3rd October- Siriguri to Manebhanjan

2nd October, 2014

The trip to Sandakphu started from Kolkata to Jalpaiguri by a overnight train. 

On our way to Howrah railway Station

Trekking plan

3rd October, 2014

Maney Bhanjyang ( Manebhanjan) can be reached directly from New Jalpaiguri railway station via Siliguri where hired vehicles are available, although the number of vehicles are limited. Most vehicles are available from 4am to 8am. 

Siliguri is a city located in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal, India. Siliguri is located on the banks of the Mahananda River and the foothills of the Himalayas, it is a principal commercial, tourism, transportation, and educational center of North Bengal.

Transportation from Siliguri to Manebhanjan

Siliguri has the best communication network in the region.The nearest important Railway station is at New Jalpaiguri(NJP) under N.F. Railway just 3 kms away from the heart of the City. Bagdogra Airport at a distance of 12 Km is the only airport which also caters the need of Sikkim. The National Hiighway 31 & 55 connect Siliguri with other major places of North-Eastern India.

Siliguri Town,  West Bengal

Mahanandi River next to Siliguri Town, Tea plantations on the way to Manebhanjan

Manebhanjan

Manebhanjan is a small village loc ated about 92kms from Siliguri on the border of India and Nepal at an altitude of 7,054 ft (2,150 m). This is the place from where the popular Sandakphu & Singalila Forest Trek begins. 

Siva Temple

Manebhanjan Town, Mountain view; Main street of the town

Trekking map drawing on aboard at Trekking Hut, Manebhanjan

Retail Stores, Hotels & Fruit Shops at Manebhanjan

Manebhanjan lies on the border between India and Nepal. The two countries are separated by a small culvert, which also acts as a motor stand for vehicles ferrying people to Sukhiapokhri and Darjeeling. This small valley is a residence of approximately 500 households with an approximate population of 6000. Being situated within the ranges of the Singalila National Park, expansion of this 'forest village' is strictly restricted beyond its current borders so as to protect the surrounding forest and its ecosystem.

Land- Rover Association Counter at Manebhanjan

Land Rover Vehicle used for transportation

The income of the local residents is geared towards tourism, especially foreign trekkers. Manebhanjan is the start of the trailhead for the trek to Sandakphu on the Singalila Ridge, the highest point in West Bengal. Conveyance for Sandakphu is also available mainly from Manebhanjan in the form of Land Rovers of 1960 model. These vehicles are ideally suited to climb the steep gravel road that leads up to Sandakphu. The 4 hour ride can be quite 'jumpy' as drivers maneuver their prized possessions along snaky curves and uphill roads. Only handful of such Land Rovers are still remaining in this area and are maintained by their owners like their own siblings. 

Hotel Exotica where we stayed; a small Restaurant in front of the hotel where we had tasty garma garam rotis

Guide Dhana Kumar Gurang in the middle with Rejan (left side) and Tshering. Wonderful people to be with.

Masterji

Some residents offer home stays in their private houses. One of the best home stays here is offered by Masterji (Jeevan Chetri) of Hotel Exotica, a knowledgeable and helpful man. Contact Nos.: +91-9733044512 / +91-9733044512 / +91-3542-264387. The hospitality, cleanliness, basic amenities and the great food prepared by his wife are really special. 

Another option is to contact Keshav Gurung, a courteous and friendly man. His 2-storied house is one of the best in the locality and is very conveniently located next to the jeep stand.

There are also a few other small hotels in Manebhanjan like the Hotel Kanchendzonga (Phone: +91-9475078833/ 9932397449), Hotel Chimal, etc. 

Trekking begins :D