🏔️ Sandakphu – The Highest Peak of West Bengal

Overview:
Sandakphu, standing at 11,941 ft, is the highest point in West Bengal and one of India’s most iconic trekking destinations. Famous as the “Trekkers’ Paradise”, Sandakphu offers unmatched panoramic views of the Sleeping Buddha formation, Mt. Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, and Makalu—four of the world’s highest peaks.

Located in the Singalila National Park, the region is rich in flora, fauna, rhododendrons, orchids, red pandas, and endless Himalayan landscapes.
Ideal for adventure lovers, photographers, nature enthusiasts, and offbeat explorers.

🌄 Top Attractions in Sandakphu

1. Panoramic Himalayan Views

• Clear views of the Everest and Kanchenjunga ranges.
  
  

• Famous Sleeping Buddha mountain formation.
  
  

2. Singalila National Park

• Home to the rare Red Panda.
  
  

• Rich biodiversity with 600+ species of flora.
  
  

• Beautiful forests of oak, fir, magnolia & rhododendron.
  
  

3. Sandakphu Trek / Land Rover Route

• India’s only route where you can trek or ride vintage Land Rovers.
  
  

• Starting points: Manebhanjan, Dhotrey, Rimbik.
  
  

4. Tumling & Tonglu

• Charming villages with homestays and Himalayan viewpoints.
  
  

• Located partly inside Nepal.
  
  

5. Phalut

• One of the most scenic high-altitude viewpoints.
  
  

• Vast open meadows with 360° mountain views.
  
  

🗺️ Suggested Itineraries

Option 1: 3 Nights / 4 Days (Land Rover Tour)

Day 1: NJP/Bagdogra → Manebhanjan → Tumling
Day 2: Tumling → Kalipokhri → Sandakphu
Day 3: Sandakphu → Phalut → Sandakphu
Day 4: Sandakphu → Manebhanjan → NJP/Bagdogra

Option 2: 4 Nights / 5 Days (Trekking Route)

Day 1: NJP → Dhotrey → Trek to Tonglu/Tumling
Day 2: Trek to Kalipokhri
Day 3: Trek to Sandakphu
Day 4: Trek to Gurdum → Rimbik
Day 5: Rimbik → NJP/Bagdogra

Itineraries can be customized with Darjeeling, Lepchajagat, Mirik, or Lamahatta.

🌤️ Best Time to Visit Sandakphu

• October – December: Clear skies, best mountain views.
  
  

• March – May: Rhododendron & magnolia bloom season.
  
  

• January – February: Snowfall season (extremely cold).
  
  

🚗 How to Reach

• Nearest Airport: Bagdogra (IXB)
  
  

• Nearest Railway Station: New Jalpaiguri (NJP)
  
  

• By Road:
  NJP → Mirik → Manebhanjan → Tumling / Sandakphu
  
  

• Final stretch accessible via:
  ✔️ Trekking
  ✔️ 4x4 Land Rovers (Authorized)
  
  

🏨 Where to Stay

• Homestays & tea houses at:
  Tumling, Tonglu, Kalipokhri, Sandakphu, Gurdum, Phalut
  
  

• Basic facilities; expect simple rooms, heaters, and local meals.
  
  

• Limited network availability → perfect digital detox.
  
  

🎒 Things to Do in Sandakphu

• Trekking along the Singalila ridge
  
  

• Sunrise & sunset photography
  
  

• Wildlife spotting (Red Panda, Himalayan birds)
  
  

• Explore Nepali border villages
  
  

• Night sky & Milky Way photography
  
  

• Tea garden visits (En route)
  
  

📌 Travel Tips

• Weather changes quickly → carry warm layers.
  
  

• Roads are steep; only experienced hill drivers allowed.
  
  

• Carry cash; no ATMs after Manebhanjan.
  
  

• Network: BSNL & Nepal networks work in some areas.
  
  

• Book stays early during peak season.
  
  

🧭 Why Travel With Us

• Specialists in Darjeeling – Sandakphu – Singalila region
  
  

• Authorized Land Rover arrangements
  
  

• Expert trek guides & porters
  
  

• Comfortable transportation from NJP/Bagdogra
  
  

• 24×7 support and customized packages
  
  

• Safe stay options at all points