Key Features
• 6-day moderate trek along the Singalila Ridge
• Chance to enjoy magnificent views of the Eastern Himalaya
• Discover the fascinating culture of the Bangla Hills & Sikkim
Included
8nts hotel, 1nt mountain inn, 5nts camping, 1nt sleeper train - camping is fully supported, during the trek we use our own tents to ensure quality and privacy and may use dining and washing facilities at nearby mountain huts - sleeper train berths are in a 2nd class air-conditioned open plan carriage; 15 breakfasts, 6 lunches and 5 dinners included.
Transport
Bus/Jeep/Flight/Train.
Group Size
Approx. 12 to 16.
Tour Staff
Explore Tour Leader and driver(s), some local guides; trek guide, cook and pack animals on trek.
Kolkata to Darjeeling
Starting in the Bengali capital, we uncover the city's colonial past, evidenced in buildings such as St John's Church and the Victoria Memorial. Taking the overnight train to New Jaipalgiri, we then climb winding roads to the delightful hill station of Darjeeling (2430m). We aim to catch the steam toy train to Ghoom monastery, visit one of the many nearby tea plantations, and the Mountaineering Institute which houses a small Everest museum.
Trekking the Singalila Ridge
The Singalila Ridge thrusts southward as an enormous spur from the Greater Himalaya, forming a natural geological border between India and Nepal. This classic trekking route affords superb views without having to trek to high altitude (max 3600m), and, weather conditions allowing, we've an excellent chance of sighting 4 of the world's 5 highest mountains; Everest (8848m), Kanchenjunga (8586m), Lhotse (8512m) and Makalu (8462m). Villages cling to the steep hillsides, and following ancient footpaths we hope to encounter friendly mountain folk along our way. We pass through forests of chestnut, pine and silver fir, set ablaze in springtime with rhododendrons and magnolia.
Sikkim - Land of Kanchenjunga
An independent Himalayan kingdom until it was annexed by India in 1975, Sikkim still retains a distinct cultural identity. The people come from several ethnic groups and as in Nepal, the two religions of Hinduism and Buddhism co-exist peacefully. Our journey takes us to Buddhist monasteries such as Rumtek, and the lively hill towns of Gangtok and Kalimpong with its bustling bazaar.
Comment
A 6-day fully supported trek, graded moderate, averaging 5/6 hours walking per day. Max. altitude 3600m.