Darjeeling and Singalila Trek
13 Days | Trekking 06 Days
After two nights at old hill station of Darjeeling we embark on this classic Himalayan trek that follows Singalila Ridge with stupendous views of Kanchenjunga (8,586m), the world’s third highest mountain. Along the way we experience life and culture of local people in some parts of this magnificent mountain range.
Tour Profile
The trip starts in Delhi from here we fly to Bagdogra and then drive into the hills to reach the colonial resort of Darjeeling – a hilly town surrounded by tea plantations and served by the famous ‘toy train’. After a two-night stay in this beautiful place where we get an opportunity to take in the local sights, we drive to the trailhead at Dhotrey. Following the India-Nepal border we gradually ascend to the dramatic landscapes of Singalila Ridge, one of the region’s classic trekking routes. Trekking high above the valleys through forests of rhododendron and magnolia there are numerous opportunities to gaze across the spectacular Himalayan panoramas. On a clear day it’s a treat to be at Sandakphu (3,636m.), the highest point of the trek where spectacular Kanchenjunga (8,586m) is seen staring at us. Further ahead we can also see three more of the world’s five highest mountains; Everest (8,848m), Lhotse (8,512m) and Makalu (8,462m). We pass through villages with friendly people and follow ancient paths on this beautiful circular trek.
We descend through Samaden and Rimbik, large Sherpa settlements, and then travel by road to the lively hill town of Kalimpong where we end our trek and visit its bustling bazaar.
Tour Highlights
- Darjeeling - known for its tea gardens & the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway.
- Rimbik & Ramam - popular descents from Singalila.
- Sandakphu - highest point on the Singalila Ridge.
- Tonglu - one of the peaks with great scenic beauty.
- Kalimpong - a hill station in the Mahabharata Range.
Tour Itinerary
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Please note: You can use this itinerary as a guide to fully customise this tour as per your budget and requirements. Flexible options include travel dates and duration, places visited, activities and experiences, hotel category (star/rating) and any specific requirements that you may have.
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DAY 01 - Delhi
Arrive at the international airport of Delhi. After a traditional 'Swagat' (Welcome) we transfer to our hotel for check-in. Overnight Hotel
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DAY 02 - Darjeeling
In the morning we are transferred to the airport for our flight to Bagdogra. From there we drive through picturesque mountains and tea estates all the way up to Darjeeling. Overnight Hotel
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DAY 03 - Darjeeling
Today we visit Ghoom Monastery, Himalayan Mountaineering Institute (HMI) and Darjeeling Zoo. Rest of the day free to explore local bazaars. Overnight Hotel
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DAY 04 - Tonglu
After breakfast in the morning we drive to Dhotrey, a picturesque village on the road head from where we start our trek to Tonglu, a tiny village that overlooks the Singalila Ridge and the Kanchejunga. Overnight Camp
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DAY 05 - Kalapokhri
Today we have an easy and relatively short trek from Tonglu to Gairibas (2538m); the later part is a little harder as it is a steep ascent to Kalipokhri. Overnight Camp
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DAY 06 - Sandakphu
This morning we trek uphill to the Singalila Ridge before reaching Bikhebhajyang. From here the trail climbs steadily to Sandakhphu, the highest point of the trek that provides amazing views of some of the great peaks. Overnight Camp
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DAY 07 - Sabargam
Today we have a short day on this most spectacular section of the Singalila Ridge, the border between Nepal and India. We walk alternatively between the two countries for a long distance before we reach the camp. Overnight Camp
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DAY 08 - Samaden
Today we trek to the end of the ridge to Phalut, then descend to Samaden through forests of oak, confers, pine and rhododendrons. While walking we enjoy great views of the Kanchenjunga and can see the Sikkim border as well. Overnight Camp
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DAY 09 - Rimbik
Today is the last day of our trek. The trail winds through some of the small settlements of Rais, Sherpas and Tamangs. Mostly downhill, the trek ends in a larger village of Rimbik. Overnight Camp/Lodge
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DAY 10 - Kalimpong
In the morning we bid adieu to our trek staff and depart for the long drive to Kalimpong. We leave Sikkim at Rangpo and drive through the wild Teesta Valley. In Kalimpong we visit the most important Hindu Temple and the home and school of a Scottish missionary, Dr Graham. Overnight Hotel
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DAY 11 - Kalimpong
Today is a free day to explore Kalimpong. In the short sightseeing tour we visit Durpin Monastery, paper factory, flower/cactus nurseries and Catholic church. Afternoon is free to relax. Overnight Hotel
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DAY 12 - Delhi
Drive to Bagdogra and then transfer to the airport to catch flight to Delhi. Upon arrival we are transferred to our hotel for check in. Rest of the day is free. Overnight Hotel
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DAY 13 - Delhi
Today we are transferred to the international airport of Delhi to catch flights to our respective destinations.
Send an enquiry
Flexibility Guaranteed! Using the above itinerary as a guide you can fully customise this tour as per your budget and requirements. Flexible options include travel dates and duration, places, activities and experiences, hotel category (star/rating) and any specific requirements that you may have. On receiving your enquiry we will respond with prices and work with you to create a truly personalised holiday experience that is in your budget and personal style.
