Sandakphu Trek Guide
Sandakphu Trek is the highest trek in West Bengal, famous for offering panoramic views of Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, and Makalu. The trail passes through rhododendron forests, charming Himalayan villages, and the Singalila National Park.
🏔 Trek Overview
RegionWest Bengal (Singalila Range)
Altitude12,000 ft
Total Distance44 km
Duration6–7 Days
DifficultyEasy to Moderate
Base TownManebhanjan
🗓 Best Time to Do Sandakphu Trek
Apr – MayRhododendron bloom 🌸
Sep – NovClear mountain views
Dec – FebSnow trek (optional)
Jun – Aug❌ Monsoon
🧭 Trek Route & Camps
📍
Start PointManebhanjan
🏕
Major StopsTumling · Kalipokhri · Sandakphu
⛰
SummitSandakphu Peak
🌲
TerrainForest roads & ridges
🗺 Day-wise Sandakphu Trek Itinerary
📅
Day 1NJP / Bagdogra → Manebhanjan
📅
Day 2Manebhanjan → Tumling
📅
Day 3Tumling → Kalipokhri
📅
Day 4Kalipokhri → Sandakphu
📅
Day 5Sandakphu → Phalut
📅
Day 6Descend & return
💪 Difficulty & Fitness
DifficultyEasy–Moderate
Daily Walk5–6 hrs
Suitable ForBeginners
Trail TypeGradual ascent
🎒 Essential Packing List
Comfortable trekking shoes
Warm jacket / fleece
Rain jacket
Thermals (winter)
Trekking poles
Personal medicines
🛂 Permits & Safety
🪪
PermitSingalila National Park permit
🧭
GuideMandatory
📵
NetworkLimited connectivity
⛑
MedicalBasic facilities in villages
💰 Sandakphu Trek Cost
With Trek Operator₹10,000 – ₹15,000
DIY Trek₹6,000 – ₹8,000
IncludesStay, food, guide
ExcludesTravel to NJP
🙋 Who Should Do Sandakphu Trek?
✅
First-time trekkersGradual trails
✅
Mountain loversEverest & Kanchenjunga views
❌
Monsoon trekkersTrail unsafe
❌
Short-trip travelersNeeds 6+ days
🚗 How to Reach Sandakphu Base
✈️
Nearest AirportBagdogra (IXB)
🚆
Nearest RailheadNew Jalpaiguri (NJP)
🚖
RoadNJP → Manebhanjan