Sandakphu & Chintaphu
- 8 days
- Group Size:
- 3636 m/11,930 ft
₹+GST
The only Himalayan trek that lies between two countries!!!
There are quite a few treks in the Himalayas that connect the two states however there are not any Himalayan treks that connect two countries other than the Chintaphu trek. Sandakphu is a very renowned Himalayan trek in India but when it is combined with an exciting twist, it garners more attention than the classic one itself. That is Sandakphu Chintaphu Trek for you organised by the Altitude Adventure Holidays.
The Sandakphu Chintaphu Trek is as magical as it can be with the classic trail of Sandakphu through Dhotrey along with your footsteps through the beautiful quaint little hamlets of Nepal. Chintaphu is a beautiful Himalayan hamlet located in Ilam district of Nepal. It is one of the most renowned and popular trekking destinations that boasts breathtaking views of the highest mountains in the world – Everest, Kanchenjunga, Makalu, Lhotse, and Kumbhakarna.
Chintaphu is also a nature is delight and an ideal place for those who love to be within nature and its habitats. If you go for this trek during the Spring season, then you will be delighted by the blooming Rhododendrons and Magnolias all around the trail. The landscape around you turns into a beautiful hue of scarlet and pink with a rich aroma. Apart from breathtaking views of the Himalayan ranges, you will also be able to get clear views of Sikkim, Darjeeling, Panchthar, and other beautiful villages located all around.
The Chintaphu trek is not only famous for its beautiful landscapes but also for diverse fauna, wildlife, and rare species of birds. This place boasts of the rare Himalayan Red Panda and if you are lucky, you can get a glimpse of this rare Himalayan animal. Apart from the Red Panda, you will also find Thar, a rare species of Himalayan birds, herbs, and varieties of flowers blooming all around the trail through the forest.
The trail of this fairytale trek takes you through dense Rhododendron forest, vibrant large meadows, and local Himalayan villages of India and Nepal. And most importantly do not miss the magical sunrise over the giant Himalayan peaks. And most importantly, do not forget to try the authentic Nepali Thali.
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.
October to May
Sandakphu Chintaphu 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 Chintaphu Trek is ideal for age groups between 5 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 for this trek. Please make sure, your fitness level is very good, you should be comfortable with high altitudes and cold temperatures.
The mobile network in the Sandakphu Chintaphu trek is mostly intermittent and not available much during the trail. So it is better to inform your family accordingly from Dhotrey itself.
How to Reach
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 to take early morning flights or to reach the day before the trek starts. From there you can book a cab or board a bus for NJP.
The New Jalpaiguri Station (NJP) has excellent train connectivity and there are several trains coming from Kolkata. Usually, majority of the trains reach NJP by early morning. From Kolkata you can board, Darjeeling mail, Padatik express, Vande Bharat express and many more.
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 587 km and will take around 10 – 11 hours to reach.
Included
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Accommodation at Dhotrey homestay.
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Accommodation while trekking at trekker's huts.
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Transportation to Dhotrey from Njp and to Njp from Maipokhri in reserved vehicles.
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Meals from day 1 lunch to day 8 breakfast (veg & non veg)
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Trekking permits.
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First aid medical kits.
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Qualified & experienced trek leader.
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One local guide.
Exclude
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Porter/mule to carry personal luggage.
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Hotel stay in njp/siliguri.
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Food during the transit.
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Entry fees.
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Insurance for clients.
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Anything not specifically mentioned under the head.
Highlights of The Trek
The highlights of the Sandakphu Chintaphu Trek are as follows:
- Trekking pole
- Water bottle
- Head lamp
- Sunglasses
- Power bank
- Rain cover for rucksack
- Raincoat
- Windproof jacket
- Sun cap
- Sunscreen lotions
- Trekking shoes
Tour Plan :
Drive to Dhotrey from NJP (Siliguri)
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 to Dhotrey (2550 m) via Maneybhanjan. It will take around 5 hours to reach Dhotrey and the distance covered is 105 km. 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.
Trek to Tonglu
Today, our trek begins from Dhotrey. After breakfast, we’ll start at 9 AM for Tonglu (10,070 ft/3,070 m), covering 5 km in about 3 hours. The trail takes us through the dense forests of Singalila National Park, with stone pathways adorned by fluttering prayer flags. The rugged natural beauty offers a serene sense of peace. As we ascend, breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks unfold, accompanied by the melodious chirping of birds. Along the way, we’ll encounter local villagers, offering a glimpse into their vibrant cultural tapestry. After the 3-hour trek, we’ll arrive at Tonglu, where the magnificent view of the ‘Sleeping Buddha’ and the tranquil ambiance of this Himalayan hamlet will replenish your soul.
Trek to Kalapokhri
On day 3, we will start our trek from Tonglu and will reach Kalapokhari (3200 m) via Gairibas. The total distance to travel is 14 km which will take around 7 hours to reach. Do not miss the sunrise over the Sleeping Buddha. 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.
Trek to Sandakphu
On day 4, we will start our trek from Kalapokhari to Sandakphu (3627 m). 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 campsite is at Sandakphu today.
Trek to Goruwale Bhanjan
On day 5, we will trek downhill to Goruwale Bhanjan (3400 m). The distance travelled today is 12 km which will take around 6-7 hours as the trail is mostly downhill. The trail to Goruwale Bhanjan is considered to be more beautiful as it covers dense jungles, meadows, rocky paths, and the melodious sound of birds through the heart of Singalila Ridge. Goruwale Bhanjan is a small Himalayan village of local residents. A perfect tranquil place for nature lovers. Night stay at Goruwale Bhanjan.
Early morning hike to Chintaphu Top, then back to Goruwale Bhanjan
On day 6, we will trek to Chintaphu Top (3200 m) and will be back to Goruwale Bhanjan. The distance from Goruwale Bhanjan to Chintaphu Top is 4 km uphill one way. Today we will start our trek very early in the morning so that we can witness a breathtaking sunrise from Chintaphu Top over the Kanchenjunga Range. When the golden rays of the Sun fall on the Sleeping Buddha, it looks like the palette of dreams. No words can do justice to that awesome moment one will witness from Chintaphu Top. After spending some quality time over there, we will return back to Goruwale Bhanjan. Overnight stay at Goruwale Bhanjan.
Trek to Maipokhri
Today is the last of trekking. On day 7, we will trek from Goruwale Bhanjan to Maipokhari (2100 m). The distance travelled today is 7 km which will take around 4 hours to reach. We will start early after breakfast and should reach Maipokhari by lunch. Maipokhari is a beautiful hidden gem in Nepal and there are many places to explore. Do not forget to visit Maipokhari Lake which is surrounded by greenery. Night stay at Maipokhari in a homestay.
Return to NJP
Today is the last day of this beautiful and memorable journey. We will return back to NJP from Maipokhari. After breakfast, we start our journey to NJP by car. The distance travelled today is 134 km that will take around 6-7 hours. We should reach NJP by 4 to 5 pm hence you should arrange your further return accordingly.
Guest Speak
As a child, I would sketch mountains holding hands, dreaming of touching them one day. Though I visited hill stations by car, something always felt missing. That longing was finally fulfilled in March 2019, when I trekked from Sandakphu to Chintaphu. A heavy snowfall the night before had turned the landscape into a white wonderland. After witnessing a breathtaking sunrise at Sandakphu, we set off towards Garuwal and Bhajon, walking through snow-covered trails that soon transformed into a fairytale of blooming rhododendrons. Crossing between Nepal and India, we watched yaks roam freely as we entered Garuwal, a tiny village adorned with magnolias and rhododendrons. The next morning, we trekked to Chintaphu, through dense forests of oak and pine, where birds sang their dawn prayers. The final rocky ascent was demanding, but as the first light illuminated the snow-clad peaks, all fatigue vanished. At Tal Pokhri, we had breakfast while gazing at Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu, their reflections shimmering in the crystal-clear waters. The journey back was equally enchanting, with colorful birds fluttering around, including the stunning Fire-tailed Sunbird sipping nectar from a crimson rhododendron. While Sandakphu was lively, the untouched, serene trails of Chintaphu filled my soul in a way words cannot express.- Shampa Purkait