Trekking in Himalayas is incomplete without a trek to Sandakphu
Phalut route. Phalut is located at the extreme North-Eastern
corner of Darjeeling District near the tri-junction of West
Bengal, Sikkim and Nepal, Phalut is a heaven for the lovers of
trekking, lies on one of the loftiest eminences of the Singalila
range at an altitude of 11900 ft above sea level. Phalut is 80
kms from Darjeeling via Sandakphu and from Sandakphu it is 22 km
trek along the Singalila Ridge.
Phalut is one of the highest peaks of Singalila range and
located in Darjeeling district at an altitude of 11,811 ft. This
is the second highest point in Singalila ridge after Sandakphu
(11,929 ft). Phalut is also in the border of Nepal, Sikkim and
West Bengal. After a trek to Sandakphu, many plan for an onward
trek up to Phalut before commencing the return. Phalut is
further 21 kms from Sandakphu. Manebhanjan is the base of
Singalila range where the trek actually begins for Sandakphu and
then onward to Phalut.
From Phalut a portion of Mt Everest is visible although it is
slightly hidden by another peak having a shape of a vast
armchair. Although lacking in vegetation, bush rhododendron are
abundant and the place consists of grassy undulation studded
with gneissic rocks. The dazzling Everest family including Mt.
Everest, Lhotse and Makalu are seen on the way to Phalut. The
route from Sandakphu to Phalut has a relatively easier incline
as both the places are at similar altitudes.
With the Kanchanjangha massif only 48 kms away, Phalut offers
the nearest view of snow ranges obtainable in Darjeeling
district. Located amidst attractive mountain scenery with
wonderful view of snow peaks and glaciers, Phalut is very
attractive to the trekkers. Few trekkers' hut and bungalows are
available here providing accommodation for the trekkers. |