Sandakphu

Sandakphu, at 3,636 metres, is the highest point in West Bengal and the grandstand of the Singalila ridge on the Nepal border. Its fame rests on a single, staggering view: the Sleeping Buddha, formed by the Kangchenjunga massif, with Everest, Lhotse and Makalu visible far to the west on a clear dawn.

Its character blends culture and altitude. The trail runs along the frontier through rhododendron and magnolia forest, past teahouses that straddle two countries, with old Land Rovers grinding up the rough ridge road alongside walkers. Spring bloom turns the hillsides crimson and white.

On the trail the classic trek runs about four to six days from Maneybhanjang, often continuing along the ridge to Phalut for a second angle on the peaks. Graded moderate, it is a teahouse route with no technical difficulty, though the exposed ridge is cold and wind-whipped and the altitude asks for a steady pace.

Practical notes: the trek lies within Singalila National Park, so an entry permit and, on the Indian side, a compulsory local guide are required, arranged at Maneybhanjang. October to December brings the clearest, coldest skies for the Himalayan panorama, and April to May offers the rhododendron display; monsoon shrouds everything in cloud.