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Sandakphu Phalut Reverse Trek

Sandakphu Phalut Reverse Trek

The Sandakphu–Phalut Reverse Trek is a spectacular ridge-line journey across the Singalila Range, offering uninterrupted views of the Sleeping Buddha, the Kanchenjunga massif, and even the towering peaks of the Everest–Lhotse–Makalu group. Unlike the traditional route, the reverse itinerary begins from the tranquil riverside village of Srikhola, gradually gaining altitude through forests, meadows, and remote settlements — giving trekkers a smoother acclimatization and a quieter, more immersive Himalayan experience.
Starting from Srikhola (6,200 ft), the trail ascends gently through bamboo and rhododendron forests to the postcard-perfect valley of Gorkhey, where two rivers meet amid pine-covered hills. From here, the trek climbs towards Phalut (11,811 ft) — famous for its 270° panoramic vantage point and some of the clearest views of the Kanchenjunga family. During spring, the entire forest transforms into a colourful corridor of red, pink, and white blooms.
The journey continues with a scenic ridge walk from Phalut to Sandakphu (11,900 ft), passing through Sabarkum and Thakum, offering constant Himalayan views on clear days. Sandakphu — the highest point of the Singalila Ridge — rewards trekkers with breathtaking sunrises and sunsets over snow-capped giants. The descent toward Gurdum and Timburey winds through serene forests and quiet homestays before ending once again at Srikhola.
This trek is ideal for beginners, nature lovers, birdwatchers, photographers, and travellers seeking a less crowded, visually rich, and culturally immersive Himalayan adventure.

 

Key Highlights

You start with Phalut’s wide 270° Himalayan panorama, including the Sleeping Buddha and Everest–Lhotse–Makalu. Better acclimatization: The ascent is more gradual, reducing fatigue and AMS chances. Early and extended walks through beautiful rhododendron, fir, and bamboo forests. Early stay at Gorkhey: Scenic village with a river—one of the trek’s most memorable locations. Less crowd: Reverse direction avoids the usual traffic at viewpoints and trails. Smoother difficulty curve: Trek feels more balanced — moderate → harder → easy. Comfortable finish: Descend gently to Sandakphu and then to Gurdum / Timburey / Srikhola.

  • With Sandakphu and Beyond, every trek is fully customizable to suit your style and pace.

  • Reverse trek fixed Departure dates of every Friday and Saturday- Special rate ₹ 13000 per head.

Day 1: Arrival at Srikhola

Arrive at Srikhola by evening.
Acclimatization and night stay at guesthouse/homestay.
Enjoy the serene riverside village atmosphere.

Day 2: Srikhola → Gorkhey (7,500 ft)

Distance: 16 km | Duration: 6–7 hrs
Gradual ascent through pine and rhododendron forests.
Lunch: Rammam village.
Overnight: Gorkhey – a beautiful valley at the confluence
of two streams.

Day 3: Gorkhey → Phalut (11,811 ft)

Distance: 15 km | Duration: 7–8 hrs
Trek through forests and meadows with lunch at Alubari.
Reach Phalut, the second-highest point of the Singalila
Ridge.
Overnight: Phalut trekkers’ hut.
Highlights: Panoramic view of Kanchenjunga and Everest
ranges (weather permitting).

Day 4: Phalut → Sandakphu (11,900 ft)

Distance: 21 km | Duration: 7–8 hrs

Long but scenic ridge walk via Sabarkum and Thakum.

Lunch: Thakum / Sabarkum.

Overnight: Sandakphu.

Highlights: Sunset view over the “Sleeping Buddha”
range.

Day 5: Sandakphu → Timburey (6560 ft)

Distance: ~15 km | Duration: ~5–7 hours
Lunch: Gurdum
Overnight: Timburey

Steep but scenic downhill through rhododendron and
bamboo forest.
Gentle forest trail; well-marked path.

Day 6: Timburey → Srikhola (6400 ft)

Distance: 3 kms

Final morning walk or jeep ride to Sepi,

followed by a 5–6 hour drive back to NJP or
Bagdogra

Highlight: Trek concludes with mountain
memories and a scenic valley exit.

DAY – 1

Reach Srikhola (6200 ft)

DAY – 2

Srikhola to Gorkhey (7500 ft)

DAY – 3

Gorkhey to Phalut (11811 ft)

DAY – 4

Phalut to Sandakphu (11900 ft)

DAY – 5

Sandakphu to Timburey (6550 ft)

DAY – 6

Timburey to Srikhola and return

Trip Details:

The Sandakphu–Phalut Reverse Trek offers a scenic and well-balanced Himalayan trekking experience through the Singalila Ridge. Walking the route in reverse makes the journey comfortable yet rewarding. Designed as a moderate trek, it combines natural beauty, village stays, and classic Himalayan landscapes into a memorable multi-day adventure.

Duration:

6 Days / 5 Nights

Difficulty:

Moderate

Maximum Altitude:

3,636 m (Sandakphu)

Best Seasons:

  • April–May (rhododendrons), October–December (clear views)

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