Sandakphu trek remains a memory for a lifetime as throughout the journey, this trek reveals a symphony of the peaks kissed with mist which dances gloriously to the soft embrace of dawn. In this trek, you shall experience an ascendence through the lush green forests which whisper the age-old tales from ancient times. Each step you take in this trek reveals exquisite panoramic views, with the horizons gradually and seemingly blurring the realms and revealing the untamed beauty of the wilderness.
The stunning visuals of the surrounding landscape and peaks are easily witnessed due to the magnificent location of Sandakphu between the India-Nepal border, from where one can be enthralled with the sight of four of the world’s highest mountains. The wonder of this trek is your chance to experience and transverse through the changing landscapes, crossing the lush emerald-green meadows, the captivating sight of the sun-kissed peaks which cast attractive and vibrant hues and the feeling of amusement as if walking through the clouds. You are also greeted by diverse and exotic flora and fauna, which are all a unique experience for trekkers and have made Sandakphu popular as a “trekkers’ wonderland”.
Sandakphu’s highest altitude is measured at 11,950 ft, however, it is not that high when compared to the altitudes of Goechala or Rupin Pass. Despite this, Sandakphu is considered an easy to moderate-level trek.
However, there are certain things to remember before taking up the Sandakphu Phalut trek to avoid any undesired situation.
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Each day there are long walks throughout the Sandakphu Phalut trek, which will easily last for 7 to 8 days. Throughout this week, you will be set to walk for nearly 80 km, which will approximately be 15 km a day. So, this must be clear for you to attain the required fitness to complete this trek successfully.
If you think the trekking trail through Sandakphu is completely flat, you need to be corrected here, as this is contrary to this popular belief. The trek is a combination of both flat as well as steep descents and ascents, which can be a little challenging for beginners to adjust to this trekking trail. Here’s a glimpse of the trekking trail: Starting from Dhotray which is the base camp, is situated at an altitude of 8,500 ft and next up is the trek to Tumling where the place is situated at an altitude of 10,000 ft. The third day is a trek to Kalipokhri which is also situated at a higher altitude of 10,500 ft. The fourth day is a trek to Sandakphu, which is also situated at a higher altitude of 11,900 ft. However, on the fifth day, it was a steep descent from Sandakphu to Srikhola, from 11,900 ft to 6900 ft. The last day is a drive to NJP/Bagdogra Airport from Srikhola, on the plains. You shall have to face the real challenge on the third and the fourth day, s it will be a real test of your legs and lungs.
The location of Sandakphu trek is on the Eastern segment of the Himalayas which comparatively receives lesser snowfall than Uttarakhand and Himachal. Yet, winters in Sandakphu are pretty chilly and windy, especially from mid-December to the end of February. During the winter season, Sandakphu experiences a sharp dip in the mercury level, which hits as low as -5 and at times, -8℃ during the nights. The night stays during this Sandakphu trek are usually at Dhotray, Tumling, Kalipokhri and Sandakphu, which sends shivers down the spine during winters.
You are reminded to carry sufficient layers of warm clothes, which must include jackets and thermals. Also, f you plan to trek during winter, you need to carry a windcheater or a windbreaker, to protect yourself from the chilly wintry winds and snowfall.
You need to be well-prepared and fit before you plan to go on this Sandakphu trek. You need to start your preparation by strengthening your leg muscles and overall fitness at least 2 months before this trek.
Ensure that you prioritise cardio and leg strengthening exercises in your daily routine at least 2 months before this trek to have the right endurance throughout this trek to make this trek easy-going through changing altitudes, different terrain and weather, for a fuller experience.
You must select clothes which are suitable for both chilly nights and warm days. You need to carry comfortable yet sturdy boots for a comfortable trek and a comfortable backpack, which must not be very heavy to make your trek difficult with its weight.
Overall, to ensure you can enjoy and have a wholesome trekking experience, you need to keep yourself well-hydrated and plan your trek from gradual ascends to ensure you are not hindered by altitude sickness.
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