Trek to Sandakphu and Phalut

7 NIGHTS AND 8 DAYS

DHOTREY TO SRIKHOLA

Overview

Duration: 7 Nights & 8 Days

Difficulty Level: Beginner

Closest Rail Station: NJP/Siliguri Junction

Closest Airport: Bagdogra

Best Season: March-June for Rhododendron, October-January for clear view

Short Itinerary

Day 1: NJP/Bagdogra to Dhotrey

Day 2: Dhotrey to Tumling

Day 3: Tumling to Kali Pokhari

Day 4: Kali Pokhari to Sandakphu

Day 5: Sandakphu to Molley

Day 6: Molley to Gorkhey

Day 7: Gorkhey to Srikhola

Day 8: Srikhola to NJP/Bagdogra

Itinerary

Day 1: Drive from NJP/Bagdogra to Dhotrey

Distance: 105 Km

Duration: 5 hours

Altitude: 8,500 ft

Time: 10 A.M

Your journey with us starts upon reaching the frontier town of Siliguri. Depending upon your mode of arrival, pick up will be arranged from Bagdogra, NJP or Siliguri Junction. The cost of the transport from the pick up point to Dhotrey is Rs 6,000/- and is shared by the trekkers.

The road takes you through the bustling town of Siliguri initially, but soon you would be journeying through the tea gardens and lush forests. The ascent starts from after reaching the beautiful lake of Mirik. From there to Dhotrey, it's a constant meandering journey through beautiful tea gardens and mountain forests. On the way to Dhotrey, you will cross the hilly settlements of Sukhia Pokhari and Maneybhanjan. Apart from these, its just you and the tranquil nature for company as you reach the beautiful base camp of Dhotrey. Nestled within a thick pine forest, Dhotrey is truly a sight to behold. If you are lucky, you will get your first glimpse of Kanchenjungha from here itself. Have an early dinner and call it a day as you need ample rest before your trek tomorrow.

Day 2: Dhotrey to Tumling

Distance: 6 Km

Duration: 3 hours

Altitude: 10,000 ft

Time: 9 A.M

Today will be your first day of trek. It will be relaxed climb of about 1,500 ft and will mostly warm you up for the difficult terrain up ahead. From Dhotrey its initially a gentle climb towards Tumling. You will walk through rich forests of Pine and Coniferous and some occasional appearances of Rhododendron as you slowly gain the altitude. The forest is rich in flora and fauna and you will have multiple sightings of numerous birds. At the halfway point, you will find a beautiful resting stop comprised of a flat land, with mountain views all around and a peak of the Dhotrey village down below. From there it's a bit of a steep climb till you reach Tonglu. From there its just a km of flat walk to reach your destination for the day, Tumling. Reaching there you will receive the warm mountain hospitality as you sip on some tea while taking in the breathtaking views all around. This is the place which gives you a brief trailer of what treat awaits you once you reach your summit. After having a hearty dinner, sleep of to the sound of nature as you prepare yourself for the journey ahead.

Day 3: Tumling to Kalipokhari

Distance: 13 Km

Duration: 5 hours

Altitude: 10,500 ft

Time: 8 A.M

Wake up early to catch the beautiful sunrise from Tumling and catch The Mt Kanchenjungha in its full glory. After a quick breakfast, we start early as we have a long journey ahead of us. A short distance into the trek, we will reach the entry point of Singalila National Park. We will need to complete our entry formalities here. You will need to pay for a camera permit here if you are carrying any. Your trek guide will help you through the process. The Singalila National Park houses a great number of animals like the Himalayan Bear, Leopard cat, Barking Dear, Pangolin and the famous and elusive Red Panda. We will have a relaxed flat walk till we reach the settlement of Jaubari. All along the way, our trail will flirt with the Indo-Nepal border as we criss cross through our neighbor lands. From Jaubari we will have a descent, till we reach Gairibas. Here you can have a small break and also indulge in some snacks. Gairibas houses a rhododendron research centre and has a detailed accounting of the various varieties of Rhododendrons available in the region. From Gairibas we will face the first difficult phase of our trek, as we traverse a steep climb all the way to Kalipokhari. After a strenuous but rewarding climb, we will reach the high altitude lake of Kalipokhari. After a steaming hot beverage to soothe your aching muscles, you can pay a visit to the calm waters of the lake and feel your tiredness ebbing away.

Day 4: Kalipokhari to Sandakphu

Distance: 6 Km

Duration: 4 hours

Altitude: 11900 ft ft

Time: 9 A.M

Today is the the most challenging phase of your trek, The trail will test your endurance to the limit. Make sure to fill up your water bottles before starting, as there will be no settlements between here and Sandakphu. We will climb through barren mountain roads with scarce vegetations as we would be almost above the tree line. You can take short cuts in between which will cut down the time but will considerably increase the strain on your legs. Milestones along the way would motivate you as you will see the destination come nearer and nearer. Once reaching the summit, all your hard work will pay off, as you will witness the wonder called Sleeping Buddha at its full glory. Sandakphu has the distinction of offering the view of 4 of the top 5 highest mountain peaks of the world. Apart from Kanchenjungha, it also offers the view of Mt Kanchenjungha, Makalu and Lhotse along with several other high peaks of the Himalayas. On reaching Sandakphu, you can settle down for a bit and then set out to explore the area. Your aching muscles will beg you to call it an early night, but make a mental note to wake up early enough to catch the most beautiful sunrise ever.

Day 5: Sandakphu to Molley

Distance: 21 Km

Duration: 7 hours

Altitude: 11,700 ft

Time: 7 A.M

After witnessing the magnificent sunrise from the highest point of west Bengal, you will get ready for the next phase of your trek. We have a lot of distance to cover today so we will start quite early. This will be the longest trek stretch, but it is effortlessly the most beautiful part. The magnificent view of the highest peaks of the world will be your constant companion.

As you are above the tree line, you will not witness many trees along the route other than some stretches of Rhododendrons. If you are trekking in the March-April season, you will also witness the mesmerizing view of the Rhododendrons in full bloom. The route is fairly flat, with some ascents and descents along the way. At the halfway point, you will find “Char Ratey,” a resting point for Yak Grazers of the past, where they used to wait for four nights while their livestock used to graze.

As we will have a good amount of distance to cover today, you will be given a light-packed lunch today. From Sabarkum, the route divides into two parts. One goes towards Phalut and the other towards Molley. Depending upon the availability of the time, we would choose our route. Our stay for the night would be Phalut or Molley. On reaching the campsite, you will relax with hot beverages and some light snacks. A while later, your dinner will be served.

Day 6: Molley to Gorkhey

Distance: 14 Km

Duration: 6 hours

Altitude: 11,400 ft

Time: 9 A.M

If you are staying at Molley, you will start your day pretty early and take a hike towards Phalut. You will retrace your steps back to Sabarkum, and there the trail will be a gradual ascent. In Phalut top, you will see one of the most unobstructed and up-close views of the Sleeping Buddha range that you ever have or can experience. The Mt Everest, Lhotse & Makalu are also prominently visible. If the stay is at Phalut, then you would have to trek 1 km to Phalut top to witness the view. After having breakfast at Phalut, we would start our descent to Gorkhey.

As you start your descent, the trail will quickly change from vast open fields to green forests. You will also travel through some bamboo canopy forests. Once there, keep an eye out for the elusive red panda. If you are lucky, you can easily spot one in this region. Soon, you will be greeted with a gurgling sound of a mountain stream to indicate that you are very near to your destination. Your forest path will suddenly open up to a vast open land of the beautiful village of Samandin. A little more descent will lead you to Gorkhey, your pit stop for the night. It is a beautiful mountain village, straight out of an artist`s rendition. After lunch, you can visit the river and get amazed by its crystal-clear water. Enjoy the evening at the homestay, where a bonfire will be arranged, before you call it a night after your dinner is served.

Day 7: Gorkhey to Srikhola

Distance: 16 Km

Duration: 5 hours

Altitude: 6,900 ft

Time: 8 A.M

Today is the last day of your trail. As we will have a steady descent, it will be a fairly easy route. It s advisable that you use kneecaps today, as the steady descent can be quite taxing on your knees. The trail will go through dense forests, and you will be greeted by whistling birds at every turn.

The sun will rarely penetrate the thick canopy of the forests. But soon, the trail will open up to the settlements of Rammam, and you will know that you are halfway towards your destination. Further down the trail, you will reach Rimbick, and from there, it is just 1 Km from your destination, Srikhola.

Once reaching the homestay, enjoy the hospitality while you revel in the glory of completing your trek. You can relax by the river while your celebratory dinner is being prepared. Enjoy a sound sleep as the gurgling river sing you a lullaby, and your aching muscles receive a much-needed rest.

Day 8: Drive to NJP/Bagdogra

Distance: 130 Km

Duration: 6 hours

Time: 9 A.M

Today you say goodbye to the Singalila National Park as you drive down towards NJP. Post breakfast you can take some cool insta worthy photos at the hanging bridge in Srikhola. After that you journey takes you along the mountain paths back to the chaotic city life. The cab fare to Siliguri is Rs 8,000/- and will be shared by the trekkers. You will pass through the settlements of Rimbik, Dhotrey and Maneybhanjan, after which the familiar tea garden vista will greet you. You will be able to attend a tea testing at the Gopal Dhara tea garden on the way. Where from you can source some authentic Darjeeling tea for yourself. Finally, your journey will come full circle at NJP, from where you can depart for your onward destination with fond memories from the trip.

How to Reach

Sandakphu is accessible to the roadhead through Dhotrey. Dhotrey is easily accessible via motorable road from the town of Siliguri. Siliguri is very well connected throughout the country via rail. The two major rail stations are NJP and Siliguri Junction. Siliguri also has an airport of its own. Bagdogra airport connects Siliguri with the rest of the country and is at a distance of 12 kms from the Town Centre.

Cost

Rs 12,800/- per head

Inclusions

All accommodations.

All meals from day 1 Lunch to Day 8 Breakfast.

Experienced Guide and other support staff.

All equipment like, tents, sleeping bags etc.

All trek permits.

Exclusions

Transport to and from the station/airport.

Food during transit.

Any personal expenses.

Camera Charges.

Singalila National Park Entry Fees.

Anything not mentioned in inclusions.

Things to carry

Basics:

  1. A sturdy ruck-sack with support rod(50-60 ltrs)
  2. A small day pack(15-20 ltrs) in case you are off loading your bag
  3. A trekking shoe with ankle support

Documents:

  1. Photocopy of a Govt. issued id
  2. 2 recent passport size photos
  3. Medical certificate
  4. Disclaimer Certificate

Clothing:

  1. 4 pairs of polyester T shirt
  2. 3 Pairs of quick dry trek pants
  3. A lightweight Hollowfill/Feather jacket
  4. A set of thermal inners(For winters)
  5. A fleece Jacket(For winters)
  6. A rain coat/Poncho
  7. 4 pairs of cotton socks + 2 pairs of woolen socks
  8. 1 Pair of gloves

Medicine:

  1. Coca 30: 30 ml
  2. Crocin: 6 tablets
  3. Avomine: 4 tablets
  4. Avil(25 mg): 4 tablets
  5. Combiflam: 4 tablets
  6. Norflox TZ: 6 tablets
  7. Digene: 6 tablets
  8. ORS: 6 sachets
  9. Band Aid: 6 strips
  10. Eno: 4 sachets
  11. Betadine or any antiseptic ointment
  12. Pain spray
  13. Knee cap and crepe bandage

Toiletries:

  1. Sunscreen
  2. Moisturizer
  3. Lip Balm
  4. Hand Sanitizer
  5. Tooth brush & paste
  6. Toilet Paper
  7. Light and preferable quick dry towel
  8. Hand Wash/Liquid Soap

Accessories:

  1. A pair of sun shades
  2. A cap/sun hat
  3. A head torch
  4. Hand Sanitizer
  5. Trekking Pole
  6. Toilet Paper
  7. Water bottle

Apart from these, trekkers can also carry some dry fruits/trail mix/chocolates or light snacks.

All Packages

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