Best months
Per-day budget
₹1,900–2,950/day
Getting there
Sandakphu (3,636 m) is the highest peak in West Bengal, on the Singalila Ridge near the India-Nepal border. It is famous for the Sandakphu Trek — a 4-5 day trek that starts from Manebhanjan near Darjeeling. The trek offers stunning views of the world's highest peaks — Kanchenjunga, Mount Everest and Lhotse are visible on a clear day. The trail passes through the Singalila National Park with rhododendron forests (blooming in March-April), bamboo groves and alpine meadows. The trek is one of the most accessible Himalayan treks in India. It is a great destination for student backpackers looking for an affordable trip. The area is well-connected to major Indian cities by road, rail and air. The destination offers a mix of experiences that cater to all kinds of travellers, from solo backpackers to small groups.
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Why go
The Sandakphu trek is a 4-5 day trek starting from Manebhanjan (25 km from Darjeeling). The trail goes through Tumling, Gairibas and Sandakphu. The return is via the same route or via Phalut (3,595 m). The trek is moderate — suitable for beginners with good fitness. The best views are at sunrise from Sandakphu peak.
Sandakphu is the only place in India where you can see four of the world's highest peaks: Everest (8,848 m), Kanchenjunga (8,586 m), Lhotse (8,516 m) and Makalu (8,463 m) from one spot. The Singalila Ridge is covered in rhododendrons — in March-April, the entire ridge blooms in red, pink and white.
How to reach
The trek starts from Manebhanjan (25 km from Darjeeling). Shared jeeps from Darjeeling to Manebhanjan (₹100-200). The nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri. The nearest airport is Bagdogra. Acclimatise in Darjeeling (2,000 m) before starting the trek.
What a day costs
| Guide per day | ₹1,000–1,500 |
| Homestay per night | ₹500–800 |
| Food per day | ₹300–500 |
| Singalila NP entry | ₹100–150 |
When to go
October-December and March-May are best. March-April: rhododendron bloom. October-November: clearest mountain views. January-February: very cold, snow at higher altitudes. June-September: monsoon, not recommended.
Suggested itinerary
Day 1: Darjeeling to Tumling
Drive to Manebhanjan. Trek to Tumling (2-3 hours).
Day 2: Tumling to Sandakphu
Trek through Gairibas to Sandakphu (6-7 hours).
Day 3: Sandakphu
Sunrise at Sandakphu peak. Explore the area. Return to Gairibas or Tumling.
Day 4: Return
Trek back to Manebhanjan. Return to Darjeeling.
Student hacks
- ▸The trek can be done without a guide (the trail is well-marked).
- ▸Carry your own sleeping bag — homestay blankets may not be warm enough.
- ▸Book homestays in advance during peak season (March-April, October-November).
- ▸The Singalila NP entry is ₹100.
- ▸Trekking in a group of 3-4 shares guide costs.
Safety & permits
No permit needed for Indians (registration at Manebhanjan). The trek is at high altitude (up to 3,636 m) — acclimatisation is important. Carry warm clothing — temperatures can drop below 0°C at night. The trail has basic homestays at each stop.
FAQs
How do I reach Sandakphu from Delhi?
Flight to Bagdogra then Darjeeling (3 hours) then Manebhanjan.
What is Sandakphu known for?
Panoramic view of four of the world's highest peaks, rhododendron trek.
How many days do I need?
4-5 days for the trek.