Viewpoints · Sandakphu
Sleeping Buddha sunrise from the summit
Stand on West Bengal's highest point before dawn and watch the Kanchenjunga massif, the Sleeping Buddha, catch the first light. It is the view people trek three days for, and on a clear November morning it does not disappoint.
The Sleeping Buddha is not a single peak but a line of them. Seen from the Darjeeling hills, the Kanchenjunga massif and its neighbours form the outline of a reclining figure, with the head, chest and folded arms picked out by different summits. From Sandakphu, 70 km away and 3,636 m up, the figure is at its largest and clearest.
Be at the viewpoint by 5 am in October and November, a little later in December. The sky lightens behind you in the east; then the top of Kanchenjunga, at 8,586 m the world's third-highest mountain, catches the sun first, a pink spark. In minutes the light runs along the range, lighting Kabru, Pandim and the lower peaks, and the Buddha appears entire.
Turn left to the north-west at the same time and you may see Everest, Lhotse and Makalu taking the light. Then the cloud below begins to stir. Stay until the sun reaches you and warms your hands, and only then go in for tea.
Cost: Free
Questions people ask
Good to know
What is the Sleeping Buddha seen from Sandakphu?
It is the outline of the Kanchenjunga massif and neighbouring peaks, which together look like a reclining Buddha from the Darjeeling hills. Guides point out the head, chest and feet. From Sandakphu it is especially large and clear at sunrise.
What time should I wake up for sunrise at Sandakphu?
Around 4.45 am in October to December, to reach the viewpoint 15–20 minutes before sunrise. In April and May, sunrise is earlier, around 5 am. Your lodge or guide will tell you the day's time.
What if Sandakphu is cloudy?
Clouds often rise by mid-morning and clear again by evening or the next dawn. Stay a second night if your schedule allows. October to December has the best odds; in April and May mornings are often hazy even when skies are blue.
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