Overview
The Uttarey – Phoktey Dara Trek is one of the most scenic and offbeat treks in Sikkim, taking you through dense rhododendron forests, bamboo groves, high ridges, and breathtaking viewpoints. The highlight of this trek is Phoktey Dara (3,588 m), which offers a 360° panoramic view of the Himalayas, including Mt. Everest, Makalu, Lhotse, Kanchenjunga, Chomolhari, and several other peaks of Nepal, Sikkim, and Bhutan. The trek also connects to Singalila Ridge, famous for being the tri-junction of Sikkim, Nepal, and West Bengal. Perfect for trekkers seeking stunning views, wilderness, and a culturally rich experience.
Itinerary
Note: Up to 10 kg of backpack carrying is free. Extra weight above 10 kg will be charged at ₹250 per day per bag. Suitcases/trolleys/duffel bags are not allowed.
Pickup from Bagdogra Airport or New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP). Enroute stop at Jorethang for lunch. Drive past Rinchenpong, Dentam, and the Singshore Bridge (second-highest suspension bridge in Asia). Evening arrival at Uttarey. Overnight in homestay/tent.
After breakfast, begin trek to Achalley campsite, surrounded by lush green forest. From here, enjoy unforgettable views of Mt. Kanchenjunga, Mt. Pandim, and Mt. Jupuno, especially at sunrise. Overnight in tented camp.
Trek uphill through dense rhododendron and bamboo forest. The trail is steep and muddy in places — trekking poles recommended. Camp is set on a ridgeline offering majestic sunrise views of Kanchenjunga and surrounding peaks. Note: No water source along the trail — fill up water at camp before leaving.
Early morning trek to Phoktey Dara viewpoint (3,588 m), one of Sikkim’s most spectacular vantage points. Get a 360° view of the Himalayan ranges across Nepal, Sikkim, Bhutan, and beyond. Peaks visible include Everest, Makalu, Lhotse, Nuptse, Kanchenjunga, Jannu, and Chomolhari.
Continue trek to Singalila Top (3,600 m) — the famous tri-junction of Sikkim, Nepal, and West Bengal.
Descend back via the Indo–Nepal border (Chewabhanjang Check Post) and further downhill to Chettry SSB Camp before finally reaching Uttarey. Overnight in homestay/tent.
After breakfast, depart for NJP/Bagdogra. Lunch en route at Jorethang or Melli. Drive continues to your onward destination.
Includes/Excludes
Cost Include
- 2 nights in standard hotel/homestay at Uttarey (MAP plan)
- Accommodation during trek (camping)
- All meals (vegetarian, starting from dinner at Uttarey on Day 1 to breakfast at Uttarey on Day 5)
- Meals during trek (Veg & Egg)
- Trekking permits and forest camping charges
- Trekking equipment (sleeping tents, dining tent, kitchen tent, toilet tent, sleeping bags, mats, dining table & chairs)
- Safety equipment (first aid kit, oxygen cylinders, etc.)
- Services of an expert trek leader (certified in basic/advanced mountaineering)
- Experienced trek team (guides, cooks, helpers, porters/mules)
- Transport from NJP/Bagdogra to Uttarey & return
Cost Exclude
- Travel insurance (not provided except for expeditions)
- Food during transport (Bagdogra/NJP to Uttarey and return)
- Alcohol, bottled water, and soft drinks
- Any personal expenses (tips, laundry, phone calls, etc.)
- Still/video camera charges
FAQs
Not necessarily. This trek is suitable for beginners with good fitness levels. Some days involve steep climbs, but with preparation, it is manageable.
The sunrise from Phoktey Dara and the 360° Himalayan panorama including Everest, Kanchenjunga, and Bhutan peaks.
Water is available at most campsites. However, Day 3 (Achalley–Kalijar) has no water sources, so trekkers must carry filled bottles from camp.
Basic homestays in Uttarey and camping during trek with sleeping tents, mats, sleeping bags, and common dining/kitchen tents.
No ATMs in Uttarey. Please carry sufficient cash from Jorethang or earlier towns.
