Treks and walks · Phalut
The 21 km ridge walk from Sandakphu
Walk north along the bare crest of the Singalila Ridge from Sandakphu to Phalut, with Kanchenjunga ahead and Everest behind your left shoulder. It is the longest and finest day of the trek, high, open and nearly empty.
Leave Sandakphu after sunrise and breakfast. The track drops gently, then rolls along the ridge between about 3,400 and 3,600 m. There are no big climbs, but the distance, 21 km, and the altitude make it a long day. The ground is open grass, juniper and dwarf rhododendron, with fir forest falling away on the Indian side.
For most of the day Kanchenjunga is straight ahead, growing as you walk. Look back and left for Everest, Lhotse and Makalu. In April and May the dwarf rhododendrons flower; in October the grass is gold and the air very clear. Sabargram, about halfway, has a few huts and an army post and makes the lunch stop.
After Sabargram the track climbs gradually to Phalut. Cloud often comes up in the afternoon and the wind on the ridge can be fierce, so keep a windproof layer handy. Arrive by 3 pm if you can, drop your pack at the hut and climb to the summit for sunset.
Cost: Included in your guide fee
Questions people ask
Good to know
How difficult is the Sandakphu to Phalut trek?
It is long rather than steep: about 21 km at 3,400–3,600 m, taking 6–8 hours. The altitude and distance make it tiring. You need to be acclimatised from earlier days and start early. Weather can turn windy and cold in the afternoon.
Is there water and food between Sandakphu and Phalut?
Very little. Sabargram, halfway, sometimes has tea, but do not rely on it. Carry two litres of water and a packed lunch from your Sandakphu lodge. Refill only from treated or boiled sources.
Can I do Sandakphu to Phalut and back in one day?
Walking, no: that would be over 40 km at altitude. By Land Rover, a day run to Phalut and back from Sandakphu is sometimes possible where the track and rules allow. Check current status before you travel.
