Sandakphu Singalila Trek

Sandakphu Trek is quintessential trek in the Eastern Himalayas and hardly any trek in the world can boast of impeccable views of world’s 5 highest mountains and other Himalayan ranges in a single canvass. Its versatility are its forte in term of different routes one can pursue to the summit the pinnacle of Singalila range– Sandakphu (3636 m). Besides its unparalleled view from summit, the trek is adorned with other natural landmarks. Its rich foliage pulsates with varied form of wildlife so are the villages vibrant with tradition, culture and people’s congeniality. Over the year, if natural trails outgrown into paved road yet air is crisp and fresh smell of flowers in spring is as before. When one treads upon the forest trail, its either the birds chirping or disturbed fallen leaves in ground that breaks the silence. A rendezvous of these elements such as balanced blend of forest trail hikes and over paved road, traditional villages, friendly locales, unparalleled mountain views, vegetation, wild life etc make it a classic trek.
The trek unraveled leisurely from Dhotrey – relatively new trailhead that grows progressively in terms of trek gradation and other advantages but before that visit to historical Darjeeling, it sets the tone with mixture of cultural attractions visit combined with short hikes. The trek traverses on its own pace a few villages, a view from Sandkhaphu that opens up grand vista of Himalayan ranges on a clear day, scenic ridge hike on the way to Molley and forest hikes through Ramman and Sirikhola. Finally bringing the curtain down on the trip in Siliguri – a commercial hub and gateway to Northeast India.

Outline Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival-Drive to Darjeeling.(2042m/67kms/3-4hrs) 
On arrival at Bagdogra airport, meet our representative and drive to Darjeeling. The road climbs up the hill with various curves till Kurseong, from here its a gentle drive till Darjeeling. In the evening we can take a walk through Chowrastra the mall road. Overnight in Darjeeling.

Day 2: In Darjeeling
Today we have a full day in Darjeeling, take a short walk to visit Padmaja Naidu Zoological Park and the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, further visit Tibetan Refugee Center – a rehabilitation center for Tibetan refugees. After lunch take a short hike from Chowrastra to Jorebungalow, it traverses through Tungsung village followed by Alubari(8kms/2hrs). Subsequently, drive to Ghoom and visit oldest monastery in Darjeeling. Later we can take a joy ride on the UNESCO World Heritage toy train which makes en-route stop at the Batasia Loop. Overnight in Darjeeling.

Day 3: Drive to Dhotrey(2600m/43km/2-3hrs)-Trek to Tumling. (2926m/8kms/3-4hrs)
Early morning drive to Dhotrey passing through narrow road with thickets of conifer and pine vegetation and begin our trek from Dhotrey. The trail follows a gentle gradient through rhododendron forest till Tonglu (3088 m), which requires 6 km to cover. Followed by 2 km hike over mostly gradual and descending trail until Tumling, a small Sherpa village, on a clear day it provides a magnificent views of the Kanchenjunga range. Overnight in Trekkers lodge.

Day 4: Trek to Kalipokhari.(3169m/15kms/5 hrs)
After breakfast we trek through the Singalila National Park to Kalipokhari via Gairibas. The trail goes through bamboo glades and farmlands. From Gairibas the ascent is gradual until Kalipokhari. Overnight in trekkers lodge.

Day 5: Trek to Sandakphu. (3,636m/7kms/3-4hrs)
Today the trail ascends gradually until Bikhey Bhanjyang, from here an steep ascent lands us to Sandakphu. Sandakphu, the highest point (3636m) in the Singalila range that provides uninterrupted 180o views of the entire Himalayan range including Mt Everest, Makalu, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, Chomolhari, Pandim, Three Sisters, Kumbhakarna etc. Rest of the day is free to explore around. Overnight in trekkers lodge.

Day 6: Trek to Molley.(3150m/18kms/6-7hrs/Descent-800m)
Wake up early to experience the sunrise over the Himalayan peaks. Climb up to the viewpoint, a small hillock nearby and look at the entire Himalayan range open up before you. After breakfast we hit the trail once again towards Molley. Today the hike is the longest, with a few ascent and descent across meadows and rhododendron forest and stunning mountain views all along the way. Overnight in trekkers lodge.

Day 7: Trek to Rammam. (2453m/15kms/6hrs/ Descent-320m approx.)
After breakfast we continue our journey towards Rammam our next destination. The trek is a steep descent through the Singalila National Park with dense pine, rhododendron forests and thick bamboo bushes where you have the chances of sighting the rare Red Panda among the bamboo groves. Overnight in trekkers lodge

Day 8: Trek to Sirikhola (12 km/2 hours)-Drive to Siliguri (126 km/ 4 hours)
Today the trek portion is relatively easy, the first part of the trek is almost level and then descends to the bridge at Sirikhola. At Sirikhola, board on to the waiting vehicle and drive to Siliguri via Mirik. Overnight in Siliguri.

Day 9. Departure.
After breakfast drive to the airport for your departure flight homewards.

In general, Sandakphu Trek is quite versatile, it can be maneuvered in different versions. Below is sample outline itinerary, starting in reverse
Day 1: Arrive in Bagdogra and transfer to Darjeeling.
Day 2: Darjeeling sightseeing.
Day 3: Drive to Rimbik, and hike for 2 hours to Sirikhola.
Day 4. Sirikhola – Rammam
Day 5: Rammam – Molley
Day 6: Molley – Sandakphu
Day 7: Hike downhill till Kalipokri for 2hours, further 2-3 hrs to Tumling and Dhotrey and drive to Siliguri.
Day 8: Departure -transfer to airport/Train Station for onward journey.
Even for the beginner, doing the trek in reverse shouldn’t pose any acclimatisation and altitude related issues as this itinerary gradually builds up for the summit – Sandakphu (3636m).

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