Uttarey to Sandhakphu Round Trek
Uttarey to Sandhakphu Round Trek is one of the immersive trekking routes between the Indo-Nepal border and the eastern Himalayan range. It offers a harmonious blend of modern trails and serene landscapes. Also, it is adventure enthusiasts and Nestled in the picturesque state of Sikkim and spilling into the famed trekking trails of West Bengal while offering glimpses of heritage and biodiversity.
Uttarey to Sandhakphu Round Trek, starting point at Uttarey, a quaint, peaceful village in West Sikkim, surrounding covered with lush green valleys and dense forests; on this trek route, you will get three viewpoints these all are stunning from where you can get see the panoramic views of snowcapped mountains some of the world’s highest peaks, including Mount. Kanchenjunga, Mount. Everest, including Mount.Three sisters, Mount. Kumbakarna and others. From Uttarey village you can engage with friendly locals, taste authentic Himalayan food, and witness age-old traditions. From Uttarey, the path climbs steadily towards Singalila Ridge, culminating at Sandhakphu summit at approximately 3,636 meters.
People know Uttarey is a popular trekking destination, but most people don`t know Uttarey to Sandhakpu round trek. It is only allowed for Indian citizens and is not required for foreigners. On this trek, most days, you can have views that offer snow-capped mountains from Nepal Himalaya, Sikkim Himalaya and Bhutan Himalaya range.
Uttarey is inhabited by Limboo, Gurung Sherpa, Rai, and Bhutia mixed community People under the Manaybung Dentam constituency district Gaylsing. The main occupation of the Uttarey people is agriculture. They mainly produce potatoes, cabbage and green peas during the summer. Uttarey is approximately 163 kilometres from Bagdogra Airport and 158 kilometres from NJP Station.
Best Seasons for Uttarey to Sandhakpu round trek.
- Seasonal Variations
Spring (March to May):
- This is considered the best time for trekkers as the weather is relatively stable, with clear skies and moderate temperatures ranging from 10°C to 15°C.
- Rhododendrons in full bloom add a vibrant touch to the trails.
- Offers pleasant weather with blooming flora.
- Ideal for exploring rhododendron forests.
- Moderate temperatures make trekking comfortable.
Avoiding Monsoon Season (June to August):
- The summer months bring the monsoon, which can cause heavy rainfall and increased humidity.
- Trails may become slippery and prone to landslides, thus increasing difficulty levels.
- Despite the challenges, the lush greenery offers a captivating sight.
- Trekking during monsoon should generally be avoided due to heavy rains.
- Landslides and leeches pose challenges and safety risks.
- Monsoon season: Do not make plans to visit Sikkim as it is close.
Autumn (September to November):
- Another preferred season for trekking is autumn, which provides clear weather and mild temperatures.
- Ranging between 5°C to 15°C, it offers stunning views of the Himalayas with minimal disruptions from rainfall.
- Clear skies provide excellent visibility of Himalayan peaks.
- Post-monsoon freshness enhances landscape beauty.
- Trails are typically dry and less hazardous.
Winter (December to February): snow trek.
- Winter is characterized by harsh cold and snowfall, particularly at higher altitudes.
- Temperatures can plummet below zero, posing significant challenges.
- Only experienced trekkers with proper gear should consider winter treks.
- Cold temperatures and snow can obstruct paths.
- Some trails may be closed or difficult to navigate.
- During the Winter Season, Black Yak Expedition we organize snow treks in Sikkim
How to Reaching at Uttarey:
- from Bagdogra Airport by hared Taxi
- To travel from Bagdogra Airport to Uttarey via Jorthang using a shared taxi (often referred to as a shared taxi here’s the step-by-step guide:
Arrival at Bagdogra Airport:
- After you land at Bagdogra Airport, you must head towards the Siliguri SNT Bus/taxi stand.
Siliguri SNT Bus/Taxi Stand.
- You will find and book a shared taxi to go to Jorthang.
- Shared taxis typically accommodate multiple passengers and run on a fixed schedule or when full. Make sure to ask about the timing and seat availability for the journey.
Siliguri to Jorthang:
- The taxi ride from Siliguri to Jorthang usually takes around 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on the road conditions and traffic. Once you arrive in Jorthang, Taxi Stand, collect your bags and go to the top floor of the same building. You can ask for the Uttarey taxi stand; anyone will point you there.
Jorthang to Uttarey :
- From Jorthang to Uttarey will take about 2.5 to 3 hours. You will try to reach the Jorthang Taxi stand before noon.
- Before making a plan to take a shared jeep from Jorethang to Uttarey , please take this crucial point into note.
Notice:
- The probability of getting shared jeeps from Jorethang to Uttarey is very low. There is only few regular shared Jeep that locals and all pre-book; these shared Jeeps leave to Uttarey before 1 pm. In that case, try to reach at Jorethang from Siliguri before 12: noon. If you arrive from Siliguri to Jourthang later than noon, then you will not be able to get a taxi shared for Uttarey. that`s why if you want convenience, you can hire a cab from Siliguri SNT Bus Stand Or the airport.
Notice:
- (Luggage) during the trekking period, you may leave your luggage at your Hotel, Homestay, or Black Yak Expeditions Office in Yuksom. (This is for the luggage you won’t need during the trek and can be retrieved when you return.)
Withdrawing cash:
- If you intend to visit Sikkim, like the Uttarey to Sandhakphu round Trek don’t expect to withdraw cash in Uttarey because it does not have ATM services until up dated in 2025.
Safety and Navigation
- Personal Gear (Participants Need to Bring)
Clothing:
- Moisture-wicking base layers (thermal tops and bottoms) 2pair.
- Insulated jackets (down or synthetic).
- Waterproof and windproof jackets and pants.
- Comfortable trekking pants 2 pairs.
- Worm gloves 1. set. and Buffs or neck gaiters 1. pair.
- Waterproof Ankle shoes and camp footwear for evenings.
- Socks carry about 3-4 pairs of good sports socks.
- Rain cover make sure your pack has a rain cover, too.
- Underclothes: Carry about 3 sets of underclothes.
- Thermal inners: You might want to carry a set of thermal inners.
- T-shirts: 3 T-shirts (full sleeve if u are susceptible to feeling cold).
- The quick-dry sports T shirts are the best as far as our experience goes.
- Cap/Head: A good balaclava (monkey cap).
- Personal first aid kit: You should carry a small personal firaid kit. In case you do the following things could be a part of your list
Accessories and Day Pack
-
- Daypack with a capacity of 20-30L
- Hydration system or water bottles
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- Personal identification and necessary permits
Personal Items Basic toiletries
- Carry basic toiletries – Tooth Brush, paste, shop
- A small bottle of moisturizer, perhaps a bottle of hand sanitiser, is also very handy.
- Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF
- Lightweight towel
- Personal medications and vitamins
Notice:
- If you are any personal illness, like a Asthmatic please bring your medication and carry with you.
- Carrying all the gear in plastic bags for additional protection inside the sack is advisable.
Document to carry on the trek for (Indian client)
- Indian Identity -Aadhar card, Voter-Id card, Drivers licence and PAN card. ( 3 copies)
- Passport size Photo-copies (3 Pc.)
Document to carry on the trek for (Foreign Client)
- Foreign nationals will also have to get the Inner Line Permit made at the Melli check post while entering Sikkim en route from NJP/Bag-Dogra airport. Without the Inner Line Permit, trekking permits will not be issued.
- Special trekking permit as per regulations, made from Pelling/ Yuksom Department of Tourism.
- Black yak expedition requires a special trekking permit from the Department of Tourism. You are not allowed to trek before obtaining a Trekking Permit.
- If you Please reach Uttarey at least a day before the trek, it is best for us. We need to obtain a special trekking permit at Pelling/Yuksom
- Black Yak Expedition can help you obtain these permits. As per regulations, your trekking permit can be obtained only after obtaining your Sikkim Inner Line Permit (ILP).
- An Inner Line permit can be obtained at main checkpoints or border areas, such as Melli and Rangpo in Sikkim. It can also be obtained at Bagdogra Airport or the Silliguri Kachahari area.
Document Required for Trekking Permit
- Original passport photocopy 3 pc.
- Original India Visa photocopy 3 pc.
- Original Sikkim Inner Line Permit photocopy 3 pc.
- Passport Size Photography photocopy 4 pc.
- Undertaking / Disclaimer.
Trip Highlights
- Scenic Beauty: The trek passes through beautiful rhododendron forests, bamboo groves, and alpine meadows. It offers spectacular views of some of the highest peaks in the world, including Mount Everest and Kanchenjunga.
- Diverse Flora and Fauna: The trek takes you through the Singalila National Park, a protected area that boasts diverse flora and fauna, including red pandas, Himalayan tahr, and various species of birds.
- Rural Himalayan Experience: The trek goes through remote Sherpa villages, where trekkers can experience the local culture and hospitality. The interaction with the Sherpa community offers a unique opportunity to learn about their traditions, food, and way of life.
- Panoramic Views at Sandakphu: Reaching Sandakphu is the highlight of the trek. The peak offers a 360-degree view of the surrounding snow-covered peaks. The sunrise and sunset views from here are especially mesmerizing.
- Night Sky and Star Gazing: Being far from city lights, the night skies along the trek are remarkably clear, making it ideal for stargazing. The Milky Way and constellations are visible on clear nights.
- Challenge Level: While the trek is moderate in difficulty, it requires a good level of fitness due to the steep ascents, altitude, and potentially cold weather. Proper acclimatization is essential to avoid altitude sickness.
- Cultural and Historical Significance: The area has a rich cultural history, with ties to Buddhist traditions, and the local monasteries reflect the spirituality of the region.
