The Sandakphu trek is the most famous among all treks in West Bengal. This 8-day tour will take one through some really beautiful landscapes of Darjeeling and Sikkim Himalayas.
Sandakphu is derived from a Sanskrit word that means “height of the toxic plants.” This is the case because toxic aconite plants in Sandakphu are present at the highest peak in the Singalila range. The roots of these aconite plants are used to make medicines. However, the little purple-blue blossoms of the same species are deadly if consumed. Sandakphu trek is West Bengal’s most popular trip and one of the top treks in Eastern India. This is the highest point in Bengal, standing at 3636 meters (11930 ft). Sandakphu captures the snow’s natural beauty. The walk is quite straightforward and thus be completed by young or elderly persons in reasonable physical condition. On the road to Tumling, one will pass through a picturesque alpine meadow with views of the adjacent mountains. Beautiful sunrises over the Himalayas will enchant one at multiple stops, and even more, scenic vistas will only serve to break the enchantment. The last road to the Sandakphu trek will be the most demanding and rewarding due to the sudden climb in altitude. When one reaches the top and takes in the breathtaking view, one will forget about their troubles and exhaustion.
How to reach?
- By Flight: There is an option of flying to Bagdogra. However, flights to Bagdogra are usually more expensive than flights to Kolkata. One may look at their budget and select an option based on it.
- By Train: NJP is the closest train station to Sandakphu. This is an important railway station in Sikkim’s southwest corner. One can take a direct train or a combination train to Kolkata and then to NJP.
- By Bus: Buses are there between Kolkata and Siliguri and NJP. If there are no seats available on the train, then one can take the bus. Though the travel is not particularly pleasant, one may book a sleeper bus for a reasonable price. Begin the road adventure after arriving in NJP or Bagdogra and taking in the breathtaking scenery. Medicals
- By Car: Tourists can drive to the base camp and then they can hike from there. The second option is to drive the whole Sandakphu, which eliminates the need to walk and instead allows one to sit in the cab, enjoy the scenery, and be in touch with nature.
Important things to carry
These are some of the important things to carry for this trek.
Basic Gear:
- Backpack & Rain Cover: (50 – 60 ltr) with cushioned shoulder straps
- Walking Stick: Advisable
- Head Torch
- Water Bottle: 2 bottles of one litre each is advisable. People using hydration packs should carry 1 bottle of one litre and 1 hydration pack. Carry at least one thermos flask, dry fruits, Snacks Energy bars, and electoral powder.
- Personal Medical Kit.
Think about our head
- Sun cap
- Woollen cap
- Neck-gaiters
- Balaclava
- Sunglasses Dark with side cover.
Be comfy at the trek
- T-shirts
- Fleece T-shirts
- Fleece jacket
- Down feather / Hollofil jacket
- Wind & waterproof jacket & pant
- Thermal inners
- Trek pants
- Poncho
- Trekking shoes
- Floaters/flip-flops
- Cotton socks
- Woollen socks
- Gaiters
Personal Utilities
- Sunscreen cream
- Hand sanitizer
- Moisturiser
- Antibacterial powder
- Toilet Paper & wipes
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Lip balm
- Quick-dry towel
Major Attractions/Nearby Places
- Chitrey – This is a beautiful mountain town located 3 kilometers from Manebhanjan and serves as the trek’s base camp. One may explore the historic Buddhist Monastery at Chitrey during their stop. After that, visit the Chitre restaurant to sample delectable foods such as momos, Maggi, and noodles.
- Tumling – This is a hamlet with beautiful vistas and decent lodging choices, and is the first stop on their walk. While taking in the picturesque vista of the Kangchenjunga Range, one could stay in this community and even try the native cuisine.
- The Sleeping Buddha – From the first day, one may get glimpses of the mountain. If possible, try to catch sight of the sleeping Buddha.
- Singalila National Park – Get ready to be captivated by the trek’s next location. The most visited destination in West Bengal is Singalila National Park. Animals such as the leopard cat, red panda, barking deer, yellow-throated marten, and wild boar may be seen when hiking in this national park. Several bird species such as the satyr tragopan, kalij pheasant, scarlet minivet, and blood pheasant may be found in the national park. The beautiful view of the Sandakphu trek can surely be enjoyed from Singalila National Park. One can spend the night in Gurdum and then start their walk back the next day.
- Srikhola – One will pass through Srikhola on their way back from the Sandakphu trek. The Srikhola River and the village are two of Darjeeling’s most famous tourist destinations. If one is looking to unwind in nature while taking gorgeous photographs, this is the place to go. This settlement is based in the foothills of the Singalila National Park, and one may even see Red Panda here when crossing. At Srikhola, one may sit near the town and take in the fresh air while admiring their surroundings.
Conclsuion
Nature is in its most pure form here, and the view from this summit is well worth the effort it takes to get there. The summit is aptly named the Trekkers’ Paradise as this is an amazing location from which one can view four of the world’s five tallest peaks – Everest, Kanchenjunga, Makalu, and Lhotse – in a constantly snow-covered arc.
