05/11/2016
"Sandakphu – Trekking Route To Haven"
Sandakphu, being the highest peak in West Bengal offers grand views of the world’s tallest peaks. Lhotse and Makalu, the fourth and fifth highest peaks in the world stand tall at 8,516 mts and 8,463 m, trying to outdo the world’s tallest peak. But how can they? After all, the Everest stands in between them, towering over everything! The months of October and November offer crystal clear mountain views and you can enjoy the glorious sunrise from Sandakphu and Phalut. If you trek in winter, you can even experience fresh snow at Sandakphu!
On the other hand, Kangchenjunga, the third highest peak, stands with its family at 8,586 mts. The entire cluster is famously called as The Sleeping Buddha thanks to its appearance. Mt. Kumbhakarna forms the head and face of Buddha, while Kangchenjunga forms the upper body. The other peaks that make up the rest of The Sleeping Buddha are Kokthang, Rathong, Frey, Kabru South, Kabru North, Simvo, Mt. Pandim, Tenzingkhang, Japanu, Narsing.
This trek is done along the border between India and Nepal. In fact, one constantly moves in and out of Nepal during the trek. The mighty mountains, of course, know no boundaries. They stretch through Nepal, India, Bhutan and further.
Another curious feature of this trek is the Kalipokhri (Black Pond). It is a beautiful black pond that one comes across on the second/third day of the trek. It’s water never freezes and Buddhists consider it holy.
Whom is the trek meant for?
This trek is for every mountain lover. The grand Himalayan mountains stay with you throughout the trail and these are views you will get on no other trek. It’s a good trek for beginners who have religiously followed the prescribed fitness regime. A physically active person over the age of 12 can do this trek. The trail to Sandakphu constantly fluctuates between India and Nepal. This is an exciting prospect for most trekkers.
How difficult is the trek?
Although the Sandakphu trek is rated as moderately difficult, you cover long distances every day. The average distance covered in a day is 10 km. This requires a lot of stamina and endurance. The gradient is gradual. But on day 5, you trek 21 km in 7-8 hours. The terrain is mostly even without glacial moraines.
What are the risks involved?
The trail is well laid out so there is no danger of losing your way. There is a motor-able road leading up to Phalut. In case of any emergency, you have easy access to the closest towns. Although 11,929 feet isn’t that high compared to other treks, there are chances of being hit by Acute Mountain Sickness which can be avoided by going on a course of Diamox.
How to prepare for the trek?
This trek needs you to be thoroughly prepared. You can start 2 months prior by jogging a distance of 7 km. Gradually reduce the time you take cover this distance. On day 6 of your trek, the descent from Phalut to Gorkhey is long and steep. This can take a toll on your knees. For this you need to do leg strengthening exercises.