Trek Overview
The Sandakphu Trek is one of the most scenic and culturally rich treks in India, located in the Eastern Himalayas along the border of India and Nepal. This trek is renowned for offering views of four of the world’s tallest mountains — Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, and Makalu — forming a jaw-dropping panorama. Sandakphu, at 11,930 ft, is the highest point in West Bengal and the summit viewpoint is often called the “Trekkers’ Wonderland.”
The trail passes through beautiful rhododendron forests, charming Nepalese villages, Buddhist monasteries, and scenic ridgelines with alternating views of India and Nepal. The trek offers an incredible blend of natural beauty and cultural exploration, making it perfect for beginners and seasoned trekkers alike.
Trek Highlights
- Experience uninterrupted views of Mt. Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, and Makalu in a single frame.
- Walk along the Indo-Nepal border, often crossing into Nepal during the trail.
- Explore picturesque Himalayan villages like Tumling, Kalipokhri, and Gorkhey.
- Witness stunning sunrises and sunsets from Sandakphu and Phalut viewpoints.
- Encounter diverse Himalayan flora including magnolias, orchids, and hundreds of rhododendron species.
Quick Itinerary
Day 1: NJP to Sepi (6,400 ft)
- Drive Distance: 130 km (approx. 7 hrs)
- Route: Scenic journey through lush hills
- Stay: Homestay in Sepi
Day 2: Sepi to Samanden via Ramam (7,500 ft)
- Trek Distance: 14-15 km (approx. 7-8 hrs)
- Highlights: Peaceful forest trails, quiet hamlets
- Stay: Campsite or lodge in Samanden
Day 3: Samanden to Phalut via Gorkhey (11,500 ft)
- Trek Distance: 15 km (approx. 7-8 hrs)
- Highlights: Panoramic mountain views, forests
- Stay: Forest hut or campsite at Phalut
Day 4: Phalut to Thokum (11,200 ft)
- Trek Distance: 11-12 km (approx. 6-7 hrs)
- Highlights: Ridge walks with Himalayan views
- Stay: Camping in Thokum
Day 5: Thokum to Aal (11,600 ft)
- Trek Distance: 9-10 km (approx. 4-5 hrs)
- Highlights: Meadows and breathtaking open spaces
- Stay: Campsite at Aal
Day 6: Aal to Timburey via Sandakphu (11,900 ft → 6,800 ft)
- Trek Distance: 14 km (approx. 7-8 hrs)
- Highlights: Summit at Sandakphu, descent through forest
- Stay: Homestay in Timburey
Day 7: Timburey to Srikhola and Drive to NJP
- Trek Distance: 3 km (approx. 1 hr)
- Drive Distance: 130 km (approx. 7 hrs)
- End of trek. Drop-off at NJP station.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: NJP to Sepi (6,400 ft)
Arrive at NJP railway station or Bagdogra airport and begin your scenic drive to Sepi, a quaint village nestled in the foothills. The journey spans around 130 km and takes approximately 7 hours through lush hills, tea gardens, and quiet hamlets. Overnight stay in a cozy homestay in Sepi.
Day 2: Sepi to Samanden via Ramam (7,500 ft)
Begin your trek from Sepi toward Samanden, passing through the quiet village of Ramam. The trail covers around 14–15 km over 7–8 hours and offers peaceful forest trails and glimpses into local village life. Enjoy the tranquil Himalayan atmosphere. Overnight stay at a campsite or lodge in Samanden.
Day 3: Samanden to Phalut via Gorkhey (11,500 ft)
Trek from Samanden to Phalut, covering a distance of about 15 km in 7–8 hours. En route, pass through the beautiful village of Gorkhey and dense pine forests. The trail offers panoramic views of the Himalayan range. Overnight stay in a forest hut or campsite at Phalut.
Day 4: Phalut to Thokum (11,200 ft)
Today’s trek to Thokum is about 11–12 km and takes 6–7 hours. The trail follows high ridges with stunning views of the snow-capped Himalayas. Enjoy the peaceful wilderness and fresh mountain air. Camp overnight at Thokum under a starlit sky.
Day 5: Thokum to Aal (11,600 ft)
A relatively moderate trek of 9–10 km (4–5 hours) takes you from Thokum to Aal. The trail meanders through open meadows and forest patches, offering wide, breathtaking Himalayan landscapes. Set up camp at Aal for the night and soak in the alpine beauty.
Day 6: Aal to Timburey via Sandakphu (11,900 ft → 6,800 ft)
Start your day early for a trek that takes you to the summit at Sandakphu — the highest point of the trek — before descending to Timburey. The 14 km route (7–8 hours) offers spectacular 360° mountain views and a forested descent. Arrive at Timburey and stay in a welcoming homestay.
Day 7: Timburey to Srikhola and Drive to NJP
Trek 3 km (approx. 1 hour) downhill from Timburey to Srikhola. After breakfast, drive back to NJP railway station or Bagdogra airport (130 km, approx. 7 hours). This marks the end of your unforgettable journey through the serene Eastern Himalayas.
Inclusion / Exclusion
Inclusions:
- Accommodation (Guest house, Home stay, Camping).
- Meals while on trek (Veg. + Egg).
- Trek equipment (Sleeping bag, mattress, kitchen & dining tent, crampon, utensils, tent).
- All necessary permits and entry fees.
- First aid medical kits, stretcher, and oxygen cylinder.
- Mountaineering qualified & professional trek leader, guide, and support staff.
Exclusions:
- Any kind of personal expenses.
- Food during the transit.
- Insurance.
- Mules or porter to carry personal luggage.
- Anything not specifically mentioned under the inclusions.
Cancellation & Refund Policy
Change/Cancellation of Booking by the Participant
Process
The cancellation process is completely automated. Please log in to your Mountain Hike account and follow the instructions on your dashboard. You can choose between Instant Refund or Cash Refund as per the policy below.
Replacement of Participants
Participants can be replaced through the Mountain Hike dashboard if the booking status is “Paid” and at least 5 days remain before departure. If you face issues, email themountainhike@gmail.com with a screenshot of the error. The new participant must submit a signed undertaking form.
Note: Any Volvo/Train transport booked for the original participant will be automatically canceled and is non-transferable.
Cash Refund Policy
Cash refunds apply only for bookings made without promotional codes or vouchers. Refund amounts will be deducted as follows:
- 30+ days before departure: 5% deduction
- 15-30 days before departure: 50% deduction
- Less than 15 days before departure: No Refund
Refunds will be processed to the original payment method and are based on the Base Price of the trek, excluding transport, insurance, and portage fees.
Voucher Refund Policy
Voucher refunds are available for all types of bookings, including promotional offers. Refund amounts will be:
- 5+ days before departure: No deduction
- Less than 5 days: No Refund
Vouchers are valid for 10 months from the date of issue. The refunded voucher amount does not include service tax paid during the original booking.
Cancellation or Change Initiated by Mountain Hike
We reserve the right to modify or cancel an event due to unforeseen circumstances such as weather conditions, natural disasters, low participation, or any force majeure events. If this occurs, you will be given the choice of:
- A replacement event of equivalent value
- A full refund (processed as a voucher valid for 6 months)
If cancellation is due to low participation, participants can choose between a cash refund or a voucher.
Changes/Cancellation After Departure
Due to Force Majeure
No refund will be provided for cancellations due to force majeure after departure.
Other Reasons
If cancellations occur for reasons other than force majeure, we will attempt to arrange alternative services or provide a refund in the form of a 6-month voucher (or cash, if preferred).
Participant Dropout During the Event
No refund will be provided if a participant voluntarily drops out of the trek. Any additional costs incurred for return arrangements will be borne by the participant.
Early Return from an Event
If a participant returns early due to force majeure or an event ending sooner than planned, additional expenses (extra nights, transport) must be covered by the participant.
Emergency Evacuation
In case of a medical emergency, we will arrange evacuation to the nearest hospital. Any costs for porters, vehicles, ambulance services, or hospitalization must be covered by the participant.
Sandakphu Trek Gallery