7 Days Stargazing Trip to Sandakphu
The allure of the Himalayas is undeniable, but add the magic of stargazing, and you’ve got an unforgettable adventure waiting. Our 7-day journey to Sandakphu, the highest point in West Bengal, was not just about the majestic mountain views, but also about witnessing the starry skies that lit up our nights. From catching glimpses of the Milky Way to soaking in the serene beauty of the Himalayas, this trip had it all.
Day 1: Arrival at Bagdogra and Drive to Chitre
Our adventure began at Bagdogra Airport, where we hopped into a car that took us to Manebhanjane. This charming village at the foot of the Himalayas is where the excitement started. After securing our permits and switching to a vintage Land Rover, we began our bumpy but thrilling journey towards Chitre. The ride through the winding roads was breathtaking, and we reached Chitre in the late afternoon.
Chitre, with its quiet atmosphere, was the perfect place to settle in. The homestays here are basic but comfortable, offering just what we needed after a long day. We spent the evening sipping tea, enjoying the mountain breeze, and gearing up for the next day’s journey.
Day 2: From Chitre to Tonglu – Stargazing Bliss
The next morning, after a hearty local breakfast, we continued our journey to Tonglu. Tonglu sits on a ridge, offering panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. But what made this day truly special was the night that followed. As the sun dipped, the stars started appearing one by one, soon filling the sky.
It wasn’t long before we spotted the Milky Way stretching across the heavens. The lack of city lights made Tonglu one of the best places for stargazing. We spent hours lying under the stars, wrapped in blankets, enjoying the serenity and beauty of the night sky.
Day 3: Heading to Sandakphu – The Roof of West Bengal
From Tonglu, we continued our journey towards Sandakphu, the crown jewel of our trip. The drive was nothing short of adventurous, with the Land Rover tackling the rugged terrain like a pro. The path took us through forests and valleys, and the view kept getting better as we gained altitude.
Upon reaching Sandakphu, we were greeted by a panoramic view of the Sleeping Buddha, a formation of peaks resembling Buddha in repose. The sight of Mt. Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, and Makalu towering in the distance was nothing short of awe-inspiring. We spent the day exploring the area, but the real magic happened at night. The sky at Sandakphu is crystal clear, and the stars felt closer than ever. Stargazing here was a dream come true.
Day 4: Sandakphu Exploration and Stargazing
We dedicated another day to soaking in the beauty of Sandakphu and its surroundings. After a quiet morning hike, we explored more viewpoints, taking in the breathtaking scenery.
As night fell, we set ourselves up for another night of stargazing. The stars seemed to be putting on a show just for us. Wrapped up in warm clothes, we spent hours outside, marveling at the glittering night sky. The Milky Way was more vivid than ever, and the silence of the mountains made the experience all the more profound.
Day 5: Descending to Tumling – Milky Way Magic
After two nights in Sandakphu, it was time to head back. Our next stop was Tumling, a serene village perched on the Indo-Nepal border. Here, the guesthouses offer a unique choice—you can stay in India or Nepal! We chose a guesthouse with a stunning view of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
As with the previous nights, stargazing was on the agenda. Tumling may not have the same altitude as Sandakphu, but it still offers fantastic views of the night sky. We spent another peaceful night watching the stars and reminiscing about the incredible experiences of the last few days.
Day 6: Exploring Tumling and Relaxing
We dedicated our second day in Tumling to relaxation and exploration. The village is quiet and serene, the perfect place to unwind after several days of adventure. With not much to do except enjoy the peace and quiet, we spent the day exploring the area and interacting with the locals.
The stargazing here, though not as spectacular as in Sandakphu, was still magical. It’s hard to describe the feeling of being so far removed from the chaos of daily life, surrounded only by the beauty of nature and the company of friends.
Day 7: Back to Bagdogra
On the final day of our trip, we descended from Tumling back to Manebhanjane and made our way to Bagdogra to catch our flight home. The week had flown by, but the memories we made—of starry nights, towering peaks, and the warmth of the locals—would stay with us forever.
Travel Tips:
- Permits: Don’t forget to secure your permits at Manebhanjane before heading up.
- Land Rover: The only vehicles allowed beyond Manebhanjane are 4WD Land Rovers, so plan accordingly.
- Best Time to Visit: The best time for stargazing and clear mountain views is from October to December.
- Accommodation: While accommodation in the region is basic, the views and experiences more than make up for it. Homestays and lodges are the primary options, with cozy rooms and simple meals.
- Packing Essentials: Pack warm clothing, especially for nighttime, and be prepared for chilly conditions at higher altitudes. A good camera for stargazing shots is a must!
This trip to Sandakphu was more than just a vacation—it was a chance to reconnect with nature and experience the beauty of the Himalayas in a way that few people do. Whether it was the towering peaks, the dazzling night sky, or the simple joy of sharing these experiences with friends, this trip left us all with memories that will last a lifetime.