Darjeeling Sandakphu Timburey Trek - 4 Days

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  • Duration4 Days
  • DestinationIndia
  • Difficulty LevelModerate
  • Max Altitude3,636mt - 12,000ft

About Trip

Explore the eastern Himalayas with Ashmita Trek & Tours on the exciting Darjeeling Sandakphu Timburey Trek! This condensed four-day adventure offers breathtaking views of not just one two, but four of the world’s tallest peaks! Standing at Sandakphu, the highest point in West Bengal at 3,636 meters (11,929 feet), you’ll have a spectacular panorama of Mount Everest (8,848 meters), Kanchenjunga (8,586 meters), Lhotse (8,516 meters), and Makalu (8,481 meters). Enjoy an unforgettable night at Sandakphu where you can watch the sunrise and sunset drape the peaks in stunning shades of red and orange.

Sandakphu Trekking Itinerary

The expedition begins with a 6 AM scenic drive from Darjeeling to Rimbeek, passing through quaint mountain villages. Upon reaching the charming Rimbeek hamlet, the trek commences. The initial trail to Gurdum, a tranquil mountain village, winds through lush forests.

From Gurdum, the ascent to the captivating Sandakphu begins. This segment immerses trekkers in nature, allowing them to experience the mountain sun, crisp air, and an invigorating adrenaline rush. Sandakphu offers the first panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains, ensuring memorable moments for all visitors.

The journey proceeds to Ramam via Sabargram, with majestic mountains providing a constant backdrop. The pristine beauty of snow-capped peaks presents a visually stunning spectacle. The following day involves trekking from Sandakphu to Ramam, showcasing the region's natural splendor.

The penultimate day takes participants from Ramam to Srikhola. On the final day, the route extends from Ramam to Srikhola, where the trek concludes. Travelers then return to Darjeeling by vehicle, marking the end of this comprehensive mountain expedition.

Ashmita Trek & Tours and Research Hub proudly presents our meticulously designed Sandakphu Trek Itinerary, crafted to deliver an unforgettable experience. Bookings for 2024 and 2025 are now available. We offer customization options to accommodate your schedule, budget, and physical capabilities. For pricing inquiries regarding the Sandakphu Trek package, please contact us via WhatsApp or email.

What We Appreciate About the Sandakphu Trek

The Sleeping Buddha

Visible from the heart of Darjeeling, the Kanchenjunga massif immediately sets expectations for an up-close encounter along the trek. From the initial day, fleeting views of the mountains begin to emerge. During three hours of each trekking day, the silhouette of the Sleeping Buddha intermittently appears and then vanishes. Upon reaching Sandakphu, trekkers are treated to their first clear and full view of the Sleeping Buddha, which remains a constant presence for much of the journey.

Trek Through Singalila National Park

Nestled in the lowland dense jungles, Singalila National Park hosts a unique collection of flora and fauna, some of which are incredibly rare and may be new to many visitors. This park stands out as one of the rare locations worldwide where the elusive Red Panda can be observed. Although the park is known to shelter only about 32 Red Pandas, it is also a habitat for the Himalayan black bear, leopards, pangolins, wild boars, chinkara, barking deer, and a variety of bird species. Adventure seekers can trek through lush bamboo, rhododendron, and oak forests. With few people venturing into Singalila National Park, tranquility and solitude are abundant for those exploring its paths.

Why Choose Ashmita Trek & Tours for Your Sandakphu Trek ?

Ashmita Trek & Tours, your local trekking company, is committed to providing outstanding trekking experiences. Founded in 2007 and rooted in our love for Darjeeling, we're dedicated to presenting the authentic charm of the region. Our team is passionate about outdoor adventures, and this enthusiasm is evident in every tour we conduct. Our expert guides and staff go above and beyond to meet and exceed your expectations, ensuring a memorable journey through the heart of the Himalayas.

Highlights

  • View from Sandakphu of Mount Everest (8848 meters), Kanchenjunga (8,586 meters), Lhotse (8,516m), and Makalu (8,481m).
  • Trek through Singalila National Park, a rich wildlife sanctuary.
  • See countless bird species over 400 within the park!.
  • Hiking through rodrodren and magnolia forest.
  • Connect with local villagers each day.
  • Shortest trek that gives you astounding mountain views.
  • Great trail and landscape view.

Itinerary

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Hello and welcome! Our standard itinerary spans four days and remains a popular choice for those keen on a short trek up to Sandakphu. If you’re considering extending your adventure to include the Singalila ridge and trek up to Phalut, feel free to check out our extended 6-day trek here.

Trek Distance: 10 km | Trek Duration: 5.6 hours | Altitude Gain: 2,286 Mt. to 2,438 Mt.

We meet at the Ashmita Trek & Tours office location by 6 am Start your journey with a refreshing drive from Darjeeling to Rimbeek is about a 4-hour drive. Rimbeek is a small hamlet packed with natural serenity and aura. You are bound to imbibe energy by breathing in the fresh mountain air. once in Rimbeek, your trail will commence. You will trek to Gurdum following the path across the black forests.

Gurdum is a small village and undoubtedly a pocket of happiness. On your way, you will be gifted with some of the best views of mountains, variegated rhododendrons, and lush green forest Overnight Stay at a small Family homestay.

  • Homestay
  • 5-6 Hours
  • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • 2,438 Mt.
  • Trekking

Trek Distance : 13 km | Trek Duration : 7 hours | Altitude Gain : 2,438 Mt. to 3,636Mt

Today, you will take a gentle uphill to Sandakphu. No words will ever suffice the beauty of Sandakphu. From this ridge, you will witness 4 out of the 5 highest mountain peaks in the world namely Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, and Makalu, Spend the night at the tea house to see the mountains. Dear Guest, please note that Sandakphu is the remote and highest place on your trek so you expect basic lodges and trekkers' huts. just a bed with a pillow and blankets, and offer limited electricity Do not expect luxury like TVs, geysers etc. and all international clients need to night stay in Indian side.

About Sandakphu

Sandakphu is a mountain peak in the Singalila Ridge on the border between India and Nepal. It is the highest point of the ridge and the state of West Bengal, India. The peak is located at the edge of the Singalila National Park and has a small village on the summit the most astounding feature of this majestic peak is that it offers you a sweeping view of four of the five highest peaks in the world namely Mount Everest (29,029 feet), Kanchenjunga (28,169 feet), Lhotse (27,940 feet), and Makalu (27,838 feet). If you are a lover of run-of-the-mill activities, then Sandakphu will impart you with a life-changing picturesque trek and tour.

  • Lodge / Trekkers Hut
  • 6 Hours
  • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • 3,636 Mt
  • Trekking

Wake up early for the surreal sunrise over the Himalayas. We climb up a little bit to a perfect viewpoint. Today’s view is even more fabulous than the previous, simply because the panorama is so expensive. Return to Sandakphu for breakfast. After breakfast start the trek to Rammam via Molley. The trail helps explore the diverse flora and fauna of the region. Sabargram rests amidst the charm of natural scenery and the snow-capped mountain peaks are a faithful friend of the place. With its surreal and extraordinary beauty. On this day we have Overnight at a homestay in Rammam with a local family.

  • Home Stay
  • 6 to 7 Hours
  • Breakfast Lunch Dinner
  • 3,636Mt to 2,100 Mt
  • Trekking

Trek Distance : 3 km | Trek Duration: 1 hour Drive Distance: 85 km | Drive Duration: 4 hours | Drop off point Ashmita trekkers: Darjeeling

The last day will help you traverse through Srikhola, another exotic destination. Srikhola nestles amidst wild growths of magnolia, chestnuts, oaks, pines, and birches. A river runs through the place making it cooler and vibrant than usual. Seep in the extraordinary scenery and mesmerizing view of the landscapes. You may also witness wild birds and exquisite animals. In short, the experience is bound to transfer you into an entirely different cosmos. Finally, drive back to Darjeeling.

Note: If you're staying outside of town, remember to arrange your own transportation to and from Ashmita Trek & Tours. You'll need to cover the taxi costs for these trips.

Thank you for taking the Sandakphu Timburey Trek with Ashmita Trek & Tours! We look forward to seeing you again.

Sandakphu Timburey Trek is not just a travel destination, it is an emotion personified. Hence, it is pertinent that you experience every trace of this lingering feeling. Trekking offers clarity as it brings you closer to the crafts of the universe. Now that we have discovered an unknown route, pick up your backpack and bear testimony to one of the best wonders of the world.

Namastey!

  • 5 Hours
  • Breakfast, Lunch
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What's Included

  • Three times meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trekking Veg with hot tea & coffee 
  • Excellent Mountaineering Qualified Trekking Guide who will be a local to this particular area
  • Transportation from and to Darjeeling in public transport by shared jeep
  • Singalila National Park entry permits (INR 500/- per day per person for foreign clients including)
  • Accommodations during the trekking in tea houses, lodge 
  • Basic Medical & First Aid kit carried by Trek Guide
  • Food, Accommodation, and wage for Guide
  • All the government Tax, Vat and service charges
  • All the alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, chocolates, snacks, mineral water, battery recharge
  • Costs from unexpected occurrences (i.e. cancellations, weather problems, damages to property, illness
  • Extra accommodation and meals outside of the itinerary
  • Your travel medical insurance
  • Personal gear and expenses for the trek
  • Accommodations in Darjeeling before trek and after the trek
  • Porter / Horse to Carry your backpack Extra Rs,8000 per porter for 4 days

Dates & Availability

Request Private Trip
  • We at Ashmita Trek & Tours run only small private group treks we don't offer big large group treks
  • Available dates are available to book and become guaranteed once you book for that date.
  • if the offer dates are not suitable for you or want to have a private trip proceed with booking from the above bar and request a private trip.

Note to solo travellers:

If you are travelling alone, kindly reach to us by Email at - [email protected] or via WhatsApp at +91 9733106312 before booking to confirm your departure date. we will confirm the trip via email or WhatsApp we only arrange small private treks.

Start DateEnd DateStatusPrice 
01 Nov, 202404 Nov, 2024AvailableUS $220
03 Nov, 202406 Nov, 2024AvailableUS $220
05 Nov, 202408 Nov, 2024GuaranteedUS $220
08 Nov, 202411 Nov, 2024AvailableUS $220
11 Nov, 202414 Nov, 2024AvailableUS $220
15 Nov, 202418 Nov, 2024AvailableUS $220
18 Nov, 202421 Nov, 2024AvailableUS $220
21 Nov, 202424 Nov, 2024AvailableUS $220
25 Nov, 202428 Nov, 2024AvailableUS $220
28 Nov, 202401 Dec, 2024AvailableUS $220
30 Nov, 202403 Dec, 2024AvailableUS $220

FAQs

Dear Guest we provide you standard good Lodge/teahouse during the Sandakphu - Timburey trek and the rooms are mostly basic lodges and trekkers' huts. just a bed with a pillow and blankets, A few have electric lights  We offer private rooms. Do not expect luxury like TV, geyser etc. For most part of the route there is no electricity although some lodges offer limited use of solar powered lights (usually 6pm to 9pm).

Stay restrictions imposed on foreigners visiting Sandakphu Singalila Ridge Trek 2022

Starting from December 2021 Indian authorities are not allowing foreigners to stay in Nepal side while walking on the Singalila ridge. Non-Indian citizens are only allowed to stay inside India and not in any accommodation which is in Nepal. So for foreign nationals, the accommodations are GTA operated Govt trekkers huts within Singalila National Park and private lodge/ homestay. This is enforced on spot by the Indian paramilitary personnel stationed at various check posts along the trail on the India – Nepal border.

Please Note :

That the GTA operated Govt huts by are available at limited spots with basic need and cleen setup. Rooms are of dormitory type and toilets are common some attached place are .

At present foreigners can stay at the village of Maneybhanjung, Tonglu, Gairibas (non functional/almost deserted), Sandakphu, Timburey, Phalut, Gorkhey, Srikhola/Sepi. They can’t stay at Chitrey, Tumling or Kalapokhri as there is nothing in the West Bengal/India side.

The temperatures be like during this Trek can be doen all throughout the year, though it’s much more pleasant in some weather conditions than others. The weather along the Sandakphu Trek depends on the season.  During the springtime (March to May), temperatures fall between 11-19 C° during the day and 2-10 C° at night. Monsoon temperatures are around 15-22 C° during the day and 7 to -1 C° at night. People tend to favor trekking in Autumn, when weather is moderate and skies are clear. In the daytime, temperatures range between 6-12 C° and 5 and -3 C° at nighttime.

Keep in mind, the Sandakphu weather is always unpredictable. In to time, a cloud can come and take away a mountain view, and a gust of wind can nearly knock you off your feet on a high pass. This just adds a little more adventure to the trek. Regardless of the season, you should pack several layers just in case.

You have the option to recharge your camera and mobile devices at the lodges for an additional fee. Likewise, you can purchase bottled mineral water along your journey. However, it's better to carry your own water bottle and for boiled water.

This practice helps reduce the number of plastic left in the trekking areas. So we advise you to carry water purification tablets. It's advisable to avoid drinking water from rivers or taps, as it may not be safe.

The Sandakphu Timburey trek is a demanding high-altitude journey, requiring a significant amount of energy. To support you, we will ensure you have access to nutritious meals throughout the trek areas. That said, food options become more restricted at higher elevations. Our trek package includes regular breakfast, lunch, and dinner services, providing 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 3 dinners over the course of the trek.

Your meals will primarily consist of local, Nepali, and Western dishes. We recommend you try Dal, Bhat, and Tarkari (vegetables), which are high in carbohydrates and offer ample energy for the trek. Due to hygiene concerns, we advise against consuming meat.

It's advisable for you to bring along dry fruits such as raisins, dried figs, and dried apricots, as well as nuts like almonds, cashews, walnuts, and groundnuts.

Be aware that at higher altitudes, your respiration rate increases, necessitating greater fluid intake. We suggest that you drink green tea, lemon tea, hot lemon, ginger tea, and garlic soup (a must).

We strongly advise against consuming dairy products, including cheese, as well as alcoholic beverages, caffeinated items, and hot chocolate.

 

Here’s a quick info-graphic to give you an overview of everything you need in your backpack.Easy

The Sandakphu trek stands out as one of the finest short treks in Darjeeling, West Bengal. Situated in the Singalila region, distance of around 47-50 km this renowned trek is relatively easy and moderate, cozy, and conveniently close to the well-known town of Darjeeling. Stick with us to learn more about the difficulty level of the Sandakphu Trek and discover what makes it so remarkable. Each year, it draws thousands of mountain enthusiasts due to its accessibility and breathtaking scenery. With proper preparation, physical fitness, and a positive mindset, many trekkers find the panoramic vistas of four of the world's five tallest peaks - Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, and Makalu - to be well worth the journey.

Best season for Sandakphu - Trek The first season Spring ( March to May)  In the springtime, the colorful flowers are blooming like rhododendrons,orchids and magnolia flower. during the fall, the skies are usually clearer the temperature ranges from 8 - 14 degrees C°, and the second Season is after the monsoon starting from 15th September to early December the snow peaks show in their dazzling beauty in a clear blue sky when the temperature ranges from from - 5 to 6 degrees C° 

Note : that during the monsoon seasons the Singalila National Park is closed from mid 15 June to mid 15 September,

also posible to do this Sandakphu - Phalut trek in winter Dec - Jan - Fab but it's cold recommended to bring warm cloth as munch as posible we Ashmita Trek and Tours arranges the trek with full management, including transportation, meals, stay ,permit etc. Please do not hesitate to reach out if you have questions!

All treks in Himalayas Darjeeling, Sikkim, and Nepal demand a sufficient level of fitness, therefore you should check You might not know what goals to set and how to reach them. so we Ashmita Trek and Tours designed three trek-specific workout guides line for you.

Suggested Preparation :

  • Cardio exercises include running, cycling, jogging, push-ups, and pull-ups for about 4-5 days a week for 3 months before your trip will begin.
  • You should also be involved in developing core strength. and muscle endurance through weight training.
  • Hiking in the hills in different weather conditions will be good preparation for this trip.
  • If you have access, kayaking will also be a very good way to develop the strength and endurance required for this trip.

Here’s a chart to help you get fit for the trek.

Easy

Working out indoors
If you can’t go out and jog because of time and space constraints, here’s a video you can use to work out indoors.

Gurudhum is the final spot where you will have access to a mobile network. Ensure you complete any crucial phone calls before arriving in Rimbeek, the commencement point of your trek. It is advisable to inform your family members about the poor connectivity during the trek. In the trekking region, except for Phalut, the tea houses and lodges offer limited internet. You can use Wi at these places to keep in touch with friends, family, and colleagues.

Tips do not form any part of the wages of guides, porters and other trekking crews. but they are expected by the porters, guide, Sherpa and cook. norm in Asian culture in the Himalayas means there is an expectation it is a nice way of saying thank you to someone who will play a large part in your trekking experience and who will prove invaluable to you on this trip. Our porters and guides will be paid more than working for other big tour and trek companies.

We are the local based company from Darjeeling and is proud to be an eco friendly travel and local trekking agency based on Himalayan country of Darjeeling. established by a team of professionals involved tourism since 2007 Our prosperity is the result of broad research, cautious arranging, and usefully tuning in to input. Our devoted, experienced, and submitted nearby group endeavors to give a definitive fulfillment to our customers. We are dependably there to deal with every one of the administrations and to give as much adaptability to our customers to make their get-away adventurous, pleasant, and safe with us. we also recommended by lonely planet travel guide books Trekking Agency highly rangket based on Adventure Outdoor Activities organizer for Nepal, Sikkim, and Darjeeling or you can even read our reviews on Tripadvaisor page they are real reviews what they have experienced with us, so, you can plan your adventure holidays with Ashmita Trek and Tours Teams without any doubt so.

Customer Reviews

  • M

    Michael Heather Yoder, United States - June 14, 2024

    Our family of 5 just completed the 4 day Sandakphu trek. Subash was very accommodating and helped us find the trek that best fit our traveling schedule. He communicated well and assisted with logistics in lodging and transportation beyond just the trek. He met with us ahead of time to carefully go over the schedule and give us tips on how to best prepare, including foods to avoid, things to take along, etc. Our guide, Pemba, was very friendly and made sure we had what we needed. He never seemed impatient when we asked hundreds of questions or stopped to take innumerable pictures. He took great care of us and was fun to be around. Our hosts were friendly and knew what foreigners preferences were. The authentic, local cuisine was a highlight. If Pemba knew we especially liked a certain dish he made sure to ask for it again. Overall it was a great experience and we definitely would recommend Ashmita Trek & Tours!

  • A

    Ananda Sengupta, India - May 21, 2024

    We had an amazing and memorable trek of Sandakphu and Phalut on Singalila ridge for our family of 4 ( age ranging from 15 to 55) over 6 nights and 7 days organised by Mr Subhash Tamang of Ashmita Tours and Trek based out of Darjeeling. We were accompanied by our guide Mr Tenzing Tamang. While we carried about 5 to 7 kg in our rucksacks, remaining stuff was carried by a horse which was tended by a very young and enterprising man - Ashish or Azrod. Our trek started from Rimbick on Day 1 ( where we reached by car from Darjeeling same day morning). After reaching Sandakphu and Phalut we came back via Srikhola to Darjeeling. Each day's path was beautiful and different than the other. We soaked in the beauty of the thick forest, the hills - both covered by raining clouds and rising upto sunny blue sky, rhododendron flowers of 5-6 hues ( white, red, pink, purple, peach, lavender) yaks, green meadows, chirping of birds and cricket, gushing stream and ever smiling hill people ( mostly Nepalese / Tibetan originally) with Mongoloid feature who are very hard working and hospitable. Excepting at Sandakphu and Phalut we hardly met any other tourist on the way. We walked for hours with only our guide Tenzing ji amidst the stunnigly beautiful trails - very rarely meeting some local people. Tenzing ji was not just an instructor sharing the plan, giving us wake up calls and leading the way especially on the trails we found difficult, but he also took the role of a father figure, quickly arranging for tea/food as soon as we reached the homestay. We were really touched by his hospitality. He was meticulous in arranging for food, fruits, hot water, tea etc. He had a sharp and compassionate mind, always taking care of our small wishes, desires, conveniences on and off the trails. We spoke about nature, philosophy, spirituality, about how technology is being used by the Govt. for betterment of hardships faced in the lives of hill people. He had knowledge of birds and also told us about flora and fauna. The homestays where the 6 night stays were organised by Subhash ji of Ashmita Tours & Trek, were of local hill families who offered delicious and fresh food, mostly cooked from vegetables grown in their own fields.We talked about our next trek to the base camp of Kanchenjungha or Gochala trek. We felt that if we plan at all, it must be with Ashmita Trek of Subhas ji and we must have Tenzing ji as our guide. Short Itinerary : Day 01 : Trek from Rimbeek to Gurudhum 10km 7 hours Day 02: Trek from Gurudhum to Sandakphu 10km 9 hoursDay 03: Trek from Sandakphu to Moley 14km 9 hours.Day 04 : Moley to Phalut 7km trek 5 hoursDay 05: Phalut to Gorkhey 14km trek 7 hours Day 06 : Gorkhey to Timburey 14km 9 hour Day 07 : Timburey to Srikhola 5km 2 hourThank You Team Ashmita!

  • S

    Sarah Anin, United States - January 22, 2024

    We had a wonderful trip with Ashmita Trek and Tours and enjoyed our time with Rupesh Dá! Rupesh was extremely helpful and friendly during our 6 day trek in Singalila national park. We had marvellous views on ‘the sleeping buddha’ at sunrise. Food was very tasty and the communication with the company to arrange the trek according to our wishes. Highly recommended!

  • P

    Paul Jet, Spain - January 20, 2024

    Amazing experience with the best people and the best trek guide Rupesh. I have seen the most beautiful sunrise of my life over the Himalayas and eaten the best food in India. Thank you teams for memoreble for my entire trip!

  • D

    Dave Powell, United Kingdom - January 10, 2024

    I have been lucky enough to trek in South America, Europe and North Africa and this was up there with the best! Ashmita Trek And Tours is an excellent company. From my first contact with them they communicated promptly and clearly and everything was very well organised. my guide Mr,Tenzi was amazing in every way. he is a great professional, friendly, safety orientated and shared his knowledge of the mountains and culture which enriched the whole experience. I was stretched but had an amazing time. The views of the high mountains were a highlight as was sunrise at dawn on Singalila Ridge.

Trip Advisor