Sandakphu Phalut Trek with Indiahikes Travelogue and Itinerary

The Sandakphu Phalut trek offers more than just scenic landscapes; it’s an immersive experience that brings you face-to-face with the majesty of the Himalayas. Over the course of seven days, from 28th January to 3rd February 2024, I trekked through remote villages, thick forests, and snow-covered ridges, each step revealing a new side of the mountains.

Thanks to Indiahikes and the expertise of our trek leader, Shivank, alongside the invaluable guidance of local guides Milan and Nim, the journey was well-organized, insightful, and filled with meaningful interactions. From the warmth of the local villages to the stark beauty of the snow-capped peaks, every moment felt like a connection with nature and the people who call these mountains home. This trek, with its perfect blend of challenge and reward, left me with memories that will last a lifetime.

Day 1: Drive from Darjeeling to Sepi (6,400 ft)

Our journey started with a scenic drive from Darjeeling to Sepi, the base camp for our trek. The seven-hour journey took us through rolling tea gardens, lush forests, and quaint villages. Sepi, located at 6,400 ft, was our starting point, and the excitement in the air was palpable. Upon arrival, we met our trek leader, Shivank, whose energy and passion for the mountains immediately set a positive tone for the days ahead.

Day 2: Sepi to Samanden (7,760 ft) | Trek Distance: 14 km

The trek officially began as we hiked from Sepi to Samanden, a picturesque village tucked away in the forest. The 14 km trail was a mix of gentle ascents and forested paths. Samanden, often called the “forest village,” felt like a step back in time, with its serene beauty and the simplicity of life here. The warmth of the locals and the peaceful surroundings made it an unforgettable night.

Day 3: Samanden to Molley (11,220 ft) | Trek Distance: 10 km

From Samanden, we ascended toward Molley. The 10 km trek brought us through dense rhododendron and bamboo forests. As we climbed higher, the landscape changed dramatically, with snow beginning to dust the trail. Molley, at 11,220 ft, was enveloped in a blanket of white, and the crisp mountain air filled our lungs as we settled into our campsite for the night. Shivank’s knowledge of the flora and fauna added layers of interest to each step of this ascent.

Day 4: Molley to Sabargram via Phalut (11,810 ft) | Trek Distance: 15 km

This was one of the most exhilarating days of the trek. Starting from Molley, we trekked to Phalut and then onto Sabargram. The 15 km trail was a challenge, but the panoramic views of the Himalayan giants, including Kanchenjunga, Everest, and Makalu, made every effort worthwhile. Phalut, known for its unobstructed views of the Kanchenjunga range, was awe-inspiring. The ridge walk to Sabargram, amidst snow-clad peaks, was one of the highlights of the trek.

Day 5: Sabargram to Sandakphu (11,930 ft), Overnight at AAL in Nepal | Trek Distance: 13.5 km

After a rewarding day trekking through snow-laden trails, we reached our campsite at AAL, which is completely within Nepal. The experience of camping across the border added an exciting dimension to the trek, allowing us to soak in the local Nepali culture. The quiet remoteness of AAL was emphasized by the fact that our Indian SIM cards no longer had signal, further immersing us in the experience. It was fascinating to witness the subtle differences in daily life and customs between the two sides of the border.

We stayed overnight at AAL and prepared ourselves for the next morning’s ascent to the Sandakphu summit, the highest point of the trek at 11,930 ft. Early the next day, we set off for the summit, where we were rewarded with an incredible 180-degree view of the Himalayan giants. The sight of four of the world’s five tallest peaks—Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Kanchenjunga—stretched out before us in all their glory. The feeling of standing there, at the top, after days of challenging trekking, was indescribable. Shivank’s leadership was crucial in keeping our spirits high and ensuring we reached this point safely. It was truly the highlight of the trek, a moment I’ll carry with me forever.

Day 6: Sandakphu to Gurdum (7,395 ft) | Trek Distance: 8.5 km

After a spectacular sunrise over the Himalayan peaks, we began our descent to Gurdum. The trek down was a mix of steep descents and flatter sections, taking us from the snow-covered highlands into the green forests below. Gurdum, at 7,395 ft, was a cozy village, and the warmth of the homestays here made it a perfect resting spot after the long trek.

Day 7: Gurdum to Sepi, Drive to NJP / Bagdogra

The final stretch of the trek took us back to Sepi, a short but scenic 4 km walk. It was a bittersweet moment reaching the end of this incredible journey, knowing that the mountains were behind us, but the memories would stay forever. From Sepi, we drove back to NJP and Bagdogra, marking the end of this extraordinary adventure.

Gratitude and Reflection

This trek wouldn’t have been the same without the amazing support of Indiahikes. Their attention to detail, from the eco-friendly trek practices to the quality of food and accommodation, made the trek safe, comfortable, and sustainable. A special thanks to Shivank, whose guidance and enthusiasm added so much to the overall experience. His leadership kept our spirits high, and his knowledge of the terrain, culture, and history of the region enriched the trek in countless ways.

The Sandakphu Phalut trek was an adventure that tested my limits while rewarding me with sights and experiences that are hard to put into words. From the towering peaks of the Himalayas to the warm hospitality of the villages, this trek was a journey through the heart of nature and into the soul of adventure.