Spectacular Mountain Panorama - Witness the world's highest peaks including Mt. Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, and Makalu from a single viewpoint
The Sleeping Buddha Formation - Marvel at the unique alignment of Kanchenjunga massif creating the silhouette of a reclining Buddha
Singalila National Park - Trek through pristine forests of rhododendron, magnolia, and rare Himalayan flora
Cross Two States - Experience the unique border trek oscillating between West Bengal and Sikkim
Sunrise at Sandakphu - Witness golden rays illuminating four of the world's five highest peaks
Cultural Immersion - Pass through charming villages inhabited by Sherpas, Rais, and other mountain communities
Included/Excluded
Accommodation in trekkers' huts/Homestays on twin/triple sharing basis
All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner, and evening tea)
Experienced local trekking guide
Entry permits for Singalila National Park
First aid medical kit
Porter service for common equipment
5% GST
Transportation from NJP/Siliguri to Manebhanjan and return
Personal trekking equipment and gear
Personal porter for individual luggage
Bottled water and beverages
Tips for guides and porters
Any expenses arising due to unforeseen circumstances like bad weather or medical emergencies
Meals during transit to and from the trek starting point
Accommodation in NJP/Siliguri if required
Itinerary
Your adventure begins with an early morning drive from NJP Railway Station or Siliguri to Manebhanjan (2,150m), the gateway to Sandakphu. The scenic 3-hour drive takes you through winding mountain roads, tea gardens, and quaint hill settlements.
After completing trek registration formalities and meeting your guide at Manebhanjan, you'll begin your trek to Tumling or Meghma. The initial trail ascends gradually through small villages and farmlands, offering glimpses of local life.
The 11-kilometer trek takes approximately 5-6 hours, passing through forests of oak, bamboo, and rhododendron. Upon reaching Tumling (2,970m) or Meghma, you'll be rewarded with your first spectacular sunset views of the Himalayan range, with the Sleeping Buddha formation clearly visible on clear days.
Today's trek covers the most scenic stretch of the entire journey as you make your way to Sandakphu, the highest point of West Bengal. The trail initially descends slightly before beginning a steady climb through the Singalila National Park.
You'll trek through dense forests of silver fir, hemlock, and magnolia, with the path occasionally opening to reveal breathtaking mountain vistas. The India-Nepal border runs along this ridge, and you'll actually walk between two countries for much of the day.
After 6-7 hours of trekking, you'll reach Sandakphu (3,636m), where an incredible 360-degree panorama awaits. The summit offers unobstructed views of the world's highest peaks, including the Everest cluster to the west and the entire Kanchenjunga range to the north.
Wake up early to witness one of the most spectacular sunrises in the Himalayas, as the first rays paint the snow-capped peaks in golden hues. After breakfast, embark on a day hike towards Phalut (3,600m) or explore the surrounding ridges.
The trail to Phalut follows an undulating path along the Singalila Ridge, offering continuous views of both the Sikkim and Nepal Himalayas. If you choose to hike to Phalut (21 km return), you'll traverse through pristine alpine meadows and dwarf rhododendron bushes.
Alternatively, shorter hikes around Sandakphu allow you to explore nearby viewpoints, visit the small settlements, and photograph the stunning landscape at a leisurely pace. Return to Sandakphu by evening to enjoy another magnificent sunset.
Begin your descent early morning after a final sunrise viewing session at Sandakphu. The return trek to Manebhanjan covers approximately 21 kilometers and takes 7-8 hours, following an alternate route via Gurdum and Srikhola for variety.
The trail descends steeply through rhododendron and bamboo forests, passing through several small hamlets where you can observe traditional mountain life. The path offers different perspectives of the valleys below and occasional glimpses of the peaks you've been admiring for the past few days.
Upon reaching Manebhanjan by late afternoon, board your pre-arranged vehicle for the drive back to NJP Railway Station or Siliguri. The 3-hour journey concludes your trek as you descend from the mountains back to the plains, carrying memories of the magnificent Himalayan panorama.
