This trek follows the famous Singalila ridge, a prominent spur of high ground that lies at the Southern end of a long crest, which runs down from the Kanchenjunga massif and form the border between Sikkim and Nepal. This trek along this ridge, passing through small settlements, is perhaps the most scenically rewarding in Himalaya. There are spectacular panoramic views of Kanchenjunga, Makalu, Everest, Lhotse and a host of other peaks all seen in one stretch.
The Singalila National Park covers an area of 108-sq. km. and lies in the tri-junction of Darjeeling, Sikkim and Nepal with the highest point at Sandakphu (3636m). It houses exotic fauna and some endangered species as well as 80-90 species of mammals, about 500 species of fauna and 600 species of Butterflies. Some of the endangered species are the Snow Leopard, Red Panda and the Musk Deer. This park is virtually a bird watcher’s paradise with about 30% of the birds found in the Indian subcontinent. In the lower altitudes, the species that are abundant are the Pheasant, Hill Partridge, Scarlet Minuets, Parakeets, Emerald Dove and the Maroon Monal etc.
The flora is the richest found in the world. It has a vast diversity of floras scattered over the temperate (1525 – 300 m) to the alpine (above 3000m) zone. In the temperate zone, the flora consists of Magnolia, Chestnut Oak, Laurel, Pines, Alders, Junipers, Bistort, ferns, mosses and Lichens, The flowers range from Orchids, white roses, magnolias to Lilies, Primulas, Cottoneaster and the poisonous Aconitium. Another speciality is the Rhododendron – of which 26 varieties in various shades of Red, White and purple with varying heights are found. E.g., Rh.Grande is about 40 feet tall and Rh.Nivale grows a few inches above the ground!
There are many versions of this trek. The loop suggested below is the most easiest route and advisable for first time trekkers.
Highest Point: Sandakphu 3636 m
Season: April – May (for flowers) and October – December (mountain views) are best. Low altitude makes trekking possible in winter.
Restrictions: None. Although the nights are mostly spend on the Nepalese side of the border, Foreigners do not require extra permit/ VISA for Nepal. They need to enter their passport details at the Check post in each village on the Indian side of the border.
