Sandakphu Phalut – The Sleeping Buddha Trail | India Himalayan Trek
The Sandakphu Phalut Trek India is an epic Himalayan journey that crosses the landscapes of West Bengal and Sikkim, offering unmatched panoramas of the Sleeping Buddha formation and the world’s third-highest mountain, Kangchenjunga. Your adventure begins in Darjeeling, the iconic hill station known for its cultural charm and sunrise viewpoints.
From here, the route travels through peaceful Himalayan villages, dense forests, and long high ridgelines glowing at dawn especially at the legendary viewpoint of Sandakphu, where Everest and Kangchenjunga align in a breathtaking skyline. The trek continues across rugged terrain, high passes, icy moraines, and remote valleys, eventually reaching Tashiding, a sacred village known for its ancient Buddhist heritage.
The journey ends in Gangtok before returning to Delhi by flight. Guided by Into Wild Himalaya Expeditions, this demanding trail offers extraordinary mountain views, deep cultural experiences, and a rewarding challenge for committed Himalayan trekkers.
HIGHLIGHTS:
⭐ Best travel window: Late June to mid-September
⭐ Stunning Himalayan viewpoint at Sandakphu
⭐ Trek across high-altitude passes and rugged ridgelines
⭐ Visit sacred Samity Lake and Goecha La region
⭐ Walk through charming Himalayan villages
⭐ Experience Buddhist culture in remote Sikkim and West Bengal
⭐ Comfortable stays with full trekking support and logistics
🗻 Altitude: 216 m / 709 ft
Guests will be warmly received at the airport and transferred to the hotel for a restful overnight stay in Delhi.
🗻 Altitude: 2,135 m / 7,004 ft
📈 Altitude Gain: +1,919 m / +6,288 ft
You’ll board a domestic flight to Bagdogra, followed by a scenic 4-hour drive to Darjeeling, the charming hill station famed for its colonial history and world-renowned tea. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.
🗻Max Altitude: 8,586 m / 28,169 ft
📈 Altitude Gain: +5,996 m / +19,672 ft
Begin the day early with a pre-dawn drive to Tiger Hill to witness a breathtaking sunrise over Kangchenjunga (8,548 m / 28,044 ft.), along with views of other Himalayan peaks. After breakfast, enjoy a ride on the iconic toy train to Ghoom Monastery, followed by visits to the Botanical Gardens and the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute. Post-lunch, take a relaxing stroll through lush tea gardens. The evening is free for leisure before retiring to your hotel for the night.
🗻 Altitude: 2,134 m / 7,001 ft
🏔️ Maximum Elevation (Tonglu): 3,070 m / 10,072 ft
📈 Altitude Gain: +936 m / +3,071 ft (from 2,134 m to 3,070 m)
⏰ Trekking Time: 1.5 hours
After a drive from Darjeeling to Manay Bhanjang, begin your trek with sweeping views over the southern Bengali plains and glimpses of mighty Kanchenjunga ahead. The trail gently ascends through lush rhododendron forests in a zigzag fashion, leading you to the scenic ridge-top village of Tonglu.
🗻 Altitude: 2,620 m / 8,595 ft.
📉 Altitude Loss: -450 m / -1,476 ft (from Tonglu to Garibas)
⏰ Trekking Time: 4 hours
Follow a moss-covered trail that winds through enchanting forests and quaint mountain villages. The route opens up at intervals to reveal sweeping views of the surrounding Himalayan landscape, making for a serene and scenic trekking day to Garibas.
🗻 Altitude: 3,640 m / 11,942 ft.
📈 Altitude Gain: +1,020 m / +3,346 ft
⏰ Trekking Time: 4.5 hours
Begin with a steady climb toward Kalpokhari, followed by a steep ascent onto the dramatic Singalila Ridge. As you reach Sandakphu, take in a breathtaking 360° view of the world’s highest peaks, including Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Kangchenjunga.
🗻 Altitude: 3,600 m / 11,811 ft.
📉 Altitude Loss: -40 m / -131 ft
⏰ Trekking Time: 6 hours
Begin the day with a walk to a stunning viewpoint for sunrise over Kanchenjunga, Everest, Makalu, Lhotse, Jannu, and Cho Oyu. The trail to Phalut unfolds with dramatic scenery shifts—silvery pine forests, grazing yak herds, grassy meadows, alpine lakes, and sweeping views of the snow-capped Himalayan giants.
🗻 Altitude: 2,560 m / 8,398 ft.
📉 Altitude Loss: -1,040 m / -3,412 ft
⏰ Trekking Time: 5 hours
Enjoy a gentle descent through lush forest trails leading to the picturesque village of Gorkhey. From here, a short climb brings you to the quiet settlement of Raman, surrounded by serene natural beauty.
🗻 Altitude: 2,280 m / 7,480 ft.
📉 Altitude Loss: -280 m / -919 ft
⏰ Trekking Time: 4 hours
Trek through a series of charming hillside villages and forests before crossing the Sri Khola river via an impressive suspension bridge, arriving at the vibrant village of Rimbik.
🗻Altitude: 2,150 m / 7,050 ft
📉 Altitude Loss: -130 m / -427 ft
🚗 Driving Distance: Approx. 9 hours
Depart from Rimbik by road for a long yet scenic drive to Pelling, a tranquil town nestled in the heart of Sikkim, known for its panoramic views of the Himalayas and cultural richness.
🗻 Altitude: 2,800 m / 9,186 ft
📉 Altitude Loss:+520 m / +1,706 ft
🚗 Driving Distance: Approx. 2 hours
Begin the day with a visit to Pemayangtse Monastery (2,800 m / 9,186 ft), just 2.5 km from Pelling. One of Sikkim’s oldest and most revered monasteries, it offers deep spiritual insight and stunning architecture before continuing the drive to Yuksum.
🗻 Altitude: 3,030 m / 9,940 ft.
📈 Altitude Gain: +230 m / +755 ft
⏰ Trekking Time: 6 hours
The trail ascends through the lush, semi-tropical forests of the Rhotang Valley, gradually giving way to towering pine, rhododendron, and magnolia groves. A steep climb leads you to the quaint Tibetan village of Tsokha, offering stunning views of Kanchenjunga and the surrounding Himalayan range.
🗻 Altitude: 4,020 m / 13,189 ft.
📈 Altitude Gain: +990 m / +3,248 ft
⏰ Trekking Time: 5 hours
Climb a steep, zigzagging trail through temperate forests and vibrant rhododendron clusters to reach the open meadow of Phedang. In spring, this region bursts into color with over 400 species of blooming flora. Continuing upward along a high ridge, arrive at Dzongri—an expansive yak pasture offering sweeping mountain views.
🗻 Altitude: 3,930 m / 12,893 ft.
📉 Altitude Loss: -90 m / -295 ft
⏰ Trekking Time: 4 hours
Descend through a dense rhododendron forest to the glacial Prek River before reaching the wide alpine meadows of Thangshing. Camp here with panoramic views of Mount Pandim, the southern ridge of Kanchenjunga, and the awe-inspiring Onglakhing glaciers directly ahead.
🗻 Altitude: 4,200 m / 13,779 ft.
📈 Altitude Gain: +270 m / +886 ft
⏰ Trekking Time: 3 hours
Enjoy a gentle walk beneath the west face of Mount Pandim, passing through fields of dwarf azaleas and rhododendrons to reach Zemathang. Step onto the Onglakhing Glacier before climbing to the tranquil shores of Samity Lake—believed to be the sacred source of the Prek River. Surrounded by prayer flags, the lake mirrors the stunning peaks of Forked Peak, Kabru North, and Gocha Peak.
🗻 Altitude: 4,940 m / 16,207 ft.
📈 Altitude Gain: +740 m / +2,447 ft
⏰ Trekking Time: 7 hours
Begin early to avoid the morning fog as you ascend toward Gocha La. The trail traverses rugged moraines before reaching the prayer flag-draped pass. From this high vantage point, witness unforgettable close-up views of Kangchenjunga and the sweeping Talung Glacier before descending back to Thangshing.
🗻 Altitude: 4,230 m / 13,878 ft.
📉 Altitude Loss: -710 m / -2,326 ft
⏰ Trekking Time: 5 hours
Begin with a steep descent from Thangshing, followed by a steady climb through alpine terrain. The trail leads past a series of pristine high-altitude lakes before reaching the serene campsite at Lam Pokhari.
🗻 Altitude: 1,740 m / 5,708 ft.
📉 Altitude Loss: -2,490 m / -8,170 ft
⏰ Trekking Time: 5 hours
Enjoy an easy descent as the trail gradually leads you into warmer, more humid terrain. Surrounded by lush greenery, this final leg of the trek ends at the sacred village of Tashiding, known for its spiritual significance and peaceful ambiance.
🗻 Altitude: 1,788 m / 5,869 ft
📉 Altitude Loss: -1,462 m / -4,793 ft
🚗 Driving Distance: Approx. 4 hours
Before departing Tashiding, visit the revered Tashiding Monastery, one of Sikkim’s most secluded spiritual sites, perched on a hilltop between two rivers. After the visit, continue the drive to the quiet village of Martam.
🗻 Altitude: 1,500 m / 4,900 ft
📉 Altitude Loss: -288 m / -945 ft
🚗 Driving Distance: Approx. 1 hour
On the way to Gangtok, stop at the iconic Rumtek Monastery, renowned for its rich Tibetan Buddhist art and vibrant prayer rituals. After the visit, continue to Gangtok where the afternoon is free for you to explore or relax at your leisure.
🗻 Altitude: 216 m / 709 ft
📉 Altitude Loss: -1,284 m / -4,216 ft
Depart from Gangtok for a drive to Bagdogra airport, where you’ll board a domestic flight to Delhi. Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is free to relax or explore the city at your leisure. Overnight stay in Delhi.
🗻 Altitude: 216 m / 709 ft
Enjoy a full day at your leisure to explore Delhi’s rich blend of history and modern culture. Visit iconic landmarks, indulge in local cuisine, or shop in vibrant markets. Overnight stay at your hotel.
You will be transferred to Indira Gandhi International Airport for your onward flight, marking the end of your unforgettable Himalayan adventure.
Arrival From Indira Gandhi International Airport (New Delhi)
Departure From Indira Gandhi International Airport (New Delhi)
Certified Mountain Guide with mountaineering and first aid training Support Helpers to assist with kitchen and camp duties
Pack Horses for carrying gear and supplies
All Trekking Equipment: tents, sleeping bags, mats, kitchen and toilet tents
All Meals: breakfast, lunch, tea/snacks, soup, and dinner
Accommodation: twin-sharing tents
Transportation: all local transfers as per itinerary
Emergency Kit: first aid and oxygen canister
Package price excludes anything not mentioned under “Inclusions,” including flights, insurance, tips, rentals, and emergency costs.
Rental gear available at: Into Wild Himalaya Shop
Trekking boots (well broken-in, ankle support)
Camp sandals or lightweight shoes (for evenings)
Backpack (40–50L with rain cover)
Small daypack or summit pack (20–30L)
Sleeping bag (rated -10°C to -20°C)
Sleeping mat (foam or inflatable, optional)
Trekking poles (adjustable)
Base layers (1–2 sets, moisture-wicking top & bottom)
Fleece or light down jacket
Waterproof jacket (with hood, breathable)
Waterproof pants (with side zips)
Trekking pants (quick-dry)
Thermal tights
T-shirts (synthetic or merino wool)
Thin liner gloves
Insulated gloves
Woollen cap or balaclava
Neck gaiter or Buff
Sunglasses (UV protected)
Sun cap or wide-brimmed hat
Wool or synthetic socks (3–4 pairs)
Headlamp (with spare batteries)
Water bottles (2L total, insulated preferred)
Thermos flask (for high-altitude regions)
Water purification tablets (optional)
Personal first aid kit (blister care, pain relief, altitude meds)
Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
Lip balm (SPF 30+)
Toiletries (eco-friendly, biodegradable)
Wet wipes and hand sanitizer
Quick-dry towel
Snacks (energy bars, trail mix, nuts, dry fruits)
Electrolyte tablets or ORS
Camera or GoPro (optional)
Passport, permits, and some cash (in waterproof pouch)
Safety is our top priority. Our guides are trained First Aid Responders and prepared for high-altitude situations. Every trek, expedition, and motorbike tour includes a comprehensive first aid kit tailored for remote and high-altitude environments.
Core Medical Supplies
Wound Care: Bandages, sterile gauze, antiseptic wipes, antibiotic ointment
Blisters & Burns: Moleskin, burn gel, petroleum jelly
Fractures & Sprains: SAM splint, triangular bandage, compression wraps
Medications: Painkillers, antihistamines, anti-diarrheal, ORS, antacids, Diamox
Tools: Tweezers, scissors, gloves, CPR face shield, thermometer, pulse oximeter, whistle, mirror
Additional (for Remote/Extended Treks)
Tourniquet, emergency bandages, quick-clot gauze, sterile eye wash, foil blanket, water purification tablets
Optional Add-ons (As Needed)
Personal meds (inhalers, insulin, EpiPen)
Snake bite kit (in high-risk zones)
Tick remover (for forested routes)
High-Altitude Protocol
Above 4500 meters: A portable hypobaric chamber is always carried for emergency altitude management.
More than 30 days before your trip: 90% refund
15–30 days before: 50% refund
7–14 days before: 25% refund
Less than 7 days or no-show: No refund
Custom/private trips: Booking advance is non-refundable. Last-minute changes are subject to availability and costs.
For more details on our cancellation policy, please refer to the following link:
https://iwhexpeditions.com/cancellation_policy/
