Morning at Kalapokhri
The day started with heavy rains, where we were in doubt whether we can trek. But to our great surprise, the clouds were blown away and we were greeted with bright sunshine. Though we were cheered up with the bright sunny morning, we were warned by the fact that the weather can change any moment. Also to our great relief, my ankle was fine, thanks to the local medicines. They did an absolute miracle.
Planning the Day
Yes, Sandakphu... we can see that from the Kalapokhri hilltop, where there is a sacred cave. The top of the hill is the highest peak in West Bengal (3636 m) and we planned to have our lunch there. A steep climb, as we could predict clearly. It was a bright sunny morning and I was having a chat with Peter, our guide in the indigo jacket. Photo courtesy: Santanu Karar
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Climbing up
As we started for Sandakphu, there was no more sunshine. We walked through the fog and the clouds that kissed us. The road was muddy-rocky and steep, to say the least. From Kalipokhari the route descends to Bikhebhangang. Trek from Bikhebhanjang to Sandakphu is a steep climb of 4 km and takes more than an hour, we took a couple.
Sandakphu
Sandakphu at 3636 meters, is the highest mountain in West Bengal and commands one of the most spectacular views of the mountain ranges of Kanchenjunga and Everest. The mountain slopes are covered with rhododendrons and silver fir trees. All the trekkers and tourists jumped out of cosy beds in the early morning. Its the best time to watch the snow caps.
Kanchenjunga
They say you can see almost the entire Himalayan Range from Sakdakphu. Peaks from Mt. Everest to Kanchenjunga can be seen. A wonderful panorama makes you spellbound. Kanchenjunga is the best among all as this is the nearest and the most prominent. Tears came out, not out of joy, but because of the cold wind blowing at 80kmph.
Prayer Flags
It was windy all the time and there were prayer flags all over the place. It was foggy at times and the wind chill was making our lives difficult. Photo courtesy: Santanu Karar
