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FromINR 13,800

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4N/5D

Availability : Anytime

NJP / Bagdogra

Sandakphu

Min Age : 6+

Max People : 24

Overview

The Sandakphu Phalut car tour offers an adventurous journey through the stunning landscapes of the Eastern Himalayas, providing access to the highest points of West Bengal by vehicle. This tour is ideal for those who want to experience the breathtaking views of the Himalayan range, including Kanchenjunga and other which is popularly known as ‘Sleeping Buddha’ (is a popular name given to a mountain formation in the Himalayas that resembles a reclining Buddha when viewed from certain angles, especially from the Sandakphu and Phalut areas. This visual phenomenon is created by a combination of several peaks in the Kanchenjunga range, with each peak representing different parts of the Buddha’s body. The Sleeping Buddha formation holds cultural and spiritual significance for the local people, often inspiring awe and reverence. The image of the Buddha in a reclining pose is a common representation in Buddhist art, symbolizing the Buddha during his last illness, about to enter Parinirvana, the final nirvana. The natural resemblance of the mountain range to this pose adds to the mystique and allure of the region.), Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu, without the physical demands of trekking though it takes you through lush rhododendron forests, charming villages, and alpine meadows, culminating in the breathtaking vistas from Sandakphu and Phalut.

Departure & Return Location

New jalpaiguri (New Mal) Railway station (NJP) or

Bagdogra International Airport (IXB)

Departure Time

1/2 Hours After reaching the depurture point

Price Includes

4 Nights Hotel Accomodation (2+1 basis non-ac room)
All transportation in destination location
Meal Plan (optional) - American Plan (Lodging + Breakfast + Lunch + evening tea + dinner)
Singalila park Entrance Fees

Price Excludes

Personal expenses such as laundry, bottled water, soft drinks, incidentals, porter charges, tips, etc.
Cost for extra usage of vehicle
Cost for Airfare, Train fare
Any other extra food in the roads (if not mentioned in itinerary)

Complementaries

Road toll tax only on highway

What to Expect

Sandakphu is the highest point of West Bengal at 3636m (11930ft) in the district of Darjeeling. This route follows the famous Singalila Ridge, a prominent spur of high ground that lies at the southern end of a long crest, which runs down from the Kanchendzongha massif and forms the border between Sikkim & Nepal. One of the unavoidable necessities of travelling in Himalaya is that the best views are had from high up but the move along this ridge, passing through small settlements, is perhaps the one of the most scenically rewarding in the Himalaya.

Stunning Mountain Views: Experience panoramic views of the Himalayan range, including the iconic "Sleeping Buddha" formation, as well as Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, and Makalu.
Diverse Flora and Fauna: The tour takes you through Singalila National Park, which is rich in biodiversity. You can expect to see a variety of rhododendron species, magnolia trees, and unique wildlife, such as red pandas and numerous bird species.
Cultural Encounters: Visit remote Himalayan villages and interact with local communities. This offers insights into the traditional lifestyle, customs, and hospitality of the people living in these high-altitude regions.
Scenic Drives: Travel along winding mountain roads with breathtaking views at every turn. The journey itself is an adventure, with the changing landscapes providing a constant backdrop of natural beauty.
Alpine Landscapes: Enjoy the beauty of alpine meadows, forests, and river valleys. The varying altitudes and terrains offer a diverse array of landscapes, each with its own charm.
Sunrise and Sunset Views: Sandakphu and Phalut are renowned for their spectacular sunrises and sunsets. Watching the first rays of the sun illuminate the snow-capped peaks is a highlight of the tour.
Sunrise and Sunset Views: Sandakphu and Phalut are renowned for their spectacular sunrises and sunsets. Watching the first rays of the sun illuminate the snow-capped peaks is a highlight of the tour.
Comfort and Accessibility: Unlike trekking, this car tour provides a comfortable and less physically demanding way to explore the region, making it accessible to a wider range of travelers.

Itinerary

Day 1NJP/Bagdogra to Chitre (85km, 4/5 hours)

Meet our representative at New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP). Begin the scenic drive to Chitre, a quaint hamlet on the Indo-Nepal border. The drive takes approximately 5-6 hours, passing through lush forests and small villages. Before reaching Chitre, you corss ManeBhanjan which is the gateway for your most awaited Sandakphu Trail. Put on your Jackets or Pull over (as you are almost 1900m above sea level, you will experience chill wind) and set out to roam round the vicinity of Mane Bhanjan as because you need to take the permits and fees from here. There is small Buddhist Pagoda where you can visit, hear the sound of flattering flags in high winds. In the evening, stroll around the hamlet.

Chitrey is a small picturesque village just 3 km from Mane Bhanjan. Located at a height of 8340ft above sea level, Chitrey is a wonderful hamlet and its serenity will mesmerize every traveler and trekker. Surrounded by high forest in one side and wide spread meadow other side the view from Chitrey is really spell bound.

Upon arrival, enjoy the serene mountain atmosphere and picturesque views. Overnight stay at a local guesthouse or homestay in Chitre.

Day 2Chitre to Tumling (11km, 1 hour)

After breakfast, drive towards Tumling, 2970 meter (9750 feet), though it only 11km away from chitre, still always need to stay there to acclamatise with the altitude. It offers breathtaking views of the Singalila range. Explore Tonglu and its surroundings, enjoying the panoramic views and tranquil setting.

One can hike to Tonglu, it is one of the higher peaks of the Singalila Ridge, standing at an elevation of approximately 3,070 meters (10,070 feet). It is also a small settlement located inside the Singalila National Park in the Darjeeling subdivision, Darjeeling district, West Bengal, India. Situated near the India-Nepal border. The area is known for its stunning views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks, including the Kanchenjunga range. It offers a tranquil and scenic environment, making it a favored spot for both trekkers and nature enthusiasts. The settlement itself is small, providing basic accommodations and a unique glimpse into the lifestyle of the local communities.

Overnight at a guesthouse or homestay in Tonglu.

Day 3Tonglu to Sandakphu (18km, 2/3 hours)

With a very good morning at Tumling, try to catch the amazing view of early morning Sun rise from Tumling view point. Stroll around the concrete road and feel the freshness of air. Intake the pure oxygen as much as you can. You can perform Yogasana or Surya Namasker also. Complete your breakfast and move for Kalipokhri. From here Kalipokhri is almost 12km. It is a wonderful road up to Singalila National Park Check Post (1 km from Tumling and here you have to show your permits). Keeping Singalila National Park on your right side and Nepal on your left you will drive through the wonderful serpentine rocky narrow path full of small bamboo and rhododendron. If your travel time is between March to June, then you will get the best bloom of rhododendron everywhere.

After short break here move again, you will reach Bikhey Bhanjang, a small hamlet at an altitude exceeding 10,000 feet. therefore the reduced oxygen levels can make the trip more challenging. From Bikhey Bhanjang, you enter a region known as the “Valley of Poison,” named for the various types of poisonous herbs and shrubs that grow there. It’s important to avoid touching any colorful plants in this area, regardless of their appearance. The distance from Bikhey Bhanjang to Sandakphu is approximately 4 kilometers. From this part the road become very stipper and hairpin bend cause more difficulities for the driver, sometimes they may call you to leave the vehicle as the road is harder for a four wheel drive. As you ascend, you’ll be treated to breathtaking scenery at every turn, with expansive views of the surrounding landscape that are sure to leave a lasting impression. Eventually, you will see the milestone indicating Sandakphu 0Km, marking your arrival at the highest point in West Bengal at an altitude of 3636 mter (11930 feet). At this altitude, you’re rewarded with panoramic views of the majestic Himalayan range, including the iconic peaks of Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, and Makalu. This moment of reaching Sandakphu’s summit is a culmination of your effort, offering a sense of accomplishment and the unparalleled beauty of the world’s highest mountains.

Check into hotel or homestay, feel the freezing cold wind from the north that make your Teeth chattered in the cold. overnight stay in hotel

Day 4Sandakphu Exploration ( visit Phalut and back 42km up down 6/7 hours)

Wake up before dawn to catch the sunrise, which is one of the most stunning sights in the Himalayas. Dress warmly, as the temperatures can be quite cold at this altitude. As the sun begins to rise, the peaks of the Himalayas start to illuminate with a golden glow. The “Sleeping Buddha” formation of the Kanchenjunga range, with its peaks lined up in a way that resembles a sleeping Buddha, becomes particularly prominent and picturesque. The sight of the sun rising over these majestic peaks is truly awe-inspiring, casting a warm light over the snow-capped mountains and creating a breathtaking panorama. This is a prime moment for photography enthusiasts. The changing colors of the sky, from the deep blues of night to the vibrant hues of dawn, provide a perfect backdrop for capturing the beauty of the Himalayas.

Get back to the hotel take you breakfast, and move to phalut which is approximately 21 kilometers each way and offers an opportunity to witness some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the Singalila Ridge. The road is rugged and bumpy, typical of high-altitude terrains, so a 4×4 vehicle is recommended for a comfortable and safe journey. The drive from Sandakphu to Phalut takes you through dense forests of rhododendrons, magnolias, and bamboo groves, as well as along ridges offering expansive views of the Himalayan range. On clear days, the views of the “Sleeping Buddha” formation and other snow-capped peaks are particularly stunning. Phalut, situated at an altitude of around 3,600 meters (11,811 feet), offers another vantage point for panoramic views of the Himalayas, including a closer view of the Kanchenjunga range. The area is known for its vast meadows and a small trekker’s hut where travelers can rest.

After spending time exploring Phalut and enjoying the scenery, you can begin the return journey to Sandakphu. The drive back provides another opportunity to appreciate the natural beauty of the region from a different perspective. Arrive back in Sandakphu in the late afternoon or early evening. After the journey, you can relax and enjoy the tranquility of this high-altitude destination.

Day 5Sandakphu to NJP/Bagdogra (115km 8-9hours)

Begin your journey early in the morning to make the most of the daylight and ensure a comfortable descent. The distance from Sandakphu to NJP is approximately 115 kilometers, and the journey typically takes around 8 to 9 hours, depending on road conditions and traffic.

As you descend, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and forests. The landscape is particularly striking with a mix of dense rhododendron forests, bamboo groves, and alpine vegetation. Passing through charming hill villages and lush tea gardens, the journey offers a glimpse into the local culture and lifestyle. The tea gardens are a highlight, especially around the areas near Sukhiyapokhri.

The final stretch of the journey involves descending into the plains of West Bengal. The temperature and scenery gradually change from the cooler, mountainous region to the warmer, tropical plains. Arrive at NJP, a major railway station in the region, or Bagdogra Airport if that’s your destination. NJP serves as a gateway to the Darjeeling hills and Sikkim, making it a convenient endpoint for travelers.