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Prospect over the nurturing trails of Singalila National Park. Villages of Samanden and Gorkhey seem painted across nature’s canvas, such is their beauty. Come across varied terrains focusing on the delight they provide. High altitude ridge situated at a towering height of 3636 m. Get a panoramic view of many snow-covered peaks like Kanchenjunga, Kumbhkarna, Shimbho and more. Border crossing experience with two distinct lands yet extremely similar cultures. Highly welcoming people of Nepal would make trekkers yearn for more.
Some of the Trek Highlights
The route to the peak of Sandakphu follows the Singalila Ridge and passes along the border between India and Nepal. Although the Everest peaks are only seen from Sandakphu, from the beginning, the Kangchenjunga fury is with the walkers. The trek starts from Kopidana, a lesser-used, beautiful basecamp village and ends at Sepi.
This long walk, which can be completed in a few days and includes several campsites, provides a stunning view of the endless horizon along with one-of-a-kind sunsets and sunrises.
The Sandakphu journey passes through Singalila National Park, which is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. This moderately difficult climb offers a variety of experiences while exploring the richness and beauty of long-range scenic panoramas. It is suitable for both novice and expert hikers. The trail becomes greener and more picturesque as it progresses.
Things to Look Out For
- The trek is certain to provide unrivalled feelings of accomplishment
- Sunrise from Tumling is one of the best Himalayan sunrises
- Countless photogenic peaks make this trek ideal for aesthetic photography
- Trail through old yet dynamic villages of Nepal with exposure to local culture
- Majestic sight of the Sleeping Buddha under the glistening rays of dawn
Views During the Journey
- Mesmerizing on-and-off views of Kanchenjunga ranges while trekking to Tumling
- On clear days, witness peaks like Lhotse, Everest, Nuptse, Baruntse, Chamling, Chomolonzo, Machapucchare, extending to the Annapurna range
- Trekkers can trace the Goecha La cleft among the frontline peaks
- Pass by a black water lake near a town, prayer flags fluttering, a small waterfall, and a Buddhist temple radiating calm serenity
- Discover the magnificent Sri River, locally known as Sri Khola
Nearby Places to Visit
- Manebhanjan – a small town near Darjeeling with houses and camps for trekkers
- Chitrey – adorned with lush greenery, pines, firs, and beautiful monasteries
- Tonglu – a magical milestone with Tonglu Lake offering a unique experience
- Bikeybhajan – known for rugged terrain and challenging ascents before Sandakphu
Altitude Covered in Sandakphu Trek
Kopidana – 6400 ft
Tumling – 9600 ft
Kalapokhri – 10,400 ft
Sandakphu – 12,000 ft
Sepi – 6234 ft
Sandakphu Trek Complete Guide
Our mission has always been to ensure that no trekker steps into the Himalayas without the right perspective. A trek is not just a checklist of summits; it is a serious commitment to the outdoors. Having the right information is what separates a reckless climb from a soulful journey.
This section serves as your definitive manual for the Sandakphu Trek. We have distilled years of mountain experience and real-time feedback into this guide to give you a clear, honest picture of the trail.
We provide this depth of information because we want you to be more than just a visitor—we want you to be a prepared, responsible trekker who respects the mountains as much as we do
Day 1 – Drive from NJP to Kopidana (6400 feet) (84 km) (5 hours)
Day 2 – Kopidana to Tumling (9700 feet) (11 km) (5–6 hours)
Day 3 – Tumling to Kalapokhri (10,400 feet) (14 km) (6–7 hours)
Day 4 – Kalapokhri to Sandakphu (11,929 feet) (6 km) (3–4 hours)
Day 5 – Sandakphu to Sepi (6230 feet) (15 km) (6–7 hours)
Day 6 – Sepi to NJP (140 km) (5 hours)
Day 1
Day 2
Day 3
Day 4
Day 5
Day 6
Day 1 – NJP to Kopidana
Altitude: NJP (374 ft / 114 m) → Kopidana (6,400 ft / 1,951 m)
Altitude Difference: 6,026 ft / 1,837 m
Drive Distance: 84 km
Drive Duration: Approx. 5 hours
Stay: Overnight at a teahouse or guesthouse in Kopidana
Meal: Dinner
The journey begins from New Jalpaiguri (NJP) Railway Station. On the way, trekkers pass through scenic tea gardens and charming villages of Darjeeling and Sikkim, including Sukhipokhri and Rimbik. Kopidana, the stop for the day, is a peaceful village surrounded by lush greenery, ideal for resting and acclimatizing after the drive.
Day 2 – Kopidana to Tumling
- Altitude: Kopidana (6,400 ft / 1,951 m) → Tumling (9,700 ft / 2,957 m)
- Altitude Difference: 3,300 ft / 1,006 m
- Trek Distance: 11 km
- Trek Duration: Approx. 5–6 hrs
- Stay: Overnight at teahouse in Tumling
- Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today’s trek begins through dense rhododendron and oak forests, with occasional glimpses of Kanchenjunga. The trail is moderately steep and offers stunning mountain views. Tumling, a small Himalayan hamlet, provides cozy teahouses where trekkers can relax after the day’s journey.
Day 2 – Kopidana to Tumling
Altitude: Kopidana (6,400 ft / 1,951 m) → Tumling (9,700 ft / 2,957 m)
Altitude Difference: 3,300 ft / 1,006 m
Trek Distance: 11 km
Trek Duration: Approx. 5–6 hrs
Stay: Overnight at a teahouse in Tumling
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today’s trek begins through dense rhododendron and oak forests, with occasional glimpses of Kanchenjunga. The trail is moderately steep and offers stunning mountain views. Tumling, a small Himalayan hamlet, provides cozy teahouses where trekkers can relax after the day’s journey.
Day 4 – Kalapokhri to Sandakphu
Altitude: Kalapokhri (10,400 ft / 3,170 m) → Sandakphu (11,929 ft / 3,636 m)
Altitude Difference: 1,529 ft / 466 m
Trek Distance: 6 km
Trek Duration: Approx. 3–4 hrs
Stay: Overnight stay at a teahouse in Sandakphu
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today’s short but steep climb leads to the highest point of West Bengal – Sandakphu. From here, trekkers can enjoy panoramic views of the Himalayan range, including Mt. Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, and Makalu. Evening at Sandakphu is ideal for sunset photography and acclimatization.
Day 5 – Sandakphu to Sepi
Altitude: Sandakphu (11,929 ft / 3,636 m) → Sepi (6,230 ft / 1,899 m)
Altitude Difference: 5,699 ft / 1,737 m
Trek Distance: 15 km
Trek Duration: Approx. 6–7 hrs
Stay: Overnight stay at a teahouse in Sepi
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today involves a long but scenic descent through forests, tea gardens, and quaint villages. Sepi is an impressive village surrounded by greenery, with the Srikhola spring adding charm to the landscape. Trekkers can relax here and enjoy the peaceful environment after the tiring trek.
Day 6 – Sepi to NJP
- Altitude: Sepi (6,230 ft / 1,899 m) → NJP (374 ft / 114 m)
- Altitude Difference: -5,856 ft / -1,785 m
- Drive Distance: 140 km
- Drive Duration: Approx. 5 hrs
- Meal: Breakfast, Lunch
The journey back to New Jalpaiguri begins after breakfast. Trekkers will drive through scenic villages and valleys, with optional stops for refreshments in Siliguri. Arrival at NJP marks the end of the trek, giving trekkers time to relax after the long journey.
Difficulty Level
Even though the ridges are relatively average in elevation, a reasonable level of physical fitness is still recommended. Trekkers are advised to physically prepare themselves prior to this trek. The trek does not involve high ascents or steep descents, but trekkers will have to cover long distances every day.
Any medical assistance required will be provided at any point during the journey; however, trekkers must consult their medical professional before beginning any trek. We also strongly advise trekkers to learn about altitude sickness and notify our team immediately if any symptoms appear.
Is It Safe?
Set amidst lower altitudes, safety concerns regarding the Sandakphu Trek among beginner trekkers are understandable. To address these concerns, we confirm that the teams of Himalayan Hikers have calculated all possible contingencies should anything go off schedule.
Our professionals strive to provide the best trekking experience possible. A collaborative approach, relaxed mindset, and respectful communication with fellow trekkers are highly appreciated.
Weather Conditions
Weather conditions depend on the time of year trekkers choose to travel. Easier trails and a less confusing journey make this trek ideal during autumn, winter, and spring. The weather during these seasons is generally favorable for trekking, offering safer trails and comfortable elevations.
Best Time to Visit Sandakphu Trek
Both the ascent and descent of the Sandakphu trek are moderate in level as trekkers hike forward. The best time to hike these trails is between October and April. Daytime temperatures generally range from 8°C to 15°C, while nights can be significantly colder.
Key Points of Sandakphu Trek
- Difficulty level is moderate
- Proper body conditioning and physical training required
- Proper gear and clothing needed for sub-zero temperatures
- Shoes are the single most important piece of equipment
- High altitude requires proper acclimatization
- Beautiful landscapes — carry good photography gear with extra battery backup
- The backpack weight should not exceed 10 kg
Connectivity and Transactions
- Since connectivity along the route is unpredictable, trekkers are advised to complete all important work in advance.
- Walkie-talkies will be provided beforehand to trekkers in case of emergencies.
- The last ATM transactions are available at certain stops after New Jalpaiguri Junction / Bagdogra Airport. Trekkers are strongly advised to withdraw sufficient cash beforehand, as ATMs in remote areas may not dispense cash reliably.
How to Reach Sandakphu Trek
If you are travelling from any metropolitan city in India or from outside the country, reaching New Jalpaiguri Junction or Bagdogra Airport should be your first priority.
New Jalpaiguri Junction and Bagdogra Airport are well connected to most major cities in India. Trekkers are encouraged to research their mode of transport in advance to ensure a smooth arrival.
Some Important Points to Note
- We do not provide fixed transportation schedules before New Jalpaiguri Junction or Bagdogra Airport. Due to varying conditions, timings and availability may change. Trekkers are advised to contact our team for guidance via call or email.
- Our team will collect trekkers from fixed pickup points at airports, railway stations, and bus stands.
- Unless delayed, trekkers are advised to reach the pickup destinations at least 2 hours in advance.
Necessary Items for trekkers
Mandatory Documents
Original and photocopy of government photo identity card- (Aadhar Card, Driving License, Voters ID, etc,)
Passport and Visa important to foreigners
Medical Certificate (First part should be filled by the Doctor and Second part by the Trekker)
Declaration Certificates
Note: – Many trekkers commit the same mistake of carrying unnecessary items on a trek which only makes the backpack heavy. It is important to know the right items to carry. It differs from season to season if you are trekking in summers then carry less layers of warm clothing and if you are trekking in winters carry enough layers to protect yourself against chilly cold.
Basic Trekking Gears
The Clothes You Should Bring On Satopanth Expedition
Head Gears
Foot Gears
Personal Care Essentials
Carry a Personal Medical Kit
Are you Looking for Trekking Equipment on Rent?
If any trekker requires trekking equipment on rent, Himalayan Hikers offers the best-quality gear available for rental. Many individuals are in need of such equipment, and renting provides a cost-effective solution, allowing them to access high-quality gear at an affordable price without the need for a significant investment for short-term use.
Trek Equipment You can book directly on first day at the Base Camp.
Note:-
Please take all medicines only when prescribed by the doctor. In case you face any problem during your trek,
discuss and take advice from the Professional guide.
The Trek is one of the most popular treks in Uttarakhand, Himachal,Kashmir,Laddakh,Sikkim,Nepal, requiring both physical preparation and mental readiness. Although it is categorized as a moderate trek, reaches an elevation of over 12,720 feet and traverses remote Himalayan terrain, which can be physically and mentally challenging. Here's how you can prepare yourself for a safe and successful accomplishment of the Trek:
Physical Fitness
Building a good fitness base is essential for every trekker. The Trek itinerary involves 5 to 6 hours of walking every day. Though the trails are well-marked, they are often bumpy and include steep uphill sections, which may affect your stamina. You can overcome your physical limitation with a 6-week training program that you can begin about 2 months before your Trek. Your 6-week fitness routine should include
Pro Tip: If you have time, you can skip the Sunday training and go for a long-distance walk or mini day-hike (7–10 km) with a loaded backpack to simulate real trekking conditions. A short 1-day hike around your city/town can help a lot.
Mental Preparation
Physical strength is only half the journey, the other half is mental resilience. The trail takes you through remote clearings, steep climbs, cold starry nights, and no mobile connectivity. Be prepared to:
(I) - Detach from the digital world.
(II) - Embrace basic mountain living (camping, toilet tents, limited electricity).
(III) - Push through moments of fatigue, weather discomfort, or altitude effects.
A positive mindset, patience, and the ability to adapt will carry you farther than muscle ever could.Himalayan Hikers is a reputable trekking company that places a high priority on safety. Here are some of the safety measures they take to ensure the safety of their clients during the Trek:
Experienced Guides: Himalayan Hikers hires experienced and certified guides who are well-versed in the terrain, weather conditions, and local culture. These guides have first-hand knowledge of the routes and are equipped to handle any emergency situations that may arise.
Proper Gear: The company provides all the necessary gear and equipment to their clients to ensure comfort and safety during the trek.
Hygiene and Sanitation: Himalayan Hikers places great emphasis on hygiene and sanitation during the Trek. They provide clean drinking water, hand sanitizers, and toilet tents to ensure that their clients are healthy and comfortable.
Emergency Services: The company has a well-defined protocol for handling emergency situations. They have a team of trained medical professionals who are available 24/7 and can be quickly mobilized in case of an emergency.
Acclimatization: Himalayan Hikers follows a gradual acclimatization process during treks to ensure that their clients adjust to the high altitude gradually. They also monitor the health of their clients regularly and provide necessary medical attention if required.
Overall, Himalayan Hikers places a great emphasis on safety and takes all necessary measures to ensure the safety and well-being of their clients during treks.
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