Sandakphu–Phalut Trek (Singalila Ridge)

Information

Distance

47.0 km

Duration

6–8 days

Max elevation

3,636 m

Country

India (IN)

Difficulty

Sedang — jalur punggung bukit panjang di ketinggian, ramah pemula yang bugar

Best Season

Oktober–Desember & Maret–Mei (langit cerah; rhododendron mekar di musim semi)

Permits & Fees

Izin masuk Taman Nasional Singalila + pemandu terdaftar wajib; pendaki asing memerlukan izin tambahan di Manebhanjan

Description

Sandakphu (3,636 m) is the highest point in the Indian state of West Bengal and the summit of the Singalila Ridge that runs along the India–Nepal border. The classic trek starts at Manebhanjan (near Darjeeling), climbing through Tumling, Kalipokhri, and Sandakphu, then continuing to Phalut on the northern part of the same ridge, typically over 6–8 days. Its signature draw is the 'Sleeping Buddha' panorama of Kangchenjunga plus four of the world's five highest mountains — Everest, Kangchenjunga, Lhotse, and Makalu — visible in a single sweep, framed by rhododendron and magnolia forest. Because the route lies within Singalila National Park, trekkers must carry an entry permit and a registered guide; the best seasons are October–December and March–May.

Trail Highlights

Punggung Singalila yang menjadi batas alami India–Nepal, dari Manebhanjan menuju Sandakphu (3.636 m, titik tertinggi Bengal Barat) lalu Phalut — dengan panorama 'Sleeping Buddha' dan empat dari lima puncak tertinggi dunia (Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, Makalu) dalam satu bentang langit, melewati hutan rhododendron dan magnolia serta desa-desa homestay lintas perbatasan.