Sandakphu Trek Cost – Complete Budget Breakdown & Tips

If you’re planning the Sandakphu Trek, you’re already on the path to one of the most breathtaking experiences in the Eastern Himalayas. Standing at 11,941 ft (3,636 m), Sandakphu is the highest point in West Bengal and is famously known as the “Trekkers’ Wonderland.” From its summit, you can see four of the world’s five highest peaks—Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, and Makalu—all in one sweeping panorama.

But before you lace up your boots, let’s get practical: How much does the Sandakphu trek cost? I’ll break it all down clearly—from permits to food, accommodation, and transport—so you know exactly what to expect and how to plan your budget smartly. This guide is based on personal experience and current on-ground rates (as of late 2025).

1. Total Sandakphu Trek Cost at a Glance

Let’s start with the big picture. The total cost depends on how you plan it—solo, with friends, or through a trek operator. On average, here’s what you’ll spend for a 6 to 7-day trek:

So, if you plan carefully, ₹15,000 to ₹18,000 per person is a safe budget range for the complete trek experience.

2. Cost of Reaching the Base Point – Manebhanjan

The trek starts from Manebhanjan, a small border village near Darjeeling and the gateway to Singalila National Park.

Here’s how to get there:

• By Train:
  Take a train to New Jalpaiguri (NJP). From NJP, shared taxis to Manebhanjan cost around ₹400–₹600 per person. Private cabs may charge ₹2,500–₹3,000.
• By Air:
  Fly to Bagdogra Airport, then take a cab to Manebhanjan (₹2,000–₹2,500). You can also go via Darjeeling if you plan to stay overnight.
• By Bus:
  Buses from Siliguri to Darjeeling cost around ₹150–₹250, and then a short taxi ride (₹1,000–₹1,200) will get you to Manebhanjan.

If you prefer convenience, many trekkers book packages that include transport from NJP or Darjeeling, which saves a lot of coordination and last-minute expense.

3. Entry Permits and National Park Fees

The trek passes through Singalila National Park, home to red pandas, Himalayan black bears, and vibrant rhododendron forests. You’ll need a park entry permit and sometimes an additional camera permit.

• Permit Fee (Indians): ₹300 per person
• Permit Fee (Foreigners): ₹500 per person
• Still Camera Fee: ₹100
• Video Camera Fee: ₹400

Permits are issued at Manebhanjan or Singalila Gate, and if you book through a registered trek company, they usually handle all the paperwork.

4. Accommodation Cost During the Trek

Accommodation during the Sandakphu trek is quite affordable and charming. You’ll mostly stay in local tea houses or homestays, run by the warm-hearted residents of the region.

• Manebhanjan: ₹600–₹800 per night
• Tumling: ₹700–₹900
• Kalipokhri: ₹800–₹1,000
• Sandakphu: ₹900–₹1,200

These rates usually include basic bedding, hot meals, and tea. Don’t expect luxury, but the mountain hospitality more than makes up for it. In higher altitudes, heating costs can slightly increase prices during winter.

If you prefer more comfort or want everything pre-arranged, I’d suggest going with a guided trek company like The Searching Souls. They book good-quality homestays with consistent meals and ensure you don’t overpay at remote locations.

5. Food and Meal Expenses

Let’s be honest—food is a major motivator on treks! On the Sandakphu route, you’ll find tea houses offering hot, home-cooked meals like rice, dal, noodles, soups, eggs, and sometimes momos.

Here’s an average breakdown:

Tip: Instead of buying bottled water every time, carry a reusable bottle and refill with boiled water at homestays—safe and cost-saving.

If you’re trekking independently, budgeting ₹1,200–₹1,500 for meals should be sufficient.

6. Guide and Porter Charges

Guides and porters are the backbone of Himalayan trekking. For Sandakphu, hiring a local guide is mandatory, as trails often pass through forested and foggy zones.

• Guide Fee: ₹1,000–₹1,500 per day
• Porter Fee: ₹800–₹1,000 per day (per 20–25 kg load)

If you’re trekking in a group, sharing the guide cost makes it cheaper. Hiring porters also supports local livelihoods—something worth doing if your pack is heavy.

If you join a group sandakphu phalut trekking via The Searching Souls, guide costs are already included, and you don’t have to handle daily payments or negotiations.

7. Trek Package vs. Self-Planned Trek: Which is Cheaper?

Here’s an honest comparison based on real trek experiences:

If you’re a first-timer or traveling solo, a guided trek is more cost-effective overall. I personally had a smooth experience with The Searching Souls, who organize small, responsible groups without turning it into a tourist circus.

8. Gear and Equipment Rentals

If you’re new to trekking, renting gear makes sense. In Darjeeling or Manebhanjan, you can easily find rental shops.

Pro tip: Carry thermal layers, socks, and windproof jackets from home—they’re lightweight and save rental cost.

9. Seasonal Price Variations

The cost of the Sandakphu trek varies with the season.

• Spring (March–May): Clear skies, rhododendrons in bloom. Slightly higher prices.
• Autumn (October–December): Best mountain views, peak season rates.
• Winter (Jan–Feb): Snow trek possibility but colder conditions; cheaper stays.
• Monsoon (June–Sept): Avoidable due to leeches and slippery trails, though stays are cheapest.

If you’re flexible, trekking in March or November offers a perfect balance of good weather and fair pricing.

10. Hidden and Miscellaneous Costs

While planning, don’t forget small but essential expenses:

• Tips for guides/porters (₹200–₹500)
• Extra snacks (₹300–₹400)
• Charging electronic devices (₹30–₹50 per hour at higher camps)
• Toilet paper and toiletries (₹100–₹200)

Also, there are no ATMs beyond Darjeeling, so carry enough cash from NJP or Siliguri.

11. Smart Budgeting Tips

Here’s how to save money without compromising your trek experience:

1. Book early during the season for better deals.
2. Join small groups to split guide and vehicle costs.
3. Carry essentials like snacks, torch, and water bottle to avoid inflated trail prices.
4. Avoid bottled water—refill boiled or filtered water.
5. Rent gear locally instead of buying everything new.
6. Choose local homestays for authentic food and warmth.

12. Best Time for Sandakphu Trek

For the best experience and budget balance, plan your trek during:

• Spring (March–May): Blooming rhododendrons and mild weather.
• Autumn (October–December): Crystal-clear views of the Kanchenjunga range.

Avoid monsoon months unless you love misty trails and don’t mind slippery paths.

13. Sample 6-Day Itinerary and Cost Summary

Total: ₹14,000–₹17,000 approximately per person (all-inclusive).

14. Why Choose a Responsible Trek Operator

Choosing the right company isn’t about luxury—it’s about reliability, local support, and environmental responsibility. I recommend The Searching Souls, as they focus on:

• Small group sizes for better experience
• Certified local guides
• Sustainable waste management
• Fair wages for porters and staff

They also handle permits and logistics so you can focus on enjoying the trail instead of stressing over coordination.

15. Final Thoughts

The Sandakphu trek offers Himalayan grandeur without the massive price tag. Whether you’re on a tight budget or seeking a comfortable guided experience, it’s one of those treks that reward you far beyond what you spend.

With a budget of ₹15,000–₹18,000, a bit of preparation, and the right mindset, you’ll stand on that windy ridge watching the sun rise behind the Sleeping Buddha range—a sight that will stay etched in your memory forever.

If you prefer a hassle-free experience, consider joining The Searching Souls—they balance affordability and professionalism perfectly.