The Sandakphu Trek: The Complete Guide
How To Reach Darjeeling
Darjeeling is well connected by road, rail and air from Siliguri. You can reach Darjeeling in about five hours from New Delhi or Calcutta. There are many buses for Darjeeling everyday. From Kathmandu you can take a bus or plane to Bagdogra. From Bagdogra airport, you can take a taxi/cab/bus to Siliguri by paying around Rs 400/-. From Siliguri you can hire a car/taxi to Darjeeling by paying around Rs 500/-. So the total cost of traveling from Kathmandu to Darjeeling will be approximately Rs 1200 (One way). If you want to go on your own then it will cost more than that as there will be some other expenses like food, accommodation etc.
Sombarim tea estate
Sombarim is a tea garden in Darjeeling District of West Bengal, India. Situated at an altitude of 2500m above sea level, Sombarim has its own tea processing factory where you can find a wide range of assam tea, black tea and white tea from different grades. There are also facilities for games like football and indoor games. Other activities that you can do in Sombarim are trekking (Sandakphu), shopping, horse riding etc. etc. An early start is essential if you want to make it up to Sandakphu before sunset. A popular choice amongst most tourists visiting Darjeeling is taking an overnight stay at Ghoom Monastery and then waking up early morning to catch a glimpse of sunrise over Kanchenjunga on your way back down.
Sandakphu trek - Do's And Don'ts
Whether you're trekking in Kalimpong or some other place, there are a few dos and don'ts that you should always keep in mind. Here are some of them that will be very helpful for everyone, who is traveling to hill stations for trekking. We have written an extensive list of Do's And Don'ts for Sandakphu Trek. Please check out these tips before your trip. If you follow these tips, it will help you to enjoy your trip without any hassle. However, if we miss anything here then please let us know through the comments section below so that we can update our post with more information about Sandakphu Trek Do's And Don'ts.
Climbing Equipment Required
Climbing equipment is not required for any of these treks. However, equipment can be rented at many places in Darjeeling. Remember that, although it is not necessary, renting gear provides added safety and support while on trail.
Transport required
Though you can reach Sandakphu via Pokhara by road, it’s best to fly from Kathmandu or Bagdogra. Alternatively, if you’re arriving from New Jalpaiguri or Siliguri in West Bengal, take a direct bus or hire a taxi for around Rs 3,000-4,000.
Day 1 (Drive to Pokhara)
On your drive from Guwahati to Pokhara, you’ll pass through Mankachar, a small but quiet town in Assam. Along with Talapatty and Sonitpur, it is one of three towns in Assam that have been granted tiger reserves by government authorities. You’ll also pass through small communities that rely on forests for their livelihood.
Day 2 (Summit)
Finally, on day two of your Sandakphu trek, you will reach Kalipokhri on a high mountain pass. At 17300 feet (5330 meters), it is one of the highest points on your trek. And from Kalipokhri, you will have great views of Mount Kanchenjunga -the third highest peak in the world.
Day 3 (Sombarim Tea Estate - Darjeeling)
Today you'll trek through beautiful rhododendron forests, complete with blooming orchids, on your way to Sandakphu (also known as Sandhakfu), at an elevation of 7120 feet. You'll visit a nearby monastery before heading back down to Sombarim Tea Estate. Head inside for dinner and overnight accommodation.
Planning For No Net Connection
So what is there to do when you’re out in a remote area with no Net connection? Sometimes, it’s just about being offline for a bit. Read a book, meditate or sleep. You might find it interesting to work through some of your problems by writing them down – have pen and paper handy in case inspiration strikes. If you’re on vacation, you can also make time for family. Catch up with loved ones, play games or watch movies together! Not all free time has to be spent working after all. And if all else fails, go for a run, hike or climb your way back into connection again!
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