West Bengal trek
Sandakphu Trek
Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse and Makalu from one ridge
Sandakphu is a moderate ridge trek on the India Nepal border in West Bengal's Singalila National Park, reaching about 11,930 ft, the highest point in the state. On a clear day you see four of the world's five highest peaks. Plan 6 to 7 days from NJP or Bagdogra, best in spring and autumn.
- Max altitude
- About 11,930 ft (3,636 m)
- Duration
- 6 to 7 days from NJP or Bagdogra
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Best time
- March to May, October to December
- Base
- Manebhanjan or Sepi, depending on the route
- Getting there
- New Jalpaiguri (NJP) railway station or Bagdogra airport
Sandakphu trek: Kala Pokhri Lake, Singalila National Park
Photo 1 of 2
Why people pick Sandakphu
- The Sleeping Buddha view of the Kanchenjunga massif
- Rhododendron forests in spring
- Pairs with Darjeeling before or after
Route, day by day
The usual shape of the trek. Exact camps and timings vary by operator and conditions.
Drive through the Darjeeling hills.
Walk along the forested ridge.
The trail crosses in and out of Nepal.
Reach the top for sunset on the big peaks.
Sunrise view, then continue or descend.
Descend to the road.
Drive back.
Fitness
Moderate. Long ridge walks, but no technical sections.
What to carry
- Trekking shoes with ankle support, broken in
- Three warm layers and a waterproof jacket
- Headlamp, sunglasses and sunscreen
- Two water bottles
- Personal medicines and a small first aid kit
- Original photo ID
Sandakphu questions
Yes, on clear days Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse and Makalu are visible. Autumn gives the best odds of clear skies.
More treks
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- Max altitude
- 15,100 ft
- Duration
- About 11 days from NJP
- Best months
- April to May
Easy-moderateNagaland
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Rolling green hills on the Nagaland Manipur border
- Max altitude
- 8,000 ft
- Duration
- 2 days from Kohima
- Best months
- June to September for green
Easy-moderateUttarakhand
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The winter summit most first-timers start with
- Max altitude
- 12,500 ft
- Duration
- 6 days from Dehradun
- Best months
- December to April