Uttarey is a small typical Himalayan village and beautiful valley surrounded by undulating hills, waterfalls, streams and dense forest also one of the oldest society located at the Indo-Nepal Border in the extreme location of the west district of Sikkim as an eco-tourism circuit. It lies between the Singalila national park towards the south and the Khangchendzonga biosphere reserve in the North. People know Uttarey is a popular trekking destination but most people don`t know Uttarey – Sandhakpu round trek. It is only allowed for Indian citizens. In this trek most of the days you can have views that offer snow-capped mountains from Nepal Himalaya, Sikkim Himalaya and Bhutan Himalaya range on till Tumbling camp side. Uttarey it is mostly inhabited by Limboo, Gurung Sherpa, Rai and Bhutia mix community People under Manaybung Dentam constituency district Gyalshing. The main occupation of the Uttarey people is agriculture. They mainly produce potatoes, cabbage, and green peas during the summer. Uttarey is approximately 163 kilometers from Bagdogra airport and 158 kilometres from NJP Station.
Short Itinerary
Day 1: pickup from (N J P) New Jalpaiguri railway station OR Bagdogra Airport to Uttarey 7 to 8 hours. (165. Km) Uttarey (1900mts)
Day 2: Uttarey (1,950.mtrs) to Chewabanjang (3,145.mtrs) 15.km appx.
Day 3: Excursion to Phoktey Dara (3588.mtrs).5km appx.
Day 4: Chewabhanjyang (3145mtrs) to Phalut (3,481mtrs) via Tori-Phulay (3,333mtrs) 5 to 6 hours)
Day 5: Phalut (3,481mtrs) to Sandhakpu (3,586mtrs) via Sabagram. 5 to 6 hours)
Day 6: Sandhakpu(3,586) to Tumbling (2,914 meters 21.km/5 to 6 hours)
Day 7: Tumbling (2,914 mtrs) to Mane-Bhanjang (1963.mtrs) via chatrey 10.km/ 2 to 3 hours) same day drive to Darjeeling
Day 8: Darjeeling to NJP/Bagdogra
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Pickup from (N JP) New Jalpaiguri railway station OR Bagdogra Airport to Uttarey 7 to 8 hours. (165. Km) Uttarey (1900mts)
Trekkers have to report either at NJP Railway Station which is the nearest railhead to Uttarey or at Bagdogra Airport by 8:00 AM. The transportation would be arranged either in Max, Bolero, Sumo Gold or Tempo Traveller depending upon the number of trekkers and the cost for the same would be borne by the company. Drive from NJP to Uttarey is mesmerizing with dense forests of Sikkim all along the way to Uttarey. It usually takes about 7-8 hour drive to arrive at Uttarey from NJP/Bagdogra. Trekkers can stop at Jorethang for lunch and make sure to carry sufficient cash while arriving at Uttarey as after Jorethang there are very few options for ATM’s. The drive goes via Jorethang, Richenpong, Dentam, and at last Singshore Bridge which is considered as the highest bridge in Sikkim and the second highest suspension bridge in Asia. Make sure to start from NJP or Bagdogra by 10 am so that you can arrive easily by 5 pm before it gets dark. The altitude gain from NJP (114mts) to Uttarey (1950mts) is about 1836mts. overnight in tented camp/hotel.
Day 2: Uttarey (1,950.mtrs) to Chewabanjang (3,145.mtrs) 15.km appx.
Our ascent takes us to the upper reaches of the Singalila Ridge, which forms the border between Sikkim and Nepal. We pass through a rich and dense forest, swathes of Rhododendrons, open ridges, sacred lakes and remote trails. Our first day takes us to Chewabanjang. An easy trail rises gently through the rainforest until a final steep ascent for the last couple of hours brings us right up to the Nepalese border and our first camp. We spend the following day here for necessary acclimatization before further ascending. Overnight in tented camps at Chewabanjang. Notice: Everyday client permits and personal identity cards need to be shown on the trek trail because your trail is on the ridge along the Indo-Nepal border.
Day 3: Excursion to Phoktey Dara (3588.mtrs).5km appx.
A walk to Phoktey Dara in the wee hours of the morning provides one of the most breath-taking panoramic views of the Sikkim and Nepal ranges.
Phoktey Dara (3,588m) is at a junction between Sikkim, Nepal and West Bengal and the borders meet here. You will have a full view of towering peaks including Mt. Everest, Makalu, Nuptse, Lhotse, Three sisters, Kumbakarna, Kanchenjunga and several other peaks in the region. This is one of the best grand-stand views one will get of the majestic Himalayas from anywhere in the mountains. Overnight in tented camps at Chewabanjang and rest.
Day 4: Chewabhanjyang (3145mtrs) to Phalut (3,481mtrs) via Tori-Phulay (3,333mtrs) 5 to 6 hours)
This day trail again goes to singalila viewpoint in an hour, you will come across the singalila top, and the highest point on this day (3,656m) the trail is an easy narrow path up toward Phalut. The path is along the Indo-Nepal border. 50m below the ridge Himalayan alpine trees and rhododendron forest. Singalila viewpoint to Phalut trail is above the Tori-Phulay SSB camp (3,333m). The trail here again starts climbing in an hour and goes on zigzagging toward Phalut. There is no water source on the trail on this day trekkers must fill up at chewabhanjang. Views offer you a whole day of majestic snow-capped mountains of Nepal and Sikkim Himalaya. Phalut serves as the confluence point for many route starting from Sikkim, West Bengal and Nepal. Walk from here to the Phalut viewpoint for another 30 minutes. Overnight at camp.
Day 5: Phalut (3,481mtrs) to Sandhakpu (3,586mtrs) via Sabagram. 5 to 6 hours)
This day starts early as there is a lot of distance to be covered. After breakfast, the trail gradually descends to Sabagram. From here trail gradually ascends up toward Sandhakpu. The trails are the best on this trek in terms of scenery and diversity of flora and fauna. You will walk on Singalila ridge and through meadows, this route, from April and May, is a season of blooming rhododendrons. Views offer you many peaks above eight thousand. In the morning go for the main attraction of this spot at sandhakpu where you can get 180-degree panoramic views of the majestic Himalayans from Nepal and Sikkim. And also one of the world famous panoramas for Mt. Baruntsem (7,220mts) Mt. Chamling (7,319mts) Mt. Chomo-Lonzo (7,818.mts) Mt. Lhotse (8,516.mts) Mt. Machhapuchhare (6,993.mts) Mt. Makalu (8,462.mts) Mt. Everest (8850.mts) Mt. Nuptse (7,861.mts) Mt. Kanchenjanga (8.585.mts) Mt. Rathong (6,642mts) Mt.Kabru S (7,285.mts) Mt. Kabru N (7,377.mts) Mt. Dome (6,985.mts) Mt. Forked (6100.mts) Mt.Goecha-peak (6,610.mts) Mt. Pandim(6,691.mts) Mt.Tenzing-khang (6010 mts.) Mt.Jupono (6000.mts) Mt.Talung (7,349.mts) Mt.Narsing (5,825.mts) Mt. Simvo (6,812 meters) Mt.Sinoulchu (688.mts) towards the east, you can see the highest ranges of Bhutan, and around your camp side mobile network is sometimes available. From here you can also see a beautiful sunset.
Day 6: Sandhakpu (3,586) to Tumbling (2,914 meters 21.km/5 to 6 hours)
This day wake up early in the morning for Majestic views of Nepal and Sikkim Himalaya. After viewpoint, walk back to camp, have breakfast then trek to Tumbling. It is around 5 to 6 hours. The trail will have a moderate, gradual descent for 2 hours to reach Garibas. From here, the gradually steep ascent up to Tumbling via Joubari through bamboos and rhododendron forest.
Day 7 : Tumbling (2,914 meters) to Mane-Bhanjang (1963.mtrs) via chatrey 10.km/ 2 to 3 hours) same day drive to Darjeeling
This day is your final trek day. The trail from Tumbling to Mane-Bhanjang is an easy gradual descent with Rhododendrons and Magnolia trees along the route. The forest opens up to a lovely meadow. If you are very lucky you might be able to see a Red Panda. On the way, you can visit some monastery at Chattrey and your trail is on a motorable road. Take a 30 minutes tea berk at Mane-Bhanjang then drive to Darjeeling 2 to 3 hours. Check in into a hotel. In evening free time.
Day 8: Darjeeling to NJP/Bagdogra
After having breakfast, we depart to NJP or Bagdogra Airport depending upon the trekker’s mode of transportation to their respective homes. It is advisable to start early since it is a short drive. We suggest packing the luggage in advance before starting to your journey. The distance from NJP/ Bagdogra airport is 68.kilometres which ideally should not take more than 3 ½ hours. Lunch can be enjoyed at your destination at the N J P/Bagdogra Airport.
Please contact us directly through phone or email us through filling up the enquiry form for the Best Rates and Availability. The rates depend on Number of people and the minimum required number of the person for the trek. The more the number of trekkers the better the Price. The given rates will be based on per head per day basis which will include all the necessary facilities required during the trek from the point of start to the end. We arrange up to the maximum number of 60 people and minimum should not be less than 2 people.
We provide considerable rates for the bigger group, Student Group, Religious Group and Senior Citizens. The rate is based on quality service requested by groups. Do email us info@blackyakexpeditionsgmail.comto know the special prices and services provided.
PRICE INCLUDE AND EXCLUDE
WHAT’S INCLUDED IN PRICE
1: 2 nights in the standard hotel at Yuksom (MAP plan).
2: Accommodation during the trek (camping/guest house).
3: All meals – vegetarian (starting from dinner at Yuksom and ending with breakfast at Yuksom.
4: Meals while on trek (Veg& Egg).
5: Trekking permits and forest camping charges.
6: Accommodation on trek Trekking equipment (sleeping tents 2 Or 3 man Dom, Dining tent, Kitchen Tent, Toilet Tent, sleeping bags walking stick etc.
7: Safety equipment (first aid, medical kit, oxygen cylinders, stretcher, etc.
8: Services of an expert trek leader (qualified in basic/advanced mountaineering courses).
9: Services of an expert trek team (guides, cooks, helpers, porters/mules.
10: Transport from N J P / Bagdogra airport to Yuksam and return.
Note: Normally other company charges extra for uploading Bag Pack, but black yak expeditions allow up to 10 kg free. More than 10 kg you have to pay ₹. 250/- per day per bag pack.
If you have bag packs weighing more than 10 kg than you can give it to the yaks or horses prior to the trek before leaving arranged exclusively for the trek. The back pack cannot weigh more than 10 kgs. No suitcases/trolleys’/duffel bags will be allowed.
Withdrawing cash: If you are intended to visit places like Yuksam for Goechala Trek or Dzongri Trek or sightseeing then don’t expect for withdrawing cash in Yuksam because Yuksam does not have ATM services till updated the year 2021.
WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED
1: We do not provide travel insurance except for any Expeditions.
2: Food during transport is not included (pick up point to and from the base camp to drop point)
3: Alcohol, Soft Drinks, bottled water
4: Anything Not Specifically Mentioned Under the Head.
5: Any costs arising out of unforeseen Circumstances like Landslides, Road Blocks, Bad weather, etc.
6: External purchase you make during your travel or on trek routes like food, local crafts or drinks.
7: Itinerary includes transport for pick up and drops yet if you do not want then you can exclude this option) Transport to and from the base camp (N J P/Bagdogra airport to Yuksom and return)
8: Any charges for carrying still/video cameras etc.
9: Personal expenses of any kind.
10: Anything apart from the inclusions.
11: Tips for guides, cooks or trekking staffs and telephone calls, laundry, etc.
If you are trekking with Black yak expeditions
Arrive at (NJP) Railway Station, Siliguri or Bagdogra airport by 9 am (on your own)
Black Yak Expeditions will arrange pick-up vehicles from NJP railway station and Bagdogra airport to Pelling/Uttarey village the base camp of your trek. We provide luxury vehicles like INNOVA, ZXILO or normal vehicles like TATA SUMO GOULD, BOLERO, etc. And mini cab suitable for 2 or three family with light travel bags like, Wagoner, Alto etc. We cannot arrange shared jeeps because it is not reliable. Above all there are no direct shared jeeps to certain parts of Sikkim from pick up points. You have to break down your points while taking shared jeeps. For example if you are traveling to Yuksom-Pelling-Uttarey for Dzongri Trek, Goechala Trek, Uttarey to Yuksom round trek Nambu to Yuksom round trek there are no direct shared jeeps from New Jalpaiguri Railway station NJP or Bagdogra Airport. First you have to reach silliguri junction from there you have to take a vehicle to Jorethang. (Jorethang is a small business town or main point that connects to most part of Sikkim.) Even though if you reach Jorethang than here comes another challenging part that is all the regular shared jeeps that comes to Jorethang from many part of Sikkim Leave within 12:00 noon. So you have to be there within 11:00 or 12:00 noon an. Even after that there is no 100% guaranteed that you will get the shared jeeps because it is pre booked by locals by call and you should also keep one thing in mind that in tourist season most of the vehicles are pre-booked. So thinking about shared jeeps is not good at first place.
Transport is arranged in a Tata Sumo (or similar vehicle). Each cab costs Rs. 5500/-
If you request pre booking for pick up and drop along with trek or tour package than this statement is not applicable to you since Black Yak Expeditions will pay for the charges but in case if you have not asked for pick up and drop facilities than you should know that the transportation cost is additional, to be shared among the trekkers and paid directly to the drivers.
On the day of pickup at least do your best to be present at New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP) or Bagdogra Airport within 9:00 Am or 10:00 Am. Incuse if we start late from this two points than we will reach certain trekking basecamps like Yuksom, Pelling, Uttarey very Late at night and that can cause great inconvenience to you as we have to begin the trek early next morning. It takes around 6-7 hours from New Jalpaiguri Railway station NJP or Bagdogra airport to your trek post. Expected arrival time at any trek pint of west Sikkim is 5 pm. Due to ongoing constructions on the route and sometimes heavy traffic jams it can delay our travel on the route.
Getting Back:
Depart from Darjeeling early morning.
Black yak expeditions we will arrange reserved vehicle to drop trekkers to NJP railway station or Bagdogra airport.
The transportation cost from Darjeeling to NJP/Bagdogra is additional, to be shared among trekkers and paid directly to the driver.
The approximately cost for reserved vehicle is Rs. 4000/-
Expected arrival time at NJP/Bagdogra is 5 pm. It is wise for you to book your train/flight tickets late in the evening to give you enough buffer time. Or Plan extra days in your itinerary to avoid busy schedule.