be redesigned or redeveloped as per your taste, For more information please contact us.
9-Days Sikkim Sandakphu Trek Itinerary
Upon arrival at Bagdogra Airport, your trip officially begins where our representative will welcome you and continue on a 4 hour uphill journey from Bagdogra to Darjeeling through tea gardens and small towns. You will also occasionally come across the famous Darjeeling Toy Train, crossing your path. Upon arrival in Darjeeling, check in to the hotel, where you will be served welcome drinks. After you have freshened up, your trek guide will brief you about the tour in the evening at your hotel lobby. Get familiar with your surroundings by taking a walk down the street and visit to Market.
Accommodation: New Elgin Hotel
Early in the morning drive towards Tiger Hill to see Sunrise on Kanchenjunga peak. On the return visit the Ghoom Monastery. Built in 1875 the monastery which follows the Gelugpa sect, houses one of the largest statue of the Maitreya Buddha-"the future Buddha".
After breakfast, you will drive to Maneybhanjang, the starting point of the trek. It takes around one and half hour to reach Maneybhanjang from Darjeeling. The days walk is around 6 hours climb that passes through small village of Chitre and forests of Rhododendron and Magnolias. The trekkers' hut is set at Tonglu at an elevation of 3020 m with stunning views of the Himalaya at the backdrop. Overnight in tent.
Accommodation: Fully Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
In the morning go out for a walk through the forest which is a home to the rare Red Panda and the Tragoapn. After 4 hours walk you will reach trekkers' hut at Garibas at an altitude of 2620 m. Spend the night in Garibas.
Accommodation: Fully Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Another phase of Sandakphu trek starts this morning. After breakfast you head for trekking to Sandakphu. It takes around 6 hours.
Sandakphu is the place from where one can witness the clear views of the peaks of Lhotse (8501m), Everest (8848m) and Makalu (8475m) of the Nepal Himalaya along with the stunning views of the huge Kanchenjanga massif (8586m). Overnight stay at Sandakphu.
Accommodation: Fully Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
On fourth day the trek passes through a ridge and generates a bewildering experience. It can be considered as one of the best enjoyable and scenic walks in the Himalaya. The snowy peaks of the Himalaya never go out of the sight and snakes through high altitude vegetation, dwarf Rhododendron and firs. The walk to Phalut takes around 7 hours. Overnight stay at Phalut.
Accommodation: Fully Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
To view the sunrise over the Himalaya, wake up early morning. After breakfast trek to Rammam that takes around 5 hours. The trail passes through the villages of Gorkhey and Samanden and bird lovers can find a feast for their eyes. Overnight stay at Rammam.
Accommodation: Fully Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
After breakfast; today's trek descends to the bridge at Srikhola and passes through a number of small villages to reach Rimbik. Overnight at stay Rimbik.
Accommodation: Fully Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
After breakfast get ready for a four hours drive to reach Darjeeling.
Accommodation: New Elgin Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
On the last day of the Sikkim Sandakphu Trek, wake up early in the morning, pack your bag. The 5 hours drive from Darjeeling hotel to Bagdogra. Finaly; the trek ends as you reach Bagdogra Airport.
Meals: Breakfast
Sikkim Sandakphu Trek 9-Days Cost Details
Cost Includes
- All private ground transportation including airport transfers
- All camping logistical arrangements for your comfort, where kitchen tent, dining tent, toilet tent, table, chairs, and more for your comfort
- 3-Star Category Accommodation in Hotels on Twin Sharing Basis
- Freshly prepared meals (B, L, D) with boiled water, tea, coffee etc.
- Twin sharing tent for accommodation during the trek
- Experienced local trek guide with 1:4 assistant guide to client ratio
- Full support camping trekking crew with number of mules or porters to carry load equipment
- All required permits for the trek & (National Park Fees).
- Duffle bag for porter use (1 duffel bag per trekker)
- Comprehensive first aid kit with high altitude medicine
- Staffs salary, food, equipment, and insurance, included on-trip cost
- Official expense, all local and government tax and VAT.
- Sleeping bag if needed (it is refundable)
Cost Excludes
- International flight tickets and India entry visa fee
- Lunch and Dinner in Darjeeling during Stay
- Personal treking equipment
- Entrance fees while Sikkim and Darjeeling tours
- Personal expenses. Additional expenses due to unforeseen circumstances such as other events beyond control.
- Drinks except tea and coffee. (Bar Bill, laundry and telephone calls.)
- Travel Insurance: Liability of insurance against any kind of medical expenses etc.)
- Emergency rescue evacuation if needed
- Tips for treks guide and porter (it is appreciated)
9-Days Trip Cost Details
- The trip cost always depends on group size, hotel accommodation category and client’s desire budget
- The included itinerary is a guideline and standard pattern which AlpineTrav you. This trip itinerary can be modified according to your time and requirements
- The itinerary shall be changed after an understanding between both AlpineTrav and the client. Additional activities could be either added or reduced as per client’s request before the trip confirmation
- Price shall be adjusted in our mutual understanding, if the client intends to add some services we shall charge him/ her for those additional services and if he/she intends to lessen some services, we shall wave the charges accordingly
- The Sikkim Sandakphu Trek itinerary has been published in 3-star hotels and tented camping services for better understanding of the customers.
Please contact us on WhatsApp: +9779860751012 for any information about in your selected package.
Useful Info
Please take care to note: Every effort will be made to keep to the above itinerary; however, since this adventure entails traveling in remote mountainous regions, we cannot guarantee that we will not deviate from it. Weather, the health condition of a group member, unexpected natural disasters, etc., can all contribute to changes in the itinerary. The trek guide will try to ensure that the trip runs according to plan, but please be prepared to be flexible if required.
Accommodation at Sikkim Sandakphu Trek
In Darjeeling: Comfortable Stays in Cities and on the Trail Your comfort is our priority, whether in the bustling city or the serene mountains: In Darjeeling: Stay at Hotel New Elgin or a similar hotel, offering modern amenities for a relaxing experience.
Room Arrangement: are on a twin-sharing basis. During the trek your accommodation will be fully tented camping. A tent will be provided for every 2 travellers with a foam mattress. There will also be a kitchen tent, dining tent, toilet tent, table, chairs, and more for your comfort. Our trekking team will carry all of the tent equipment for your worry-free and easy journey.
Meals in Sikkim Sandakphu Trekking
All meals are included during the trekking period. We will provide three meals a day during the trek. Our kitchen crew will served freshly prepared meals during the trek. We consider hearty and delicious meals as a key component to the overall success of our trip, Since this is a full camping trek, meals are prepared by the trekking cook and typically include warm, nutritious options like soups, rice, pasta, and vegetable curries, and a farewell dinner will be served along with breakfast in Darjeeling.
- Breakfast and Dinner served at the Tented camp where you will spend the night
- Hot Lunch or lunch packed: Provided en route to the next destination, offering flexibility to enjoy the day’s journey.
- Special Touch: All breakfasts are provide in Darjeeling, and will also enjoyed a specially prepared farewell dinner to celebrate the end of the trek.
How difficult is the Sikkim Sandakphu Trek?
The Sikkim Sandakphu Trek is considered a moderate trek, suitable for trekkers with a reasonable level of fitness. While it involves daily ascents and descents, the trails are generally well-maintained. The highest point reached is Sandakphu 3,636 meters (11,930 feet), which requires acclimatization. Trekkers should be prepared for 5-6 hours of walking per day and some steep sections. Prior trekking experience is beneficial, steep sections, and rich, scenic forests within the Singalila National Park.
Is altitude sickness a concern on the Sandakphu Trek?
Yes, altitude sickness can be a concern, as parts of the trek reach high altitudes. Proper acclimatization involves ascending gradually, staying hydrated, and listening to your body. If symptoms of altitude sickness occur, it’s essential to descend to a lower altitude.
Prerequisites for Sikkim Sandakphu Trek
No prior trekking experience is required to participate in the Sikkim Sandakphu Trek, but trekkers should be moderately fit, and comfortable in high-altitude conditions. Trekkers who can walk for 6-7 hours do not need prior trekking experience for the trek.
Similarly, those with good physical fitness, stamina, and mental flexibility can easily complete the Sikkim Sandakphu Trek without prior trekking experience. However, prior trekking experience will be a bonus point for an adventure trek like the Sikkim Sandakphu.
Sandakphu Temperature and Weather
The best time to visit Sandakphu isthe first season is spring, from March to May, when the weather remains pleasant when the temperature rises and stays well above the freezing point, somewhere between 7℃ and 14℃. During this time, rhododendrons are in full blossom and carpet the valleys alongside the melodious chirping of the birds, with exotic floral fragrances alluring the crisp cool breeze.
October and November are other seasons which is popular among tourists for the chilly nights and bright sunny mornings and days when the temperature ranges between 8 and 12℃. This is the autumn season when the night sky is covered entirely like a starry canvas ready to enchant you. The days have bright and clear skies, offering breathtaking Himalayan range views.
What should I pack for the Sikkim Sandakphu Trek?
You should pack light but enough for at least 9 days on the Sandakphu Trek. If you don’t pack wisely, it is certain that you won’t be able to enjoy your trip to the Himalayas. Since this is a full camping trek, you will be sleeping in a tent for the entire journey. You should be prepared with the right clothes and equipment as it can get chilly at high altitudes, especially during the colder months.
For detailed information on what to carry with you during the trek, please visit our detailed “trekking equipment checklists”.
What can I expect on the Sandakphu trek?
The Sandakphu trek takes you to a maximum elevation of 3,636m, offering breathtaking, panoramic views of four of the world’s five highest peaks (Everest, Kanchenjunga, Makalu, and Lhotse). It is a 9-day, easy to moderate trek through the Singalila National Park in West Bengal, where you can witness dense forests (pine, oak, rhododendron), unique Indo-Nepalese cultural experiences, and the famous ‘Sleeping Buddha’ structure.
- Spectacular Views – You will see the “Sleeping Buddha” range (Kanchenjunga) and the “Sleeping Shiva”. It’s one of the few places in the world to see 4 out of 5 highest peaks in one go.
- Unique Trail & Culture – You will frequently cross between the India and Nepal borders, experiencing both cultures in the Himalayan villages.
- Diverse Forests – The trek starts through bamboo forests and progresses through rhododendrons, oaks, and pines, offering a vibrant, scenic landscape.
- It’s journey that combines breathtaking, high-altitude mountain vistas with rich cultural interaction.
How much does Sikkim Sandakphu Trek Cost?
The trek to Sandakphu depends on the reputation and services offered by the company you book your holiday with. But, the service we offer Cost USD 1,580 per person. It is a standard cost is all-including. The cost may differ if you choose to amend the itinerary and services. If you have a larger group, then we can provide group discounts. If you wish to upgrade the facilities and add more support etc on the Sandakphu trek, then we can tailor your trip accordingly by getting a touch of luxury where possible.
India
Sikkim Travel Information →
FAQs Related to Sikkim Sandakphu Trek
The average duration of the Sikkim Sandakphu Trek is about 6 to 11 days. The trek range is distributed among the trekkers who can spend several days for trekking, and for those who don’t have enough time to spend. Our itinerary consists of 9-days Sikkim Sandakphu Trek which is ideal for trekking with proper acclimatization measure.
The best times to trek in Sikkim Sandakphu are during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these seasons, the weather is generally stable with clear skies, offering excellent views of the mountains. Spring brings blooming rhododendrons and lush vegetation, while autumn offers crisp, dry conditions.
The Sandakphu trek takes you to a maximum elevation of 3,636m, offering breathtaking, panoramic views of four of the world’s five highest peaks (Everest, Kanchenjunga, Makalu, and Lhotse). It is a 9-day, easy to moderate trek through the Singalila National Park in West Bengal, where you can witness dense forests (pine, oak, rhododendron), unique Indo-Nepalese cultural experiences, and the famous ‘Sleeping Buddha’ structure.
The Sandakphu Trek is considered a moderate trek, suitable for trekkers with a reasonable level of fitness. While it involves daily ascents and descents, the trails are generally well-maintained. The highest point reached is Sandakphu (3,636m/11,929ft), which requires acclimatization. Trekkers should be prepared for 5-7 hours of walking per day and some steep sections. Prior trekking experience is beneficial.
Yes, you do need a permit: Singalila National Park Entry Permit. These permits help regulate trekking activities and ensure the safety of hikers. If you are bringing a camera, you will also have to pay a separate fee for it. This trek passes through steep sections and rich, lush forests within India’s Singalila National Park. The required documents for Singalila National Park can also be obtained at the entrance.
The starting point of the Sikkim Sandakphu trek is Manebhanjang. You can reach Manebhanjang by taking a local bus or a private jeep, which is 23.9 km from Darjeeling. The drive takes about 1 hour, depending on the road conditions.
To be a responsible trekker, minimize your environmental impact by carrying out all trash, using reusable water bottles, and respecting local customs and traditions. Support local businesses by staying in camping places and hiring local guides and porters. Be mindful of wildlife and avoid disturbing their habitat.
Of course, not only Mount Everest, but Kanchenjunga, Lhotse and Makalu, all peaks over 8,500 meters, are visible from this sandakphu. Apart from this, it is also famous for the “Sleeping Buddha” mountain range, where Kanchenjunga appears as a reclining human figure, and the stunning (sunset & sunrise) that turn the snow-capped peaks golden
The Singalila National Park is home to diverse wildlife, including red pandas, Himalayan black bears, and various species of birds. While sightings are not guaranteed, you may encounter red pandas, langur monkeys, Himalayan Tahr, and different bird species.
In case of difficulty, Sikkim Dzongri Trek is bit tougher than Sikkim Sandakphu, mainly due to higher altitude, long distance and duration, distance from Sikkim Gangtok, comparatible terrains, etc. While Sikkim Sandakphu is still tough, and requires decent level of physical fitness, and preparation beforehand, it is not as hard as Sikkim Dzongri trek.
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