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Sandakphu is the highest peak in West Bengal at 3,636m above sea level. Located at the edge of Singalila National Park and on the border between India and Nepal, a trek to the top takes you through gorgeous rhododendrons and silver fir forests, culminating in spectacular views of the Himalayas. In fact, four of the five highest peaks in the world—Everest, Kangchenjunga, Lhotse and Makalu—can be seen from Sandakphu's summit.
River rafting is another activity for adventure lovers here as the River Teesta flows through Sandakphu. One can undertake this moderate trek at any time of the year as the shifting seasons uncover a different landscape every few months. For instance, April to June is when the region blushes with rhododendron blooms and a carpet of primula and other alpine flowers unfurls. In winter, the trail is covered with snow. The crisp winter air and clear skies provide ideal conditions for exploring the Himalayas. Meanwhile, October onwards is the perfect time to see the sunsets and sunrises of the area—the only downside is that it will crowded.
You will need to apply for a permit to trek to Sandakphu. Here’s a taste of what to expect from the journey.
Take a cab or bus from New Jalpaiguri Junction Railway Station or Bagdogra Airport to Sepi. You will pass by Kurseong and Darjeeling on the way there. The tranquility of the surrounding landscape will relax your mind. Sepi itself is home to an amalgamation of tribal communities like the Bhutias, Sherpas, Limbu, Chettris and Newars. Refresh yourself at your accommodation and chat with the locals.
Starting the day early, you will walk to Rammam village which is approximately 3.5 km away from the Sepi campsite. The trail here is a constructed route for most parts and you will notice several cut fields and tiny dwellings on the way. After a short break at Rammam, head towards Samanden village.
On your way there you will see that the Singalila Range has an abundance of greenery. For about 6km you will traverse through forests until you arrive at a bridge. After the bridge, it will be a steep climb for 15 minutes or so. Rest at some constructed stone benches before moving on.
The trail will begin to ease out a bit for a few minutes, after which a clearing will appear. The wooden huts and farmlands herald the village of Samanden. A couple of kilometres more and you will arrive at the Gorkhey campsite.
Phalut (3,505m) is the second-highest peak in West Bengal and that’s where you will be headed today. It is about 15km from the Gorkhey campsite. You will again cover long sections of forested trails as the route steadily winds its way upwards. En route to Phalut, you will get to see the Singalila Range from up close and a stunning view of the Kangchenjunga massif as well. The closer you get to Phalut the more beautiful the landscape gets.
To get to the Thokum valley, you will skirt the Indo-Nepal border. The beautiful meadows and picturesque setting will be a feast for the eyes. En route to Thokum, you may spot some yaks grazing in the meadows and a thicket of rhododendron trees. Stargaze at night once you reach your campsite.
Aal is the closest campsite to the Sandakphu summit and is set in a scenic location from where you can enjoy beautiful views of Kangchenjunga in its “Sleeping Buddha” formation. Enjoy a hot lunch at the Aal campsite today and spend your evening exploring the area.
The Sandakphu summit is just 3km from Aal. Start early in the morning so that you can watch the sunrise from the top of Sandakphu—one of the prettiest sights you’ll ever see. The first rays of the sun over the snow-capped mountains and the colours of the alpenglow cannot be described in words. Once you’ve had your fill of the top, head to the Timburey camping ground. The journey takes about 4-5 hours to complete.
This is the last day of your trek and also the last day in the mountains. From Timburey, start your trek towards Srikhola, a 3km descent which takes about an hour. Once you reach the main road, take a car back to Sepi.
New Jalpaiguri Junction and Bagdogra are the nearest railway station and airport to Sepi.
