Sandakphu - A Stairway To Heaven

Sandakphu, rightly nicknamed as 'a trekker's delight', is the highest peak in West Bengal. It is truly one of a kind, and so mesmerizing that words cannot do justice to it. Yet, try we will.

The trek unfolds against a Himalayan canvas adorned by four of the highest peaks in the world, and dominated by the mighty Mt. Everest! The lofty peaks of Kanchendzonga, Lhotse, and Makalu also watch over you throughout the beautiful journey. The Kanchendzonga range, fondly called 'The Sleeping Buddha' owing to its lovely appearance can be admired in a panoramic sprawl too. The most phenomenal experience throughout the Sandakphu trek will be the early morning sun rays breaking on the peaks of your Himalayan neighbors, layering everything in a surreal, golden-orange hue.

Another characteristic exclusive to the trek is that the trail to Sandakphu keeps weaving in and out of Nepal, and sometimes without notice. Imagine this-you're camping in India, and having your tea in Nepal! Sounds unreal, doesn't it? In fact, there?s even a small no man?s land in between!

The trek can be done throughout the year. If you're keen about catching the verdant greenery in its full bloom, the summer and spring seasons are your best bet. If you take the trek in autumn, you can admire the true beauty of 'fall' as the crisp autumn leaves crunch under your feet throughout. And if you make the trek in winters, the entire place is draped by a beautiful carpet of virgin snow, making the trails look like a fairytale.

The trek stems from the Jaubhari, and winds through dense forests home to blooming rhododendrons and magnolias that layer your trails. Kalipokhri Lake is an incredible sight to behold, especially at dusk. The rustic and quaint feel of the place makes you feel strangely at home - an unequaled sense of belonging reigns.

Once you reach Sandakphu, the world's four highest peaks rise up and greet you, while the stunning Chomolhari peak, the highest in Bhutan, makes a rare appearance! The villages you trek through are so beautiful, that the likes of Scotland moors struggle to match them. Not to mention, the trek is also home to the Himalayan Red Pandas, one of the most elusive species in the Himalayas.

Can you think of any other trek that matches the marvel of the Sandakphu trek? Exactly. Nor can we. If you can, however, feel free to let us know in the comments.