Brief Description
Trailing right alongside the border, this off-beat trek in West Sikkim blurs the boundaries between Nepal and India. Danphe in Nepali is a word for the Himalayan Monal. Danphebir La literally translates to the Mountain of the Himalayan Monals - no points for guessing which colourful pheasant is likely to be fluttering around all throughout the trail! In the already less explored state of Sikkim, the trail to Danphebir La, the high mountain pass called the Pass of the Pheasant sitting at an elevation of 4,530M, remains fully untouched. There is something special about walking on a trail with Everest towering on one side and Kanchenjunga on the other. In fact, there is no shortage of the number of important peaks the trail introduces you to – from Lhotse, Makalu to Kabru, Rathong and Pandim, the route of Danphebir La treats you to views of these mountains from various angles. The trek presents panoramic sights of the entire Sikkim valley with views stretching to as far as Nepal and Bhutan. Trekking through thick forests, wide grasslands, patches of steep slopes, it offers a chance to camp next to THREE different glacial lakes. Situated in the west of Sikkim, once you hit the altitude of 4,000M, the trail, in fact, is peppered with more glacial lakes than you can count on your fingers. What’s even better is that as one of the least explored trails in Sikkim, the magnificence of the landscape is reserved just for you.
On the last day, the trail brings you to Yuksom which is the starting point of the infamous Goechala Trek. For all the highlights that the trail of this trek boasts of, it also demands a certain level of experience and fitness. Since each day on the trek is long and strenuous, it is reserved for trekkers with prior experience of high-altitude treks. The best months to come here are the pre-monsoon months from April to mid-June and the post-monsoon months from mid-September to November. Stay on this page for more information on the Danphebir La Trek.
Itinerary
Itinerary
Show complete Itinerary
NJP to Uttarey (2,000M)
Distance: 170 kms
Duration: 8 hrs Drive
The first day is reserved to make your way to Uttarey, the trailhead of the trek. Uttarey is a small village in West Sikkim along the border of Nepal known for its picturesque setting. To get to this charming town, you have to get a shared cab or a private cab from Siliguri National Transport bus terminus for your 150 km drive into Uttarey. The 7 hour drive is a typical drive to a hill station with long winding roads surrounded by a refreshing shade of green along the Teesta and the Rangeet rivers.
If you choose to travel with us, make your way to New Jalpaiguri railway station. We can arrange for a hired vehicle for the drive between here and Uttarey. If you wish to get there on your own, this article may be useful.
Once at Uttarey, we settle into our homestays. We have all evening to explore this beautiful town.
Uttarey (2,000M) to Chewabhanjam (3,100M)
Duration: 5 hrs
We start our trek from Uttarey through dense forests of the Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary with a host of colourful rhododendrons to keep us company. This is an absolute delight especially in spring when the rhododendrons are in full bloom. The trail does get a little steep in the forest but the singing birds of this thick forest are the best cheerleaders one could ask for. We cross the Sapa Khola stream multiple times over wooden bridges till we get to Chittrey. From here the ascent is sharp all the way till we reach Chewabhanjam - our campsite for the day located near SSB camp close to the Indo-Nepal border. You will see some wooden cabins set up by the SSB. This is where we set up our camp.
Chewabhanjam (3,100M) to Dhoor (3,800M)
Duration: 8 hrs
Today is going to be a long day of steep ascent and a major gain of altitude but the good part is that we have covered a major portion of the steep ascent yesterday between Chittrey and Chewabhanjam. We start out by entering the rhododendron forest again. The other side of the forest is a long ridge walk which goes up and down. This means a series of ascents and descents. We witness the high mountains in the vicinity for the first time on getting out of the thick canopy. The walk also has you go in and out between India and Nepal. The last 4 kms are an easy walk, enough to cool down after a long day of steep slopes.
Dhoor (3,800M) to Meghuthang (3,900M)
Duration: 8 hours
Today is much like yesterday but a little longer. We continue on our ridge from the previous day where you are likely to start getting greeted by patches of hard ice and snow. The winds on the ridge get stronger and colder but the views remain as refreshing as ever till we reach the campsite of Meghuthang.
Meghuthang (3,900M) to Lampokhari Lake (4,300M)
Duration: 5 hrs
Today we meet the first of our glacial lakes on this trail and camp by its shore. But to get here is a long day of hard trekking. The tree line starts to fade out and we enter a more rustic terrain much different from what we left behind. You also start to feel the effects of altitude from today onwards. The landscape is more barren, desolate and colder and the terrain a bit more difficult to navigate with the introduction of snow, ice and boulders of varying sizes. You couldn’t ask for a better ending to the day than the campsite on the banks of Lampokhari Lake.
Lampokhari Lake (4,300M) to Gomathang (3,800M) via Danphebir La (4,530M)
Duration: 8 hrs
Today we hit the highest altitude on this trek and get the rewards we are due after this long and tiring journey –a chance to see the full face of the Kanchenjunga group of mountains up close and the many glacial lakes that greet us on the way. Since today is a long day and we also want to spend some time at the pass, we start really early. From Lampokhari Lake to Danphebir La is close to 2 kms of ascent. After spending some time here, we proceed further to get to another high-altitude pass – the Kag Bhir La, known as the Pass of the Crow. If you thought the view from Danphebir La was spectacular, you must brace yourself for what you witness at Kag Bhir La where both Kanchenjunga and Everest compete their hardest to get your attention.
After a full day of magnificence, we head down to Gomthang which is a long journey as well – 700 long meters of descent to rest our weary feet for the day.
Gomathang (3,800M) to Tyabla (3,700M)
Duration: 6 hrs
We continue to lose altitude today and reach our campsite at Tyabla by early evening.
Tyabla (3,700M) to Dzongri (4,300M)
Duration: 6 hrs
Today is a long day again. We trek on a series of ascents and descents to reach Dzongri where we connect to the popular trail of Goechala Pass.
Dzongri (4,300M) to Bakhim (2,850M)
Duration: 7 hrs
We lose a lot of altitude today to get to Bakhim. The massive descent today is an indicator we are coming close to the end of our trek.
Bakhim (2,850M) to Yuksom (1,780M)
Duration: 6 hrs
We will descend down to Yuksom where we end the trek. Today we stay the night in a guesthouse with a warm bed after all those long nights in our tents.
Depart from Yuksom
Distance: 150 kms
Duration: 6 hours
If you are travelling with us, we start early for our long drive back to NJP. Expect to reach New Jalpaiguri by late evening.
Frequently Asked Questions
Pick your question
Eligibility: Experience required
One should have at least 7-10 Himalayan trekking days in their kitty, Experience of trekking at altitudes higher than 3700 metres.
Eligibility: Requisite Skills
- Ascending & Descending on snow
- Basics of Mountain Sickness
- Basics of Mountain Hazards
- How to cross small and large water streams
- How to use basic mountaineering equipment like gaiters & micro spikes
- Basic principles of acclimatization
Eligibility: Fitness benchmark
- Jog/Run for 5 Kms in 25-30 mins or Walk continuously for 10 kms (with 3-4 small breaks) on plain terrain (slight incline is better) - You would be required to produce a screenshot from a fitness app testifying the same
- Hold your breath for 30-35 seconds
If you are not meeting these benchmarks, please use the preparation schedule to improve your fitness till you achieve the above benchmarks.
About the activity: Why should I go for this trek?
Danphebir La Trek - Sikkim
It is one of the greenest trails in the north-east Himalayas. Danphebir La Trek is not for the faint-hearted. From the dense forest covered trail to the snow under your feet, Danphebir La trek has it all. The trek is especially well known for the views it has to offer. Due to its close proximity to the Indo-Nepal border Mt. Everest and Mt. Kanchenjunga peak is visible from the trail. The varied flora and fauna found in the trail are the also one of the major attractions of the Danphebir La along with the fact that you get to camp next to 3 glacial lakes.Best Season: What are the best months to visit this trek?
April to mid-May and mid-September to November are the best months to do the Danphebir La Trek.
Packing List: What to pack
Click here for packing list.
Packing List: How should I pack my rucksack?
Packing List: How should I select my trekking shoe?
Connectivity: How to Reach the base of the trek & how to go back from the end point?
The start of Danphebir La trek is Uttarey, a township in Sikkim. There are no direct buses or trains to this place. The only way to reach this place is by hiring a jeep or taxi from NJP/Siliguri.
By rail:
The nearest railways station to Uttarey is New Jalpaiguri Station (NJP). it is located 150 km from Yuksom. There are a number of trains from Delhi to NJP that you can board like Avadh Assam Express, Ndls Njp Sf Express. The jeep ride from NJP to Uttarey will take about 6-7 hours. Get an early morning taxi from the taxi stand at Siliguri Railway Station. Avoid travelling in night since the road condition is bad.
By air: The nearest airport to Uttarey is Bagdogra Airport, about 170 km from Yuksom and 12 km from Siliguri. There are direct flights from New Delhi to Bagdogra. The jeep ride from Siliguri to Uttarey will take about 6-7 hours to reach. For backward journey, the taxis are easily available from Yuksom to bagdogra/NJP/Siliguri. Start your road journey in the morning.
Connectivity: What is the cellular network connectivity for this trek?
Normally there is no network reception beyond Uttarey.
Nearby attraction: What are the nearby attractions that I can explore?
Yuksom is a beautiful town in Geyzing district of Sikkim. It was earlier the capital of Sikkim. There are a number of heavenly places to visit in Yuksom. Khecheopalri Lake is one of the largest lakes in Sikkim. This magical lake is considered to be a secretion of Goddess Tara. Khangchendzonga National Park is where you can find endless variety of endangered species of plants and animals. Tashi Tenka is another attraction which offers 360 degree views of Yuksom Village. There are also a number of monasteries in yuksom like Tashiding monastery and Katok monastery.
Age limit: What is the minimum & maximum age limit?
The minimum age limit is 13 years. However, minors aged between 13 to 17 should be accompanied with their parents or guardians. If you are above the age of 60, kindly carry a medical certificate from your doctor that deem you fit for adventure activities like trekking.
Accommodation: What will be the accommodation type in this trek?
When you arrive in Uttarey for the Danphebir La Trek and on the last day at Yuksom, your stay will be made at a local guesthouse. The rooms will be provided on either twin or triple sharing basis. You will receive the details of your accommodation through email a few days prior to the trek. On trekking days, all the trekkers will be accommodated in twin or triple sharing tents. Along with this, there will also be a toilet tent and a dining tent installed at every campsite as we roll.
Equipment and facilities: What kind of tents and sleeping bags will be provided to us?
We provide 4 seasons tents by Gipfel for higher altitudes which can easily withstand heavy snowfall and storms. They are spacious enough to accommodate 3 people at once with a vestibule to place the backpacks. Our sleeping bags are made up of Heatseeker Pro synthetic insulation that can provide you comfort in -10 degrees celsius. We also use additional fleece liners to have thermal efficiency even in the extreme temperatures of -17 degrees celsius.
Equipment and facilities: Are there any washroom/toilet facilities on the trek?
Toilet tents will be provided to you on the trek. These are portable toilets tents where a deep pit will be dug. A shovel will be provided inside the tent to cover the waste after you have made your business. You can take a toilet roll inside. Make sure you dig used toilet paper along with the waste. Though water is recommended in place of toilet paper. Please refrain from using wet wipes as they are non-biodegradable. There will be no facility for bathing on the trek. Go through our blog section for tips on how to maintain personal hygiene on treks.
Equipment and facilities: If we trek in snow, what equipment will you provide?
You will be provided with good quality gaiters and microspikes from us depending upon the situation of the snow. Our trek leaders will also be carrying ropes and ice ax.
Equipment and facilities: What kind of food will be provided for the trek?
Vegetarian food will be served throughout the trek. The only non-vegetarian item served on our treks are eggs. Our kitchen staff follows a proper menu for breakfast, lunch, and dinner which has been designed in order to fulfill the nutritional requirements of the participants. There will be milk, poha, eggs, muesli/corn flakes, bread, and butter served in breakfast. Rice or simple roti sabzi will be packed for lunch. In dinner, you will have dal, egg curry or any other vegetarian dish along with rice, roti, and a dessert item. Packed lunch will be provided to you on the days you are trekking. You are requested to carry your own tiffin box and a mug to consume food. The meals consumed on the journey and arrival day are not included in our cost.
Equipment and facilities: What equipment can I rent from you?
You can rent the following items from us- Trekking Pole, Trekking Shoes, Fleece Jacket, Rucksack
Weather conditions: What will the temperatures be like during this trek?
During the day, the temperature will range from 13-18 degrees Celsius. The nights will get cold dropping the temperature to 3-5 degrees Celsius. The higher the altitude you gain, the colder it gets. There will be a fall in temperature October onwards.
Weather conditions: When will there be snow on this trek?
You can expect snow at the higher reaches of the pass.
Miscellaneous : Is there an option to offload my backpack?
If you want to offload your rucksack, you will have to make a request for offloading a few days prior to the trek through an email so that arrangement can be made in advance. You will be charged per day for offloading your rucksack. In case you decide to offload on the spot, you may have to pay a higher price than usual. However, offloading your rucksack is not recommended since it is not a safe practice.
Miscellaneous : Who will lead us on the trek?
A team of the participant will be led by a course certified trek leader and a local guide. All participants are requested to abide by what their leader says. There will also be a team of kitchen staff and porters on the trek. We maintain a 1:8 ratio of trek leader and participants. All our trek leaders and staff have certified training in first-aid and rescue operation.
Miscellaneous : Is the trekking pole necessary?
Yes, the trekking pole is necessary. If you don’t want to buy one, you can rent it from us on minimal daily basis charges. You can request the renting link from us.
Miscellaneous : Are there any local stores/shops from where I can shop trekking necessities?
Uttarey, the starting point of danphebir La is a small town with a very small market. Please do not leave anything for last minute buying.
Miscellaneous : Is it safe for a solo woman traveller to trek in Fixed departures?
Yes, it is absolutely safe for a solo woman to travel in fix departures. Women on the trek will be sharing a tent with each other. In case you are a single woman on the trek, you will be given a separate tent.
Miscellaneous : Will you give certificates on completion of trek?
Yes, e-certificates will be given at the end of each trek provided that you completed it. It will bear your name, the trek, and the maximum altitude you achieved on the trek.
Transport: In case we opt for the transport with you, where will you pick us from and where will you drop?
if you are arriving at NJP/Siliguri/Bagdogra Airport, then, you can avail transportation till Uttarey through us. The common pick up point will be Laddoo Gopal Restaurant, Near 2 Mile Check post, on Sevoke Road, in Siliguri. If you have booked your transportation through us, then, you are expected to reach the pick up point by 8:00 AM. At the end of the trek, we will pick you up from Yuksom and drop you off at the same location.
Transport: What time will you drop us at the end point on last day of the trek?
Expect to reach NJP by evening.
Mandatory documents: What are the mandatory documents required for the trek?
ID Proof (Soft Copy to be sent to us in Advance & original to be carried), Medical Certificate (Soft Copy to be sent to us & original to be carried), Inner Line Permit (For Foreign National), Photocopy of ID Proof and Passport Size Photo are the mandatory documents required for the trek.
Why Bikat
Why Bikat
Learning Experience
- We are an Adventure Learning Organisation first.
- We want you to not just complete a trek safely but also pick up some basic trekking knowledge and skills along the way.
- To achieve this we have integrated learning modules into our itineraries.
- These modules will help you build the necessary skills to progress from trekking to mountaineering over time.
Loyality Programs
Our community is an integral part of us and we take pride in our trekkers and climbers. When you complete at least three days on any trek or expedition with us, you become eligible for our membership and referral programs.
- Currently we have three levels:
- Basic Membership
- Summiteer Membership
- Leader Membership
Personalized Attention
- Our group sizes on treks don’t exceed 15 members in order to maintain a healthy Participants : Leader Ratio of 8:1.
- Over time we have found this number to be optimum when it comes to ensuring personalised attention to every member of our group.
- On mountaineering expeditions this number is even smaller. Our group sizes are capped at 12 members ensuring a Participants : HAP Ratio of 2:1.
Best Expedition Leaders
- Our Expedition leaders are advanced mountaineering course qualified, specially trained in rescue procedures from NIM and certified first-aid responders.
- Even our local guides are certified first-aid responders.
Eco-friendly Practices
- Group sizes are capped at 15 people.
- Batch sizes are capped at 250 people per trail per season.
- We follow a rolling campsite model.
- We are constantly exploring and introducing new trails to reduce the burden on existing ones.
Safety
For us, a successful summit is not about reaching the highest point of a mountain but about making it safely back to base.
- To ensure this:
- Every region of ours is mapped with an emergency evacuation plan.
- The equipment we use is UIAA certified.
- Our trek leaders are AMC certified with specialisation in rescue procedures.
- Our support staffs are trained in first aid as well.
Reviews
What's Included
Whats Included
- Veg food as per menu on all trekking days
- Accommodation in hotel/guesthouse on twin/triple sharing basis on Day 1 & 10
- Accommodation on all trekking days in tents on twin sharing basis
- Forest Permits/Camping Charges , if any (Upto the amount charged for Indian nationals)
- Tents on twin sharing basis, Sleeping bags, mats
- Safety Equipment includes static rescue rope, seat harness, carabiners, pulleys
- Services of an experienced Trek guide, cook, helpers.
- Porters or mules for carrying common supplies
- Mountaineering course certified Trek Leader with First Aid certification
Whats Not Included?
- Portage of personal rucksacks
- Meals during hotel stays and road journeys
- Cost of any kind of Insurance
- Any expense of personal nature
- Transportation from NJP to Uttarey and Yuksom to NJP.
Cancellation Policy
Cash Refund
Cancellations up to 30 days prior to departure date
5% Deduction
Between 30 days to 15 days prior to departure
50%
deduction
Less than 15 days of departure
No Cash Refund
Voucher Refund
Cancellations up to 5 days prior to departure date
No Deduction
Cancellations less than 5 days prior to departure
No Refund
Please note
- Cash refund is applicable only in case of bookings made without using any promotional offer code or vouchers.
- This is only a brief of cancellation terms. For finer details please refer Detailed Cancellation Policy.
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