TREKKING IN DARJEELING

Trekking in Darjeeling is an experience which no lover of nature should miss. It takes one to places from where one can feel the proximity of the stars and is still in its premival majesty. It brings one face to face with the snow-capped mountains with the sublime grandeur of the Himalayas. The region abounds in rhododendrons, magnolias, primulas, orchids and ferns of numerous varieties. About six hundred species of birds inhabit the emerald green forests on the slopes of the mountains.
The hilly destinations of Darjeeling is blessed with well defined forest trails along the Nepalese border that afford views of Kanchenjunga and glimpses of Everest, Lhotse and Makalu. Just like the geographical location the climate of Darjeeling is also pretty similar to that of Nepal.
It is said that trekking in India originated in Darjeeling. Infact, the first organised trekking route in India was established here along the Singalila range. The Sandakphu trek begins in Darjeeling and proceeds through Maneybhanjyang, Tonglu, Sandakphu and ends in Phalut. The alluring natural beauty is replete with countless varieties of rhododendrons, magnolias, orchids and wild flowers. The dense forests, the verdant meadows, the savage mass of Mt. Everest, the everlasting beauty of Kanchenjunga, the rugged Lhotse or the mysterious Makalu - all in one sweeping glance, present an experience that can never be equaled.Darjeeling has perhaps one of the most spectacular treks to offer, along the beauty of its magnificent hills. The 'Singalila Trek' as popularly known, enables one to discover the passion of the Himalayan region some of which is unmarred by humans.
SEASON FOR TREKKING IN DARJEELING
There are basically two trekking seasons for trekking in Darjeeling. The first one begins early or mid of March and closes around first week of June. One has to be always prepared for occasional showers, which is very refreshing. The flowers in bloom compensate the summer haze. The post-monsoon season brings clear days in the months of October and November with warm temperatures, especially in the valley region. The daytime temperatures in the Darjeeling drop to 0°C in December and January, although trekking from lodge to lodge still makes the trek interesting and enjoyable. Still the best time to trek in Darjeeling is the spring season when days are longer and flowers are in full bloom. Among the major and relatively easy trails of Darjeeling are Sandakphu and Phalut, providing magnificent views of the Himalayan ranges.

EXAMPLE OF TREK:-

(NINE DAYS TREKKING TO SANDAKHPHU AND PHALUT.)

This nine-day trek beginning and ending in Darjeeling
takes you along the famed "Singalila range" to Sandakphu (12,000 ft) and Phalut (11,800 ft). On the way you will pass through spectacular forests of silver fir, rhododendrons, chestnuts, oaks, magnolias and hemlock. A springtime trek reveals not only stunning views of the mountains but whole hillsides covered with rhododendron and magnolia flowers. A post monsoon trek reveals the mountains in crispier glory when the rains have washed away the haze. The trail from Sandakphu to Phulut is an exhilarating experience and one can see four of the world's highest mountains: Everest, Makalu, Lhotse and Kanchenjunga in one glance.

Day 01: After arrival at Bagdogra airport, another 4 hour drive by road will reach you to Darjeeling which is at an elevation of 2134 m and around 80 kms from Bagdogra
Day 02:
Sightseeing in Darjeeling
Day 03:
Drive to Maneybhanjyang (2134m,21km;1hr)Trek to Gairibas (2621m; 20km; 5hr)
Day 04:
Trek Gairibas - Sandakphu (3636m; 15km; 4hr)
Day 05:
Trek Sandakphu-Phalut (3600m; 21km; 5hr)
Day 06:
Trek Phalut-Ramam (2560m; 14km; 5hr)
Day 07:
Trek Ramam-Rimbick (2296m; 19km; 5hr)
Day 08:
Drive to Darjeeling (2134m; 72km; 4hr)
Day 09:
Departure transfer from Darjeeling