Sandakpur (Sandakphu)
In Nepali: सन्दकपुर · Also known as: Sandakphu · सन्दकपुर
Sandakpur (Sandakphu, 3,636 m) is the top of the Singalila ridge that forms the border between Ilam and Darjeeling. It is one of very few places where four of the world's five highest mountains can be seen together, with Kanchenjunga filling the northern sky.
From the Nepali side, a rough jeep road and walking trail climb from Maipokhari and Maimajhuwa through rhododendron and bamboo forest, red panda habitat. Homestays have opened near the top; nights are cold all year.
What to see and do
Watch sunrise from the summit when the 'Sleeping Buddha' outline of the Kanchenjunga range glows in the north, with Everest, Lhotse and Makalu to the west. The forest on the way up is part of a transboundary habitat for red pandas, and in spring the rhododendron bloom is spectacular.
Good to know
The summit sits right on the Nepal–India border. On the Nepali side, simple homestays and lodges operate near the top; bring warm clothing even in spring. The approach can be done by jeep on a rough road or as a two- to three-day walk from Maipokhari.
Quick answers
- Where is Sandakpur (Sandakphu)?
- Sandakpur (Sandakphu) is in Ilam district, Koshi Province, in the Pahad belt of Nepal.
- What is the altitude of Sandakpur (Sandakphu)?
- About 3,636 m (11,930 ft) above sea level.
- How much does it cost to visit Sandakpur (Sandakphu)?
- For a 4-day trip from Biratnagar, about NPR 10,000 (≈ US$74) per person on a budget, or NPR 28,500 (≈ US$210) with standard hotels and private transport — for two foreign visitors sharing, including transport, stay, food. Nepali visitors on a budget: about NPR 10,000 per person. These are estimates; adjust them in the trip planner.
- How many days do I need for Sandakpur (Sandakphu)?
- Plan 2 nights there; with travel from Biratnagar and back, about 4 days in all.
- Do I need a permit or ticket for Sandakpur (Sandakphu)?
- No special permit or ticket is normally needed.
- When is the best time to visit Sandakpur (Sandakphu)?
- October–December; March–April for rhododendrons
- How do I get to Sandakpur (Sandakphu)?
- Jeep or 2–3 day walk from Maipokhari (Ilam). It is about 102 km (straight line) from Biratnagar.
- What is Sandakpur (Sandakphu) called in Nepali?
- सन्दकपुर
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