Sandakphu-Phalut trek preparation, equipment and precautions!

Sandakphu-Phalut trek preparation

The final destination of the Sandakphu-Phalut trek is Phalut, which is 23 km from Sandakphu. The height of Phalut Top is 3600 meters or 11790 feet which is the second highest in West Bengal, India. Falut is famous for the beautiful beauty of the Himalayas. If there are no clouds, both peaks of Kanchenjunga and Everest can be clearly seen from here. The sunrise and sunset from here are also quite beautiful. On the way to Falut, you will come across the green valley Samanden. Ramam and Singalila pass can be climbed on a route covered with rhododendron, magnolia, fir, oak.

The specialty of Falut trek is that there is no water anywhere on this trail. Just 14 km away there is a place called Sabergram where there is a small SSB camp. Here there are food-water and rest facilities for tourists. From here a path leads down to a place called ‘Male’ which leads to Ramam and exits from Ramam through Rimbic.

Trek summary

Altitude: 3600 m (11790 ft)
Trek Duration: 4 days
Trekbasecamp: Manevanjansera
Time: October to November
From Rimbic one can go directly to Darjeeling or Siliguri by car or from Malle again to Gurdum to Srikhola.

Perfect time for Falut trek

October to November is the best time to get a crystal clear view. Kanchenjunga is best seen at this time. However, if you want to get snowfall, the best time is between January and March, but you have to remember that it is very cold during this time. And if you are planning to see rhododendrons, early April to May is a good time.

Necessary equipment and preparation

Trekking Boots: A trekking boot with good grip is very useful. 7 days of trekking through rocky terrain and literally up and down rocky roads so comfortable footwear is a must. Boots are preferably ankle-high. Don’t trek in brand new boots. Wear boots for five-six days before the trek. Take woolen socks with you.
Wind breaker: A parachute jacket (wind cheater) should be taken which is known as wind breaker.
Backpack: A good quality backpack is essential for a comfortable trek. It is better to use a backpack that has a good back system, takes weight equally on the shoulders and hips, does not put pressure on the shoulders. A 40-50 liter backpack is enough for this trek.
Monkey Cap/Balaclava: A balaclava is a lightweight, funnel-shaped piece of cloth. Monkey cap, head cover, ear cover, throat cover when needed. It is very important to have it in strong winds on the way to Falut from Sandakphu and Sandakphu. Be sure to keep the muffler.
Gloves: Take thick gloves.
Polybags: Pack everything separately in polybags to protect your belongings from water. Also carry some extra zip lock/plain polythene. There is always a risk of rain especially in late April-May.
Head Lamp/Torch: With extra battery. Always keep in mind that battery charge is depleted in cold weather. It can be quite necessary when trekking at night or going to the toilet at night, so a smaller size is better.
Sunglasses: Sunlight falling through the snow is magnified several times to our eyes. Trekking with bare eyes is therefore dangerous. Snow can cause blindness. So to see well a ‘polarized’ sunglasses should be carried. It will be necessary if you go to Sandakphu around January as it snows there.
Camera, memory card, power bank: There is no power supply in most parts of the trail.
Trekking Pole/Walking Stick: Try to get two poles. At least one. Using a trekking pole reduces the stress on the body.
Trek Kit: Needle, thread, safety pin, 100 feet of paracord. You can’t tell when it will work. These things always come in handy.
Trail mix/chocolate/lodges: Along the entire trail there will be small villages where light tea and snacks are available. Even then, you can pick up something to change the taste of your mouth along the way.
water bottle

Required documents and information

The entry ticket to Singalila Park is to be taken from Manevanjan but the trek can also be taken from another check post after Meghma. Singalila Park Ticket – Rs.200
If there is a camera – 100 rupees
Guide to be paid per day – 800 rupees
Photocopy of passport: 2-5 copies (including visa page)
Passport size photograph: Carry 4 copies. It is better to have two copies of stamp size photo, it will be convenient to get mobile sim.

Mobile network

Mobile network coverage is not available most of the time in Sandakphu – Phalut Trek. Vodafone and BSNL network is available occasionally but that too is very weak.

Necessary medicine

Basic first aid kit medicines (gas medicine, pain killer, move, savlon) along with some cotton, gauze-bandage, povidone iodine, savlon, band aid. Carry an inhaler for safety. Those who have problems at high altitude must take medicine as per medical advice.

way to go
Falut can be reached on foot or by jeep from Sandakphu.

where will you stay
DGHC has trekkers hut and youth hostel at Falut. There are also accommodations at Samanden, Mole and Ramam.

A few essentials

While trekking, stand and take rest, try to breathe out through the nose instead of mouth, don’t sit, legs will catch.
Drink as little water as possible.
Keep your passport close, you will have to enter multiple times along the way.
Better not to trek in jeans, wear two trouser layers.
Trekking and mountains have a different addiction, so it is better not to get intoxicated during the trek

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