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Easy

Sandakphu Phalut Trek

  • 8 days
  • Group Size:
  • 3636 m/11,930 ft
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+GST

Description:

Only Himalayan Trek with the Sleeping Buddha and the 3 highest Summits in one frame!!!

There is no other trek in the Himalayas that will let you witness breathtaking views of the Sleeping Buddha and the 3 highest Summits in a single frame. This is the reason Sandakphu Phalut Trek is considered to be one of the best mountain treks in the world. And the best part is that you can be a first-time trekker to witness this magical frame.

What else can be better for you to create the most beautiful first-time trekking memories by witnessing the tallest peak in the world? Well, that’s what Sandakphu Phalut Trek has in store for you. This trek will indeed make you feel that you are reborn on the lap of nature. In fact, the USP of this trek that no other trek offers is that in a single frame Mt Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, and Makalu are visible on a clear day. So now you can actually understand the intensity of this beginner’s trek.

Sandakphu Phalut trek is in fact the jeweled crown of all the treks in West Bengal. This easy-level trek not only has picturesque views of snow-capped high Himalayan mountains, the overall landscape is simply a treat to the eyes. And the adventure does not stop here, it will take you through the Singalila National Park to explore its rich flora and fauna. And who knows you might be lucky enough to get a view of the rare Himalayan Red Panda.

The combination of the Sandakphu and Phalut trek organized by Altitude Adventure Holidays lets you witness the stunning views of four 8000-meter peaks with the perfect blend of nature and culture. From Phalut you get a magnificent view of the Everest cluster that includes Lhotse and Makalu, which are 4 th and 5 th highest mountains in the world. And then comes the most enchanting ‘Sleeping Buddha’ mountain range which is also known as Kanchenjunga whose beauty from such a close distance will leave you nothing but awestruck.

The surprise of nature even just not even end here. Trekkers love to be on the Sandakphu Phalut Trek to experience the most beautiful and breathtaking sunrises and sunsets of their lifetime. With a cluster of clouds on the mountains and just below the snow-capped peaks over that the beauty of sunrise and sunset is nothing short of a fairytale. Our trek starts from a beautiful little hamlet, Dhotrey which will surely take your heart away.

Going for this trek, you not only witness magnificent natural landscapes but also will be able to get a glimpse of the rich history and culture of this region. Once you set your footstep in this region, you will see uniquely built wooden houses with vibrant colours, beautiful monasteries, and tea houses. In fact, the tea houses are very renowned in this region with beautiful interiors full of flowers, vibrant culture and colourful decors, and zen-like calmness. It’s the peace of the Himalayas that you will feel here and urge to come again and again. And the most striking part of this region is that you will see both Buddhist and Hindu presence in this region. The route also covers the Indo-Nepal border several times.

So it really doesn’t matter whether you are a first-time trekker or a seasoned trekker, if you love the Himalayas you must come for Sandakphu Phalut Trek at least once in your lifetime.

Pick-Up and Drop Time

On the first day of our trek, our team will pick you up from NJP at 9 am. And on Day 8, our team will drop you at NJP around 4 to 5 pm. So we advise you to make your further plans from there onwards.

Best Time to Visit

October to May


Sandakphu Phalut trek can be easily done between October to May. That means one can do this trek during the autumn, winter, and spring seasons each of which has its different significance and beauty. However, if you are interested in snow, then you should do this trek at the end of December and January when the trail is covered with deep snow. From October to May, you will get great views of the Himalayan peaks with clear skies. During the autumn months, the daytime temperature is between 8°C to 15°C and at night it falls down to 0°C to 5°C. In the winter months of December to February, the daytime temperature is between 5°C to 15°C and in the night it falls down to 0°C to -3°C. During the spring season from March to May, the daytime temperature is between 15°C to 20°C and at night it falls down to 1°C to 5°C. It is during this season, that you will see Rhododendrons and Magnolias in full bloom.

Suitable Age Group: Sandakphu Phalut Trek is ideal for age groups between 9 years to 62 years. For minors make sure they are accompanied by their parents or guardians during the trek. If anyone is above 55 years old, we advise you to consult a doctor before going on this trek. Please make sure, your fitness level is very good, you should be comfortable with high altitudes and cold temperatures.

 

Mobile Network Availability

The mobile network in Sandakphu Trek is mostly intermittent and not available much during the trail. However, there is a BSNL and Airtel network available in Maneybhanjan. So it is better to inform your family accordingly.

How to Reach

By Air

International Airport is the nearest airport to New Jalpaiguri which is 14 km away and is connected to all major airports in India. We recommend taking early morning flights or reaching the day before the trek starts. From there you can book a cab or board a bus for NJP.

By Train

The New Jalpaiguri Station (NJP) has excellent train connectivity and there are several trains coming from Kolkata. Usually, the majority of the trains reach NJP by early morning. From Kolkata, you can board, Darjeeling mail, Padatik Express, Vande Bharat Express, and many more.

By Road

NJP is well connected by roads and National Highways are built for smooth connectivity. You can easily reach NJP by road but you need to come a day before the trek starts from NJP. The distance from Kolkata to Njp is 587b km and will take around 10 – 11 hours to reach.

Included

    • Accommodation while trekking will be at cozy homestays.

    • Accommodation at Dhotrey, from where trek starts.

    • All transportation from NJP to NJP.

    • All meals while on trek (veg & non veg). From lunch at Dhotrey to Breakfast while checking out from Srikhola.

    • Trek equipment like sleeping bags (those who don't have their own), mattresses.

    • Trekking permits and entry fees.

    • First aid medical kits.

    • Qualified & experienced trek leader.

    • One local guide.

    • Completion certificate.

Exclude

    • Porter/mule to carry personal luggage.

    • Hotel, food in NJP or Siliguri.

    • Foods on the way, while in the car.

    • Insurance for clients.

    • Entry Fee.

    • Anything not specifically mentioned under the head.

Highlights of The Trek

The highlights of the Sandakphu Phalut Trek are as follows:

  • The only Himalayan trek that has excellent views of the 4 tallest mountains of the world in a single frame. From Phalut, you can see Mt Everest, Kanchenjunga, Makalu, and Lhotse.
  • Breathtaking landscape with lush green valleys, picturesque Himalayan villages, and the best sunrise and sunsets of your life.
  • Singalila National Park is a renowned biodiversity hotspot that has rare species of flora and fauna. if lucky you can get a glimpse of the rare Himalayan Red Panda and rare Himalayan birds.
What To Pack
  • Trekking pole
  • Water bottle
  • Head lamp
  • Sunglasses
  • Power bank
  • Rain cover for rucksack
  • Raincoat
  • Windproof jacket
  • Sunscreen lotions
  • trekking shoes

Tour Plan :

Day 1
Move to Dhotrey via Maneybhanjan

On the first day, our journey begins from New Jalpaiguri (NJP). If you are coming by train or flight, you should reach NJP early morning. If you are coming by road, it is better to reach NJP the previous day. From NJP we will drive for Dhotrey (8500 ft/2550 m) via Maneybhanjan. It will take around 5 hours to reach Dhotrey. On the way we will visit Mirik Lake from where the ascent starts. Dhotrey is a beautiful hamlet on the laps of the Himalayas and the journey to Dhotrey is very beautiful among tea gardens and dense forest. Enjoy a hot lunch and night stay at a homestay in Dhotrey.

Day 2
Trek to Tumling from Dhotrey

Our trek begins today from Dhotrey. After breakfast, we’ll start our 5 km trek to Tumling (10,070 ft/3070 m) at 9 am, taking approximately 3 hours. The trail winds through the dense forests of Singalila National Park, a stone pathway adorned with fluttering prayer flags. As we ascend, the stunning views of snow-capped peaks and the melodic chirping of birds create a serene atmosphere. Along the way, we’ll encounter local villagers and their vibrant culture. After 3 hours, we’ll reach Tonglu, where the breathtaking view of the ‘Sleeping Buddha’ and the tranquil Himalayan hamlet will rejuvenate your soul. A stroll by the pond completes the experience before continuing to Tumling, a picturesque village at the India-Nepal border. Spend the rest of the day enjoying the majestic Kanchenjunga views. Tonight’s homestay is in Tumling.

Day 3
Trek to Kalapokhri via Gairibas

On day 3, we will start our trek from Tumling and will reach Kalapokhari (10500 ft). The total distance to travel is 15 km which will take around 6-7 hours to reach. You will finally enter the dense forests of the Singalila National Park. Keep a close eye on the surroundings as you might be lucky to get a glimpse of Red Panda. Today is a relaxed walk amidst rhododendron and pine forests. However, there will be a point where there will be a steep ascent. After walking for another 2 km, we will finally reach Kalipokhari. Night stay at Kalapokhari.

Day 4
Trek to Sandakphu

On day 4, we will start our trek from Kalapokhari to Sandakphu (11900 ft). Today is the most challenging day and the total distance travelled is 6 km which will take around 4 hours to reach. Today is the test of your endurance and stamina as the trail there will be a steep ascent and we will leave the forest area. At first, we will cross Bhikeybhanjang which is also known as the ‘poisonous valley’. Finally, you will reach the Sandakphu viewpoint from where you will get the best panoramic view of the four highest mountains in the world – Mt Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, and Makalu. You will also see other peaks like Chomolhari, Pandim, the Three Sisters, and Kumbhakarna. Today is the most important day of the trek and pray for clear skies which will absolutely blow your mind. Our homestay is at Sandakphu today.

Day 5
Trek to Phalut. Longest walking day of this trail

On our 5 th day, we will trek from Sandakphu to Phalut (11700 ft). Today is the most beautiful day of the entire trek. Do not miss the mesmerizing sunrise from Sandakphu today and after early breakfast start your trek for Phalut by 7.30 am. Soak yourself in this beauty as much as you can. The total distance covered today is 20 km which will take around 7 hours as the trail today is mostly flat. The difficult part of the trail starts from Sabargram to Phalut. With Everest and Kanchenjunga on your side, this trail will be the most beautiful memory. Finally, we will reach Phalut from where you will get a more closer view of the mighty snow-capped Himalayan mountains. Night stay at Phalut.

Day 6
Descent starts. Trek to Gorkhey

On the 6 th day also there will be a long trek from Phalut to Gorkhey (11400 ft). There will be a gradual descent through Rhododendron and bamboo forests. But before that do not forget to trek to Phalut Top early morning to watch the sunrise and again enjoy the view of the Himalayan peaks. Today also you will have the chance to get a glimpse of the Red Panda, hence please keep an eye on your surroundings. Gorkhey is a beautiful small Himalayan village nestled in the heart of the mountains and most artistically designed. By hearing the gurgling sound of the mountain stream, enjoy your hot lunch at Gorkhey. Enjoy the night with a bonfire and a night stay in a homestay.

Day 7
Trek to Srikhola

Today is the last day of our trek as we start walking from Gorkhey to Srikhola (6900 ft). The total distance travelled is 16 km which will take 5 hours to reach. The trail is completely downhill and quite favourable. Through dense forests and enjoying the chirping of the birds we finally reach Srikhola. Night stay in a homestay with the most beautiful memories of the trek.

Day 8
Drive back to NJP

Today is the day when we return back to NJP with a heavy heart but pot full of beautiful memories. After breakfast, we will start our drive for NJP which is 130 km in distance and will take around 6 hours to reach. You should reach NJP by 6pm and make your further plans from there onwards.

Guest Speak

My uncle and aunt inspired me to visit Sandakphu Phalut. Since childhood, I had dreamed of experiencing it for myself. Finally, when I got the chance to do the Sandakhphu trek, the feeling was indescribable. It was my first trek to cherish my love for adventure. The route from Sandakphu to Phalut is etched in my memory forever. When I saw the sleeping buddha from Sandakphu, I was overwhelmed with emotion. I broke into tears. The experience of seeing Kanchenjunga and Everest together from the vantage point was something I had always dreamed of. The panoramic view was mesmerizing. This experience is unparalleled for me, and it was one of the best experiences in my life. As this was my first trek, I want to do it again with Altitude. Although the 21 kms route to Phalut was challenging, the experience was phenomenal.
- Sritama Chattopadhay

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