Sandakphu Trek Itinerary with Distance, Duration & Return Information

Duration: 7 days

Starting Point: Manebhanjang

Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult

Best Time to Visit: October – December, March – May 

Day 1:   NJP / Bagdogra to Manebhanjang (1,950m) 

      Arrive at New Jalpaiguri (NJP) Railway Station or Bagdogra Airport. Drive to Manebhanjan (approx. 4-5 hours, 85 km).

      Acclimatization and last-minute preparations. Overnight stay at a homestay in Manebhanjan.

Day 2:   Manebhanjang to Tumling (Distance: 11 km) (Time Taken: 5-6 hours)

The trek starts from Manebhanjang (1,920m) with a steep climb through lush forests and charming villages. You pass Chitrey and Meghma before reaching Tumling (2,920m), offering stunning views of the Singalila Range.

Day 3:   Tumling to Kalapokhri (Distance: 13 km)(Time Taken: 6-7 hours)

The trail enters Singalila National Park, passing through rhododendron and bamboo forests. You reach Gairibas (2,620m) and later trek uphill to Kalipokhri (3,185m), a small village known for its dark, sacred pond.

Day 4:    Kalapokhri to Sandakphu (Distance: 6 km)(Time Taken: 3-4 hours)

A short but steep ascent takes you to Sandakphu (3,636m), the highest point in West Bengal. The summit offers panoramic views of Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, and Makalu.

Day 5:    Sandakphu to Phalut (Distance: 21 km)(Time Taken: 7-8 hours)

This scenic ridge walk provides uninterrupted mountain views. The trail to Phalut (3,595m) is relatively gradual, offering breathtaking sights of the Sleeping Buddha formation (Kanchenjunga Range).

Day 6:    Phalut to Gorkhey (Distance: 15 km)(Time Taken: 5-6 hours)

A long descent through dense forests brings you to Gorkhey (2,400m), a serene riverside village. This is a perfect place to relax before the final stretch.

Day 7:    Gorkhey to Srikhola – 12 km | 5-6 hours, Drive to NJP

The final day takes you through lush forests, passing Rammam and Timburey. Reach Srikhola, where the trek ends. Drive back to NJP/Bagdogra (6-7 hours).   

How to Return to Your Hotel After the Trek (On your Own)

• From Rimbik, you can take a shared jeep or private vehicle back to Darjeeling (4-5 hours).
  
  

• The jeep stand in Rimbik has regular departures in the morning and afternoon.
  
  

• If you’ve booked a package trek, the organizer may provide transport back to Darjeeling.
  
  

• From Darjeeling, you can take a cab to your hotel.

Short Phalut Trek with distance and duration 

Duration: 4 Days
Difficulty Level: Moderate to Difficult

Starting Point: Manebhanjang
Best Time: October – December, March – May

Day 1: NJP / Bagdogra to Manebhanjan (1,950m) | 85 km | 4-5 hours drive

Arrive at New Jalpaiguri (NJP) Railway Station or Bagdogra Airport. Drive through winding roads to Manebhanjang, the trek’s starting point. Acclimatization and last-minute shopping for supplies. Overnight stay at a homestay in Manebhanjan.

Day 2: Manebhanjan to Sandakphu (3,636m) | 20 km | 8-9 hours

A steep ascent via Chitre, Meghma, Tumling, and Kalipokhri. Trek through Singalila National Park, spotting red pandas and rhododendrons. Reach Sandakphu, the highest point of the trek, with views of Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, and Makalu.
Overnight stay in a trekker’s hut.

Day 3: Sandakphu to Phalut (3,595m) | 21 km | 7-8 hours

Walk along the ridgeline with uninterrupted views of the Himalayas. Reach Phalut, one of the most scenic yet least-visited spots in the Singalila Range. Overnight stay at a trekker’s hut in Phalut.

Day 4: Phalut to Gorkhey (2,200m) | 15 km | 6 hours, Drive to NJP / Bagdogra

A scenic descent through dense forests and river valleys. Reach Gorkhey, a peaceful riverside village. Drive back to NJP / Bagdogra (approx. 6-7 hours).

   This 4-day itinerary covers both Sandakphu and Phalut, making it ideal for trekkers with limited         time but good endurance. Let me know if you need any modifications! 😊

Essentials Summary

• Clothing: Wear layered outfits—moisture-wicking base, fleece jacket, and waterproof outerwear.
  
  

• Footwear: Sturdy trekking boots with good grip and woolen socks for warmth.
  
  

• Gear: Carry a 30-50L backpack, trekking poles, headlamp, sunglasses, rain cover, and first-aid kit.
  
  

• Permits: Required for Singalila National Park, available at Manebhanjang with valid ID.
  
  

Do’s ✅

✔ Acclimatize properly to avoid altitude sickness.
✔ Carry sufficient water and high-energy snacks.
✔ Follow marked trails and respect local culture.
✔ Use eco-friendly practices and avoid plastic waste.
✔ Check weather conditions before starting your trek.

Don’ts ❌

✘ Do not litter or disturb wildlife.
✘ Avoid trekking alone in remote areas without a guide.
✘ Don’t overexert yourself—take regular breaks.
✘ Avoid alcohol and smoking at high altitudes.

With proper gear and responsible trekking, you can enjoy a safe and unforgettable experience in Darjeeling’s mountains! 🏔️😊