Trek · Sandakphu and Singalila, Darjeeling & Kalimpong
Ridge trek from Sandakphu to Phalut
Walk 21 km north along the open Singalila Ridge from Sandakphu to Phalut, at about 3,600 m the second-highest peak in West Bengal, for close views of the Kangchenjunga range, then descend via Gorkhey and Srikhola.
Photo: Shilbhadra · CC BY-SA 3.0 · CommonsBeyond Sandakphu, the trail to Phalut runs along the crest of the Singalila Ridge for about 21 km via Sabarkum, mostly between 3,400 and 3,600 m. It is a long day, 7–9 hours, but the gradient is moderate and the views are open: Kangchenjunga ahead, the Nepal ranges to the west, and the forested valleys of Sikkim to the east.
Phalut, at about 3,600 m, sits at the meeting point of West Bengal, Sikkim and Nepal. Fewer people come this far, and the ridge feels wilder. Water sources are few, so carry enough for the day. Weather changes quickly; fog can roll in by noon, and in winter snow can cover the trail.
From Phalut, most groups descend through forest to Gorkhey, a small village on a river, and on via Rammam or Samanden to Srikhola and Rimbik, where jeeps return to Darjeeling. Your guide, compulsory inside the park, will plan stages and lodges. Only attempt Phalut if you have acclimatised well at Sandakphu.
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Trips through Sandakphu and Singalila
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Each of these trips stops in Sandakphu and Singalila. Tell us and we keep a slot for this day.
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Windamere, Sandakphu and Taj Chia Kutir
Private SUV with driver; reserved Land Rover on the Singalila Ridge
Questions
Before you book
How difficult is the Sandakphu to Phalut stretch?
It is a long but not steep day of about 21 km at 3,400–3,600 m, taking 7–9 hours. Fit trekkers who have acclimatised at Sandakphu manage it. Carry water, snacks and rain gear. Do not attempt it if you have any altitude symptoms.
Where do I stay at Phalut?
Simple trekkers' huts and lodges operate near Phalut and below at Gorkhey. Facilities are basic, often with shared toilets and no heating. Your guide will book beds; in peak months they fill fast. Check current status before you travel.
How do I return from Phalut to Darjeeling?
Most groups descend via Gorkhey and Srikhola to Rimbik over one or two days, then take a jeep to Darjeeling, about 4–5 hours. Some return by Land Rover along the ridge to Manebhanjan. Plan the exit with your guide.