Sandakphu - Phalut
Also known as: Singalila Ridge
Sandakphu-Phalut - the "Sleeping Buddha" Kangchenjunga panorama and a distant view of Everest along the Singalila ridge
The route
The line through Darjeeling (West Bengal), India - waypoints, elevation and the day-by-day shape of the walk.
Waypoints
- 1Darjeeling / Manebhanjan (start)Trailhead
Start [interpolated - upgrade in research]
Approximate node - GPS and name to be upgraded in deeper research.
- 2Stage camp/villageCamp
Staging point (approx) [interpolated - upgrade in research]
Approximate node - GPS and name to be upgraded in deeper research.
- 3Stage camp/villageCamp
Staging point (approx) [interpolated - upgrade in research]
Approximate node - GPS and name to be upgraded in deeper research.
- 4EndTrailhead
End of route [interpolated - upgrade in research]
Approximate node - GPS and name to be upgraded in deeper research.
Season & conditions
Oct-Dec and Mar-May
Cold, wind, cloud; clear autumn mountain views
Best in autumn (clear) and spring (rhododendron); a guide is mandatory in Singalila NP. Confirm.
On the trail
Ridgeline villages and rhododendron forest along the Singalila ridge
Non-technical walking/hiking; confirm any exposed or scrambly sections locally
Marked/waymarked route; navigation generally straightforward - carry a map and confirm locally
Suitable for reasonably fit hikers; not wheelchair accessible - confirm specifics
A popular, well-known route - busier in peak season
Sandakphu out-and-back, or the full Phalut traverse
Getting there & staying
Manebhanjan, from Darjeeling
Point-to-point may need transport between ends - confirm
Trekkers’ huts/teahouses in the ridge villages
Layered outdoor kit, sturdy footwear, sun/rain protection, ample water; patchy mobile coverage - carry a map/PLB where remote
Services in Darjeeling / Manebhanjan; limited or none on the trail
Mandatory guide
Permits & safety
Singalila NP entry and a MANDATORY guide; teahouse lodging. Confirm.
Permits and operators change - confirm before booking.
Cold, the long ridge, altitude
Retrace the route to exit; dial local emergency services; carry a means of calling for help where remote
This profile is desk research, compiled from public sources - not a first-hand trail report. Coordinates are approximate.